The Best Knife For Sailing 2025
The best knife for sailing isn’t necessarily the most expensive or flashy. We’ve reviewed sailing knives that can be used for all purposes and ones for specific jobs on board to help you find the perfect knife for your needs.
Sailing is a thrilling activity that offers a unique experience to those who love the sea. It requires skill, knowledge, and the right equipment to navigate through the water safely.
When we first moved aboard I was surprised to find that an essential tool for any sailor is a good knife. Of course, I knew about life jackets, life rafts, and EPIRBs, but why a decent sailing knife? When I saw one attached to the binnicle of every boat we went aboard I was worried they were for pirate attacks!
Obviously I quickly learned that a reliable knife is not only useful for cutting lines and ropes but can also be a lifesaving tool in emergency situations.
However, with so many different types of knives available, choosing the right one for sailing can be overwhelming. We certainly went through our fair share of rusty, blunt knives before finding some that were actually up to the job.
A knife that is ideal for hiking or camping may not be suitable for the rigors of sailing. Factors such as blade shape, material, size, and handle grip all play a crucial role in determining the best knife for sailing.
In this blog post, we will explore the different types of knives that are best suited for sailboats. We will discuss the key features that sailors should look for in a knife and provide a detailed review of some of the top options available on the market.
Whether you are a seasoned sailor or just starting, this guide will help you choose the best knife for your sailing adventures. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect tool to keep you safe and prepared while out on the water.
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Table of Contents
- The Best Knife For Sailing
- Folding Knives
- Sheath Knives
- Multi-tool Knives
- Why Do Sailors Carry Knives?
- What Is The Spike For On A Sailor’s Knife?
- What Is A Bosun’s Knife?
- Finding The Best Sailing Knife For You
- Blade Material
- Blade Locking Mechanism
- Knife Accessories
- Design and Grip
The Best Knife For Sailing
We’ve sorted the best knives for sailing into several categories.
Folding knives and fixed blade sheath knifes that are suited to many different purposes, multitool knives for anyone that wants the flexibility of several different tools at hand, and rigging knives.
Folding Knives
When it comes to selecting a folding knife for sailing, there are a few key factors to consider, such as blade shape, size, material, and handle grip. Here are some of the best folding knives for sailing that meet these criteria:
#1 Gill Personal Rescue Knife
Gill makes excellent sailing gear and their knives are no exception. This rescue folding knife is perfect to carry on your person at all times. It’s compact and easy to open with one hand, so it’s great for emergency situations when you’re likely to be short-handed.
The handle has great grip, even with wet hands, which is something that can’t be said for all sailing knives. The blade can be locked which is also handy, and the titanium coated 420 stainless steel has extra corrosion resistance.
The knife will cut through rope quickly and easily, which is reassuring to know, especially if you have to use in anger.
Carry this knife on your belt or in your pocket so you have to handy at all times.
Get the Gill folding knife here
#2 Spyderco Endura 4
This folding knife isn’t small, but it doesn’t feel too big to carry on you at all times because of the lightweight material and the flat design. It has a handy pocket clip or you can keep it in your pocket where you’ll barely notice it.
The handle has added stainless steel liners for strength and the grip is good. The Endura’s VG-10 steel is among the more rust-resistant materials available on the market.
This knife has an incredibly sharp blade that stays sharp for a long time and is easy to sharpen too. It opens with one hand so it’s great for emergency situations.
These knives are raved about and rightly so. Once you own one you’ll be raving about it too!
SOG KNIVES Ultra XR Folding Knife
This knife isn’t cheap but it is mighty.
At 6.5mm thick and weighing only 34 grams this knife certainly won’t weigh you down. It’s built from high-quality materials, just as you would expect from a knife with a reputation like this, including a CRYO CPM S35VN stainless steel blade and carbon fiber handle.
This knife should stand the test of time, which is just what you’ll be looking for in something that spends its life in the salty sea air.
It’s easy to open with one hand and has a secure lock. Plus a nice added feature – the titanium pocket clip doubles as a money clip. Useful in every sense!
Buy the Ultra XR folding knife now
Gerber Fuse Folding Knife
Gerber has a fantastic reputation and these high-resolution electroformed stainless steel knives with lightweight glass-filled nylon tick all the right boxes.
Two stainless steel liners provide extra rigidity, and an exposed easy-access liner lock makes operation simple. It has decent grip on the handle even in wet conditions.
This is a great sailing knife and one that is high on most sailors’ must-have equipment lists.
Buy the Gerber Fuse knife for sailing now
SOG Knives Flash
This sailing knife is compact and easy to carry, meaning it’s the perfect knife to carry on you as you sail.
The benefits of having a knife attached to you somehow are multiple. You might find you need one when venturing up to the bow in heavy weather, or for something down below, or worst case scenario perhaps for cutting yourself free from a tether or releasing a liferaft.
This knife has a 3.5″ cryogenically heat-treated D2 stainless steel blade so it should last in the saltwater spray. The XR locking mechanism also features a reliable built-in blade-locking safety and spine-mounted safety system.
Overall, these folding knives are some of the best options for sailors. They are durable, reliable, and offer a high level of performance in a marine environment.
Sheath Knives For Sailing
A sheath knife is a knife that is carried in a sheath. It doesn’t fold, so technically it’s stronger and more durable than a folding knife. We have a fixed knife in the cockpit at all times for things like cutting lines in an emergency.
Here are some of the best sheath knives for sailing.
Wichard Rescue Knife
Wichard knives are some of the best and this rescue knife is no exception. It was made for rescue operations and extreme sports, meaning it’s perfectly suited to life onboard.
The N680 stainless steel grade has a high corrosion resistance so it should last a lifetime if you keep on top of maintenance. It’s designed to be durable and has outstanding cutting power for those tense situations.
Along with being a great knife it also has several awesome features that we haven’t seen on other knives. It glows in the dark so you’ll be able to find it easily in low light, it includes a shackle key, and we love that it also has a rounded tip to help prevent injuries.
The sheath can be fastened to a range of different points, including on the sailor themselves or around the boat.
Buy the Wichard rescue knife now
Marine Sports 4
The Marine Sports 4 is marketed as a diving knife but makes a great knife for sailors too. It’s made from 420 stainless steel and has a sharp cutting knife with a serrated edge on top, so you can pick your poison.
The sheath has buckles to make it easy to attach to a fixed point on board so you can simply pull it out when needed. The handle has excellent grip and as it’s designed for underwater use you’ll have no problems using it in wet conditions.
Buy the Marine Sports knife here
Overall, these sheath knives are some of the best options for sailors. They are durable, reliable, and offer a high level of performance in a marine environment.
Multi-tool Knives
Adam takes his multi-tool everywhere and I have to admit, it’s one of the most useful things about him (only joking, sort of).
We use it in all kinds of situations, and I can’t imagine being without it now. In fact, we use them so much that we bought four!
Here are our top picks.
Leatherman Surge Multi-Tool
Leatherman Multi-tools are world-renowned for a reason. They make some of the best knives out there, and the Surge is one of the greatest.
This is one of their largest multi-tools, built with Leatherman’s largest pliers, longest multi-tool blades, and easy-to-use locks. This is great for use around a boat, and not just for emergency situations.
You’re going to be thankful for this when something inevitably breaks and you haven’t wanted to bring your entire tool kit with you!
SOG Powerpint Multi-Tool
If you’re looking for something a little more compact then opt for the SOG powerpint.
With 18 different tools and a magnetic hex bit holder you’ll have a host of options at your fingertips. We love the open and close feature of this multi-tool.
It’s only 5” long and a lightweight 4.2 ounces, so you won’t even feel it in your pocket while you’re out for a day sail.
Buy the Powerpint Multi-Tool here
Suspension NXT Multi-Tool
The Suspension-NXT is another lightweight multi-tool that is perfect for carrying around with you when you head out for a sail.
It has 15 different tools to get you out of trouble, including a wire stripper, medium flathead driver, awl, file, and ruler.
This is a useful little tool with a whole lot of great features!
Buy the Suspension NXT Multi-Tool
Gerber Truss Multi-Tool
If you’re looking for a durable multi-tool then look no further.
This little knife has 17 upgraded tools and a low profile sheath. The handle construction is one single piece, making it more durable and rugged – perfect for when you’re out on the water.
It’s the perfect addition to your on board tool box.
Why Do Sailors Carry Knives?
Sailors have been carrying knives for centuries, and there are several reasons why they continue to do so today. Here are some of the main reasons why sailors carry knives:
- Cutting ropes and lines: A knife is an essential tool for cutting ropes and lines on a boat. Whether a sailor needs to trim a sail or make an emergency repair, a sharp blade can make all the difference.
- Safety and survival: Sailing can be a dangerous activity, and sailors need to be prepared for emergencies. A knife can be used to cut through tangled lines or free a trapped sailor. It can also be used to open cans or containers in emergency situations.
- Fishing: Many sailors enjoy fishing while out on the water. A knife can be used to clean and prepare fish for cooking.
- Utility tool: A knife can be used for a variety of tasks, such as opening packages, cutting food, or even shaving. Sailors often spend long periods of time on their boats, and a knife can be a versatile tool that comes in handy for many different tasks.
In summary, sailors carry knives for practical reasons, such as cutting ropes and lines, as well as for safety and survival purposes. A knife can also be a versatile tool that can be used for many different tasks while on a boat.
What Is The Spike For On A Sailor’s Knife?
The spike on a sailor’s knife is known as a marlinspike or fid.
It is a pointed tool that is used to help manipulate and splice ropes and lines on a sailboat. The marlinspike is often made of a strong and durable material, such as stainless steel, and is usually located on the opposite end of the blade from the handle.
The marlinspike is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks on a boat. Sailors often use it to loosen knots, separate strands of rope, and create openings in braided lines. It can also be used to help thread lines through small spaces or to pry open shackles and other hardware.
In addition to its practical uses, the marlinspike is a traditional feature of many sailor’s knives. It has a long history in maritime culture and is often associated with the skills and knowledge required to navigate and operate a sailboat.
For many sailors, a knife with a marlinspike is an essential tool that is both practical and symbolic of their connection to the sea.
What Is A Bosun’s Knife?
A Bosun’s knife is a type of folding pocket knife traditionally used by sailors and boaters. It is also known as a marlinspike knife, as it often features a metal spike or “marlinspike” on one end of the handle that can be used for tasks such as untying knots and splicing ropes.
The blade of a Bosun’s knife is typically made of stainless steel and has a serrated edge that can be used for cutting through tough materials such as rope or canvas.
The handle is usually made of wood or a synthetic material and may include additional tools such as a shackle key or bottle opener.
Bosun’s knives are considered essential tools for boaters and sailors, and are commonly used for a variety of tasks on board a ship or boat.
Finding The Best Sailing Knife For You
Every sailor has different preferences and needs so you should take a look at some of the differences you’ll find in sailing knives to help you determine the right things to look out for for you.
Blade Material
The blade material for a sailing knife is typically stainless steel. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and can withstand exposure to saltwater and other harsh marine environments.
The most common type of stainless steel used for sailing knives is 316 stainless steel, which is a higher-grade steel that contains molybdenum, making it more resistant to corrosion than other types of stainless steel.
Other materials, such as titanium or ceramic, may also be used for the blade of a sailing knife, but these are less common due to their higher cost.
Ultimately, the choice of blade material for a sailing knife will depend on the user’s needs and preferences, as well as the specific tasks the knife will be used for.
Blade Locking Mechanism
The best blade-locking mechanism for a sailing knife depends on personal preference and the intended use of the knife. Here are a few common types of locking mechanisms used in sailing knives:
Back Lock
This type of locking mechanism is a simple and reliable design that locks the blade in place when opened. It is easy to use with one hand and can withstand heavy use and abuse.
Liner Lock
This type of locking mechanism is similar to the back lock but uses a metal liner inside the handle to lock the blade in place. It is also easy to use with one hand and provides a secure lock.
Frame Lock
This type of locking mechanism uses a part of the handle to lock the blade in place, providing a strong and secure lock. It is also easy to use with one hand and is a popular choice for heavy-duty sailing knives.
Compression Lock
This type of locking mechanism uses a part of the handle to compress a locking piece against the blade, providing a secure lock that is easy to use with one hand.
Consider the intended use of the knife, the ease of use with one hand, and the level of security needed when selecting a locking mechanism for a sailing knife.
Knife Accessories
There are several accessories that can be useful for a sailing knife, depending on the user’s needs and preferences. Here are a few common accessories:
- Sheath: A sheath is a protective cover that can be used to carry and store a sailing knife. A good sheath should be made of durable materials, such as leather or nylon, and should have a secure fastener to keep the knife in place.
- Lanyard: A lanyard can be attached to the handle of a sailing knife to help prevent it from being dropped overboard. It can also be useful for securing the knife to a belt or harness.
- Sharpening Stone: A sharpening stone can be used to keep the blade of a sailing knife sharp and in good condition. It is important to select a stone that is appropriate for the type of steel used in the blade (usually stainless)
- Shackle Key: A shackle key is a tool that can be used to loosen or tighten shackles on sails and rigging. Some sailing knives have a shackle key built into the handle.
- Bottle Opener: A bottle opener can be a handy feature on a sailing knife for opening beverages on board. Let’s face it, this is possibly the part that will get the most use!
- Whistle: A whistle can be a useful safety feature on a sailing knife, providing a way to signal for help in an emergency.
You should consider the tasks the knife will be used for and the conditions in which it will be used when selecting accessories.
Design and Grip of Your Knife For Sailing
The design and grip of a sailing knife should be optimized for use in marine environments, where it may be exposed to saltwater, rain, and other harsh conditions.
Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a sailing knife for its design and grip:
Blade Shape: A sailing knife’s blade should be designed to efficiently cut ropes, lines, and sails. A serrated edge or partially serrated edge can be useful for cutting through tough materials, while a straight edge is better suited for precision cutting.
Blade Size: The size of the blade should be appropriate for the tasks the knife will be used for. A larger blade may be better for heavy-duty cutting, while a smaller blade can be more versatile and easier to handle.
Handle Material: The handle of a sailing knife should be made of a durable and water-resistant material, such as rubber, plastic, or synthetic materials. It should also provide a secure grip, even when wet.
Grip Shape: The grip shape of a sailing knife should be designed to provide a comfortable and secure hold, even in wet or slippery conditions. A textured or ribbed grip can help prevent slipping, while a contoured grip can provide a comfortable fit for the hand.
Guard: A guard between the blade and handle can help prevent the hand from slipping onto the blade during use.
Weight: The weight of the knife should be balanced and appropriate for the tasks it will be used for. A heavy knife may be better for heavy-duty cutting, while a lighter knife can be more versatile and easier to handle.
The design and grip of a sailing knife should be optimized for efficient cutting, durability, and a comfortable, secure hold in marine environments.
Conclusion: The Best Sailing Knife
The best sailing knife will depend on the individual’s specific needs and preferences. However, here is a summary of some key factors to consider when selecting a knife to carry on board:
- Blade Material: The blade material should be made of a high-quality stainless steel that is corrosion-resistant and can withstand exposure to saltwater and other harsh marine environments.
- Blade Locking Mechanism: The blade locking mechanism should be secure and easy to use with one hand. Popular types include the back lock, liner lock, frame lock, and compression lock.
- Design and Grip: The design and grip of the knife should be optimized for marine environments, with a blade shape and size appropriate for the intended use, a durable and water-resistant handle material, a comfortable and secure grip shape, and a guard to prevent slipping.
- Accessories: Consider any necessary accessories, such as a sheath, lanyard, sharpening stone, shackle key, bottle opener, or whistle.
Ultimately, the best sailing knife will depend on your own needs and preferences, as well as the specific tasks the knife will be used for. Hopefully we’ve helped you find the perfect sailing knife (or knives!) for you as you head off on your next adventure.
