Chinese EDC knives are undoubtedly on the rise. What was once synonymous with knock-off, low-quality products has now become the next big thing to seek out in the pocket knife industry.
Chinese manufacturers have been making significant strides, offering high-quality options that meet and often exceed international standards. The rise in quality from Chinese knife brands cannot be ignored, as they produce durable, reliable, and exquisitely designed knives suitable for a multitude of tasks. CIVIVI, Kizer, Reate… These names are no strangers to knife enthusiasts. What they all have in common is that they offer designs, functionality, and quality, all at an affordable price.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to more Chinese knife brands that have become hot topics among enthusiasts. Some of them even serve as OEM manufacturers for big US brands, a fact many people aren’t aware of.
1. SenCut/CIVIVI/WE knives
SenCut, CIVIVI and WE actually originate from the same company. The reason behind the different brand names lies in their marketing strategy: two brands focus on budget-friendly knives, while WE offers higher-end, premium options. Established in 2000 in Yangjiang, the WE company are practically household names in the Chinese knife scene. Mention Chinese knife brands, and it’s usually the first name to come to mind.
The Elementum Series, the Baby Banter, the Praxis… These models have shaken up the knife collector’s world. They actively collaborates with talented knife designers from all corners of the globe, resulting in a diverse and impressive lineup.
Their premium line sets the standard for top-tier cutting performance and refined aesthetics. With materials like titanium and M390 steel, they’re a notch above in quality and often occupy the higher end of the price spectrum.
So, if you’re on the hunt for your next everyday companion, CIVIVI and SenCut strikes the perfect balance of price and performance. But if you’re craving a touch of luxury in your pocket toolkit, WE knives are the way to go.
2. SRM
Sanrenmu isn’t just another knife brand – it’s been around the block for a while. Not content with just selling their own knives, they’re the powerhouse behind many other big-name brands you probably already know and love. Think Benchmade, Spyderco, Buck… you name it, they’ve likely had a hand in making knives for them.
Founded in China back in December 1998, Sanrenmu has been all about pushing the boundaries in research, development, manufacturing, and sales of top-notch stainless steel outdoor tools, knives, scissors, and more. They’ve been the go-to for quality and innovation, teaming up with countless European and American brands along the way.
Their commitment to excellence has paid off big time, earning them serious props in the European and American markets. And while most Chinese knife brands are huddled up in Yangjiang, Sanrenmu stands tall with its headquarters holding it down in Yulin City, Guangxi, China.
3. TwoSun
When you’re considering TwoSun as an option for pocket knives, you’re looking at a brand that has made a name for itself with its impressive price-quality ratio. It is said that they’re slinging knives that could easily go for $200 but are hitting the shelves at a sweet $60. Plus, they’re not skimping on the good stuff – we’re talking titanium handles and top-notch steel like M390 and S90V.
TwoSun currently does not have their own website. They usually sell knives on ebay or through White Mountain Knives.
TwoSun’s offerings are compelling because they deliver a balance between affordability and performance. With TwoSun, you don’t have to compromise on quality even if you’re not looking to invest a large amount of money. To get an idea of what users think, you might want to check out discussions on BladeForums.com.
If you’re dipping your toes into the world of Chinese knives or just starting your pocket knife collection, TwoSun is the perfect entry point. With innovation and bang for your buck, they’re a serious player worth checking out. Now, here’s the catch: TwoSun knives aren’t always a dime a dozen. Sometimes, you’ll have to hunt around to find exactly what you’re looking for, depending on what’s in stock with different retailers.
4. Petrified fish
Petrified Fish is making waves as a budget-friendly brand straight outta China. It’s a newcomer to the scene, but they offer great value for its price.
They’re not skimping on the good stuff either. Petrified Fish is packing mid to high-grade steel like D2, 14c28n, and 12c27 into their blades, with some models even boasting M390 and 154CM.
Their designs are user-focused, incorporating features that enhance the utility and handling of the knife. The knives often come with additional accessories such as extra screws and microfiber cloths, ensuring that you have everything needed for maintenance and care.
Sure, Petrified Fish might not have the same clout as some of the big names, but they’re carving out their own lane with top-notch quality at prices that won’t leave you eating ramen for a month. If you’re after a reliable, affordable option, you better keep an eye on Petrified Fish knives.
5. Kizer
If you’re all about that sleek, modern look paired with dependable functionality in your pocket knives, Kizer is where it’s at.
Hailing from YangJiang just like many other Chinese knife brands, Kizer’s claim to fame lies in their precision manufacturing. Kizer isn’t just about fancy machines. They’re masters at blending top-notch materials with impeccable engineering, setting themselves apart as major players in the knife game, not just in China, but globally.
Kizer also is the OEM knife manufacturer for many popular brands like OKnives. They do not just make pocket knives, either. Kizer also holds it down with their own Kizer Cutlery line. Its collaboration with prominent knife designers has led to a diverse and innovative portfolio. You’ll find both traditional and contemporary designs, catering to a wide range of tastes and uses.
For daily use, their pocket knives offer the convenience of a deep-carry pocket clip that ensures your Kizer knife is discreet but readily accessible.
Kizer’s offerings are worth your consideration. With reviews highlighting their performance, investing in a Kizer knife could be a smart decision for your collection.
6. Ruike
Ruike is a dynamic brand with a dedicated following, despite not enjoying the same level of recognition as industry giants. Specializing in budget-friendly knives, their products typically retail for under $100, with many priced below $50. The brand predominantly utilizes 14C28N steel in their knife construction, prioritizing both durability and aesthetic appeal in their designs.
Take for example the Ruike Tactical Folding Knife, an excellent choice for outdoor activities like camping or hiking. Its frame lock mechanism provides secure blade deployment, so you can trust it to perform when you need it.
Ruike’s dedication to creating tools that are both practical and visually appealing is what places them among the top Chinese brands for pocket knives. Their attention to fine details and usability make them a brand worth considering for your next purchase.
7. Vespa
In contrast to Ruike, Vespa specializes in crafting high-end OTF (Out The Front) knives renowned for their quality and performance. These knives are constructed using premium M390 steel, typically priced around the $150 mark, reflecting their commitment to excellence.
Currently, Vespa does not operate its own website. However, their products are readily available for purchase through AliExpress and DHgate. Among their offerings, the Vespa Ripper stands out as a particularly popular design, known for its sleek and contemporary aesthetic.
User feedback consistently underscores the impressive performance of Vespa OTF knives, with many users attesting to their reliability and durability. Some even suggest that Vespa knives rival those from more established and expensive brands, further solidifying Vespa’s reputation within the industry.
Remember to verify the legality of OTF knives in your area, as laws can vary greatly. While Vespa may not have the same historical prestige as some established brands, it certainly makes its mark by offering reliable, functional, and affordable options for your everyday carry.
8. Bestech
Bestech Knives is a leading OEM knife manufacturer with a rich history of collaborating with major knife brands. While Bestech is widely recognized for their OEM prowess, their own direct-to-consumer (B2C) line has taken a backseat in comparison.
Comprising a team of skilled machinists, artists, and designers from diverse backgrounds across the globe, Bestech Knives has been providing top-tier OEM manufacturing services to a global clientele for over a decade. Your experience with Bestech knives is characterized by meticulous attention to detail, evident in the precise beveling, blade finishing, and ergonomic handle designs tailored for comfort and grip. With a reputation built on their extensive OEM manufacturing experience, you can trust in the quality and craftsmanship of Bestech’s own line of knives.
9. Kubey
Kubey emerges as a promising contender in the pocket knife market, despite being a newcomer compared to established brands. Positioned in the mid to premium segment with an average price point of approximately $150. Kubey has swiftly garnered attention through its commitment to professional production techniques and utilization of high-quality powder metallurgy steel such as CPM S35VN.
A standout feature of Kubey is their proactive engagement with renowned knife designers. Resulting in a diverse catalog of designs. With the brand currently enjoying a surge in popularity, Kubey presents an enticing opportunity for enthusiasts to hop aboard the hype train and explore what they have to offer.
10. Sitivien
Sitivien positions itself as a dedicated budget brand. They do not maintain their own website. Instead, distributing its products through various platforms including Amazon and AliExpress, as well as other authorized dealers.
In line with its budget-focused approach. Sitivien predominantly utilizes commonly available materials such as G10 handles, alongside blade steels like D2 and K110. Notably, Sitivien has capitalized on the expiration of Benchmade’s Axis lock patent, incorporating this popular locking mechanism into many of its knives, with models like the ST110 standing out in particular.
With a keen eye on affordability, Sitivien strikes a balance between cost and quality, appealing to budget-conscious enthusiasts who prioritize reliability in their pocket knives.
11. Ganzo
When exploring options for Chinese-made pocket knives, you should take a moment to consider Ganzo. Established with durability and affordability in mind, Ganzo provides a variety of knives suited for both everyday carry and more tactical needs.
Most Ganzo knives feature a blade constructed from 440C stainless steel, known for its resistance to corrosion and its ability to retain a sharp edge for a considerable amount of time. Handles typically combine G10—a rugged, textured material—with stainless steel for a secure grip and overall resilience.
The Ganzo G720, for instance, is a tactical folding knife praised for its robust build and ease of use. If you’re looking for a full-size EDC knife, the Ganzo G7522 with its stone-washed blade could be an appealing choice due to its comfortable grip and sleek appearance.
By picking a Ganzo knife, you’re opting for a reliable tool that won’t overextend your budget, proving it to be a wise choice for quality-seeking yet budget-conscious individuals.
12. Reate
Reate deserves a noteworthy mention, despite being discussed in our previous article on OEM knife manufacturers. Renowned for their excellence in both premium OEM knife manufacturing and their own direct-to-consumer (B2C) lines, Reate holds a distinguished position in the industry.
While Reate holds a website, it primarily serves as an informational hub rather than a platform for direct knife purchases. To acquire Reate products, individuals are advised to seek out authorized dealers within their vicinity.
Established as a premium brand from the get-go, Reate is known for its meticulous craftsmanship and use of superior materials.
Reate sets the bar high by exclusively employing premium steel varieties such as S90V and VG10. The inclusion of VG10 is particularly notable, as it is traditionally associated with Japanese knife manufacturing and is seldom exported beyond Japan. This commitment to top-tier materials underscores Reate’s dedication to crafting knives of unparalleled quality.
For those seeking a knife that exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship and performance and are willing to invest in a higher budget, Reate stands out as an excellent choice.
Are Chinese knives good?
The quality of Chinese knives, particularly when it comes to pocket knives, has sparked significant interest and discussion in knife enthusiast communities. Your evaluation of Chinese knives should consider a variety of factors, including craftsmanship, materials used, and user reviews.
Recent years have seen a surge in reputation for several Chinese knife brands. Originally known for producing budget-friendly options, these brands now also encompass premium lines that rival well-established Western names in quality.
Here’s a brief overview of aspects often discussed in knife forums:
- Materials: Chinese knives often feature high-quality steel types and handle materials on par with other international offerings.
- Manufacturing: Advances in manufacturing technologies in China have led to tighter tolerances and better quality control.
- Design: Some Chinese brands are known for their innovative designs and collaboration with famous knife designers.
Your preferences and the specific features you value will ultimately determine whether you deem Chinese knives as good for your use. For value, and premium quality, Chinese knives are hard to beat.
While we currently do not plan on selling knives directly to end customers, Kegani is also an experienced OEM knife manufacturer in YangJiang, China. Along with the most names in this list, we have partnered with many clients and designers from all over the world to help them forge top-quality knives. If you are interested in getting into the business, contact us and let’s have a chat!
