Emerson Knives

Since 1996, Emerson Knives has stood at the forefront of tactical knife innovation, earning a reputation as one of the most trusted names among military and law enforcement professionals worldwide. Founded by Ernest Emerson—a renowned combat instructor and master bladesmith—the Torrance, California-based company has built its legacy on designing hard-use tools that perform when lives depend on them.

Emerson's breakthrough came with the development of the patented Wave Feature, a revolutionary opening mechanism that allows the blade to deploy automatically as the knife is drawn from the pocket. This innovation transformed tactical knife deployment and became a signature element across their product line. The company's CQC-7 model revolutionized tactical knife design and quickly became an icon in the industry, setting new standards for what a combat folder should be.

As an official supplier to US Navy SEALs and other elite special operations units, Emerson knives have proven themselves in the most demanding environments imaginable. The brand's commitment to functionality over flash resonates with serious users who need absolute reliability. Emerson was also the first manufacturer to produce a production folding karambit, bringing this distinctive curved blade design to a broader audience while maintaining the combat effectiveness that defines the style.

The company's specialization extends beyond tactical folders to include fixed-blade hunting knives, karambits, and training knives designed for martial arts practitioners and law enforcement training programs. Every Emerson knife is manufactured in their California facility, where rigorous quality control ensures each blade meets the exacting standards that professional users demand.

With over 25 years of proven performance in combat zones and on the streets, Emerson Knives continues to represent the gold standard in tactical cutlery—tools designed by a fighter, for fighters, with no compromise on performance or durability.