How to Choose Your First EDC Folding Knife: A Beginner's Guide to Everyday Carry

Getting Started with Your First EDC Knife

Buying your first everyday carry (EDC) folding knife is exciting — but it can also be overwhelming. With so many blade steels, lock types, handle materials, and price points, where do you even start? This guide breaks down everything a beginner needs to know, step by step.

Step 1: Set Your Budget

Your budget determines which materials and features are realistic. Here's what each price bracket typically offers:

• Under $50: Entry-level. Budget steels like 8Cr13MoV or D2. G10 or stainless steel handles. Simple liner locks.
• $50 - $150: Sweet spot. AR-RPM9, D2, or entry-level premium steels. Better fit and finish. More lock variety.
• $150 - $300: Premium entry. CPM S35VN, S90V, or M390. Titanium or carbon fiber handles. Advanced lock mechanisms.
• $300+: Enthusiast grade. Exotic materials, limited editions.

For your first knife, the $50-$150 range offers the best value.

Step 2: Choose a Blade Steel

• AR-RPM9 — Artisan Cutlery's proprietary steel. Excellent edge retention, easy to sharpen, great value.
• D2 — Semi-stainless tool steel. Great edge retention but less corrosion resistant.
• CPM S35VN — Premium stainless. Longer-lasting edge, tougher, more corrosion resistant.

Step 3: Pick a Lock Type

• Liner Lock — Simple, reliable, easy one-handed operation. Great for beginners.
• Frame Lock — Stronger, premium feel.
• Button Lock — Push-button release. Fun to fidget with, ambidextrous.

Step 4: Consider Handle Material

• G10: Lightweight, grippy, durable. Best for hard use.
• Micarta: Ages beautifully, grippy when wet, develops character.
• Aluminum: Lightweight, modern look.
• Titanium: Premium feel, extremely lightweight, corrosion proof.

Step 5: Size and Weight

For most people: Blade 3.0-3.5 inches is the sweet spot. Under 5oz is comfortable all-day carry. Deep-carry pocket clip is non-negotiable.

Our Top Beginner Recommendations

• Orthodox (AR-RPM9, G10): ~$50. Reliable liner lock, good steel, comfortable ergonomics.
• Andromeda 1856P (AR-RPM9, G10, Button Lock): ~$56. Lightweight and fidget-friendly.
• Proponent (D2, G10): ~$60. Beefier build, great value.

Final Advice

Your first EDC knife doesn't need to be perfect — it needs to be carried. Start with a solid option, learn what you like, and upgrade from there.

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Browse our full collection of beginner-friendly folding knives.