My Top 5 Hard-Use Knives for Work
Original video: My Top 5 Hard Use Knives
Not every knife needs to be a showpiece—sometimes, you need a hard-use knife that can take a beating and keep going. These are my top five work knives, built for cutting, slicing, and even getting a little banged up without worry.
1. Microtech MSI
Tough and practical with a strong ram lock.
Great grip and blade shape for slicing and push cuts.
If I get another one, I’d go for the apocalyptic blade finish, which looks even better with wear.
2. ZT 0512
Crew wear blade with excellent edge retention.
Micarta handle darkens over time for a cool, used look.
Automatic action makes it easy to deploy.
3. Winkler SD1 (Fixed Blade)
Designed as a combat knife, but built for heavy work.
80CRV2 carbon steel is tough and reliable.
Three years of hard use and still going strong!
4. Hinderer XM-18 (Bowie Blade)
Titanium + G10 construction makes it durable.
Great edge retention with an S45VN blade.
The Bowie shape is perfect for slicing and piercing.
Thinking of picking up the flipper version for comparison!
5. Chris Reeve Sebenza 31
The definition of a work knife.
S45VN steel with a hollow grind for insane sharpness.
Micarta scales develop character over time.
My favorite knife, hands down.
Final Thoughts
If I had to rank them, the Sebenza 31 is still my #1, followed by the XM-18 and the ZT 0512. But honestly, all of these knives are built to last and designed for real work.
I’m not affiliated with any of these brands—just wanted to share what works for me. What’s your go-to work knife? Let me know in the comments!
