Best D2 Steel Pocket Knives Under $50

[@pbodymathis]

I bought an Imperial knife from WalMart about 24 years ago for fishing. It was my second Imperial knife as I lost the first one overboard while fishing. I have managed to keep this knife all those years. It may not hold an edge but it has served me very well and is easy to sharpen and it cost around $15!

[@justadudeintheworldman.120]

This guy’s presentation skills are top shelf

[@chrisnotyourbusines7739]

3:12 "makes it good for more than just combat" yeah truly top-notch and no doubt he knows what he's talking about

[@johngroves5643]

@@chrisnotyourbusines7739 im sure everyone at knife center knows what they are talking about. Thats why its such a great company.

[@alphadawg81]

Not really, though. I've watched a few videos by him and oftentimes doesn't tell if knives have pivot bearings, which makes a big difference imo.

[@alphadawg81]

@@chrisnotyourbusines7739 😆👍

[@snhoman6394]

Love this guy. Wish all knife reviews were as focused and succinct!

[@39MercFlathead]

I bought my first D2 knife in 1972. It was a Chubby Hueske semi-skinner and I used it for 30 years until a horse went ballistic when he smelled blood and spread the saddle and contents of the saddle bags over a couple acres. I found some of the gear, but not the Hueske, not even with the metal detector I brought up the next weekend. That knife would dress an elk with no problem and with no need to touch up the edge. Yes, it was harder to sharpen than some other steels, but it just took a little more time and effort. However, the edge holding was fantastic. The only problem is that you must keep the blade clean and dry it off after using it. It will rust. I have had several D2 knives since and they have all performed very well. I'm going to buy the SOG for one of my grandkids.

[@King88_8]

Awesom review and gotta agree, presentation. No stupid comments and opinions. Just "This is what it is, this is how it feels, I can't make up yoir kind for you.."

[@richardalexander5758]

That's one hell of a line-up for some really nice, and cost effective folders. I have D2 blades which do hold an edge well, and don't require too much care in normal use. That said, after a week on a sailboat you can expect some light surface rust however.

[@jeb9387]

I’m a knife collecting newbie, and this video is right up my alley! So far my OCD is limited to smaller knives with d2 steel only. I’m buying up all the knives I can find. Someday I hope my tastes will broaden, but for right now, keep the d2s coming! Thanks!

[@gaianmonkey]

Check out the Kershaw Highball. In 2 sizes both in D2.

[@neemancallender9092]

There was a huge shift when Queens started all their slip joints in D2 It boosted the usability of the blades and their edge retention from the SS they were using But they never got the screaming sharp of their carbon economy line

[@cbwelch4]

Dave, the Rat might not be the sexiest, but it will be ergonomically one of the best users. My hand really locks into the knife and when you pick it up, it becomes apparent how you’re supposed to use it. The jimping is well done. I just wish they put slightly more aggressive texture into the frn scales. I really like the Wyvern and the Kendo. I have a Thorn and a Naja and these companies are resetting the quality benchmarks at this range. However when I need a hard use beater for work, the Rat is always on my short list for outdoor tasks. Oh you forgot the CJRB Centros. That might be my next knife.

[@bosse641]

That SOG is the one I'd like to have. Simple old-school EDC. Very nice.

[@damon5899]

John Grytbakk it’s on amazon for like $170 right now LOL

[@motorcyclemark2889]

This video says it's under $50

[@acid6urns]

⁠@@damon5899i can guarantee you’re looking at the s35vn carbon fiber model dude

[@annaibilus]

I am so glad I found this video. I was looking for a decent, but cheaper knife. Thanks to you, I found out about CJRB. Great reviews and just what I was looking for and in the price range. Thank you.

[@mrrustygray]

Totally walked past the Ganzo Firebirds. D2, ball bearing, and under $40

[@acid6urns]

they… don’t sell ganzo on knifecenter.

[@kirkmcknight113]

I'm seeing this in July of 2020. Along with the great knives you showed us, my friend IF there is a better person to expertly show and describe knives, he or she will have to get in line behind you. I am 69+ and have a little OCPD going on so I can appreciate a talented person regardless what they do. You Are the man when showing knives and this solo presentation probably suits you best. I wouldn't want to see you doing your thing and having others butting in while your talking. I subbed as soon as the vid was over and rang the bell as well :). Look forward to more videos.

[@knifecenter]

Thank you for the kind words Kirk! -DCA

[@kirkmcknight113]

@@knifecenter Your Very Welcome !!!

[@desertratedc9596]

My three favorite steels are bucks heat treated 420HC, AUS 8 and D2. The 420HC and AUS 8 are easy to sharpen and hold a edge for a reasonable time and D2 for the same reasons listed in this video.

[@WarGrrl3]

Thank you so much for this vid. The info was presented extremely well n will help me n many of my friends make an informed decision as we have been looking for reasonable priced, quality, d2 folders. I'm so sick of all the reviews of ridiculously overpriced folders that in some cases, are lower quality than the fantastic knives you have shown here. A folder is a tool, paying $300 for one, unless I'm a 'collector' is insane, I don't care what steel it is. I never subscribed to the 'my knife is cooler n more expensive than yours' mentality. Thanks again, Be Blessed.

[@idaho2085]

Excellent information my friend. Been ordering off and on with you guys for years now. Concise, well laid out information that is EXACTLY what I need, and nothing I don't. Thanks for not fluffing this stuff.

[@josebarajas4779]

Now you're talkin David!!!great list. everybody loves a great deal. My only problem now is that I feel that I have to have half the knives on that list.

[@jayr526]

About the CJRB blade shape, iit's a Sheepcliff.

[@the_real_stevie_t]

Wharnfoot?

[@craigscott5661]

I’ve been carrying a Camillus Cuda Max for years and I just love them. They are also D2 and they have a large blade but are very thin and easy to carry. Would love your opinion of the knife. It’s not cheap tho.

[@shotgunnerB]

I like David, I ordered a knife just because it was from him! Very professional and I believe he knows what hes talking about, nice job David!!!🗡🔪🗡🔪🗡🔪🗡🔪

[@erikramaekers63]

The Maserin Scout is my favorite D2 knife.A great slipjoint.49 euros in Belgium

[@fredperry9235]

Thanks for the tip. Looks awesome

[@themoodybobby1]

Civivi Elementum belongs on this list

[@janborkowski2282]

i would love to see best d2 knives in 2022!

[@gaianmonkey]

I got the Kershaw Highball. A great little knife that looks great and feels good in the hand. An option to get the XL too if you need a bigger knife. Definitely recommend.

[@03_austindrake88]

I didn't know they came out with a Kershaw Emerson with D2. Very cool. It's cool to see Kershaw finally offering something besides 8cr13mov on the Kershaw Emerson's. I wonder if they have one with a coated D2 blade? Coated D2 blades are less likely to have corrosion issues.

[@gaianmonkey]

The Kershaw Highball is a coated d2 knife with an xl option too if you like a bigger blade. Looks and feels great and I love mine.

[@gaianmonkey]

Edit.. . The highball coating isn't on the full blade. I just checked! 😁

[@chrisbyars4422]

That’s a pretty nice list, one that I will draw inspiration from in future knife purchases. Great presentation, thank you!

[@ernestclevenger6640]

I would respectfully suggest to try the Bastion 'Brat'. Comparable to the Civivi Courser, but with a D2 blade. I purchased the Bastion Brat about a month ago for around $40. It's truly a great knife and has become my EDC of choice.

[@random_eskimo_in_the_rockies]

What kind of blade is the Talla? Easy: It's a Wharnfoot. Or is it a Sheepscliff?

[@Fengshawn86]

I’ve thought D2 was the best steel for my edc knives for years! Carried my Benchmade mini grip with a D2 blade for a few years until I was gifted a good auto knife.

[@erikleeisaac01]

You sir, are the Sean Evans of blades. Great presentation!

[@littlemouse7066]

We have to thank the chinese knife companies for this otherwise D2 steel knives would still cost a lot like many years ago. They changed the market.

[@BChan1991]

Eafengrow

[@skylerbond56]

@@BChan1991 Eafenblow*

[@LarryHobbs-x6g]

I bought a D2 knife for 18 dollars dang good knife

[@drewsmith9809]

Wharncliffe. I think the back edge is closer to handle seperating it from sheeps foot.. such a cool blade design thou. Loved a lot of these knives!!

[@sharpsvilleBill]

OKC RAT 1 all day every day!

[@PerceptionVsReality333]

Same here.

[@chrro466]

Yep tough as !!!!

[@carlsaunders966]

Carry two. One in each front pocket

[@firefighting.responder]

D2 is a great steel and keeps a great sharp edge.......

[@CerbF91]

i'm not even that big on knives but i can listen to DCA all day

[@nusatoys1932]

I'm liking the Krag. It looks cool.

[@rextarwastaken]

Manly Peak is my choice for a D2 pocket knife

[@therivermonk]

God I love straight to the meat videos. This guy's awesome.

[@jerrymillett3895]

I live in CNY and surprisingly I found out the hard way that I have to keep up on oiling my D2 or it pits. Parents and kids be aware that Your d2 blade may be rusty if you don’t care for it.

[@MountainFisher]

If you have a D2 knife that rusts easily it isn't D2. I make D2 fillet knives used in saltwater ht to HRC60-61 with a 1000 temper for toughness. I use American made Carpenter D2 with 12% chromium, stainless is 13%. I haven't had one customer return a blade with rust or pits. I'd bet you have chinesium D2.

[@beyproctor7673]

I like the Rat 1 in D2 and the Rat 2 in D2 with carbon fiber scales (called the R2D2). I chose the Civivi Elementum with micarta scales because of city knife laws. I like the Civivi better than the Ontario Rat for work because the liners are stainless on it. My Rat got water between the scales and the liner and started rust. Will probably be a while before it is a problem though.

[@Timothius82]

Fantastic episode guys, I'm not sure which I like best.

[@9999plato]

The Bestech's are all nice knives. My Scimitar uses a single screw to hold the clip on and if it loosens it can damage the slot that keeps the clip straight.

[@nickd2155]

Please list the knives shown in your descriptions below the video

[@bobone866]

Great video. Love allll the info. Streight to the point. Informative and very good presentation

[@kevinstryker6440]

Being a sheepsfoot snob, I would call the "Talla" a modified warn cliff blade shape. If I was getting fancy i would call it a "cyber cliff" blade shape.

[@michaelmendillo4614]

What an excellent video, I learned quite a bit here ! TY ! I actually liked every one ! They all where very nice, well made knives ! But of course, I found some favorites. Thanks again!!! Great job ! 😁✌

[@jamesstraub4981]

I like the Shaula for the just over $50 list.

[@nitzanza1990]

Me too , I will love to see a compression between the rat ll to shaula.

[@taxirock90]

How about the Firebird FH51 from Ganzo. Its just the right size to have in your pocket. I find it really handy.

[@howdidkobecrosstheroadonim3748]

Dewalt tanto folding blade is the goat

[@crisco6583]

Very nice job. I really enjoy your videos.

[@markarmstrong3394]

D2 is my favorite !!

[@Anti-Virus47]

Straight to the Point!

[@eddyram4072]

The cjrb blade shape is probably a sheepclif

[@DEVILJAW]

I have a non d2 large pilar, one of my favorite designs, i recently picked up the sog terminus in d2, awesome knife, not sure why its not being recommended more.

[@msharmall7298]

Any blade play on the terminus? I'm curious out it

[@DEVILJAW]

@@msharmall7298 on mine, it had little to no blade play, which im very surprised by, since it's only a 49.99 retail knife

[@BrayTrades]

I like them all really good looking knives on this list

[@Fengshawn86]

First Kershaw I’m interested in!!!

[@byronrhamy1199]

Talla looks great

[@grantbuchanan2953]

Good presentation as usual!!!!! Grant B. Thanks!!!

[@carlhansen8672]

Great video. I have several models of the budget Bestech and they're great. Stay sharp and look good as an EDC. LOL I agree with JackG79.

[@urbanjungle9600]

Love your content and presenting style!

[@lannylilly6783]

sweet batch

[@Photron52]

A question if you will: What's with the obsession of late to downsize knife blade lengths ?

[@knifecenter]

More options on the market means better choice for everybody.

[@mikeperkins3469]

💥💥💥💥 Very informative and well said.

[@Monster_Rancher]

Nice list.

[@matthewking8307]

That Talla looks like a pocket Seax! Cool blade!

[@macmccartney5760]

The cjrb talla is sexy. And i would call it a warncliff

[@BDBladeWerX]

Good reference! Considering getting them now.

[@Hungrybird474]

I like crkt . The crkt hollow point +p Ruger is awesome and abeauty . You fellas should take a look 👀if you have ruger rifles or guns it’s a nice compliment not like the crap smith and Wesson blades , it’s crkt fellas onion design 👍👍. Get one

[@MrClintonrodier]

Can we please have a list? Thank you

[@gemelodpr]

I have a little statgear slinger with a 2in. D2 blade that cost me $50

[@michaelrossi3707]

I reckon you could gravity assist open the terminus as well

[@Jessica37323]

Check out the Bear and Son Ops Rancor 2 with S30V for $52. Made in USA

[@yonfen3050]

I just found this for 49.99; how does it hold up?

[@556suppressor]

Carry an Ontario RAT II with AUS 8 steel. Just drop it into my right pocket. The RAT I is too large for EDC inside my pocket.

[@johnwest4492]

Awesome selections, cant wait to get that Kendo in my hands :))

[@JackG79]

John I couldn't agree more I seen that Kendall and it was like seeing a hot chick just about made my heart skip a beat. That's got one of the finest looking blade profiles I've seen in years I think I'm going to have to order me one of those as well

[@jayr526]

I don't own the Kendo, but I have a Paladin, a Swordfish, and a Warwolf. They are all great knives.

[@carlosedwardos]

Civivi & Ontario are the gems here, a lot of these are a bit junky & sketchy (or just ugly)

[@RagnarokCo]

That's what I was hoping this video would solve for me. Debating between Rat 2 and Civivi Baklash . Not sure which has the better action.

[@gatorhkman]

Well done, amazing valued commentary and I was introduced to a few brands I was unaware of. THX

[@traviscoombes3578]

Wonder if Benchmade will change the blade steel on the Adamas, or drop the price?

[@702johnny]

Adamas is worth every penny. Got mine in all black. Not a good slicer since it is so thick, but it is a beast for everything else.

[@Kurio71]

What's a good deep-carry, lightweight flipper EDC?

[@philthy8150]

Warncliff for sure

[@larrymarsico4059]

GREAT vid to put out there for us #KnifeNuts! Thanks!

[@ocomegashadowstacking5886]

Wow amazing video!!! :D

[@christopherkatz9484]

I love my RAT 1, especially after I stonewashed the blade

[@HanSolo__]

good knife

[@chipper626]

Paid an extra dollar in shipping so they can get there associated selling check lol not much but it's an honest living

[@brianleabo6295]

That's a sheep foot all day. The Kindo could be an office or gentleman knife

[@owl331]

Best US made EDC

[@ericathompsen8110]

It could be a hybrid between the two knives

[@jamesbarry6248]

kERSHAW Highball......best bargain out there

[@sal2142]

Appreciate your knowledge and very well put video. You cool

[@johnmarsland3442]

Milwaukee tools has a D2 line lock flipper for like $28

[@eagerprepper6702]

Could you please do a "best UK legal carry £20 or under"

[@sanriosenpai3569]

Your better off carrying a stick and a rock

[@Zo-Rage1]

Get a cheap SAK

[@cwcadventures9987]

To bad the screws on kershaw Emerson's pocket clip screw aren't long enough for left hand carry learned the hard way

[@solomonsgtjustinl9724]

They come with a set of longer screws, in a little zip-lock bag. I carry one in each pocket. If I could find my second set, I’d send em to you.

[@cwcadventures9987]

Mine didn't come with any

[@vincek6613]

Nice list. I have the terminus and it's great. Have always wanted the large Pilar since it was released and that cjrb cleaver style is definitely on my wish list

[@skie6282]

I got a d2 knife thats sht... i assume it was heat treated terribly or maybe just not even d2 but its extremely hard to sharpen and dulls extremely fast...

[@Blakehx]

Thanks for the good info! What’s the best inexpensive sharpener?

[@jamesterbio]

I'd like to know too

[@A1para]

Blakehx 2000 grit wet or dry sand paper. You can get it most anywhere. WalMart and most hardware stores have it. On a nice flat surface with a little oil, while maintaining angle move blade in a circular motion. Some sharpeners tend to round the point over time. I find it easy to maintain the point using the above method. If the edge needs more than a touch you can use courser grits. You can pretty much get a knife sharp enough that hair will jump out of the way of it. Much cheaper than stones or other types of sharpeners and never needs dressing.

[@toxicfpv304]

spend the 8 dollars more and snag the knafs lander..... god it is such a great edc

[@readyme]

Any chance you can do a list of liner lock knives that offer better steel than D2?

[@congamike1]

That was great! Thanks

[@casave9682]

Why can’t I find the sw tenet on the site? Fell in love with it and felt so disappointed when I couldn’t find it

[@knifecenter]

Looks like they discontinued it. That's a shame! Was a very nice blade.

[@JustIn-op6oy]

It's a Wharnfoot (or even a Sheepcliffe).

[@HanSolo__]

No such shapes.