Small Fixed Blades That Actually Work for EDC

Fixed blades looked bulky to me—until I tried going tiny. I wanted something I could carry in shorts or sweats without wrestling a pocket clip.

What you’ll get:

  • Real-world take on two small fixed blades and one compact saw
  • When belt vs neck carry makes sense
  • Fit-in-hand tips and a simple EDC use case

Tools & Materials

Why small fixed blades make sense

If you’re in sweats or shorts, a pocket clip gets old fast. A neck knife keeps access simple for box duty and light tasks around the house. Aim for sub-3-inch blades to stay compact while still useful.

Belt carry: Pendleton Mini Hunter

The sheath is secure and clicks in cleanly, but it’s belt-only. In hand, the handle can feel awkward if you’ve got larger hands; you’ll likely commit to a full grip to control the blade. Good for shop or yard chores when you’re already wearing a belt, less so for lounge wear.

Neck carry star: Boker Magnum Little Friend Micro

It’s tiny—smaller than you expect—but the front finger indentation plus thumb on the spine gives surprising control. It’s a three-finger hold with a roaming pinky, best for light cuts: boxes, straps, and packaging. The neck sheath is the win here; it disappears until you need it.

Bonus add: Silky Pocket Boy

A compact saw rides well in a vehicle kit. If you’re not in heavy tree country, you still get a just-in-case cutter that outperforms improvised hacks. The included case keeps it tidy.

Pick the right carry

  • Belt days: go Pendleton Mini Hunter. Solid retention and enough blade for around-the-house tasks.
  • No-belt days: the Little Friend Micro shines. Fast access, zero pocket-clip fuss, and enough control for daily slicing.

Final takeaway: For EDC at home, the neck-carried Little Friend Micro feels more natural and gets used more. Keep the belt-carried Pendleton handy for workwear days, and stash the Pocket Boy in the truck for the jobs only a saw can handle.