Types of Tactical Knives: Folding, Fixed & Multi-Functional Explained

When it comes to choosing the right knife for daily carry, duty work, or outdoor use, the first thing to understand is the different types of tactical knives. Each type serves a unique purpose: folding knives balance portability and safety, fixed blades maximize strength and ease of maintenance, while multi-functional knives provide versatile rescue and utility features.

In this guide, we’ll explore the three main categories of tactical knives, using only examples from RUIKE’s current lineup. We’ll also look at blade styles, steels, handles, locks, and deployment systems—so by the end, you’ll know exactly which knife suits your needs best.

Tactical vs. Combat: Where’s the Line?

It’s easy to confuse a tactical knife with a combat knife, but the two are not the same.

• Combat knives are designed primarily for military use, emphasizing close combat and survival in extreme environments. They are often larger, aggressive in design, and not suited for everyday or civilian use.
• Tactical knives, on the other hand, focus on utility, portability, and safety. They are built for law enforcement, outdoor enthusiasts, first responders, and everyday users. Tasks like cutting rope, breaking glass, or opening packages fall under tactical applications.

In short, tactical knives are practical tools, not weapons. RUIKE’s designs embrace this philosophy, combining modern safety features with durable materials for real-world scenarios.

The Three Main Types of Tactical Knives

Folding Pocket Knives

Folding knives are by far the most popular type of tactical knife. Their compact design allows the blade to fold into the handle, making them safe to carry in a pocket or bag.

Key advantages include:

• Portability: easy to carry daily.
• Modern locking systems: RUIKE uses liner locks, frame locks, and the proprietary Beta Plus lock for extra security.
• Premium steels: models often feature 14C28N or N690, offering sharpness and corrosion resistance.
• Lightweight handles: G10 or titanium, ensuring both strength and comfort.

Representative models:

• P851-B – a lightweight EDC knife with 14C28N steel and G10 handle.
• M875-TZ – a titanium frame lock model with N690 steel, built for professional duty.

Fixed Blade Knives

If strength and reliability are your top priorities, fixed blades stand out among the different types of tactical knives. With no folding mechanism, they deliver maximum durability and minimal failure points.

Why choose a fixed blade?

• Full tang design: blade and handle are one continuous piece of steel, ensuring strength for heavy use.
• High durability: suitable for chopping, batoning, and prying.
• Easy to clean: no hinges or joints, making maintenance simple.

Representative models:

• F181-B – full tang construction with G10 scales, ideal for outdoor survival.
• F815-J – a compact fixed blade, balancing portability with strength.

Multi-Functional Knives (LD Series)

For rescue, emergency, and vehicle carry, multi-functional tactical knives are unbeatable. RUIKE’s LD series combines the utility of a multi-tool with the reliability of a one-hand opening tactical knife.

Highlights include:

• One-handed main blade: lockable and easy to deploy.
• Dedicated rescue tools: glass breaker and seatbelt cutter.
• Additional functions: screwdrivers, saws, and openers.

Representative models:

• LD41-B – designed with full rescue capabilities, perfect for vehicle kits.
• LD31-B – a smaller, more portable version for everyday preparedness.

Blade Styles for Tactical Use

The blade shape greatly affects performance, no matter which of the types of tactical knives you choose:

• Drop Point: the most versatile, offering excellent slicing and general-purpose use.
• Clip Point: thinner, sharper tip for precise piercing.
• Spear Point: symmetrical design, balancing stabbing and cutting.
• Tanto: reinforced tip, ideal for puncturing hard materials.

Choosing the right blade style comes down to your environment: Drop Point works for everyday use, while Tanto or Clip Point blades shine in duty or rescue scenarios.

Steels, Handles, Locks & Deployment

Performance is not just about type—it’s also about materials and mechanisms.

Steels:

• 14C28N → corrosion-resistant, easy to sharpen (best for EDC).
• 154CM → tougher, holds an edge longer (professional duty).
• N690 → high-performance balance of edge retention and toughness.

Handles:

• G10 → lightweight, grippy, and durable.
• Titanium → premium, corrosion-proof, and elegant.

Locks:

• Liner lock → lightweight and reliable.
• Frame lock → stronger, used in titanium models.
• Beta Plus lock → RUIKE-exclusive, adds extra safety.

Deployment methods:

• Flipper tab → quick, one-finger opening.
• Thumb stud → classic, intuitive.
• Thumb hole → smooth and ambidextrous.

Quick Pick Guide: Choosing the Right Knife

Scenario	Best Type	Strengths	Example Model
Everyday carry (EDC)	Folding knife	Compact, safe, versatile	P851-B
Duty / Law enforcement	Folding / Multi-functional	Fast deployment + rescue tools	M875-TZ / LD41-B
Outdoor survival	Fixed blade	Maximum strength, easy to clean	F181-B / F815-J
Vehicle / Rescue kit	Multi-functional	Glass breaker + belt cutter	LD41-B / LD31-B

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of tactical knives—folding, fixed, and multi-functional—makes choosing much easier. Folding knives shine in everyday carry and duty tasks, fixed blades dominate in outdoor and high-strength applications, and multi-functional knives are indispensable for rescue and preparedness. The right choice depends entirely on how and where you intend to use your knife.

If you’re ready to explore further, check out RUIKE’s Folding, Fixed, and Multi-functional collections. Each knife is designed with real-world utility in mind, backed by durable steels, secure locking systems, and thoughtful ergonomics. Find the one that matches your needs—and carry with confidence.