What’s the Best Paracord Knife in 2024?

The paracord knife is not designed as a specific knife. It has no specialization. Instead, you can find all kinds of knives with this type of handle – mostly survival, adventure, and camping knives. The handle is relatively small, but it is covered in paracord. This type of design is highly customizable and convenient, but also versatile.

On a similar note, paracord is more affordable than other materials. It makes no difference if you compare it to natural or synthetic materials. In terms of customization, the handle can be thinner or thicker – whatever suits your hand. Now, what else should you know when looking for the best paracord knife on the market?

What’s a Paracord Knife?

While the blade is more important than the actual handle in a knife, a paracord knife will most likely make the difference. Such units are extremely well priced – after all, paracord is way cheaper than a fancy handle based on modern materials, whether they are natural or synthetic.

On another note, you will find paracord in a plethora of colors and styles. You might as well combine two different types of paracord. Sure, most paracord knives come with it fitted, but you can also add your own extra layer.

In terms of versatility, paracord can be used individually if you face certain emergencies. It is excellent in everyday activities, as well as more intense survival situations in the middle of nowhere. To some, it is only a wraparound, but to others, it can be a lifesaver.

When used as a material for the handle, paracord will ensure the knife fits your hand with no issues at all. You can use more or less paracord based on the size of your hand. Adding or removing it is a matter of a few minutes. The material is inexpensive and extremely durable.

In terms of emergencies, paracord could be used as laces for your boots, a securing line, or even in first aid emergencies.

Obviously, it is not perfect. It will wear and tear over time. The good news is you can replace it. If a solid handle breaks down, the knife is history. You can no longer fit it back together. Things are different with paracord – just get a different wrap and throw it on.

Moreover, paracord is not suitable for all types of blades. You can only find fixed blades with paracord. Foldable knives cannot use it because you need a gap for the blade to go in. Retractable blades may not be able to use it either, as you need a button to pull the blade back in.

Paracord is also a good absorbent and can soak up moisture. A bit of water in its composition will not make it too heavy. But if you use the knife for hunting and it soaks up blood, chances are it may have an unpleasant smell later on. From this point of view, you will have to wash it after every messy use.

Now that you understand the profile of this knife, what is the best paracord knife on the market? What kind of features should you expect?

2024’s Best Paracord Knives

​TOPS Knives Desert Fox

Versatile applications – Tops has always been known for its durable, yet simplistic knives – and the Desert Fox model makes no exception either. Made in the USA, this knife features a tactical design suitable for a plethora of activities, from camping and survival adventures to tactical and hunting applications. The knife is a bit heavier than average but well balanced and stable.

Excellent steel design – The unit features one single piece that covers both the blade and the handle. The blade is just over three inches in length. The knife is made of 1095 high carbon steel. This type of steel is more difficult to sharpen than stainless steel, but it comes with incredible edge retention. It is sharp out of the box though, so be careful when you unpack it. The finish is tactical gray and not too shiny. The blade has a drop point style.

Good grip – The blade extends to the handle as well. However, it features an ergonomic design that allows multiple types of paracord fittings. The knife handle is already covered in paracord – only available in desert tan. Of course, as it might wear out with time, you can always add more paracord on top of it or simply replace it. It ensures a nonslip grip due to its texture. A slight hand guard protection is also in place.

Extras and maintenance – A small part of the blade features a few serrations. This part is more suitable to cut ropes, seat belts, and other similar fabrics. The knife also comes with an emergency whistle, not to mention the Kydex sheath. The sheath has a belt clip and fits like a glove. As for maintenance, clean the knife by hand, rather than in a dishwasher. Dry it and oil it when not in use for long periods of time.

Pros

• Excellent edge retention
• A bit of customization
• Comes with its own sheath
• Super sharp out of the box
• Has an emergency whistle 

Cons

• Might feel a bit too small for those with large hands

 

Gerber Bear Grylls 31-001683

Great value for money – Gerber has always been a front runner when it comes to knives, mostly because of its excellent value for money. You get high-quality units at affordable prices – way better than from the competition. This knife features the same quality standards – part of the Bear Grylls collection, it is fixed blade design with various applications – hunting, camping, tactical, survival, and so on.

Full tang steel – Since paracord is added later on, the whole unit is practically based on stainless steel. It is easy to sharpen and comes with little to no maintenance – plus, it is rust and corrosion-resistant. The blade is 3.25 inches in length. It has a drop point design, a super sharp edge, and a few serrations on the other edge, suitable to cut belts and ropes.

Comfy paracord handle – The handle is part of the same piece of stainless steel, but it has a convenient design to add paracord. This knife comes with 60 inches of paracord and a unique wrap. You can always change it or remove the paracord if you need it for something else. All in all, the handle is 4.5 inches in length and it ensures a good grip – a specific place for your forefinger to ensure a stable grip.

Extras and care – The knife has a thermoplastic sheath and a belt loop, so you can have it comfortably by your belt without risking to injure yourself. Other than that, the paracord is customizable – you can get a different type and fit it on. As for care, make sure you wash it by hand, as a dishwasher could affect the sharpness.

Pros

• Compact and easy to use
• Durable and stable
• Comes with its own sheath
• Great grip – with a special slot for the forefinger
• Easy to look after

Cons

• The knife must go inside the blade at the perfect angle to be stable

White River Knife & Tool WRBP-BL

Convenient use – Made in the USA and weighing 2.2 ounces, this knife looks simplistic and aerated, as well as small. However, it ensures a perfect grip and it feels like an extension to your arm. It is comfortable and convenient to use, but it is also versatile enough to work on anything – camping, hunting, survival, you name it.

Hard steel design – Measuring three inches in length, the blade is small enough to ensure a sturdy and solid profile. It is based on CPM S30V steel, which has good resistance to corrosion and rust. It has a plain edge drop point design and features small serrations on the other edge. It is super sharp out of the box and it comes with an incredible hardness of 60 Rockwell. The satin finish makes it look sleek.

Comfortable handle – The handle is practically part of the same piece of steel. It is covered in black paracord – well fitted and less likely to go loose. It has a few inches off in a loop – you can secure the knife around your hand as you use it. There is a large spot where you can fit your forefinger, so the grip is stable, nonslip, and secure. The respective spot also functions as handguard protection. All in all, the handle is four inches long.

Extras and maintenance – You do not need too many extras in a hunting paracord knife. However, since the blade is fixed, a sheath could be handy – you have a classic Kydex sheath that fits like a glove. It adds a couple of ounces to the overall weight. You can wash this knife with the paracord on, but make sure you do it by hand and never in a dishwasher.

Pros

• Feels like an extension to your arm
• Super hard steel
• Good edge retention
• Good sizing proportions
• Features its own sheath

Cons

• A bit skinny for heavy-duty applications

CRKT Utsidihi 2752

Sturdy and well put together – Whether you are after a heavy-duty design, versatile applications, or sturdy materials, CRKT’s best paracord knife will not let you down. Weighing 3.2 ounces, it is a bit heavier than the average paracord knife on the market, but it is also strong enough to ensure quality results under all circumstances. It can be used for anything, from hunting trips to survival adventures.

Superior blade – The blade is based on stainless steel. You have a hollow ground edge that is razor sharp out of the box, as well as a spear point design. The tip is extremely sharp. There are a few mild serrations on the top side of the knife, as well as a black stonewash finish. The knife has a nonreflecting surface that will not disclose your location when hunting. Moreover, stainless steel is rust and corrosion-resistant.

Compact paracord handle – The paracord handle adds to the grip. The knife consists of one part only, with the handle covered in paracord. It is stable and durable. Altogether, you have 3.5 inches for the blade and 4.3 inches for the handle. There is a decent hand guard protection by the blade to prevent your hand from reaching it, yet the paracord design is stable and ensures a nonslip grip.

Sheath and maintenance – Since this is a fixed blade knife, it comes with a sheath for safe storage and transportation. The nylon sheath is durable and reinforced with glass. It has a few mounting options as well. As for maintenance, sharpen the knife with a stone or a traditional sharpener. You can also wash it manually and never in a dishwasher.

Pros

• Compact design
• Suitable for heavy-duty applications
• Has a durable sheath
• Nonreflective finish
• Well balanced

Cons

• Serrations are mild and not sharp at all

Condor Tool & Knife Bushnecker Knife

Vintage style – Just like many other knives from Condor, this one is made in El Salvador. The brand’s best paracord knife has a vintage and indigenous appearance that adds to its beautiful style. While it looks rough and old fashioned, it is actually built with high-quality standards in mind, as well as heavy-duty applications. It is great for survival, hunting, camping, and tactical adventures in the middle of nowhere.

Super sharp blade – The unit is designed to be a neck knife. It has a high carbon construction and a standard edge. The edge is extremely sharp out of the box, as well as the tip. Since it is made of high carbon, it will be more difficult to sharpen than stainless steel. However, once sharpened, edge retention will not disappoint you. All in all, the blade has a vintage finish too and it measures around three inches.

One-piece handle – The handle is practically part of the blade. It is a single-piece unit of steel. The handle is 3.125 inches in length. It is covered in brown paracord for a comfortable and nonslip grip. There is no handguard protection, but the paracord will prevent your hand from slipping. The paracord can be changed or tightened with time – you can also remove it to wash it.

Extras and maintenance – The lanyard hole at the end of the paracord is a plus, yet the knife also comes with its own sheath. It has a ball chain lanyard. In terms of care and maintenance, there is not much to do. Sharpen the knife with a stone or a sharpener. Wash it manually and never in a dishwasher – remove the paracord for maintenance every now and then. You should also oil the blade when not in use for a long time, as the carbon steel is not rust and corrosion-resistant.

Pros

• Sharp and agile
• Stable and strong for its size
• Extremely sharp
• Good edge retention
• Vintage appearance

Cons

• Requires a bit of maintenance​

MTech USA MT-528C

Survival design – MTech USA has gained a good reputation for its survival knives and this specific paracord knife stands out in the crowd. It features a beautiful design based on colors that will never reflect light. It comes with a full tang and paracord wrapped around the handle – available in camouflage green only. There are no other color options available.

Superior blade – The blade will never let you down. It features a drop point design and a compound bevel edge. Altogether, it measures 5.5 inches in length. It has a super sharp tip, not to mention the edge out of the box. Based on 440 stainless steel, it is less likely to ever rust or corrode. It features a black coating that prevents the light from reflecting – ideal for hunting and survival adventures.

Simplistic handle – The knife is a full tang, but the handle is based on paracord. It is slightly shorter than the blade – five inches. The paracord is durable and ensures a good grip – even better if you use gloves. While it is less likely to slip out of your hands, the knife features proper handguard protection as well. The paracord is well fitted and stable.

Extras and maintenance – There are not too many extras regarding this simplistic knife. It is meant to be used in the wildest conditions without showing any signs of wear and tear. Since it is a fixed blade knife, it also comes with its own nylon sheath – it matches like a glove. As for care and maintenance, make sure you clean it manually. The knife should be cleaned after every messy situation.

Pros

• Built to last for ages
• Great sizing standards
• Razor-sharp blade
• Nonslip paracord
• Comes with its own sheath

Cons

• The sheath could have been made of leather

Smith & Wesson SW910TAM

Simplistic and efficient – Smith & Wesson’s best paracord knife makes an excellent outdoor choice. Based on its shape and uses, it can be described as survival or a tactical knife. It weighs 1.8 ounces and it comes in one color design only – a steel blade and black paracord. The versatile tool is suitable for numerous situations and will make a great choice for emergencies.

Blade and sizing – The blade is what makes it stand out in the crowd. Based on 7Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel, it will last for a lifetime. The high carbon concentration ensures the knife has excellent edge retention, while the stainless steel prevents rust and corrosion from kicking in. The blade measures 2.8 inches. The blade features a tanto point style, a super sharp edge, and a few serrations on the other side.

Stable handle – The full tang features a paracord around the handle. The paracord is well tied and will never go loose. The handle is slightly longer than the blade and comes with an ergonomic shape. The paracord prevents it from slipping, but you also have a small hand guard protection. The paracord is easy to remove if you need to wash it, yet it might be wiser to wash it as it is.

Extras and maintenance – When it comes to extras, this knife comes with its own sheath. The sheath is specifically made for it, so it will match like a glove. The sheath has a breakaway chain too. Caring for the knife is relatively simple – never throw it in a dishwasher, but clean it manually to prevent the edge from getting dull.

Pros

• Durable design
• Can take a good beating
• Comes with a sheath
• Durable steel
• Super sharp

Cons

• The sheath may go a bit too large overtime

Grand Way 6772

Interesting design – Grand Way’s paracord knife aims to break the rules. Normally, paracord knives come with fixed blades because the folding profile requires a gap for the blade to go in. Grand Way has managed to overcome this issue and has designed a paracord knife with a folding style. However, the paracord is featured on one side only, so this is not a fully paracord unit, but a partial one.

Durable blade – The cutting performance out of the box will surprise you. Be careful as you unpack the knife. It is based on 420 steel. It is rust and corrosion-resistant and it features a beautiful black coating. The drop point blade features a V grind edge, as well as serrations on the other side. It has a few holes, so opening the knife is a piece of cake. The blade measures 3.7 inches in length.

Multifunction handle – The handle features a paracord on one side. It comes in a camouflage green design. Apart from paracord, you have sturdy and durable plastic. One side has a paracord and the other side is rugged and textured, so the tactical knife will never slip out of your hands. It is 4.7 inches in length, so it is suitable for both small and large hands.

Extras – The paracord knife is not automatic, so you will need to open and close it manually. The handle is where all the extras are. You have a long pocket clip for easy carrying, as well as a lanyard. The lock features a liner profile. Apart from the actual knife, you also have a firestarter rod, not to mention the whistle.

Pros

• Comes with a bunch of helpful extras
• Multifunction profile
• Durable blade
• Non reflective design
• Good sizing proportions

Cons

• No automatic opening mechanism

Mcdloka Outdoor Duty Knife

Sturdy design – Mcdloka has managed to design one of the sturdiest paracord knives on the market. Given its sizing standards and design, it makes a great survival knife – ideal for outdoor adventures of any type. The knife only comes in one design. It features a fully black appearance – a black coating for the blade and a black paracord. It does not reflect light either, which is great for hunters.

Powerful blade – The blade is suitable for any type of application. The edge is extremely sharp, as well as the tip. The other side of the blade features deep serrations for other activities. The blade measures 4.33 inches. It is made of 420 high carbon stainless steel. It sharpens easily and features great edge retention – plus, maintenance is almost null. It does not have a shiny silver polish though, as it is coated with gray titanium.

Dependable handle – The handle is not to be overlooked either. Since you get a full tang unit, stability and durability are dramatically increased. The paracord adds a bit of thickness, so you can count on a great grip. The handle is as long as the blade – 4.33 inches – and comes with hand guard protection. The paracord can be easily unwrapped should you face an emergency. 

Extras and care – Since it is a fixed blade knife, it comes with its own sheath. It is ambidextrous and based on thermoplastic, which is quite durable. It has an aerated and simplistic design – no risks whatsoever. Given the stainless steel build, the knife should be washed manually and never in a dishwasher. Simply use water and mild soap.

Pros

• Quick and simple access
• Durable and aerated sheath
• Dependable handle
• Good sizing standards
• Decent weight and good balance

 Cons

• Clip holder, tens to go loose after a while

Grand Way 2307

Versatile applications – Grand Way’s paracord knife is excellent for any situation that involves using a knife. It features excellent control and it is suitable for hiking, camping, or other outdoor adventures, as well as fishing, hunting, DIY activities, survival, emergencies, and even bush crafting. Given the size and shape of the blade, it makes the ideal utility knife to have around in any situation.

Durable blade – The blade features a matte finish that looks different. It is based on 440C stainless steel, which is not just extremely hard, but it is also corrosion-resistant. It is razor sharp out of the box and features excellent edge retention. You will barely have to sharpen it – also, you can use a classic sharpener or a sharpening stone, whatever you have around.

Balanced handle – You have a full tang design for great balance and control. Pressure will never be an issue. The tanto point blade measures are similar to the handle in length – around 5.5 inches. The handle is fully wrapped in paracord. While there is no handguard protection, your hand is less likely to slip anyway. 

Extras and care – The paracord knife come with its own sheath. It is solid and based on heavy-duty nylon Cordura. You can conveniently carry the knife on your belt. The package also includes an ebook on outdoor and survival skills that involve using a knife. When it comes to looking after the knife, make sure you clean it manually. The edge could go dull if you clean it in a dishwasher. 

Pros

• Features its own sheath
• Good sizing standards
• Well balanced
• Excellent for numerous activities
• Comes with an ebook

Cons

• The sheath could have more professional

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize the paracord on my knife?

Professional paracord knives come with a well-tied paracord. Obviously, you can always change it, or perhaps change the way it is tied. It is up to you to decide what fits you better. You might as well get a longer paracord and make the handle look bigger if your hands are too large.

From this point of view, paracord knives allow plenty of customization.

Should I change the paracord when it wears out?

Paracord works like a fabric. Give your knife a good beating and the paracord will wear out. Too many washes may make the color fade. Too many intense uses will make it wear out. At some point, the paracord will need replacement. You can buy it in all kinds of designs and sizes, so you can fit it yourself.

While a wearing handle is not enticing, paracord is not expensive. Such knives can last for a lifetime and allow great customization. Besides, a new paracord in a different style will give your knife a brand new appearance.

Is there a certain way to put paracord on a knife?

No, there is not. You will notice that different paracord knives come with different handle designs. This is because handles are made differently. Some of them feature holes to ensure a higher degree of customization and stability. Some others are plain, but you can fit the paracord on in any type of style. Sometimes, it is a matter of personal preferences. Other times, it depends on your available options.

Are there more types of paracord out there?

There are more types of paracord on the market and choosing the right one is solely up to you. Some of them are basic and feature common properties. They will last, but not for ages. Some others are made with heavy-duty military uses in mind, meaning they will take a good beating before showing any signs of wear and tear.

Conclusion

Choosing the right paracord knife depends on what you need. The purpose of the knife does not really change, but only the handle. You can get a tactical knife, as well as a survival or utility knife. Lots of people love paracord for its simplicity and the possibility to customize their knives without spending a fortune.