Looking to get into the premium knife game?
Already in, but want more?
Here are our picks for the top 3 knives worth looking at under $200. 3: Spyderco Paramilitary 2
$140.40
Overall Length
8.281 in. (210 mm)
Blade Length
3.438 in. (87 mm)
Steel
CPM S30V
Weight
3.9 oz. (111 g)
Handle
G-10
Lock Type
Compression
Origin
United States
The Paramilitary 2 is one of the flagship knives made by Spyderco, and has cemented itself into position as one of our most highly recommended knives here at KnifeHub.com. Using S30V steel as a base option, Spyderco offers many different exclusives and sprint runs of the PM2 in different steels. (see S110V PM2 below)
The durable and grippy G10 scales offer a solid handhold under even the most extreme conditions, and the conveniently located Compression Lock on the back of the knife offers easy access and keeps your hand out of the way of the blade when closing.
Overall, you are hard-pressed to find someone who can honestly say they do not like the Paramilitary 2.
You can purchase the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 here.
2: Zero Tolerance 0450CF
$196
Overall Length
7.4 in. (18.8 cm)
Blade Length
3.25 in. (8.3 cm)
Steel
CPM S35VN
Weight
2.45 oz. (68 g)
Handle
Titanium/Carbon Fiber
Lock Type
Titanium Frame Lock
Origin
United States
The 0450CF is one of KnifeHub’s best selling ZT’s. Why? It fits the bill for just about anyone looking for a sub-$200 premium pocket knife. This knife is an instant EDC classic. The sleek carbon fiber and smooth black finish look equally at home in a suit pocket or blue jeans- board meeting room, or construction job site. This knife is durable, and definitely tough enough to handle any task you can throw at a pocket EDC folder. The detent is just stiff enough to launch the blade fully open without the need of any spring assist mechanism.
Did I mention that this knife is lightweight? Weighing in at just a tough over 2 ounces, you can comfortably carry it with you wherever you go. For blade steel, the ZT 0450CF brings the house with S35VN, a well-known premium supersteel.
You can purchase the 0450CF here.
1: Benchmade 940-2 Osborne
$170
Overall Length
7.87 in. (19.99 cm)
Blade Length
3.4 in. (8.64 cm)
Steel
CPM S30v
Weight
2.44 oz. (69.17 g)
Handle
G10
Lock Type
Axis
Origin
United States
I find myself using the 940-2 as a starting point for many customers looking for their first premium knife. The Benchmade Axis Lock is incredibly user friendly, and the G10 handles make this knife just feel great in the hand.
If you have not yet tried out the Benchmade Axis Lock system, do yourself a favor and pick up one of their knives. The ease of use makes any Axis Lock knife a great option for beginners or seasoned collectors alike. For blade steel, the Benchmade 940-2 uses CPM-S30V steel, a supersteel with excellent edge retention. The blade itself, a reverse tanto blade, is a shape that is both usable and stylish, while being unique at the same time.
If the G10 scales aren’t for you, Benchmade also makes the 940 ($182.75), and the 940-1 ($272). The 940 is the same knife, but with green aluminum scales. The 940-1 is the “high end” option, with upgrades such as Carbon Fiber scales, and 20CV steel. Whichever 940 model you choose, you will surely be happy with your selection.
You can purchase the 940-2 here.