12 Solid Mini Pocket Knives For Everyday Carry

It seems that nothing ever goes as planned. Because of this, having a plan “B” is a very smart idea. When discussing knives, having a reliable primary blade is, of course, a necessity. It’s there for both daily tasks and as a means of self-defense if trouble happens to come your way. However, bad things can happen, and your trusty blade may get lost, broken, or even stolen. This is where backup knives step up to fill the gap.

Palm-Sized Backup Knives

Back-up blades are smaller counterparts to your primary knife and fit easily inside a pocket or clip to your belt. Even though these knives offer shorter blades, stouter bodies, and thinner profiles, don’t underestimate these small wonders. They can do the job like a pro.

Below are some excellent options that will give you peace of mind when your main blade is nowhere to be found.

01 – CRKT Minimalist Drop Point

Need a backup blade that’s compact yet provides incredible performance? Then, look towards the CRKT Minimalist Drop Point. This stout knife provides slicing and penetrating power, all within its small footprint and easy-to-carry profile.

The extra-sharp carbon steel blade performs daily tasks like a pro or keeps you safe on the streets. Likewise, an included thermoplastic sheath allows for around-the-neck carry or tucks easily in a back pocket.

Specifications

High carbon, steel blade
G10 Handle for exceptional grip
Lightweight, easy-to-carry unit
Stonewash blade finish
Includes thermoplastic sheath

MSRP: $36.00

For more information, please visit CRKT.com.

02 – Gerber Gear Assert

Though compact, this blade feels big in your hand and can tackle similar tasks to the big boys. The Gerber Assert offers a stainless-steel blade, one-handed operation, an ambidextrous pivot lock and clip, and a textured handle for superb grip.

Its deep carry pocket clip allows the Assert to remain hidden while keeping it close at hand, ready for trouble. A lanyard hole for a cordage attachment rounds out this pocket wonder.

Specifications

S30V Stainless steel, plain-edged blade
Lightweight, compact carry
Glass-filled nylon handle
Deep carry pocket clip
Single-handed operation

MSRP: $175.00

For more information, please visit GerberGear.com.

03 – CRKT Drifter Liner Lock

A well-rounded knife, the Drifter offers a trifecta of features. These include excellent edge retention, an all-weather grip handle, and easy-to-use, one-handed operation. This no-nonsense blade offers high performance for daily tasks, as well as being ready for unexpected trouble on the streets.

A deep carry pocket clip and lanyard hole offer versatility for carrying the knife and keep it safely and securely within reach.

Specifications

Smooth opening, ball bearing pivot system
D2 Blade steel for excellent edge retention
G10 handle for exceptional grip
Low-profile pocket clip
Includes lanyard hole

MSRP: $48.00

For more information, please visit CRKT.com.

04 – CRKT Squid

Great things do come in small packages, and the Squid perfectly exemplifies this. This compact, agile slicer offers a thumb stub and flipper for two fast deployment options. Additionally, the D2 blade stands up to incredible punishment in the field. Likewise, a bright orange outer shell makes it easy to locate in any environment.

A pocket clip and extra-large lanyard hole provide easy carry means for everyday use.

Specifications

Assisted opening flipper
Ball-bearing blade deployment system
D2 blade offers superior edge retention
Friction grooves for extra grip
Stonewash blade finish

MSRP: $32.00

For more information, please visit CRKT.com.

05 – Gerber Gear Paraframe Mini

Sleek, streamlined, and ready for action at all times, the Paraframe Mini makes an amazing backup knife. Its minimalistic design allows for excellent gripping, easy cleaning, and fast deployment when—or if—trouble comes your way. Additionally, the blade locks into place instantly for stability and safety in the blink of an eye.

The Paraframe Mini can be your all-around, daily-use knife or personal protection device when bad things come your way.

Specifications

Frame lock handle design
Stainless steel handles
Durable pocket clip for everyday carry
Easy-to-clean design
Drop-point blade design

MSRP: $17.00

For more information, please visit GerberGear.com.

06 – Gerber Gear Prybrid Utility Clip

Backup Knives: Gerber Gear Prybrid Utility Clip.

Grab your wallet, keys, and the Prybrid Utility tool every time you leave the house. This EDC wonder provides a mini tool kit no matter where you go. Integrated within its durable housing are a pry bar, nail puller, wire stripper, small and large flathead driver, bottle opener, and cordage cutter. Its solid metal body and textured gripping surface offer high durability and long-time use.

Specifications

Compact, pocket-sized unit
Six useful tools
Textured overall grip
Convenient dual-ended design
Utilizes standard utility blades

MSRP: $30.00

For more information, please visit GerberGear.com.

07 – Gerber gear Stowe

A fixed-blade knife that fits easily in your pocket? Yes, it’s true, and its name is the Stowe. This stout and stocky blade offers incredible strength and a superb grip that enables you to tear through material like a boss. Its chunky blade will easily stand up to rigorous punishment in the field. Likewise, its edge stays sharp for any regular tasks or unexpected conflicts.

The included leather sheath can be carried on the belt or firmly within your pocket.

Specifications

Full tang construction
Micarta scales for added grip
440 Stonewash blade
Integrated lanyard hole
Includes leather sheath

MSRP: $47.00

For more information, please visit GerberGear.com.

08 – Kershaw Aftereffect

Small enough to fit on a keychain, this stout slicer from Kershaw is handy when its bigger brother is lost or damaged. The Aftereffect features a high-quality bead-blasted blade, a meaty handle for a firm grip, and an oversized lanyard hole to attach cordage or a keyring. Its thumb stud opening allows one-handed operation. Correspondingly, its inset liner lock keeps the blade stable and firmly in place during use.

Specifications

8Cr13MoV blade steel
Easy opening with thumb stud
Oversized lanyard hole
Anodized aluminum backspacer
Deep-carry pocket clip

MSRP: $30.39

For more information, please visit Kershaw.KaiUSA.com.

09 – Kershaw Cinder

This oddly shaped knife offers high performance for quick-cutting needs throughout your daily activities. Its thumb stud-assisted opening brings its beefy drop-point blade to life for box cutting, tape slashing, or any number of around-the-house tasks.

Its prominent copper handle offers both aesthetic beauty and a secure grip when tackling bigger jobs. Best of all, this palm-sized cutter includes a bottle opener when the day is done, and it’s time for a few cold ones!

Specifications

Real copper handles
Stonewashed finish
Lanyard hole for cordage or keyring attachment
Fits easily in pants or jacket pocket

MSRP: $28.79

For more information, please visit Kershaw.KaiUSA.com.

10 – Kershaw Chive

It’s sleek, simple, and gets the job done. That’s the Chive in a nutshell. Measuring just under five inches fully opened, this no-nonsense blade can handle all the jobs like the big boys. And it does it within a very small footprint.

This knife features a high-carbon steel blade, an attractive bead-blasted finish, a sturdy frame lock, and a lightning-fast flipper for rapid deployment. The Chive is ideal for a purse, backpack, briefcase, or pocket carry.

Specifications

High carbon, 420HC blade steel
Bead blasted finish
Sturdy frame lock for safety
Safety Tip-Lock keeps the blade closed during transport
Made in the USA

MSRP: $87.99

For more information, please visit Kershaw.KaiUSA.com.

11 – 5.11 Tactical Braddock DP Mini

Sometimes, you just need a reliable backup blade, and the 5.11 Tactical Braddock fills that need. This knife features a three-inch drop-point blade with a swedge. As a result, it can stand up to tough material without failing and allows for precision cuts when needed.

Its G10 handle keeps your hand firmly in place, while its liner lock maintains safety and stability during use. The Braddock is available in both black and kangaroo colors.

Specifications

D2 Steel, with drop point blade
G10 Textured handle
Liner lock for safety and stability
Deep carry pocket design
Integrated lanyard hole

MSRP: $40.00

For more information, please visit 511Tactical.com.

12 – 5.11 Tactical Icarus DP Mini

Backup Knives: 5.11 Tactical Icarus DP Mini.

The Icarus folder is always ready to help with your cutting, slicing, or puncturing tasks. Its compact profile and slim skeletonized body also make it easy to carry. Folding down to only four inches, this knife fits perfectly in a pocket with its two-position deep carry clip.

In addition, a lanyard hole is ready to tether your favorite bead. Finally, you can enjoy the Icarus in three colors, including dark navy, kangaroo, and black.

Specifications