Draft shortlist
Carry Knives
Compliance-first carry picks. Simple, boring reliability wins.
Shortlist (Budget / Best Value / Premium)
These are starter picks chosen for reliability and availability. We’ll tighten as we collect more data.
Budget
Ontario RAT II
Ontario RAT II (AUS-8) (simple manual folder; strong value; very common EDC choice)
View on AmazonBest Value
Spyderco Delica 4
Spyderco Delica 4 (VG-10, manual folder) (light, proven design; easy one-hand opening)
View on AmazonPremium
Benchmade Bugout
Benchmade Bugout (manual folder) (ultralight premium EDC; great slicer profile)
View on AmazonNotes
- CA compliance-first: avoid automatic knives and OTFs; favor common manual folders. Also consider a short disclaimer that local/city rules + carry method (open vs concealed) matter.
How to choose (fast)
- Check local laws (blade length, assisted/opening, locking) before buying.
- Buy a knife you’ll actually maintain.
- Ergonomics > steel hype.