The Best Barlow Knife for Hiking, Camping, and More: 7 Options

Barlow knives have been used for hundreds of years. They are known for being versatile and durable, which makes them a great choice for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. Are you in search of the best Barlow knife but are clueless about where to start?

Do not be worried!

We will look at eight of the top Barlow knives on the market in this article. Plus, we will talk about their features, pros, and cons so you can choose the best one for your needs.

Best Barlow knife – Budget Friendly

These are some of the finest options available on the market:

1. Rough Rider Bone-Handle Barlow Pocket Knife

It is a high-quality pocket knife from the Rough Rider brand. The knife is designed with a classic Barlow profile and features beautiful buckshot bone handles with nickel silver bolsters and brass liners.

The blade of the knife is made from tough 440A stainless steel. The length of the large blade is 2 3/16 inches. However, the small blade is 1 1/2 inches long. It features a nail nick for easy opening and has a slip joint mechanism for safe and secure use.

The Buckshot Bone handle is both stylish and functional. It provides a comfortable grip on the hand and has a textured finish that enhances the beauty of this product. The knife comes with a branded gift box.

So, it is a beautiful and functional pocket knife that is perfect for EDC tasks such as opening boxes, cutting ropes, sharpening pencils, and more. 

If you are on the hunt for top-notch EDC pocket knives under $100, look no further. We have written an article highlighting the best options within your budget. Click here for the perfect quality, functionality, and affordability combination to meet your everyday carry needs.

Specs

Brand: Rough Rider
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Bone
Product Dimensions: ‎6.4 x 3 x 1.8 inches
Color: Bone, Red
Item Weight: 6.4 Ounces
Special Feature: Foldable
Age Range: Adult

2. Western Fashion Foldable Barlow Knife – Twisted X Serape

The Western Fashion Foldable Barlow is known as the best Barlow knife, combining both fashion and functionality in one exceptional tool. The knife features a stainless steel blade with a classic trapper shape, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks.

The handle of the knife is the standout feature, with a vibrant and eye-catching serape pattern that adds a pop of color and style to any outfit.

The knife also features a nickel-silver bolster and a brass liner, adding to its overall durability. The knife blade is made from high-quality stainless steel, known for its sharpness and rust resistance. 

The blade features a nail nick for easy opening, and it locks firmly in place when open to prevent accidental closure. Therefore, it is a secure locking Barlow knife. The knife also features a slip joint mechanism for smooth and controlled blade operation.

Specs

Brand: Western Fashion Tack
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Product Dimensions: ‎5 x 2 x 1 inches
Color: Steel
Item Weight: 3.91 Ounces
Special Feature: Foldable
Age Range: Adult

3. Circle SH Acrylic Handle Trapper Knife

The Circle SH Acrylic Handle Barlow knife is a versatile pocket knife designed for everyday use. The knife features a classic trapper-style blade with a satin finish made from high-quality stainless steel that provides excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.

The handle of the knife is made from acrylic and features a Texas flag design, making it a great gift for anyone who loves the Lone Star State. You can give this Barlow knife as a gift to your beloved ones. 

The important thing about the acrylic material is that it is tough and durable, ensuring that the handle will withstand regular use without showing signs of wear and tear.

The knife’s blade is secured with a sturdy liner lock mechanism, ensuring that the blade stays securely in place when in use. When not in use, you can fold the blade into the knife’s handle. You can store it and carry it in your pocket or backpack.

To sum up, the Circle SH Acrylic Handle Barlow knife is a well-designed product perfect for anyone needing a top-notch cutting tool for everyday use.

Let’s jump into the collection of exceptional knives and explore a wide range of options by visiting knifier.com. Visit it right now to elevate your outdoor gear!

Specs

Brand: RANCH
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Acrylic
Product Dimensions: ‎5 x 2 x 1 inches
Color: Multi
Item Weight: 2.82 Ounces
Special Feature: Foldable
Age Range: Adult

Looking for the best budget Barlow knife? Check these three products

i. Frost Cutlery Barlow Ox Horn Pocket Knife 

It is a traditional-style Barlow knife with a beautiful, natural ox horn handle. The knife measures 3.5 inches when closed, with a 2.5-inch stainless steel blade that is designed for easy opening using a nail nick on the blade.

One of the standout features of the Barlow Ox Horn FOC163OX knife is its beautiful handle. The handle’s natural ox horn material provides great durability and grip while also offering a unique appearance that sets this knife apart from other Barlow models. 

The handle also features brass bolsters and liners, which add to the knife’s overall durability.

The blade itself is made from high-quality stainless steel, which is known for its resistance to rust, corrosion, and stains. The blade is sharp, making it ideal for a wide range of everyday cutting tasks. The knife has a slip joint mechanism, meaning that it does not have a locking mechanism and is better suited for lighter cutting tasks.

It is also great for EDC tasks such as opening boxes, slicing through ropes and cords, sharpening pencils, and more.

ii. Imperial Schrade Jackmaster Barlow Pocket Knife

This folding pocket knife was made carefully and is the right mix of classic style, sturdiness, and usefulness. It has a traditional Barlow pattern, which can be recognized by its long bolster and small size. This pocket knife is about 3.5 inches long when it is closed, so it fits easily into your pocket and is easy to get to whenever you need it.

 The blade is known for being very sharp, resistant to rust, and long-lasting. It is also good at a wide range of cutting jobs, making it an essential tool for everyday use, camping, and other outdoor activities. Its handle gives you full control when you use it.

 With a reliable slip joint system, the blade opens easily and locks into place firmly, making sure that it is as safe as possible to use. It is a cheap product and highly recommended for people looking for the best budget Barlow knife.

iii. Lehman’s Classic Multi-Purpose Barlow Knife – Bone Handle

Last but not least, Lehman’s best budget Barlow knife is another superb product with great care. When closed, this pocket knife is about 3 1/4 inches long. It is small and fits easily in your pocket or bag, making it a great everyday carry item.

It has a classic Barlow design with an extended cushion and a real bone handle. This gives it a rustic, old-fashioned look that captures the spirit of old-world craftsmanship.

Its blade is very sharp and strong, so it can easily handle everyday tasks, camping needs, and outdoor activities. It also has a folding system that has stood the test of time. The slip joint system makes it easy and safe for the blade to open and close, making it safer.

This multi-use pocket knife is a reliable tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks, from slicing fruit and opening packages to cutting wood and making meals while camping. So it can handle heavy-duty camping tasks smartly. 

4. Old Timer 34OTB Barlow Pocket Knife – Classic Design 

The Old Timer 34OTB Barlow is a classic and durable folding knife designed for everyday use. It features a 5.6-inch blade made from fine-quality stainless steel that is resistant to rust and corrosion. The handle is made from genuine bone and features an elegant design that is both comfortable to hold and easy to grip. 

The bone handle also adds a touch of classic style to the knife’s overall look.

The knife’s design features a traditional “Middleman” shape, making it a versatile tool that can easily handle various cutting tasks. It also includes a convenient nail nick on the blade for easy opening and closing, making it an amazing locking Barlow knife on the market.

The knife’s compact size and foldable design make it easy to carry in a pocket or backpack. Most significantly, it comes with a brown leather sheath for added protection and ease of transport. In this way, you can keep your knife in it when not in use. 

Simply put, it is perfect for anyone needing a durable everyday carry knife.

Specs

Brand: Old Timer
Blade Material: High Carbon Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Bone
Product Dimensions: ‎3.94 x 4.72 x 2.76 inches
Color: Multi
Item Weight: 1.8 Ounces
Special Feature: Foldable
Age Range: Adult

5. Twisted X Aztec Foldable Trapper – Stainless Steel Blade  

The Twisted X Aztec Foldable Trapper stands out as the best Barlow knife available, offering exceptional quality and functionality for everyday use. The knife features a unique Aztec-inspired design on the handle, which is made of brown bone and resin material. 

The blade of the knife is made of premium stainless steel, making it a versatile tool for a variety of cutting tasks. The blade has a clip-point shape, which allows for precision cutting and piercing.

The Twisted X Aztec Barlow pocket knife also has a lock-back mechanism, which ensures the blade stays securely in place while in use. The foldable design of this Barlow pocket knife makes it easy to carry in your pocket. It is an ideal tool for camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities.

 This adds an extra layer of safety and prevents accidental closure of the blade while in use. Its unique design and high-quality materials make it a great choice for those who want a knife that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Specs

Brand: Twisted X
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Product Dimensions: 5 x 2 x 1 inches
Color: Multi
Item Weight: 5.6 Ounces
Special Feature: Foldable
Age Range: Adult

6. Rough Ryder Foldable Purple Barlow Knife

The Rough Ryder Foldable Purple Small Barlow knife is a traditional-style pocket knife with a beautifully designed handle with purple swirls on white celluloid. The knife is 2.75 inches when closed, with a sharp and durable 2-inch stainless steel blade that is easy to open using a classic nail nick on the blade.

One of the standout features of this Barlow knife is its eye-catching handle. The purple swirls on white celluloid provide a unique and striking appearance that is sure to turn heads. It is also ergonomically designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended use.

Additionally, the knife features nickel-silver bolsters and brass liners that add to the knife’s overall quality. The blade is made from top-level stainless steel, which is known for its exceptional strength, sharpness, and rust resistance.

The blade is easy to open using the classic nail nick on the blade, and it locks firmly into place when open to prevent accidental closure. The slip joint mechanism ensures a smooth and controlled operation when using the knife.

To sum up, this Barlow knife is a beautiful and functional pocket knife that is perfect for collectors and knife enthusiasts. The knife offers a stylish and unique appearance, exceptional quality and durability, and a reliable blade that is easy to use for everyday cutting tasks.

Specs

Brand: Rough Ryder
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Handle Material: Swirl Synthetic
Product Dimensions: 6.38 x 2.56 x 1.97 inches
Color: Purple
Item Weight: 0.1 Kg
Special Feature: Foldable
Age Range: Adult

7. Bear & Son Cutlery Mini Trapper Trapper Knife

The Bear & Son Mini Trapper knife is a classic folding knife designed for everyday tasks. The knife features a 2.75-inch blade made from stainless steel. The handle is made from heritage walnut wood, which provides a comfortable and secure grip. 

The wood is also durable and adds a touch of elegance to the knife’s overall design.

The knife’s design features a traditional “Mini Trapper” shape, making it a gorgeous tool that can easily handle various cutting tasks. 

It also includes a convenient nail nick on the blade for easy opening and closing. The knife’s compact size and foldable design make it the best Barlow knife for easy carry.

Specs

Brand: Bear & Son Cutlery
Blade Material: Carbon Steel
Handle Material: Walnut
Product Dimensions: ‎4.3 x 1.7 x 0.9 inches
Color: Brown
Item Weight: 2.2 Ounces
Special Feature: Lightweight
Age Range: Adult

Ten must-have features of the best Barlow knife

A Barlow knife is a traditional folding knife that has been popular for centuries due to its classic design and versatility. 

The following are ten must-have features of the best Barlow knife:

• High-quality steel blade

The blade steel should be of high quality to ensure that it can hold an edge and resist corrosion. The premium-quality blade steel is used in the manufacturing of Barlow knives because it offers several advantages over lower-quality steels. 

High-quality blade steel can hold a sharp edge for a longer time than lower-quality steel, which means that the knife will cut more efficiently and require less maintenance. Additionally, it is less susceptible to rust and corrosion, which means that the knife will last longer and require less maintenance.

Top-quality blade steel can maintain its edge for a longer time than lower-quality steel, which means that the knife will require less sharpening over its lifetime.

• Dual blades

A Barlow knife traditionally has two blades, a large clip-point blade, and a smaller pen blade. Having two blades allows for more versatility in cutting tasks. Dual blades are included in the manufacturing of Barlow knives because they offer several advantages over a single-blade design. 

The dual blades allow for more versatility in cutting tasks, as each blade can be used for different purposes. The larger clip-point blade is suitable for heavier tasks, while the smaller pen blade is more suitable for detailed work.

The dual blades mean that the user does not have to carry multiple knives to perform different tasks. This makes the Barlow knife a convenient and practical tool to have on hand.

• Classic design

The Barlow knife has been in use since the 18th century and is part of American tradition. The classic design is a link to the past and helps maintain the knife’s cultural and historical significance.

 The elegant design of the Barlow knife is easily recognizable and has become a symbol of American heritage. This makes it a popular choice for enthusiasts who appreciate the knife’s traditional design.

The knife’s sleek lines and rounded edges make it a visually appealing tool that many people find aesthetically pleasing. The knife’s slim profile and smooth handle make it easy to carry in a pocket, while the dual-blade design allows for versatility in cutting tasks.

• Sturdy handle materials

The handle material of a Barlow knife is important because it plays a key role in the knife’s overall durability, comfort, and grip. A sturdy handle material is essential to ensure that the knife can withstand regular use and maintain its integrity over time. Some common materials used for Barlow knife handles include:

• Bone

Bone is a traditional handle material that is often used for Barlow knives. It is durable, attractive, and provides a good grip.

• Wood

Wood is another common handle material that is popular for its natural beauty and texture. It is also relatively lightweight and provides a comfortable grip.

• Metal

 Some Barlow knives feature metal handles that provide a sleek and modern look. However, they can be heavy and may not provide the same level of grip as other materials.

• Synthetic materials

Synthetic handle materials, such as G10, Micarta, or plastic, are popular due to their durability, resistance to wear and tear, and affordability. They can be molded into various shapes and colors, allowing for a customized look.

• Comfortable grip

The handle should be designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip for extended use. A comfortable grip reduces the risk of slippage, which can cause injury or damage to the knife or other objects. A secure grip on the handle allows the user to control the knife better and prevent accidents.

Moreover, a comfortable grip on the handle gives the user better control of the knife’s movements. A comfortable grip on the handle reduces fatigue and strain on the hand and wrist, making it easier to use the knife for extended periods.

• Solid locking mechanism

The knife should have a solid locking mechanism to ensure the blade remains securely locked in place while in use. A solid locking mechanism is an important feature of a Barlow knife because it provides several benefits.

For example, a solid locking mechanism ensures that the blade remains securely in place during use, reducing the risk of accidental closure and injury. Additionally, it ensures that the blade is held firmly in place and does not move around, reducing wear and tear on the blade and its components.

Overall, a solid locking mechanism is an important feature of a Barlow knife because it ensures safety, durability, convenience, and versatility. 

• Smooth opening & closing

The blade should be easy to open and close with a smooth action. This reduces the risk of accidental injury or damage to the knife or other objects. A smooth opening and closing mechanism reduces wear and tear on the blade and its components, helping to ensure the knife’s longevity and reliability.

The same is the case with a Barlow knife. The smooth-locking Barlow knife ensures safety, convenience, durability, and efficiency. When choosing a Barlow knife, looking for one with a smooth and reliable opening and closing mechanism is essential.

• Lightweight

The Barlow knife should be lightweight and easy to carry in a pocket or pack. The weight of a Barlow knife is an important factor to consider when choosing a knife because it affects its portability and ease of use.

A lightweight Barlow knife is easier to carry, making it more convenient for everyday use or outdoor activities. Furthermore, it is easier to maneuver and control, allowing for more precise cutting and reducing fatigue during extended use.

However, it is important to balance weight with durability and functionality. A Barlow knife that is too lightweight may sacrifice strength and durability, making it less suitable for heavy-duty tasks or situations where a more robust knife is required. 

It is important to choose a Barlow knife that balances weight, strength, and functionality to ensure that it meets the user’s needs.

• Aesthetically pleasing

The knife should have an aesthetically pleasing design, including unique engravings or finishes. A sleek design gives the knife a clean and stylish look that is appealing to many people. This makes it a popular choice for those who appreciate well-designed tools.

Plus, it can make the knife easier to handle and maneuver, with fewer sharp edges or corners that can snag on clothing or other objects.

• Affordable price

Affordability is an important consideration when choosing a Barlow knife, as it can impact accessibility, value, and overall satisfaction with the product. 

An affordable Barlow knife is more accessible to a wider range of people, regardless of their budget. This can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty, leading to repeat purchases and positive word-of-mouth marketing.

In addition, it can be a good entry-level option for those new to knife collecting or outdoor activities, allowing them to explore the benefits and features of a Barlow knife without a significant investment.

So, you should purchase the best budget Barlow knife. 

Up to You

People buy Barlow knives for a variety of reasons. Barlow knives have a long history and are part of American tradition. They were commonly used by farmers, tradespeople, and even presidents.

With that in mind, people collect Barlow knives due to their historical significance, classic design, and unique handles.

These are the top seven Barlow knives to purchase in 2023:

1. Rough Rider Bone-Handle Barlow Pocket Knife
2. Western Fashion Foldable Barlow Knife 
3. Circle SH Acrylic Handle Barlow Knife 
4. Old Timer 34OTB Barlow Pocket Knife 
5. Twisted X Aztec Foldable Barlow Pocket Knife 
6. Rough Ryder Foldable Purple Barlow Knife 
7. Bear & Son Mini Trapper Barlow Knife 

Now you can choose the best Barlow knife for you, as per your budget and needs.