Choose a knife by the job it has to do.

Each comparison uses maker specifications and dated retailer prices. We have not tested these knives, so nothing here is ranked.

• A pocket knife under $100Only models with a dated retailer price under $100, with carry format and lock for each.
• A camp knifeTwo Morakniv fixed blades, the Buck 110 and the Victorinox Huntsman, by carry system and care.
• A skinning knifeKershaw Deschutes and Outdoor Edge WildSkin: gut hook, steel and sheath side by side.
• A Swiss Army knifeClassic SD, Spartan and Huntsman, by the tools each one has.
• A chef knife near $100Four chef knives by maker specs. A price shows only with a dated retailer row.
• A MagnaCut folderFour folders with maker-published CPM-MagnaCut, by lock and carry.
• A knife sharpenerFour manual kits by angle guides, grits and serration support.