Falling right in the middle of old-fashioned folders that take some effort to open and fully automatic ones that deploy with the press of a button, are folding knives featuring a thumb stud opener. These knives are drastically underrated, as they offer both the speed of an automatic and the safety and control of a manual. Additionally, they are also available in a variety of styles, materials, and overall length and carry options.
Don’t take my word for it, though. The options below offer an excellent cross-section when it comes to style, construction materials, and affordability. No matter which you choose, your thumb will definitely be the catalyst that brings these blades fully to life.
EDC Thumb Stud Knives
Gerber Gear Assert
Gerber Gear’s Assert folder offers one of the best all-around backpacking knives on the market today. Its single-hand, thumb-stud deployment presents its S30V stainless steel blade for any task at hand. The Asset features an overall lightweight and compact design for easy carrying, a deep carry pocket clip, and an incredibly strong glass-filled nylon textured handle.
Enjoy personalized carry with its adjustable thumb stud, ambidextrous pivot lock, and clip. Assert your dominance with this ready-for-anything knife.
Specifications
- S30V Stainless steel plain edge blade
- Deep carry pocket
- Integrated lanyard hole
- Adjustable thumb stud
- Textured glass-filled nylon handle
MSRP: $189.99
Gerber Gear Savvy
Smooth and sleek are the best descriptions for the Savvy, and it can back that up on your very first opening of this American-made blade. Featuring small batch craftsmanship, the Savvy offers frictionless deployment with its integrated thumb stud, a one-hand operation, and an ambidextrous design for maximum performance for all your cutting needs.
This knife exhibits a simple design that operates flawlessly in the wielder’s hand for optimal results in the field. Best of all, it’s ideal for both rural and urban needs. The Savvy is a smart addition to anyone’s daily carry.
Specifications
- 20CV blade
- Frictionless deployment
- Easy single-handed operation
- Ambidextrous design
- Aluminum or carbon fiber scale options
MSRP: $199.99
CRKT Walker Blade Lock
The Walker Blade Lock is an amalgamation of both a beautiful design and a high-performance cutter. Additionally, its ingenious positive lock system keeps the blade secure in both open and closed positions for ultimate safety during your carry. Its spring-loaded tab and thumb stud combination is this knife’s signature, and its fluid design is evident with every opening.
Finally, a textured, sure-grip G10 handle keeps this pocket helper securely in hand, while its cutting edge stays sharper longer with repeated, steady use.
Specifications
- 14C28N Blade steel
- Stainless steel handle
- Blade lock in both open and closed positions
- G10 Overlay handle
- Excellent edge retention
MSRP: $94.00
CRKT Squid XM Button Lock
The Squid’s size skirts the line between medium and large, giving you more edge for your needs without sacrificing its easy-carry and slimline design. This knife offers everything you need in an all-purpose, everyday carry with its nearly three-inch blade, G10 handle for a solid grip, an easy-to-access thumb stub opener, and best of all, a smooth-as-glass IKBS ball bearing deployment.
Additionally, a convenient button lock keeps this helper safe when not in use. Customization is available for handle material and steel type to create your own personalized blade.
Specifications
- D2 Blade Steel
- Oxide blade finish
- G10 Handle
- Integrated button lock
- Easy-to-access thumb stud
MSRP: $68.00
CRKT Ibis Frame Lock
With a subtle curved blade design and enough edge and durability to tackle any job, the Ibis combines both into the ultimate everyday carry folding knife. The drop-point blade deploys almost instantly, thanks to the IKBS ball-bearing pivot and beefy thumb stud, allowing for quick action on any task at hand.
Additionally, the knife is built to last with a G10 stainless steel handle (or opt for the Titanium version) and stonewash finish. Simply put, the Ibis is where performance, durability, and an aesthetically pleasing design intersect and excel.
Specifications
- 14C28N Blade steel for excellent edge retention
- G10 handle provides a superior grip
- Extremely smooth opening
- Extra-tough frame lock
- Stonewash finish
MSRP: $75.00
5.11 Braddock DP Knife Mini
When you need to go big but maintain a small, compact footprint, it’s time to turn to the Braddock DP Knife. This pocket-carry knife offers three inches of drop-point, D2 steel, tough enough to handle most daily cutting tasks. Its G10 handle allows for a sure grip in nearly any outdoor conditions, while the sturdy liner lock and two-point clip offer safety and easy carry when not in use.
Like Goldilocks, the Braddock is not too big and not too small; it’s just right for discreet carry, fast opening with its thumb stud, and high performance as it chews up whatever material is in its way!
Specifications
- D2 Steel drop point blade
- G10 Handle
- Integrated lanyard hole
- Liner lock for safety
- Two-point pocket clip
MSRP: $40.00
5.11 Braddock DP Knife Full
The Braddock DP mini’s older and bigger brother, the Braddock DP Knife Full, takes the combination of functionality and durability to an entirely new level. Its drop-point blade (a hefty 2.7mm thick) delivers three-and-a-half inches of cutting edge, ideal for slicing cordage, shaving tinder, or any of a hundred other tasks around the house or campsite.
Enjoy rapid blade deployment with its integrated thumb stud and smooth mechanics. Furthermore, the Braddock’s G10 handle allows a firm and controlled grip for both slicing and puncturing, while its reversible, deep-carry pocket clip keeps this handy helper always within arm’s reach.
Specifications
- D2 Steel drop point blade
- G10 Handle
- Blade length: 3.50 inches
- Liner lock for safety
- Two-point pocket clip
MSRP: $50.00
Kershaw Shuffle DIY
Is it a knife or is it a multitool? It’s both, and you can utilize all features quickly and easily when the need arises. The stout, yet sturdy blade quickly deploys with a convenient thumb stud and holds an edge like an absolute champ. The Shuffle DIY also features a bit driver, two screwdriver bits, a keychain ring, and a bottlecap lifter, all in one compact unit.
Its sturdy glass-filled nylon handle is equipped with texture and finger contours for a solid grip, and the knife opens quickly with a fast, one-handed operation. Versatility is the name of the game when the Shuffle DIY is nearby.
Specifications
- Features multiple integrated tools
- 8Cr13MoV Steel
- Manual opening with “one-hand action”
- Overall length: 5.75 inches
- Weight: 3.5 ounces
MSRP: $35.19
