Glossary · Utility Knives

Slip Joint

A slip joint has no lock; a backspring holds the blade open under tension and yields when you close it. Traditional pocketknives and many non-locking utility folders use it, and it keeps them legal to carry in places that restrict locking blades.

Best Utility Knives All terms

Related terms

One-Hand Open
Blade Grind
Liner Lock
Frame Lock
Blade Steel
Edge Retention / HRC

Reader favorites

The short list — full rankings live on the best-gear page.

Nitecore UI1 charger + 18650
$11.99
Check price
CIVIVI Elementum knife
$65.00
Check price
SureFire Stiletto Pro
$358.95
Check price

Straight disclosure —some links on this page are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we may earn a commission when you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It never changes the price you pay, and it never changes a verdict.

60 guides published

42 products vetted

250 reader price checks