BUDK is an online knife store that carries a wide range of fixed blades and folding knives from some of the top brands in the industry. It’s also a trusted source of helpful information. 

That being said, if you’re in the market for a new knife (or your first one) and aren’t sure whether a fixed blade or a folder is for you, here are some things to consider. 

The Case for a Fixed Blade

Fixed blade knives, unlike folders, do not fold and require a sheath. There are many good reasons to carry a fixed blade:

• They are more robust than folders, and since they lack moving parts, maintenance is easier. 
  
  
• There are smaller fixed blades that can be easily carried with great discretion.
  
  
• With a good sheath, you can carry in a variety of different configurations. 
  
  
• They’re better for hard chores associated with hunting, camping, and similar pursuits. 

At the same time, there are some drawbacks associated with carrying fixed blades:

• Since you need a sheath, carry is inconvenient for some. 
• They are generally less discreet than folders.
• They’re not necessary for some disciplines. 

Folding Knives 

Unlike fixed blades, folders do not need a sheath since the blade folds into the handle. There are many appealing aspects of carrying a folding knife, including the following: 

• Folding knives are more discreet than fixed blades. 
• You need no sheath to carry one. 
• Some modern knife locks, like crossbar locks, Tri-Ad locks, and Compression locks are extremely strong.
• Many folding knives can be deployed and closed with one hand. 

That being said, there are some drawbacks of folding knives: 

• Even the strongest folding knife locks are not as strong as the design of a fixed blade knife.
  
  
• Folding knives have more moving parts, making maintenance more involved. 

Traditional, Assisted, or Automatic?

In the realm of folding knives, there are three main categories, which are traditional pocket knives, assisted openers, and automatic knives. 

• Traditional knives either deploy via a nail nick, or via thumb studs, flipper tabs or thumb holes. They may or may not lock. Some have multiple blades but many have just one. They are generally more affordable than assisted openers and automatic knives as well. 
  
  
• Assisted opening knives have internal springs that help deploy the knife once the user has opened the blade part of the way. They are usually more expensive than traditional pocket knives, but many users find it easier to deploy them with one hand. 
  
  
• Automatic knives (also known as autos) use a button or lever to deploy a blade. If the knife is a double action knife, the button or lever can be used not just to deploy but retract the blade with one hand. They are very fast and easy to use, but they are also generally more expensive than other folding knives, and on top of that, some jurisdictions have laws forbidding the carry of automatic knives. 

Explore Fixed Blades and Folding Knives at a Knife Store 

At the end of the day, whether you carry a folding knife or a fixed blade is up to you as by and large it is a matter of personal preference. What you need is a place where you can explore your options. 

Visit BUDK. They carry a wide range of fixed blades and folding knives and offer a great deal of variety. On top of that, they carry a large selection of very affordable knives, both fixed and folding. Check out their collection today and get in touch with them if you have any questions. 

For more information about Bowie Knife and Crossbows Please visit: BudK Worldwide Inc.