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
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
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
- 8Cr13MoV Steel blade
- Two-point clip attachment
- MOLLE compatible
- Fiberglass reinforced nylon body
- Thumb stud-assisted opening
MSRP: $32.00
For more information, please visit 511Tactical.com.
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