When it comes to knives, there are a plethora of options on the market. From chef’s knives to pocket knives, there is a specific type of knife for every need. One particular type of knife that has gained popularity in recent years is the tanto knife.
The tanto knife has a distinct appearance, with a straight edge and a high point. This design makes it excellent for piercing and stabbing, making it a popular choice for self-defense and tactical use. However, not all tanto knives are created equal, so in this article, we will explore some of the best options on the market.
What to Look for in a Tanto Knife
Before we dive into the best tanto knives available, it’s essential to understand what makes a tanto knife stand out. Here are a few key features to look for when shopping for a tanto knife:
- Blade Material: The blade material is crucial for the overall performance and durability of the knife. Look for high-quality steel such as VG-10 or S30V for superior edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Handle Design: The handle should be comfortable to grip and provide a secure hold, especially for tactical and self-defense use. Look for materials such as G-10 or Micarta for a durable and non-slip grip.
- Blade Shape: The tanto blade should have a straight edge with a high point, allowing for precise piercing and stabbing. The secondary edge should also be sharp for slicing tasks.
- Overall Quality: A good tanto knife should be well-constructed with attention to detail, including a sturdy lock mechanism for folding knives and a reliable sheath for fixed blades.
Now that we know what to look for let’s explore some of the best tanto knives on the market.
Top 10 Best Tanto Knife
Old Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding Knife
Zero Tolerance 0350TS Folding Pocket Knife
CIVIVI Brazen Folding Pocket Knife
Smith & Wesson High Carbon Fixed Blade Knife
Cold Steel San Mai Tanto Series Fixed Blade Knife
Gerber Gear 06 FAST Pocket Knife
Off-Grid Knives Viper V2 folding knife
Smith & Wesson 10.6-inch Fixed Blade Knife
Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Pocketknife
Gerber Gear 06 FAST Pocket Knife
Old Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding Knife
The Old Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding Knife boasts rugged durability and reliability, making it a favorite among Military, Law Enforcement, Fire and Rescue crews, as well as civilians tackling the toughest tasks. Crafted with premium CPM-S35VN steel, this knife is designed to endure the most demanding conditions while maintaining a razor-sharp edge. Its G-10 handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, ensuring optimal performance in any situation. Additionally, the knife features the renowned TriAd lock mechanism by custom knife-maker Andrew Demko, renowned for its unmatched strength, shock resistance, and durability, providing unparalleled protection for users’ fingers.
Pros:
- Exceptional Steel: Made from CPM-S35VN steel, known for its toughness, durability, corrosion resistance, and ability to maintain a sharp edge, ensuring reliability in demanding situations.
- Versatile Use: Trusted by professionals and civilians alike for various tasks, from everyday chores to the most challenging jobs.
- Comfortable Grip: The G-10 handle material offers a secure and comfortable grip in all conditions, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use.
- Ultra-Reliable Lock: Features Andrew Demko’s TriAd lock mechanism, renowned for its strength, shock resistance, and durability, providing unmatched protection for users’ fingers.
- Specifications: With a weight of 5.3 ounces, a blade length of 4 inches, handle length of 5 3/8 inches, and overall length of 9 3/8 inches, the knife offers a balanced and practical design suitable for various tasks.
Cons:
- Price: As a premium-quality tactical folding knife, it may be relatively expensive compared to other options on the market.
- Size: While the blade length of 4 inches provides ample cutting surface, it may be considered too large for individuals seeking a more compact folding knife for everyday carry.
- Learning Curve: The TriAd lock mechanism may require some familiarity and practice for users accustomed to other locking systems, potentially leading to initial difficulties in operation.
Zero Tolerance 0350TS Folding Pocket Knife
The Zero Tolerance 0350TS Folding Pocket Knife is a high-performance tool designed for versatility and durability. Featuring a 3.25-inch S30V stainless steel blade with a Tiger-Stripe Tungsten DLC coating, this knife is exceptionally tough, corrosion-resistant, and wear-resistant. Its textured black G-10 handles provide a secure grip, while the SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism ensures swift and easy deployment. Additionally, the quad-mount pocketclip allows for convenient carry options, whether tip-up or tip-down, and accommodates both left and right-handed users. Whether for everyday tasks, survival, precision cutting, or tactical use, this knife offers reliability and performance.
Pros:
- Premium Steel: Crafted from S30V stainless steel, renowned for its high performance, durability, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance, ensuring reliability in various tasks.
- Aggressive Design: The Tiger-Stripe Tungsten DLC blade coating and textured black G-10 handles combine to create a visually striking and aggressive appearance.
- Versatile Carry Options: The quad-mount pocketclip allows for versatile carry positions, catering to both left and right-handed users and offering options for tip-up or tip-down carry.
- SpeedSafe Assisted Opening: The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism enables smooth and rapid deployment of the blade with minimal effort, enhancing usability in any situation.
- Wide Range of Uses: Ideal for everyday carry (EDC), survival tasks, precision cutting, self-defense, tactical applications, and various outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hunting.
Cons:
- Aggressive Appearance: While the tiger-stripe blade coating and aggressive design may appeal to some users, others may prefer a more understated or traditional look.
- Price: As a premium-quality folding pocket knife, the Zero Tolerance 0350TS may have a higher price point compared to other options on the market.
- Maintenance Required: The textured G-10 handles and blade coating may require periodic maintenance to preserve their appearance and functionality, particularly in harsh or demanding environments.
CIVIVI Brazen Folding Pocket Knife
The CIVIVI Brazen Folding Pocket Knife is a low-profile gentlemen’s knife designed for reliability and style. Featuring a cool flat grind blade with either a Gray stonewashed or Black stonewashed D2 Tanto blade, this knife offers sharpness and durability. With a blade length of around 3.5 inches, a handle length of 4.5 inches, and a total length of 7.98 inches, it provides a balanced and practical design for everyday use. Weighing just 3.85 ounces, it’s lightweight and easy to carry.
Pros:
- Smooth Deployment: Equipped with a caged ball bearing system, the knife allows for easy blade deployment using either the dual thumb studs or the flipper opener, ensuring smooth and effortless operation.
- Durable Handle: The G-10 handle comes in multiple colors and features textured surfaces with comfortable finger grooves, providing a secure and reliable grip in various conditions.
- Practical Design: With support for tip-up deep carry on both the right and left sides, the knife offers versatility and convenience for users. Its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for everyday carry.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for a wide range of activities such as exploring, hiking, fishing, camping, or backpacking, the CIVIVI Brazen Knife is a versatile tool for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Lifetime Guarantee: Backed by CIVIVI’s lifetime guarantee against defects in material and workmanship, you can trust in the quality and durability of this knife.
Cons:
- Limited Blade Options: While the knife offers a choice between Gray stonewashed and Black stonewashed D2 Tanto blades, some users may prefer additional blade options for customization.
- Potential for Tip Snagging: The flipper opener design may occasionally catch on clothing or other objects, requiring careful handling to avoid accidental deployment.
- Minimalist Aesthetics: While the knife’s low-profile design may appeal to some users, others may prefer a more ornate or decorative style.
Smith & Wesson High Carbon Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Knife
The Smith & Wesson High Carbon Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Knife is a robust and dependable tool designed for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry (EDC) use. With an overall length of 10.6 inches and a blade length of 5.2 inches, this knife offers a balanced combination of size and functionality. Weighing 8.5 ounces, it’s substantial enough to handle tough tasks while remaining manageable for extended use. The blade is crafted from reliable 9Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity. The black TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) handle provides a comfortable and secure grip in various conditions.
Pros:
- Durable Construction: The blade is constructed from 9Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel, known for its reliability, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for demanding outdoor and tactical applications.
- Convenient Sheath: The knife comes with an ambidextrous thermoplastic sheath, providing quick and easy access while offering secure storage and transportation.
- Secure Grip: With the inclusion of a hand guard, users can have confidence that the blade will not slip during use, ensuring safe and precise handling.
- Lanyard Hole: The knife features a lanyard hole for easy carry, allowing users to attach it to their gear or clothing for quick access in emergency situations.
- Limited Lifetime Warranty: Backed by Smith & Wesson’s Limited Lifetime Warranty, customers can have peace of mind knowing that their purchase is protected against defects in materials and workmanship.
Cons:
- Weight: At 8.5 ounces, some users may find the knife slightly heavy for extended periods of use, particularly for EDC or hiking purposes.
- Size: While the knife’s size provides versatility and capability, it may be too large for users seeking a more compact fixed blade knife for everyday carry.
Cold Steel San Mai Tanto Series Fixed Blade Knife
The Cold Steel San Mai Tanto Series Fixed Blade Knife is a formidable weapon crafted for precision, durability, and effectiveness. Boasting a deep lustrous satin finish on the hollow ground blade bevels and a contrasting line grain finish on the blade flats, this knife offers both style and functionality. With a blade thickness of 3/16 inches and a length of 6 inches, it’s designed to deliver powerful and precise cuts.
The handle features Cold Steel’s famous flattened oval Kraton design, providing a solid grip that resists rolling or twisting under heavy use. Measuring 5-1/2 inches in length, the handle ensures optimal control and maneuverability. The overall length of the knife is 11-1/2 inches, with a weight of 9.5 ounces, striking a balance between strength and agility.
Pros:
- Premium Materials: Made with VG-10 San Mai steel, the knife offers exceptional durability, edge retention, and corrosion resistance, ensuring long-term performance in challenging conditions.
- Effective Design: The Tanto blade shape is specifically designed to concentrate the force of a blow in a small area, making it highly effective for self-defense and tactical applications.
- Secure Grip: The flattened oval Kraton handle provides a solid and comfortable grip, allowing for precise control and maneuverability during use.
- Versatile Use: Whether for self-defense, tactical operations, or outdoor activities, the Cold Steel San Mai Tanto Series Knife is versatile and capable of handling various tasks with ease.
- Durable Sheath: The knife comes with a thick, high-quality Secure-Ex sheath, ensuring years of reliable service and keeping the Tanto readily accessible for action.
Cons:
- Blade Length: With a blade length of 6 inches, the knife may be considered too large for users seeking a more compact fixed blade knife for everyday carry.
Gerber Gear 06 FAST Pocket Knife
The Gerber Gear 06 FAST Pocket Knife is a dependable folding knife designed for versatility and reliability. Featuring a textured G-10 handle for a secure grip, this knife incorporates patented forward action spring technology (FAST) for quick blade deployment. The partially serrated tanto blade allows for fast and efficient cuts, while the striking pommel adds to its functionality. Equipped with a sturdy pocket clip and a lanyard hole, this knife is convenient to carry and ensures easy access when needed. Crafted from stainless steel, it offers durability and longevity, making it suitable for various tasks, from everyday carry to survival situations.
Pros:
- Quick Deployment: The FAST mechanism enables rapid one-handed blade deployment, ensuring swift and efficient use in any situation.
- Durable Construction: Made from stainless steel, the knife is built to withstand the rigors of daily use and will stand the test of time.
- Compact and Portable: With its slim design and pocket clip, the knife is easily accessible and fits compactly in a pocket, making it ideal for everyday carry.
- Safety Features: The safety slide locking feature provides added protection when the knife is not in use, preventing accidental opening or closure.
- Versatile Use: Suitable for a wide range of activities, from worksite tasks to camping and outdoor adventures, this knife is a valuable addition to any toolkit or gear collection.
Cons:
- Limited Blade Length: With a blade length of 3.75 inches, some users may find it slightly shorter than desired for certain tasks requiring longer cutting surfaces.
- Weight: At 5.7 ounces, the knife may feel slightly heavy for users seeking an ultra-lightweight option for everyday carry.
- Specialized Design: The tanto blade shape may not be preferred by users seeking a more versatile or general-purpose folding knife.
Off-Grid Knives Viper V2 folding knife
The Off-Grid Knives Viper V2 is a tactical folding knife designed for reliability, performance, and versatility. Featuring a vicious 3.75-inch graywash tanto blade made of 154CM steel with a thickness of 4mm, this knife offers exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. The blade rides on ceramic bearings, providing smooth and snappy deployment with drop-shut action. The angled tanto grind ensures excellent piercing ability, while the straight edge allows for precise slicing. Non-slip jimping on the spine and flipper tab enhances grip and stability during use.
Pros:
- Quality Blade Steel: Crafted from 154CM steel by Crucible Industries, the blade offers outstanding edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it ideal for tactical use.
- Enhanced Grip: The crosshatch pattern and contoured Coyote Tan G10 scales provide a comfortable and secure grip, even with gloved hands. Non-slip jimping on the spine and flipper tab further improves grip and control.
- Smooth Deployment: With buttery ceramic bearings and a flipper tab featuring jimping, the Viper V2 offers smooth, snappy deployment with drop-shut action, ensuring satisfaction and reliability with each use.
- Upgraded Ergonomics: The G10 scales are secured with non-strip T8 screws, and a G10 filler is added to the non-clip side for a smooth and comfortable feel.
- Lifetime Replacement Guarantee: Registering on the Off-Grid Knives website provides access to a lifetime replacement guarantee, offering peace of mind and assurance of quality craftsmanship.
Cons:
- Weight: At 5.6 ounces, some users may find the knife slightly heavy for everyday carry, particularly for extended periods.
- Size: With an overall length of 8.5 inches when fully open, the Viper V2 may be considered too large for users seeking a more compact folding knife.
Smith & Wesson 10.6-inch Fixed Blade Knife
The Smith & Wesson 10.6-inch High Carbon Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Knife is a rugged and versatile tool designed for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry (EDC) use. With an overall length of 10.6 inches and a blade length of 5.2 inches, this knife offers a balanced combination of size and functionality. Crafted from reliable 9Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel, the blade ensures durability and strength, while the black thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. Quick and easy access is facilitated by the ambidextrous thermoplastic sheath, ensuring convenience and readiness whenever needed.
Pros:
- Durable Construction: The blade is constructed from 9Cr17MoV high carbon stainless steel, known for its reliability, toughness, and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for demanding outdoor and tactical applications.
- Secure Grip: The black TPE handle offers a secure and comfortable grip, allowing for precise control and maneuverability during use, even in wet or challenging conditions.
- Convenient Sheath: The ambidextrous thermoplastic sheath provides quick and easy access to the knife, ensuring readiness for any task. It also features a lanyard hole for convenient carry options.
- Hand Guard: With the inclusion of a hand guard, users can have confidence that the blade will not slip during use, ensuring safe and precise handling in various situations.
- Limited Lifetime Warranty: Backed by Smith & Wesson’s Limited Lifetime Warranty, customers can have peace of mind knowing that their purchase is protected against defects in materials and workmanship.
Cons:
- Weight: At 8.5 ounces, some users may find the knife slightly heavy for extended periods of use, particularly for EDC or hiking purposes.
- Size: While the knife’s size provides versatility and capability, it may be too large for users seeking a more compact fixed blade knife for everyday carry.
- Minimalist Design: The knife’s design may be considered basic or utilitarian by some users who prefer more ornate or decorative features.
Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Pocketknife
The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Pocketknife is a tactical folding knife designed for versatility, durability, and ease of use. Featuring a tanto partially serrated blade made of high-performance Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, this knife offers extreme piercing power and edge retention over time. The black Cerakote coating adds blade protection and enhances overall performance, ensuring long-lasting functionality. The handle is constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, with a scratch and fade-resistant black anodized finish. Trac-Tec inserts provide a secure grip in all weather conditions, while the reversible pocket clip allows for convenient carry options.
Pros:
- Tactical Design: The angled tanto blade shape offers extreme piercing power, while the partial serration adds versatility for various tasks, making it suitable for tactical and everyday carry (EDC) use.
- High-Performance Blade: Made of Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, the blade holds a sharp edge over time and is resistant to corrosion, ensuring reliable performance in any situation.
- Durable Handle: Constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, the handle is scratch and fade-resistant, providing long-term durability and reliability.
- Secure Grip: Trac-Tec inserts on the handle promote a secure grip during use, making it suitable for all weather conditions and ensuring safe and comfortable handling.
- Assisted Opening: Equipped with Kershaw’s assisted opening mechanism, the knife allows for easy one-handed release with the thumb stud, ensuring quick and smooth deployment.
- Safety Features: The inset liner lock secures the blade in place for ensured user safety during use.
Cons:
- Non-Adjustable Pocket Clip: Some users may prefer a pocket clip that is adjustable for different carry preferences, such as tip-up or tip-down orientation.
Gerber Gear 06 FAST Pocket Knife
The Gerber Gear 06 FAST Pocket Knife is a reliable folding knife designed for versatility and convenience. Featuring a textured G-10 handle, this knife provides a secure grip for confident handling. The patented forward action spring technology (FAST) enables quick blade deployment, making it suitable for fast cuts and various tasks. The partially serrated tanto blade enhances cutting efficiency, while the striking pommel adds to its functionality. With a sturdy pocket clip and lanyard hole, this knife is easy to carry and conveniently travels with you. Made from stainless steel, it ensures durability and longevity, making it ideal for survival, camping, worksite, and everyday carry use.
Pros:
- Dependable Performance: The textured G-10 handle and stainless steel construction ensure reliable performance in various conditions, making it suitable for survival, camping, and everyday carry use.
- Quick Blade Deployment: Equipped with patented forward action spring technology (FAST), the knife allows for quick and easy blade deployment, ensuring swift and efficient use in any situation.
- Compact and Portable: With its slim design and pocket clip, the knife is easily accessible and fits compactly in a pocket, making it convenient for everyday carry and travel.
- Safety Features: The safety slide locking feature provides added protection when the knife is not in use, preventing accidental opening or closure, ensuring user safety.
- Convenient Size: With a blade length of 3.75 inches and an overall length of 8.75 inches, the knife offers a convenient size for a wide range of tasks, while its lightweight design, weighing 5.7 ounces, adds to its portability.
Cons:
- Non-Adjustable Pocket Clip: Some users may prefer a pocket clip that is adjustable for different carry preferences, such as tip-up or tip-down orientation.
Design and Features
The Tanto knife is known for its distinct features that set it apart from other types of knives. The most notable feature is its blade shape, which is characterized by a straight edge and a sharply angled point. This design allows the knife to excel at piercing and stabbing tasks, making it a valuable tool in self-defense or emergency situations.
In addition to its unique blade shape, the Tanto knife typically features a full tang construction, which means the blade extends all the way through the handle. This design provides added strength and durability, making the knife capable of withstanding heavy use and rough conditions.
Another common feature of the Tanto knife is its durable and corrosion-resistant materials. Many Tanto knives are made from high-quality stainless steel or carbon steel, which ensures that the blade can maintain its sharpness and integrity over time.
Versatility and Uses
The Tanto knife’s versatile design and functionality make it suitable for a wide range of uses. Its strong and durable blade is well-suited for performing heavy-duty tasks, such as cutting through tough materials, batoning wood, and processing game while hunting.
The Tanto knife’s piercing capabilities also make it an excellent self-defense tool. The sharply angled point can easily penetrate clothing, flesh, and other materials, making it an effective option for personal protection in emergency situations.
Furthermore, the Tanto knife’s precise cutting ability allows it to perform intricate tasks, such as carving and detail work. This makes it a valuable tool for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and anyone who appreciates a reliable and versatile knife.
Choosing the Right Tanto Knife
With the wide variety of Tanto knives available on the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. When selecting a Tanto knife, there are several factors to consider, including the blade material, handle design, and overall build quality.
First and foremost, it’s important to choose a Tanto knife made from high-quality materials. Stainless steel and carbon steel are popular choices for Tanto knives, as they offer excellent corrosion resistance and edge retention.
The handle design is another important consideration when choosing a Tanto knife. Look for a handle that feels comfortable and secure in your hand, as this will ensure a safe and controlled grip during use.
Furthermore, pay attention to the overall build quality of the Tanto knife. A full tang construction and solid blade design are key indicators of a durable and reliable knife that can withstand heavy use and tough conditions.
Maintenance and Care
To ensure that your Tanto knife remains in optimal condition, proper maintenance and care are essential. After each use, it’s important to clean the blade thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or moisture. Dry the knife completely to prevent rust or corrosion from developing on the blade.
Regular sharpening is also necessary to maintain the Tanto knife’s edge. Using a sharpening stone or a honing rod, carefully sharpen the blade to keep it in peak cutting condition. Additionally, lubricating the blade with a light coating of oil can help prevent corrosion and maintain the knife’s overall performance.
Conclusion
The tanto knife is a versatile and functional tool that is well-suited for tactical, self-defense, and everyday carry use. With its distinct blade shape and piercing capabilities, it’s no wonder that tanto knives have become increasingly popular in recent years. When shopping for a tanto knife, be sure to consider the blade material, handle design, blade shape, and overall quality. The knives mentioned in this article are some of the best options on the market, offering exceptional performance and durability. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of knives, a tanto knife is a valuable addition to any collection.