When looking for a knife, many people find themselves going to the nearest sporting goods store and buying the best looking knife on the shelf. What they don't know is that even though it looks good, doesn't mean it is good. Most knives sold at sporting goods stores are not bad, but they are definetly not going to last a lifetime.

If you really need a knife that will last, and I mean you really need it to last, it won't be found in a sporting goods store, and it won't be so cheap.

The steels used in most knives is a variation of stainless steel: AUS-8, 440A, ATS-34, and so on. But when you reach knives that can cost more than $100, the steels are usually why they cost more.

High-end knives use steels with more carbon, which holds a better edge and lasts longer. These steels could be 154CM, S90V, S60V, S30V, D2, and so on. There are companies that regularly use these high quality steels such as Microtech, Protech, Benchmade, Masters of Defense, and more.

Also, the locking mechanism is a folding knife can really determine the quality of the knife. Liner Locks are standard, strong, durable, and reliable. Microtech, however, took this to the next level. The have spring loaded, fail safe liner locks. These WILL NOT FAIL EVER.

Button locks are also strong, durable, reliable, and safe. Masters of defense commonly uses button locks, as well as Protech.

If you are really looking for a great, long lasting knife, I would suggest you look into the following companies. You won't be let down. Gauranteed.

Protech

Microtech

Benchmade

Masters of Defense

SOG

Kershaw

CRKT (Columbia River Knife & Tool)

Chris Reeves

Emerson

Spyderco

Ka-Bar

Lone Wolf

I promis you won't regret checking out these companies!