- \n
- Best Folding: Milwaukee Fastback 48-22-1502<\/strong> \u2013 Buy at Acme Tools<\/a>
Jump to this Utility Knife<\/a> \u2193<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Best Snap-Off: OLFA 18mm Auto Locking MXP-AL<\/strong> \u2013 Buy on Amazon<\/a>
Jump to this Utility Knife<\/a> \u2193<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Most for Drywall: Milwaukee Fixed Blade 48-22-1513 <\/strong> \u2013 Buy at Acme Tools<\/a>
Jump to this Utility Knife<\/a> \u2193<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Best for Construction: Gerber Prybrid<\/strong> 31-003745<\/strong> \u2013 Buy on Amazon<\/a>
Jump to this Utility Knife<\/a> \u2193<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Best w\/ Unexpected Features 1: ToughBuilt Utility Knife\/Scraper<\/strong> TB-H4S5-01<\/strong> \u2013 Buy on Amazon<\/a>
Jump to this Utility Knife<\/a> \u2193<\/li>\n\n\n\n- Best w\/ Unexpected Features 2: ToughBuilt Reload TB-H4S2-03<\/strong> \u2013 Buy at Lowe’s<\/a>
Jump to this Utility Knife<\/a> \u2193<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\nAlso In This Article<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best-Selling Utility Knives<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best Utility Knife Models \u2013 More Recommendations<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best Utility Knife Buying Guide<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews<\/em><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Related Content<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Utility Knife Marking Tool Lifehack for Pros<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 7 Best Tools for Cutting Drywall and 2 to Avoid<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Best Folding Utility Knife<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Milwaukee Fastback 48-22-1502<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"best](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/milwaukee-fastback-folding-utility-knife-with-blade-storage-48-22-1502-detail-view-1_1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nMilwaukee’s product team has spent a lot of time developing trade-focused solutions for the trades, including the Fastback line of utility knives. What I love about the 48-02-1502 is its folding and locking function. I prefer its flip-out action over traditional push-out blades because I’m able to use it more like my EDC pocket knife. This isn’t the only model that flips out in Milwaukee’s line, though. I like this one the best because of its metal construction, integrated wire stripper, and 5-blade onboard storage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Features<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Uses standard trapezoidal blades<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Durable metal construction<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Press and flip the opening<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Quick blade changes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Metal support extension prevents accidental blade release<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Durable wire belt clip<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Integrated wire stripper and gut hook<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Blade holder doubles as a scoring tool<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stores 5 additional blades onboard<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tether-ready frame<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Price: $14.97 (single tool) or $56.99 (4-pack w\/ blade storage)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy at Acme Tools<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nBest Snap-Off Utility Knife<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
OLFA 18mm Auto Locking MXP-AL<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n![\"OLFA](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/OLFA-MXP-Utility-Knife-01-800x600.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nIf you want to talk to someone who’s obsessed with every aspect of utility knife development, talk to the folks at OLFA. From the top of their lineup to the bottom every single element of the design is intentional. In their extensive line, my favorite is the 18mm MXP-AL. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
I like the aluminum body construction over plastic, and the 18mm size fits comfortably in my hand. Plus, the extendable blade can make cuts several inches deep\u2014something you can’t do with a trapezoidal blade. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While the knife’s overall design is outstanding, the entire system sets this one even further apart. OLFA’s blade design is second to none, with multiple options depending on how you want to balance cutting performance and price. Then there are the blade disposal cans that let you easily snap off a used section of blade directly into a container where you don’t have to hunt it down or risk getting cut if you or someone else picks it up. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As a side note, I also really liked the Lenox Fast Snap<\/a>, but that one is no longer available. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Features<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Usus 18mm blades<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Auto-locking extendable blade (also available with a ratcheting wheel lock)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Die-cast aluminum body<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stainless steel blade housing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wrap-around rubber overmold grip<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Quick, tool-free blade changes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Includes a Black-series blade<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Price: $17.49<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy on Amazon<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nBest Utility Knife for Drywall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Milwaukee Fixed Blade 48-22-1513<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
![\"best](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/milwaukee-1513_1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nFor scoring drywall, I like an angled utility knife for its better control and visibility. I also like a fixed blade or a flip-out model so there’s less chance of wobble at the blade. While there are plenty of great options available with this design, I like the simplicity and ergonomics of Milwaukee’s 48-22-1513. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It has the fixed blade I’m looking for and enough angle to relieve strain on my wrist and provide that additional control and visibility, yet it’s still useful for standard cutting tasks since the angle isn’t too hard. The metal body does great on the jobsite, it stores up to five additional blades inside, its shape has a nice feel in hand, and it’s less than $10. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
Want to learn more about the cost of drywall installation<\/a>? We can help!<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Key Features<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Uses standard trapezoidal blades<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fixed blade design<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stores five additional blades on board<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Overmolded grip<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tool-free blade changes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Price: $8.99<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy at Acme Tools<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nBest Utility Knife for Construction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Gerber Prybrid \u200e31-003745<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n![\"Gerber](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/09\/Gerber-Prybrid-Multi-Tool01-800x534.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nI wouldn’t have thought a utility knife on a multitool would impress me, but the Gerber Prybrid was a nice surprise with a variety of features that are a good fit for construction workers. With its metal construction, the Prybrid combines a slide-out utility knife with a pry bar, nail puller, wire stripper, two flathead screwdriver sizes, a bottle opener, and a cord cutter. Putting eight tools together isn’t in itself a big deal. But doing it in a way that keeps the physical form legitimately useful as a go-to utility knife. The only thing I’d like to see the design add is a pocket clip. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our team was so impressed that it made our list of the best multi-tools<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Features<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Uses standard trapezoidal blades<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Auto-locking push-out blade design<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Includes eight tools<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Durable metal construction<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Textured surface improves grip<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Includes a lifetime warranty<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Price: $30<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy on Amazon<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nBest Utility Knives with Unexpected Features<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
ToughBuilt Utility Knife\/Scraper TB-H4S5-01<\/a><\/h3>\n\n\n
\n![\"Toughbuilt](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/ToughBuilt-Retractable-Scraper-Utiltiy-Knife01-800x534.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nOf the two ToughBuilt utility knives I’m going to highlight, the most useful is the Scraper Utility Knife. At first glance, it seems like a relatively standard design, though its spring-loaded lock and release are different from most models. However, when you push the blade forward all the way, it rotates 90\u00b0 to a scraper orientation. Push it forward again, and it returns to a utility knife orientation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
My only minor complaint is that the design is larger than I prefer. However, if you use both functions often, it’s easy to get used to. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Features<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Uses standard trapezoidal blades (5 included)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Simple, tool-free scraper and utility knife conversion<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Spring-loaded blade lock and release<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Easy, quick blade replacement<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Rubber overmold grip<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Integrated paint can opener and lanyard hole<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Price: $19.98<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy on Amazon<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nToughBuilt Reload TB-H4S2-03<\/h3>\n\n\n
\n![\"ToughBuilt](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/toughbuilt-reload_1.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThe other ToughBuilt Utility Knife I’m highlighting makes lightning-fast blade changes in the coolest way possible. It’s a magazine-fed system like nothing we’ve seen before. The magazine holds 15 blades\u20145 in the auto-load section and 10 spares. Yes, we said auto-load. When your blade is at the end of its life, you remove it through the top. When you cycle the pusher back, it automatically loads the next blade and exposes it when you push forward again. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The magazine itself has a drop-out release, and yes, you can go full Keano Reeves with magazine changes and bring your own John Wick vibe to the jobsite. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Features<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Uses standard trapezoidal blades<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Automatic blade loading<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stores up to 15 blades in the magazine (5 in the auto-load position)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Magazine drop-out quick-release<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Includes straight and hooked blades<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Includes two magazines<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Rubber overmolded grip<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Indicator switch identifies which blade type is installed<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lifetime warranty<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Price: $19.98<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy at Lowe’s<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nBest Utility Knife Brands<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you forced me to narrow down my choices to the number one best utility knife brand, I’d be torn between Milwaukee and OLFA. Milwaukee’s Fastback models are my go-to for a flip-out design on days when I need something that wears more like a pocket knife. The build is solid, the features are meaningful, and there’s a wide range of models to suit your needs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When I want the length or convenience of an extendable break-off blade, OLFA is where I turn. I prefer their all-metal design, but even the ones with plastic housings are still built to thrive in tough jobsite environments. Combined with OLFA’s blades\u2014which are the best in the business in my opinion\u2014it’s an unbeatable combination for standard cutting tasks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Best-Selling Utility Knives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
In addition to exploring our top picks, you may find it helpful to see what others are buying. Here are some of the best-selling utility knives at leading retailers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Acme Tools<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Milwaukee Fastback Flip-Blade Utility Knife 48-22-1901X4<\/a> \u2013 $36.99<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tajima Blue Retractable Blade One-Piece Utility Knife VR-102B<\/a> \u2013 $26.50<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bessey Utility Knife Set with Zippered Nylon Case DBKPHSET<\/a> \u2013 $38.99<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nSee the Full List<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nAmazon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- REXBETI Utility Knife 2-Pack REX056<\/a> \u2013 $9.99<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Gerber Gear EAB Lite Pocket Knife with Money Clip \u200e31-000345<\/a> \u2013 $13.70<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- WORKPRO Folding Utility Knife with Blade Storage Handle W011009A<\/a> \u2013 $14.99<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nSee the Full List<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nLowe’s<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Kobalt 3\/4-in 3-Blade Retractable Utility Knife 55908<\/a> \u2013 $5.98<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lenox 3\/4-in 1-Blade Folding Utility Knife 10771FLK1<\/a> \u2013 $10.98<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Craftsman 3-Blade Retractable Utility Knife CMHT10585<\/a> \u2013 $5.98<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nSee the Full List<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nHome Depot<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Husky Folding Lock-Back Utility Knife (3-Pack) 99732<\/a> \u2013 $21.97<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Milwaukee Fastback Compact Folding Utility Knife 48-22-1500<\/a> \u2013 $9.97<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Stanley Quick-Change Retractable Utility Knife (2-pack) STHT10274<\/a> \u2013 $12.97<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nSee the Full List<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nBest Utility Knife Models \u2013 More Recommendations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The picks above aren’t the only utility knives worth owning, but they’re certainly my favorites. If you’re looking for something else, the following tried-and-true options may be a better fit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
DeWalt Retractable DWHT10295<\/strong>
This angled retractable model features a comfortable overmolded grip, blade storage, and a spring-load carabiner clip. Plus, it’s made in the USA using global materials. <\/p>\n\n\n\nPrice: $12.99<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy at Acme Tools<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nKlein Cable Skinning Utility Knife 44218<\/strong>
<\/a>Paired with a replaceable hawkbill blade, this specialty folding model is specifically designed to help electricians skin cable and quickly swap blades once they get dull. <\/p>\n\n\n\nPrice: $21.97<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy at Acme Tools<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nKnipex CutiX 90 10 165 BKA<\/strong>
Separate locks for the 18mm snap-off blade and stabilization bar pair with a lightweight magnesium housing in this premium utility knife. <\/p>\n\n\n\nPrice: $32.98<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nBuy on Amazon<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nRoberts Cut and Jam Carpet Knife 10-220<\/strong>
This dual-purpose model is specially designed to help carpet installers with both cutting a tucking tasks. It features rugged all-metal construction and can hold ten spare blades in the handle. <\/p>\n\n\n\nPrice: $11.78<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Milwaukee Fastback Compact Folding Utility Knife 48-22-1500<\/a> \u2013 $9.97<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lenox 3\/4-in 1-Blade Folding Utility Knife 10771FLK1<\/a> \u2013 $10.98<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Gerber Gear EAB Lite Pocket Knife with Money Clip \u200e31-000345<\/a> \u2013 $13.70<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Tajima Blue Retractable Blade One-Piece Utility Knife VR-102B<\/a> \u2013 $26.50<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Milwaukee Fastback Flip-Blade Utility Knife 48-22-1901X4<\/a> \u2013 $36.99<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- 7 Best Tools for Cutting Drywall and 2 to Avoid<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Best Utility Knife Models \u2013 More Recommendations<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best Snap-Off: OLFA 18mm Auto Locking MXP-AL<\/strong> \u2013 Buy on Amazon<\/a>
![\"self-retracting](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/self-retracting-safety-utility-knife-800x544.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"round](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/round-point-utility-blades-800x644.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"OLFA](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/02\/OLFA-XA-1-Blade06-800x601.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n![\"DeWalt](\"https:\/\/www.protoolreviews.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2011\/07\/DeWalt-Folding-Utility-Knife-blade-replace-800x521.jpg\")