The U.S. military does not have a single standard-issue knife brand. Instead, different branches issue or individually authorize various brands depending on the unit, role, and deployment.
The US Army does not have one universal, standard-issue combat knife. Instead, troops use a combination of standard-issue multi-tools (like Leatherman or Gerber multi-tools), specialized kits, bayonets, and personally owned folding or fixed-blade knives purchased to fit their specific mission needs.
Combat knife. A combat knife is a fighting knife designed for military use and primarily intended for hand-to-hand or close combat fighting. The Fairbairn–Sykes fighting knife, developed for British commandos in World War 2 and used by others post-war.
Several custom, boutique, and production brands make knives specifically designed by or in collaboration with Navy SEALs. Whether for utility, backcountry survival, or close-quarters combat, the most notable makers include:
Benchmade Adamas Fixed Blade
And it's a perfect Navy SEAL Knife. It's thin and low-profile when not in use, but a force to be reckoned with in the hand.
The CIA doesn't issue a single, official knife to its personnel; instead, operatives typically carry versatile, non-metallic, or concealable blades suited for specific missions. Historic and publicly recognized blades range from the famous Cold Steel Kobun used during Operation Jawbreaker to highly covert non-detectable tools.
Kershaw and Benchmade represent two entirely different ends of the pocket knife spectrum. Kershaw is the go-to for budget-friendly EDC (everyday carry) and assisted-opening knives, while Benchmade is a premium, USA-made brand famous for high-end steels and their signature AXIS lock.
The legendary KA-BAR USMC Fighting/Utility Knife (Mark 2) is the most iconic blade associated with the United States Marine Corps. Officially adopted in 1942, it features a 7-inch clip point blade made of 1095 carbon steel and a stacked leather washer handle.
The "best" knife maker depends on the knife's purpose. For kitchen knives, custom legends like Bob Kramer (USA) or traditional Japanese houses like Aritsugu rank highest. For EDC/tactical folders, premium production and custom makers like Chris Reeve Knives (USA) and Shirogorov (Russia) lead the industry.
In the high-end folding knife community, the original "Holy Trinity" refers to three legendary American makers who pioneered the modern premium tactical folder. Together, their designs set the gold standard for durability and precision.
There is no single "number one" knife brand, as the title depends entirely on the knife's primary purpose. Leading experts and enthusiasts consistently recognize distinct industry leaders across different categories:
Ka-Bar USMC Fighting Knife
An icon since World War II, the Ka-Bar remains one of the most recognizable military grade knives ever made. Issued to Marines and still trusted by professionals, its 7-inch 1095 Cro-Van blade is tough enough to take on any task.
There is no single "standard-issue" knife for US Special Forces; operators use a wide variety of personal and unit-issued blades depending on their branch, mission, and personal preference. However, several brands and models are heavily favored and frequently carried in the field.
The Most Popular Military Knives of All Time
The "top" knife brands depend heavily on your intended use. For everyday carry (EDC) and tactical gear, American powerhouses like Benchmade and Spyderco dominate. For cooking, legendary German and Japanese manufacturers are the gold standard.
The best self-defense knife is one that is legal to carry, comfortable to hold, and—most importantly—can be deployed instantly with one hand.
For most kitchens, you only need three foundational knives to handle 95% of prep work: a Chef's Knife, a Paring Knife, and a Serrated (Bread) Knife. These three powerhouses can tackle anything from dicing onions and slicing crusty bread to peeling fruits and carving small meats.
Navy SEALs rely on a few specific standard-issue fixed blades, but they largely carry mission-dependent gear. Standard-issue knives include the Ontario MK3 Mod 0 dive knife and the Cold Steel SRK. For everyday carry and field operations, operators frequently choose rugged folding knives from premium brands.
The "best" American knife company depends on your intended use. For everyday carry (EDC), Benchmade, Spyderco, and Chris Reeve Knives are top-tier. For outdoor survival and heritage, Buck Knives is iconic, while Zero Tolerance leads in heavy-duty tactical folders.
Marines don’t walk on the grass primarily to maintain the pristine appearance of base landscaping. Repeated foot traffic would quickly wear down designated lawns, creating unsightly dirt and mud trails. Additionally, taking shortcuts over grass rather than using sidewalks is symbolically discouraged, as it signals a lack of discipline and a willingness to avoid established routines.
After the Second World War, the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps continued to use the Ka-Bar Fighting Utility knife. In addition to military contract knives, the knife was produced for the civilian market, and the pattern enjoyed some popularity as a general-purpose hunting and utility knife.
MOS OCC Field 72: Air Control/Air Support/Antiair Warfare/Air Traffic Control.
In the knife community, the "Holy Trinity" originally refers to three legendary custom knifemakers whose designs shaped the modern premium folding knife industry: Chris Reeve, Rick Hinderer, and Mick Strider.
Our pricing reflects the true cost of premium American manufacturing and long-term performance: Headquartered in Oregon City, OR: Every Benchmade knife proudly ships from our factory in Oregon City, Oregon. High-End Materials: We use top-tier blade steels, aerospace-grade handles, and precision hardware.
In 1997 the U.S. production facility was opened in Wilsonville, Oregon. Due to an expanding market, the facilities were moved to a larger production site in 2003 located in Tualatin, Oregon. Other products are imported from Japanese and Chinese factories. A Kershaw Leek Assisted-opening knife in action.