A Gentleman's Knife: Our Elegant Pocket Knives

What Is A Gentleman’s Pocket Knife

A true Gentleman’s Pocket Knife marries beautiful form with reliable function. Made to be carried discreetly in an urban environment, they are usually more compact than a workhouse pocket knife. They are crafted of rare or premium materials, making them almost a fashion accessory and heirloom worthy. However, a gentleman’s pocket knife should never sacrifice function for form and will have a blade that will perform exceptionally any cutting task that presents itself. They’re built to last and meant to be used, not just admired.

Our Recommendations

Gentleman’s Pocket Knives come in a variety of designs, really giving you the opportunity to choose one that fits your own personal style. Here are some of my favorites.

Kriegar Gentleman’s Pocket Razor

A little on the longer side of the spectrum than other gentleman’s pocket knives, the Kriegar Gentleman’s Pocket Razor is a perfect example of the sleek and slim profile of the style. I think this razor knife is something every man should have in his possession with its classic lines and its tribute to gentlemanly tradition. From its Damascus steel razor blade with its traditional extended tang for easy opening to its curved handle crafted of premium black and brown wooden panels, it’s a masterpiece. Then, the details like the fileworked spine of the blade and the brass spacers and rosettes give it an expensive feel. The brass is also carried through to the liners and the pins. When you’re not carrying this knife, it can be stored in the premium leather pouch that comes with it.
Pros:

• It’s got sleek, classic lines and the wooden and brass handle give it an Old World look that’s quietly elegant.
• The razor blade is razor-sharp right out of the box and the manual opening with the extended tang is smooth and easy.

Cons:

• It is on the longer side of the spectrum compared to other knives in the gentleman’s style.
• Damascus steel takes more maintenance and upkeep to keep it in good-working, rust-free condition.

Timber Wolf Gentleman’s Abalone Pocket Knife

A smooth, elegant design combined with rugged functionality, the Gentleman’s Abalone Pocket Knife from Timber Wolf is a great everyday carry that’s gift-worthy for any occasion. The custom handle is crafted of nickel silver with intricately laser-etched scroll designs and genuine abalone inserts in a swirl of iridescent colors. The mirror-polished, stainless steel of the blade completes the incredible visual picture. It really is a stunning, eye-catcher of a knife and its performance as an everyday carry is exceptional. There’s just no under-estimating this gentleman’s lockback pocket knife with its razor-sharp clip point blade, perfect for any cutting or penetrating task.
Pros:

• It really does make a great gift-option for any occasion, especially, since you’re getting excellent value for your money.
• Its rust-resistant, stainless steel, clip point blade is perfect for any cutting or penetrating task.

Cons:

• It’s a manual that opens with a nail nick and it sticks a little on opening at first.
• It doesn’t have a pocket clip so it’s loose in your pocket.

Timber Wolf Chief Executive Pocket Knife

I absolutely love the Chief Executive from Timber Wolf because it looks and feels like a knife that you had custom-made just for you. Minus the custom-made price. This pocket knife has so many attractive design elements and intricate details. Starting with the handle, the scales are a premium dark wood, secured with brass pins and bookended by brass fileworked spacers and brass bolsters. The clip point blade is Damascus steel and features a fileworked spine, matching the filework of the spacers. The knife comes with a premium leather belt pouch to carry it in that complements the overall look of the knife as an elegant accessory. The value for the price is unbelievable!
Pros:

• The knife comes with a premium leather belt pouch to carry it in that complements the overall look of the knife as an elegant accessory.
• The ergonomic handle has finger grooves, giving you a secure and comfortable grip when you use it.

Cons:

• Damascus steel takes more maintenance and upkeep to keep it in good-working, rust-free condition.
• The lockback on this pocket knife is also a little stiff so it’s challenging to close.

Kissing Crane Abalone Stiletto Knife

This list wouldn’t be complete without a Kissing Crane Knife. The company, which has been in business since 1834, pioneered the use of material like burnt bone, exotic woods and abalone in its unique handles. These knives are some of the most sought after and collected in the industry. The Abalone Stiletto Knife is so slim that you’ll forget it's in your pocket even though it’s a little on the longer side. The genuine abalone scales are a swirl of deep greens and purples, complemented by polished brass bolsters and guaranteed by the official Kissing Crane medallion. The fine-pointed, stiletto blade is crafted of Damascus steel and is sharp right out of the box. To me, with its long history, the stiletto is one of the most iconic in gentleman’s knives category.
Pros:

• The super slim profile makes it easy to carry in your pocket and the length makes it easy to access even though it’s loose in your pocket.
• It’s incredibly sharp with a penetrating point right out of the box and retains its edge fairly well.

Cons:

• Damascus steel takes more maintenance and upkeep to keep it in good-working, rust-free condition.
• You need to make sure that you don’t drop this knife on something hard because the abalone could be cracked or chipped.