CJRB Pyrite - Best Overall Value for Everyday Carry
The CJRB Pyrite is the undisputed champion of budget EDC, delivering premium steel performance, a fantastic button lock, and superb carryability for under $60, making it the go-to recommendation.
- +Exceptional value with premium AR-RPM9 steel at a budget-friendly price point.
- +Slim, lightweight titanium or G10 handle design makes it disappear in the pocket.
- +Highly praised button lock mechanism provides secure, safe, and fidget-friendly operation.
- -Thin handle profile can create hot spots during prolonged or heavy cutting tasks.
- -Button lock, while popular, may be less familiar to users accustomed to liner or frame locks.
- -High demand and popularity can sometimes lead to limited immediate availability in certain finishes.
The CJRB Pyrite has earned a reputation as the gold standard for affordable everyday carry knives. It consistently receives top marks from experts and users alike for its perfect balance of performance, price, and portability. At its core is the innovative AR-RPM9 steel, a spray-formed powder metallurgy steel that offers edge retention and toughness rivaling far more expensive options, all while remaining relatively easy to sharpen. This material choice alone elevates the Pyrite far above its price class. The knife's design prioritizes carry comfort, with a slim, contoured handle that sits unobtrusively in the pocket, whether in standard G10 or upgraded titanium versions.
The button lock mechanism is a standout feature, providing a secure blade lockup that is both intuitive to use and satisfyingly snappy, contributing to its high 'fidget factor.' Deployment is smooth via a flipper tab or thumb hole, and the blade sports a practical, slice-friendly grind that handles daily tasks like package opening, cord cutting, and food prep with ease. While the thin handle may not be ideal for extended heavy-duty work, it is a deliberate trade-off for supreme pocketability. For anyone seeking a single, do-it-all pocket knife that doesn't break the bank, the CJRB Pyrite represents arguably the best value proposition on the market, expertly blending modern materials, smart design, and everyday utility.