The Best Gentleman’s Knives of 2021

Sharp, classy, and all new for 2021 check out the latest best gentleman’s knives here: kcoti.com/2YXJMQE
Whether you are a gentleman or not, these highly refined pocket knives are perfect for polite society - not so big as to scare folks away yet still reliable enough for daily use, and maybe with a little bit of bling to go along with the great designs. Check them out for your next EDC or formal carry piece.
Featured Knives:
0:00 Intro
1:01 CRKT CEO Flipper: kcoti.com/30sXuf9
3:24 Boker Plus Kwaiken Air: kcoti.com/3qKafwq
5:37 Real Steel S5 Metamorph: kcoti.com/3njaIU6
7:10 CRKT Symmetry: kcoti.com/3oBMFPE
9:44 LionSteel Jack: kcoti.com/3chb0Vd
11:11 Case Crandall Jig Gray Bone: kcoti.com/3DmpkrF
12:42 Case Kirinite Patriot: kcoti.com/3wPxRRo
13:40 Finch Cherry Bomb: kcoti.com/2YQE034
15:41 GiantMouse ACE Riv: kcoti.com/3Dogyt9
17:41 CIVIVI Bo: kcoti.com/3cen35T
19:03 WE Smooth Sentinel: kcoti.com/3ow7vjz
20:42 Liong Mah L1 Flipper: kcoti.com/30ssXgW
22:01 Benchmade Bugout: kcoti.com/3kGrCdL
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[@94slingshot]

I’m old school, gentleman’s knife is a Case 2 blade slip joint with nail nick , no lock, flipper or clip, just like dad and grandpa carried .

[@tornagawn]

The CRKT CEO is a super sharp letter opener. At the price point it is fantastic value and functionality. I have one, plus the original thumb stud CEO. The Kwaiken is my next ‘I want'

[@fukemnukem1525]

A Case knife is the knife that all of my grandfathers, uncle's, mentors, and respected men of my youth, carried when I was a kid. Every one of them always had their knives on them.... It's where I learned the importance of having a cutting tool on you at all times. They're not really my thing when it comes to knives.....but I still love them.....and own a few.

[@ianboard544]

Agree 1000% on the bugout. My favorite EDC folder ever.

[@piperfox74]

ArtisanCutlery Small Archaeo with the detent lock, carbon fiber handles, and raindrop damascus VG-10. Or, Spyderco Smock.

[@timlangel6211]

I’m surprised a Laguiole didn’t make the list. This is their category.

[@realbroggo]

Agree that Case have a nice range of gent style knives - lots of option re. knife shapes, handle materials & colours so something for everyone. The company that has impressed me over the past 12 months or so with gents knives is Finch. For me they provide a traditional feel with modern materials. Thanks for another informative vid.

[@knownaigm]

Am I the only one in the knife world that sees "gentleman knife" more as something that is acceptable and welcome in mixed company/ finer setting rather than just "looks expensive and sleek"? So many modern "gentleman's knives" still look way too aggressive and weapon-like to be "gentleman" to me. Like the CEO and similar knives are very attractive but look more like a Cartel Boss's knife than a "gentleman's" knife. The LionSteel, Cases and Civivi Bo are like the only thing "gentleman" on that table to my eye. Why not some of Boker's beautiful traditional Tree Brand knives? Great overview of the knives though and I love you guys at KnifeCenter, always had fantastic service!

[@twatmunro]

I can't think of any possible universe in which a prepper/survivalist-focused tool like the Bugout would count as a 'gentleman's knife'. Why would anyone pick that over, say, a Native 5 or a Spideychef, or an Osbourne 940 if you have to go Benchmade?

[@knownaigm]

@@twatmunro Me either. I mean I can understand how its slim & light weight concept would make for good carry in a suit but the knife itself is not "gentlemanly" in any way...

[@TheBudgetguy_K.T]

Fair point the ceo does look like a Mobsta knife like come here joey lemme give you a smile.... Lol

[@DwightMS1]

My favorite gent's knife is a little Swiss Army Classic (Whoops, have I just used a dirty word?). I'm a city boy, so I never need a larger blade. But I use the little scissors all the time, and the toothpick and tweezers come in handy now and then.

[@dieseldabz7104]

Love the looks of the Ace Riv from Giant Mouse..I don't currently own anything of theirs but I have wanted a Biblio since they came out and now this as well. I know this knife is smaller but I want a small 5th pocket knife anyways and something in Elmax and this is just very clean, simple yet classy.

[@hardmtnbiker]

I’m not a collector but I truly appreciate the craftsmanship of these knives. I must say your discriminating analysis and detailed description of these knives, makes your videos a must before you buy a knife 🔪. Does your business offer military discount? I know I have seen some brands that sell directly offer discounts to military and law enforcement.

[@mattharvey968]

Great gentleman’s list! May I add the Civivi Nox!

[@simmerdafukdown]

The smooth jazz in the background and DCA's svelte voice are quite the combo.

[@charlessalmond7076]

Got the Bug out 535-3 for Christmas. I love it.

[@iansclone]

I absolutely love my CEO, chose it because it lacked a flipper. I know people love their flippers (myself included), but for this style the thumbstud is optimal. Hopefully in the future they'll re-release a non-flipper CEO with upgraded materials 🤞

[@ramonade_knives]

The thumbstud action is very good on it too. Only CRKT I ever kept ^^

[@livingrune]

I went with the Benchmade Proper

[@oddsavage]

That's a great choice.

[@ogenmatic]

I like my Bugout in coated M390 with the milled aluminum scales for a classy carry. 535BK-4

[@dlrmon1]

Ordered the Boker Plus Kwaiken Air that you reviewed recently. I really liked the idea of the all Titanium scales and liners. Surprise...it’s a led weight with thick stainless liners...thanks Dave...

[@axelbaumann8182]

Kansept Lucky Strike is one of my favourite gentleman knives

[@OffTheGrid1982]

I agree with the Axis lock. So smooth.

[@joefoley1079]

Was really impressed with the artisan cutlery shark. Probably the only gentleman style knife I own

[@oddsavage]

I like to rock my Cocobolo Urban Trapper on my fancy days! My Finch Holiday in bone is pretty slick as well!

[@SilkyWayFPV]

I also use the s90v bugout. Feels great, super smooth and lightweight. I carry it everyday

[@Alexander210]

I want DCA to narrate my life. How bad ass would that be?!

[@BetaBuxDelux]

Meh

[@BloodGrooveKnives]

I’d rather have DFA... David Frederick Attenborough. He’s that Englishman who’s narrated nature shows for decades.

[@knifecenter]

I'm in for DFA as well :) -DCA

[@dolguldur4706]

Been waiting you guys videos..seem like ages..thank you..really enjoy knifecenter videos 🤘🏻

[@garylyman4922]

My all time favorite gents knife is my Chris Manandi. Followed the WE Knives Justin Lunquist Eidolon in integral carbon fiber handle

[@twiceborn_by_grace]

I got a Bo yesterday and I love it!

[@theknifepub]

I'm in love with my Civivi Bo... Brad Zinker is rockin it. Love my Miscreant 3.0 as well for it's design!

[@_MiMo_]

You forgot the Espada XL.

[@mikelaney3026]

Good job young man. Very informative God bless you and yours God bless the USA

[@dannysowers4698]

My edc for today is the sharade SC h501s

[@lmcq784]

Love the S90V Bugout... Have two! But I really wish Spyderco released a new Chaparral so it would qualify for 2021. It's hands down one of the best gentleman's knife out there. Another worthy mention alongside the New Civivi/Zinker Bo is the Civivi imperium with bronze or gold laced shredded CF scales. They're nice to carry, not heavy, slim lines, and the Shredded CF with copper or gold flakes just classes it up a notch.

[@DylanLey]

I have the Kwaiken Air cocobolo as my "classy" knife and it's great!

[@OscarDad]

DCA your vids are THE B E S T !👍 Great content, learn so much from you, Tnx

[@mikejurnak4253]

GREAT knives for now on I'm introducing myself as Michael J. Jurnak to everyone in honor of David C. Andersen 🤜🏻🤛🏻

[@Deibodese]

So glad you recommended slipjoints for gentleman carry! 😃 In my opinion, they are the perfect design for a non-threatening, stylish knife. I’m currently enamored with Case’s Mediterranean Blue Bone Sowbelly, or whatever exactly its name is. The subtle curves of the handle and blades gives it an extra touch of beauty.

[@donaldroehrig7817]

I like my Case small Texas toothpick with carbon fiber scales for one of my gentlemen knives.

[@Bald_Head89]

I love traditional knives! They pick out splinters like champs. That and opening letters and small clam shell packages is why I carry a SAK Cadet on me all the time.

[@joshyaash]

I agree, nothing beats a SAK as a gent's knife. Personally, I carry a super tinker.

[@mariomota9075]

Great video. I have the CEO, some victorinox models, but, my favorite gentmen pocket knife are victorinox cadet and lionsteel bestman.

[@mitchelloughman8382]

CJRB Ria is another great option. I own the KC exclusive with the pakka wood handles and titanium pocket clip, it’s a gem.

[@blakesockwell4271]

I was hoping I wasn't the only one. Lost mine, and in looking for a replacement I'm right back at the Ria. Too good for the price.

[@marycahill546]

I love traditional pocket knives, and my nurse girlfriends love them too. All my pals have been given a Victorinox Classic keychain tool and that is my # 1 affordable and functional gift item for anyone. If you are like me on a tight budget and more or less have to buy China made, then go with Rough Rider or Buck for better quality. All we do really is open packages or difficult bottle tops -- we don't need a big work knife. Case Stockman Jr. is another favorite of mine for out back in the garden. Not too expensive and feels nice in hand. I don't like wearing out my pockets with clips, so I do appreciate a lanyard hole in the handle when I can find it. Buck and Rough Rider make a lovely slip joint Canoe, which is my favorite pattern of all and perfect for gentlemen and ladies.

[@petersymons7817]

Thank you

[@Sugar_bug]

Hey David. You say you are a fan of nessmuks yet I have never seen you dedicate a video to different nessmuks. Can you do that please?

[@scootosan]

I enjoy every video. I like the informational critiques no matter style and price point.

[@Chevelle_addict]

Love the bugout. I have a more base model but upgraded titanium scales. .

[@griff7749]

I'm glad the CF Bugout made the list, Ithink the Bugout is overlooked as a gentleman's knife. I think the design is best suited to a modern gentleman design, more than for "bugging out."

[@Foxholeatheist]

I've got a Giantmouse Riv... very nice little knife!

[@BetaBuxDelux]

A true gentleman carries a Sabre.

[@goemboeck]

I've the CEO and loving it in everyday little use

[@roybailey7911]

DCA should have done this in a Tux or a least a suit

[@nonnobissolum]

Great vid. Love my Symmetry's looks, lines, and materials....but dang if I don't wish they made one with a liner lock.🤔

[@etherealicer]

Love the Lionsteel Jack (nr 2 for me please). But my favorite Gentleman’s Knife is the Viper Dan 2

[@kingsclownvideos]

Serious Question. If LEGO decided to make knife handles, which Fixed blade and Folder would You pick? Thanks, you’re the Best!

[@brendanstempski8292]

I was just considering buying the CRKT symmetry

[@Pinki2019]

Out of those, I like the Lionsteel.

[@Simon-hd6dc]

Now give me your best gentlemans tactical. 😌

[@kevinfonseca6233]

Mine is the CEO, I have three including one flipper.

[@ryewhiskeyfan5946]

I own the first two on this list. I have a Gerber LST I received as a gift 20 odd years ago that still works well in the gentleman's carry. Small traditional style by Buck, Case and others. Most recently the Old Timer 106OT.

[@terrymassey6536]

Finally some case knifes

[@cosasdepuromacho1247]

The Best Knives Like Always 🔥💪👌👍💯

[@pfg_pedals]

My all time favorite gents knife is the Victorinox Golfer with horn or pearl handles. Unfortunately they are rare and expensive, but I will have one someday.

[@_MiMo_]

Who better to showcase these gentleman's knives than DCA!🎩

[@danielmccabe6559]

Thank you knife center for the gentlemanly content always. It’s nice wake up pink sky’s,hot Coffee, a cig, crocks, Kids sleeping,wife up getting ready to watch the thanksgiving parade. GOTTA LOVE AMERICA. thanks KNIFECENTER. Happy thanksgiving. (My kids know Santa don’t get smokers anything) teach your kids enjoy what you have and be grateful. Thanks for the top notch content always. Have a good day to all.

[@jcwindsound]

Nice video. I have a Bugout with rogue bladeworks carbon scales and blue anodized screws, and it is absolutely among my top 4 gentleman's folders. Other three are a Spyderco Chaparral and a TRM Neutron, both of which also have carbon scales, and a GEC Wall Street with Walnut handle. GEC would be the clear favorite if the handle edges weren't quite so sharp.

[@BrandonGavin_EDC]

I prefer the cocobolo wood to class it up.. “sips fine Brandy.”

[@mrt2124]

The Buck onset is a good mention 👌🏻

[@MSicko]

I own a few "gent" blades . One cheap and cheerful candidate that didn't make your list, The Kershaw 2335 Al Mar AM-3 Assisted Flipper. At $29.95 ? Like you said gift giving season is here. Grab a couple.

[@andrewhannam.]

Always think gentlemen when I see an Opinel knife. A simple classic that is very socially acceptable.

[@mikey52034]

Kizer Soze!!! 100% gentlemen's knife

[@MotlTheChasid]

Personally, the Bugout is not a classic gents knife. It's more of a hard use knife than the others, IMHO. But in no way would it be classified as such against other knives in that category, but it is a great outdoor/ camping/ hiking knife

[@armenarakelian9876]

my favorite gents knives not in any particular order, Kansept wedge in green micarta and carbon fiber, Spyderco Chaparral with carbon fiber handles, sog ultra XR, cjrb Ria carbon fiber knife center exclusive, artisan cutlery centaury (titanium frame lock with carbon fiber show side, boker kwaiken compact (titanium framelock with carbon fiber show side) and finally the Katsu front flipping camping knife with vg10 steel, titanium frame lock and inset carbon fiber on the show side.

[@frankquinby5502]

Since you said you’ve done a couple of gentlemen’s knives videos, how come you don’t have a gentleman’s category in your online store?

[@johnsullivan6709]

Civivi Chronic in damascus.

[@markdiluciano8432]

The Tactile knife Rockwall is another great gentlemen knife

[@irishjsk1]

Those first 2 are sweet! : )

[@johnchaney7550]

ZT 452. Good looking and effective.

[@sergeyshorokhov2167]

You definitely gotta check out NC Custom Minimus - very elegant knife.

[@ianm6204]

The Spyderco Chaparral with Raffir Noble handle is my Gentleman’s knife.

[@justinweisberg1634]

Surprised to not see the kershaw leek on this list. A bit tactical, yet a slim+classy fan favorite.

[@khylemcmahon1712]

Great video as always chaps. That bugout has my eye for sure!

[@edwardk6764]

SOG ultra XR in carbon/gold, but I think it came out last year.

[@Synistercrayon]

I am a Benchmade junkie, but can be talked into, quite easily, buying any and all knives. I may have a problem ....or is it a blessing😜

[@ArjanGroenenboom]

My favourite gentleman's carry is the MKM flame droppoint

[@Colorado_Kkid]

I would of thought the new Ken Onion Stylus would have been included in this video ...

[@skatepuunksurvivalist8536]

Case Sowbelly single blade with yellow synthetic handles is one of mine

[@mikeh5967]

Not sure if it's '21 or '20 but my favorite subtle carry is the civivi exarch. I know front flippers aren't your thing but once u get it, it's as fast as a reg flipper and it's fun to watch non knife peeps fail to open it at all. Plus it's so easy to carry without scraping your hand on a flipper tab. It disappears in your pocket.

[@Quincy915]

I'm waiting for them to release a Damascus and Cuibourtia version. I like the look on their other models, but those materials are made for a light use knife like a Gentleman's knife.

[@DeRock401]

I don’t like thin blades which is probably why I’m not into any of these. Blade shape is probably the most important aspect when buying a knife for me.

[@nobodysreview6137]

Best is Cold Steel Frenzy. Nice but still something deadly.

[@WilliamWallis]

Finch Knives have figured out how to separate me from my wallet.

[@billbush1270]

Do you have the red jigged bone one? It is speaking to me.

[@WilliamWallis]

@@billbush1270 no but it’s only a matter of time.

[@SJ_Jordan]

The only thing I disagree with is that micarta can be very fancy in my opinion, would love to see some case slip joints with it

[@aarongentile7232]

Great and very informative reviews! Thanks!! I'm looking forward to the next one so I was sure to subscribe.

[@Defossion1]

Time to start putting together the "Best Gentleman's Knives of 2022!" And before you do, talk to people who (1) wear a suit to work, and (2) actually carry a knife daily. Sometimes I look at "gentleman's knives" and think "What the heck?! Who came up with that one??" Don't be biased to manufacturers! Be honest! Heck contact me, I'll help you--no charge!

[@beachbeachidena]

Kancept Prickle ... its carbon fiber and s35vn with a front flipper...

[@TheGrenadier97]

I still have to try out the CEO Flipper. A number of interesting well-dones in that model. A suggestion, i think that Victorinox Excelsior and Secretary (an alox Excelsior) are on the gentlemen' side as well, or at least as granpa knives.

[@TheBudgetguy_K.T]

Woo gonna be a great video

[@Kib67]

That thumbnail is 🔥!

[@XGurro]

The elevator music. VERY classy. 🤣

[@michaelshearer3559]

Benchmade Valet M390, old faithful.

[@mcbarfly030]

Hey DCA, please let me recommend: The "Cattle Knife" with bone from Böker. Also available with wood handles. Blade is N690. Check it out. Perhaps a bit big, but manly enough for being a classy piece of iron.

[@sunbunbradley]

I have a new TOOR field2.0 that has oak handles with copper liners it is a fixed blade ,but I think of it as a gentleman’s knife . I just sharpened it , and did my best job ever I am very impressed with the CPM154 ! Super sharp, and perfectly balanced . My new EDC ! And the sheath is a nice leather almost as nice as my WINKLER sheath. Great knives I like your reviews ! Have a great day

[@msullenszino]

I'm a little sorry to see the CRKT Inara isn't ever mentioned in these "dress knife" videos. I use it for formal events (black tie, symphony, weddings, etc) and it is elegant, well made for the price, non-threatening but very functional.