5 Great UK friendly EDC Pocket Knives
Posted by Heinnie Haynes on 9th Apr 2026
What makes a great everyday carry (EDC) knife depends on where you are in the world. Here in the UK there are some specific rules around owning knives, and a different set for carrying a pocket knife. The excemption for pocket knives is generally what people use to define 'UK friendly carry', that is, that a knife has a non-locking folding blade, which is 7.62cm in length (3 inches) or shorter. We've covered in further detail the laws around knife ownership and the folding pocket knife excemption here.
Fortunately, there's a wealth of choice, and as the UK's experts on everyday carry tools, knives and other gear - you're in good hands.
Here's five options that fit the UK friendly Carry rules:
1. Spyderco UK Penknife.
The Spyderco UK penknife (UKPK) is the best selling folding knife in the UK and has been for years. The customer reviews speak for themselves. It’s a simple design with a distinct leaf-shaped blade, opened using the thumb in the Spyderco-trademark circular hole. it's available in a number of variants with different blade steels and handles but our Heinnie Exclusive version is always the go-to choice for UK carry.
The handle is made from G10, making it lightweight but textured enough to feel confident in hand. When gripped, the thumb is nicely forward on the thumb ramp and the index finger on the choil behind the blade stops the knife closing on your hand. The blade steel is CPM S30V Stainless, which to the uninitiated is a great balance of toughness, edge retention and corrosion resistance.
Supplied with a wire pocket clip which can be changed for right or left hand carry.
Take a look at the Spyderco Heinnie Haynes® UK Penknife G10
2. Boker Plus Worldwide 2
No lock, and to suit certain German carry laws - no option to open it one-handed. This folder is a great pocket knife with a solid 440C drop point blade with a generous nail nick to open it. The slip joint with a powerful spring provides pure stability. A fine black stonewash finish on the blade perfectly matches the ergonomic handle scales made of muted, olive green G10, adding a tactical zest. A pocket clip and a lanyard hole allow you to make the knife your own and provide convenient carry options.
3. Victorinox Hiker 91mm
A swiss army knife with 11 tools had to make the list, and the 91mm Victorinox Hiker is a true classic - one that everyone will think of when they picture a Swiss Army Knife. It’s not until you carry one of these that you start to appreciate the uses to which you can put it. Some users will enjoy the ability to flip out a tool for every occasion, and love the deep red of the handle scales.
Take a look at the Victorinox Hiker
4. Rosecraft Beaver Creek Barlow
Super functional but traditional in design, this Rosecraft is a feat of engineering but looks like your grandfathers pocket knife.
This timeless one-bladed traditional slip joint boasts brushed steel bolsters with the distinguished Locking ‘RC’ mark and durable steel liners. The handle is crafted from genuine stag, a classic, rugged material that provides an exceptional grip, natural durability, and a timeless outdoor aesthetic—making it perfect for an outdoor knife.
Take a look at the Rosecraft Beaver Creek Barlow
5. CRKT Pilar Heinnie Haynes Exclusive
The CRKT Pilar has been a firm favourite ever since it was launched and as soon as we saw it our thoughts immediately turned to how great it would be as a non-locking, UK friendly carry knife with, of course, the Heinnie® Haynes red G10 scales.
Since we launched the UK friendly Heinnie Exlusive version, it's sat in our bestsellers list and even in the pockets of many Heinnie Haynes staff. Great price, super functional, and Heinnie red - what's not to love.
Take a look at the CRKT Pilar Heinnie Haynes Exclusive
There are plenty more knives to choose from than those in this list – have a look at our range of UK Friendly Carry Pocket Knives
Tags
Why not check out our other great blogs For Gear Recommendations And Outdoor Survival Tips
