Here lately I’ve come to realize that having any way to defend yourself is better than having none. Sounds obvious doesn’t it? But so often I’ve relied on my gut instinct, my intuition, and the basic smarts and common sense that we all generally have to stay out of harms way.

Dark alley a few blocks from my house? No thanks, I think I’ll be avoiding that.

India after dark? Don’t think so, you’ll find me inside for the night.

Shady dudes aggressively eyeing me? I can take the long way around.

But what happens when I’m in my tent in the middle of the woods, and I hear footsteps approaching? What happens when my car breaks down on the side of the road and I have no cell service? What happens if I’m simply in the wrong place at the wrong time?

I could go out and learn Krav Maga, which would be freakin’ awesome actually. But I’m being a realist here, so let’s stay on point. The most practical thing I can think of that I can; A. Go out and buy right now, B. Know how to use five minutes later, and C. Afford, is a knife.

For safety while traveling, hiking, camping, driving, and countless other every day activities, these three knives are my personal favorites. I’m no knife guru, but I did enough research to know that these three knives had what I was specifically wanting in my price range – I’m not disputing that there are better quality knives out there. But in this price point, these are fantastic knives that get the job done. Whether that’s having to break out of your car after an accident, needing to start a survival fire, cutting off an annoying zip tie, or avert any unwanted attention, these knives will do all that and more.

They meet my big three: Durable, practical, and affordable.

The only one I own that I haven’t shown here is my purple Tac Force assisted open Joker knife. It’s available in other colors as well if purple isn’t your thing. It’s a decent little knife and I’ve had mine for about five years now. It’s sharp, easy to handle, heavy enough to feel like it can do some damage but light enough to carry around effortlessly. Although I’ve used it for several things (stabbing someone NOT being on that list) it is, I think, more of a novelty item. Which is the only reason I’m not exactly promoting it here. But if you’re a Batman fan, it may be worth checking out!

On to my top three favorite knives … *drum roll* …

BlizeTec Survival Knife: Best 5-in-1 Tactical Pocket Folding Knife with LED Light, Seatbelt Cutter, Glass Breaker & Magnesium Fire Starter

This knife may not have everything, but it’s got everything I’ll need during the average emergency situation. The LED flashlight is amazingly bright, and the fact that it’s magnetic is awesome. It makes it hard to lose when stowing it back into the handle. The window breaker is a nice touch (which I’ve never had to use) and so is the seatbelt cutter, which I have had to use but not on a seatbelt! The magnesium fire starter is probably my favorite part. And then you’ve got the bottle opener, because obviously after a day of breaking yourself out of your own car wreck and building a survival fire, a beer has clearly been earned. And cosmetically speaking, there’s no doubt that this knife looks badass. You whip this sucker out and someone is going to think twice before messing with you. Check out the video for an in depth look!

Gerber Paraframe I Knife, Serrated Edge, Grey

This knife, although pretty basic, is a very sturdy and sharp tool. It’s lightweight, and comes in both serrated or fine edge. Gerber is a brand I personally trust, I’ve used several of their outdoor tools and their warranties are fabulous. A few years ago I was getting ready to have a bonfire party, and that afternoon when I was chopping wood with my Gerber Gator Combo Ax my blade came hurling right off the handle, mid-swing! Now, I see how this may perhaps steer you away from the Gerber brand, but I assure you this was a total freak accident. When I took it back to the place of purchase and showed it to the man that sold it to me, his jaw dropped. He had never seen anything like it before in the 20 years he had been selling Gerber tools. With no questions asked, he replaced it. I’ve used it multiple times since and have had no issues. So you can rest assured if anything were to happen with a Gerber product, you can expect great customer service. Check out this video for a close up look at the Gerber Paraframe knife!

TAC Force Spring Assisted Open Outdoor Hunting Tactical Rescue Pocket Fire Fighter Knife Speedster Model Design Knife

I really like this knife a lot. This model also has the window/glass breaker and the seatbelt cutter. Comes super sharp, with both serrated and fine edge. I think it looks sleek, powerful, and intimidating, but still has that girly touch I prefer. The speed at which the blade snaps out of the handle is impressive and every time I hold it I secretly kind of want to be in a knife fight. Just kidding. Seriously though, I’m joking. Kind of.

The knife in the video is the same knife, but a different color. Keep in mind all of these knives come in a few different colors!

BONUS!

This little guy is a great addition. Highly practical and perfect as a stocking stuffer, or any little gift throughout the year. I equate the EDC coin claw with a box cutter. Any little task around the house or place of business can be handled with the coin claw. Keep the keychain and easily add it to your keyring, or take it off and slide it in your pocket. Just a little bonus I thought I’d throw in here, check it out!

What did ya think about these items? Do you have a favorite pocket knife already? Share in the comment section below! I’d love to hear from you!