Finding the best neck knife helps you prepare for any self-defense scenario and comes in plain handy for bushcraft, hunting, and other handiwork jobs.
The convenience of a neck knife ensures that you have a sharp blade ready to tackle any task at hand. Whether cutting twine, gutting a fish, or just opening a box, you can’t beat the accessibility of a neck knife.
You may think that all neck knives are the same, but each option has subtle differences that separate it from the next.
If you need help figuring out where to start, read our best neck knife buying guide. Below, you’ll find the best neck knives that money can buy, as well as important information to help you make a better purchase.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
CRKT Minimalist Bowie Neck Knife
Best Budget
MTech USA Fixed Blade Knife
Best Mini
HUAAO Ultra Small Fixed Blade Knife
Best Overall
CRKT Minimalist Bowie Neck Knife
We listed the CRKT Minimalist as our top pick for best neck knives. This option may look small, but CRKT packed so many smart features into a tiny design.
The blade is crafted from high-carbon stainless steel, which ensures strength and durability for a long time. The knife includes a finish that reduces reflection, so you don’t have to worry about attracting attention when hunting.
The resin-infused fiber handle merges visual appeal with long-lasting strength. You’ll appreciate the grooved edges that give this knife a comfortable grip.
This knife measures 5 inches in length and weighs only 3.5 ounces, which makes it effortless to wear around the neck. It comes with a thermoplastic sheath and a long cord that’s soft to the touch.
Pros:
- Shine-proof
- High-carbon stainless steel material
- Full-tang blade
- Great grip
Cons:
- Blade isn’t serrated
Best Budget
MTech USA Fixed Blade Knife
The MTech USA snags the top spot in our best budget category, but don’t confuse an attractive price tag with a lack of quality. This knife has all the same bells and whistles as other options on this list.
You’ll find a black stainless steel blade that’s glimmer-proof for ultimate stealth. It has a spear point and a dual-edged blade, providing optimal versatility.
The black and gray handle carries a sleek design with an ergonomic texture for easy handling. The knife measures 6.5 inches, with a blade length of 2.75 inches, and you’ll find a nylon fiber sheath that fits snugly over the blade.
The ball chain necklace adds a level of style to this neck knife and makes it a sleek accessory with practical use.
Pros:
- Shine-proof
- Dual-edged blade
- Affordable
Cons:
- Sheath created from nylon
Best Mini
HUAAO Ultra Small Fixed Blade Knife
The best neck knife can come in all shapes and sizes, and we wanted to include a tiny addition to our roundup. Out of all the miniature options, the HUAAO Ultra Small Fixed Blade Knife set itself apart from the other knives.
The blade and handle measure a mere 2.8 inches, but you’ll find incredible design features that pack a big punch. The small fixed blade is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, and measures 0.8 inches.
The handle has a unique, textured design that provides ample grip. You’ll find a large “O” shape in the middle, allowing you to wrap a finger around the handle for ultimate dexterity.
Both the handle and sheath are made from ABS, a thermoplastic that’s renowned for longevity and durability.
You’ll love that this knife has endless wearing options. You can hang it around your neck or store it in your wallet. It’s even small enough to attach to your keychain, so you can feel safe no matter where you go.
Pros:
- Very compact
- Extra portable
- High-quality blade
Cons:
- Doesn’t use shine-proof metal
WEYLAND EDC Neck Knife with Kydex Sheath
The WEYLAND EDC Neck Knife offers a rustic design that helps camouflage in outdoor settings. Whether hiking, camping, or hunting, this blade will be your trusty sidekick.
You’ll appreciate the beige handle color that helps blend in with the foliage. There’s a textured finish that provides a secure grip on the knife.
The blade is crafted from stainless steel and has a stoned-washed finish that helps prevent light from reflecting on the metal. You’ll find aggressive serrations on half the blade to aid with cutting rope, twine, or fishing line.
The edge measures nearly 2 inches long and comes with a molded Kydex sheath that fits it securely. You don’t have to worry about your knife coming loose while hiking through the woods. A metal chain attaches to the sheath, giving it a vintage army design and favorable durability.
Pros:
- Shine-proof
- Serrated blade
- Camouflage design
- Full tang
Cons:
- Small blade
ESEE Izula Fixed Blade Knife
You can’t beat the simplicity of the ESEE Izula Fixed Blade Knife. It’s sleek, straightforward, and built with longevity in mind.
ESEE crafted this blade with high-quality carbon steel that stands the test of time. The Dark Earth finish creates a shine-proof coating that helps dissuade attention when hunting.
The best part about this knife is that the handle and blade are conjoined for extra strength. You don’t have to worry about the two ends breaking apart over time.
This neck knife is super lightweight, weighing just 3 ounces. It comes in a variety of colors ranging from bright green to fuchsia.
The molded polymer sheath covers both ends of the knife, which is great for extra protection. However, it makes it slightly harder to unsheathe since you have to remove two compartments.
Pros:
- Made in USA
- Shine-proof
- Full tang
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a grip
DURATECH Compact Fixed Blade Knife
The DURATECH Compact Fixed Blade Knife offers a sleek design with ultimate practicality.
The stainless steel blade is 3 inches long and is crafted with anti-rust material. There’s a matte stone-washed finish that creates a non-reflective surface.
The handle has a natural wood finish that helps blend in with the natural elements. There’s also a slightly textured grip to make it easier to hold. You’ll appreciate the subtle groove near the blade to prevent slippage.
The 6-inch size makes it easy to wear around your neck, so you can don this hassle-free knife when hiking, camping, or running errands.
Pros:
- Long blade
- Shine-proof
Cons:
- Blade isn’t serrated
Best Neck Knife Buying Guide
Now that you’ve discovered the best neck knives that money can buy, contemplate the following questions to figure out which option is best for you.
Knife Material
Before purchasing the best neck knife, investigate the blade material first. You want to avoid getting stuck with a weapon crafted from flimsy metal that breaks upon impact.
Look for a neck knife that uses high-carbon stainless steel for the blade. This material is the best combination of rugged, flexible, and corrosion-resistant.
We chose the CRKT Minimalist Bowie as our best neck knife because the blade is created from this durable material.
Shine-Proof
Another vital factor that determines the best neck knife for you is whether or not it’s shine-proof. This may not be the first consideration you make before purchasing, but it’s an important one that can yield different results.
For instance, do you see yourself trying to camouflage in the forest while hunting deer? Or maybe you want to go bush-crafting and need something to protect yourself against natural predators.
In either of these scenarios, you’ll want a neck knife that doesn’t catch the light and ruin your stealth. Consider purchasing a shine-proof knife, like the CRKT Minimalist, MTech USA, or the ESEE Izula.
If you don’t care about blending in with your surroundings, you may not need to shell out the extra coin to purchase a shine-proof knife. In that case, the HUAAO Ultra-Small blade might be best for you.
Sheath
When you buy a neck knife, you’ll want to ensure the sheath meets the same standards as the blade.
It can be easy for the sheath to be an afterthought, but it’s actually one of the most important elements of the neck knife.
It’s imperative to find a sheath that offers ample protection from the blade since you will be wearing it around your neck, and the last thing you want is your knife coming loose. Look for neck knives that advertise zero slippage for the safest result.
Aside from a snug fit, research the material of the sheath. Leather has historically been the best fabric for a knife sheath, but it doesn’t offer the most secure fit.
Prioritize sheathes created from thermoplastics, such as KYDEX, polymer, ABS, or anything with a hard molded shell.
Full Tang
A full tang knife has a blade that extends through the handle before being covered by two pieces of material that provide a better grip.
This design method offers superior strength and makes it very difficult for the blade to snap off. It affects the knife’s weight distribution and makes it easier to wield.
We included multiple listings that offer this sturdy full-tang design, like the CRKT Minimalist, WEYLAND EDC, ESEE Izula, and the DURATECH.
If you plan on using your knife frequently and want to ensure longevity, a full tang knife is definitely the way to go.
Uses
Lastly, consider what you’ll be using your neck knife for before making your purchase. Each option on our best neck knife guide boasts unique benefits depending on different scenarios.
If you’re looking for a quick-access blade to help you with everyday tasks like opening boxes or peeling fruits, the HUAAO Ultra-Small blade will be your best bet. While it’s great to help out with minor inconveniences, it might not be the best in a wilderness setting.
If you wish to use a neck knife for self-protection, chopping kindling, or cutting rope, you may need a more heavy-duty option. The WEYLAND EDC, CRKT Minimalist, or the DURATECH might be your best bet.
FAQ
This best neck knife guide wouldn’t be complete without answering some of your most frequently asked questions. Let’s take some time to respond to your burning inquiries about neck knives.
What is a neck knife good for?
A neck knife lets you keep a blade close at hand for any survival scenario. It allows you to deploy a sharp blade in minimal time, which is great for self-defense and convenience.
Since it’s lightweight and small, you can easily wear it around your neck. This way, you don’t need to don a holster to keep a weapon on your person.
Whether you want extra protection against bears while hunting or desire an easy way to open your Amazon delivery, a neck knife accomplishes both tasks with simplicity.
How do you wear a neck knife?
There are a few ways to wear a neck knife. While it’s all up to personal preference, a couple of simple adjustments can elevate your neck knife experience.
You might wonder whether to wear your neck knife with the tip pointing up or down. While wearing it tip down aligns with the natural shape of your chest, it makes it tricky to unsheathe.
Angle your neck knife so that that tip is facing up. This way, you can easily deploy it at a moment’s notice.
Another factor to consider is whether to wear it over or under your shirt. If you purchase a neck knife with a haphazard sheath, you may feel anxious about hanging it under your shirt. The last thing you want is an exposed blade on bare skin.
Wearing it under your clothes is beneficial in stealth scenarios and doesn’t get in the way when accomplishing various tasks. That’s why you’ll want to ensure you purchase a neck knife that has a well-designed sheath.
Is it illegal to carry a neck knife?
The legality of carrying a knife in public varies on a case-by-case basis. Most are subject to local and state laws, but some general rules apply throughout the whole country.
The majority of states regard short-blade knives as legal if they’re under 2-3 inches. The longer the blade, the more likely it will be subject to restriction. Read up on your state’s guidelines before purchasing a neck knife.
Wrapping up the Best Neck Knife
Whether you’re looking for a blade to help you with daily tasks or want to prepare for a self-defense scenario, you can’t go wrong with these best neck knives.
While we stand behind all the listings in our guide, the CRKT Minimalist is your best bet for function, durability, and performance.
Now that you’ve found the best neck knife, explore our Safety section for more information on survival and self-defense.