If you entertain hobbies such as DIY crafting, origami, model making, and other such activities that require precision cutting, then you must be familiar with craft knives. Craft knives are a type of slim knife unit with even thinner blades that are furnished with a really sharp and acute tip enabling it to execute detail works with ease.
Craft knives are designed to glide through materials like paper, thin plastic, clay surfaces, vinyl, cards, etc., smoothly without a hassle. Allowing you to get excellent results in your 3D paper cuts and other DIY hobbies that you’re into. And while thinking of hobby enthusiasts like you, we’ve prepared this best craft knife review article, so you don’t have to waste time hovering around models that aren’t meant to be compatible with your needs. The following discussion contains an unbiased review of the products along with the pros and cons they come with.
The Best Craft Knife Review
- X-Acto No 1 Precision Knife Z-Series
The X-Acto #1 Precision knife from Z-series guarantees to deliver acute and precise cuts at each use. It’s ideal for both professionals and beginners alike due to its outstanding functionality and affordability.
The knife boasts a slim body constructed of durable Aluminum that weighs only 0.8 ounces. The weight is unnoticeable while carrying, and the cap that comes with it ensures safe transportation. The #11 fine point carbon-steel blade furnishes a zirconium nitride coating, which enhances the sharpness and durability of the blade.
The patterned band of the top of the handle ensures slip-proof control over the knife. Use it without a worry while woodworking, paper, card, thin metal, foils, plastic, etc.
Pros:
- Agile and lightweight.
- Delivers exact cuts.
- Ultra-sharp and functional blade.
- Comfortable handle.
- Comes with a safety cap.
Cons:
- The cap is barely up to the mark.
- X-ACTO #2 Knife with Safety Cap
Another great addition from the X-Acto line; chosen due to overwhelmingly positive feedback from the users. It gets brilliant scores overall, considering sharpness, ease of use, and functionality.
Like the previous X-Acto model, it also offers a durable build made from Aluminum that resists decaying, corrosion, and staining. The 5-inch knife flaunts a professional-grade blade that’s capable of executing tasks of cutting through materials bit on the heavier side because of its strength and sharpness.
The extra-long handle features a patterned band for secure assembly and grip. Use different X-Acto blades ranging from 15, 18, 19, (22-28) according to your needs. Changing the blades is also made to be quite effortless and safe through the easy-change blade system.
Pros:
- Spacious and grippy handle.
- Heavy-duty piece.
- Easy to swap blades.
- Versatile and heavy-duty uses.
Cons:
- Flimsy cap.
- Quality control issues.
- Fiskars 167110-1001 Heavy Duty Craft Knife
Fiskars is known for bringing innovative and functional pieces to the market. This durable “pen-knife” styled craft knife is known for packing both convenience and resilient functionality in its small frame.
This heavy-duty craft knife boasts a durable die-cast barrel that’s comfortable to hold due to the SoftGrip technology’s touchpoint. That’s undoubtedly an attractive feature as it actively impacts reducing the strain on the wrist. The textured surface also ensures an anti-slip performance, maximizing the overall control of the knife.
The 8-inch knife features an #11 blade, but it’s also reconcilable for #10, #16, and #17 blades. The weight is a tad on the heavier side compared to other knives we’ve reviewed, providing an advantage on strength.
Pros:
- Professional performance.
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Sturdy build.
- Long handle for a comfy grip.
- Comes very sharp.
- SoftGrip touchpoint reduces fatigue.
Cons:
- Few cases about wobbly blades.
- Fiskars 163050-1001 Fingertip Craft Knife
This craft knife from Fiskars is designed while thinking of the comfort of customers. Within a moderate price range, you get an impressive value for the price. The fingertip design is also an interesting insertion in the model.
The detail knife flaunts a compact and thoughtful build. Due to the solid handle, the knife weighs a little over 0.9 ounces. The plastic handle features a finger loop to ensure ease of use and maximum control over the haft; the textures metal band makes sure your finger won’t accidentally slip.
The #1 blade included with this craft knife is made from quality-grade steel meant to stay sharp longer and provide thin and intricate cuts at a smooth swipe on paper, cardboard, fabric, etc.
Pros:
- High-functional craft knife.
- Innovative fingertip design.
- Won’t roll out from flat surfaces.
- Compatible with several types of blades.
Cons:
- Fits awkwardly in small hands.
- Cricut TrueControl Knife Kit
There’s nothing to dislike about the Cricut Knife kit, it’s undoubtedly a dream piece for every hobbyist out there, and the aesthetics are so soothing to the eyes.
The knife kit guarantees top-notch quality overall, from the build to the blade; so you can rest easy about the set’s durability. The handle feels good in hand due to the rubberized portion – don’t let your finger slip off it. It also results in reduces fatigue on the wrist even during long usage sessions.
The blade is made from premium alloy steel, producing standard and precise cuts each time. Resistant to rusting and holds an edge for an admirable period. Because of the no-touch design, changing blades are easier and safer than ever.
Pros:
- Attractive femme looks.
- Features anti-roll design.
- Soft grip for comfortable manoeuvring.
- Offers no-touch technology.
- Includes 5 spare blades.
Cons:
- Darice Hobby Knife
Darice Hobby knife is one of the best budget craft knives that you wouldn’t wanna miss on. This set of amazing knives increase both the productivity and flexibility of your project. Moreover, within a reasonable enough price.
The different cutting edges of the blades enables it to be used in various purpose. Each set includes three knives with 13 pieces of sharp blades organized fittingly in a blue storage case. The nickel-made body of the knife guarantees long-lasting performance.
The set comes with a #1 and two #2 handle units. The storage box effectively keeps the blades from rusting. The construction of the knives makes swapping blades easy-peasy, done within a matter of moments.
Pros:
- Features ultra-sharp blades.
- Easy-grip handles.
- Includes a variety of blades.
- Box equipped with magnets for safe storage.
Cons:
- Blades might need frequent replacement.
- Fancii Precision Craft Knife Set
Check out this Fancii precision craft knife set if you’re looking for an allrounder knife kit – it’s packed with everything an expert will ever need.
The package includes 3 handle units and 13 different types of blades for a wide range of uses. Leave all your DIY tasks to the Fancii Precision detail knives. The aluminium handle boasts unparalleled ruggedness and longevity. The set also includes a rubberized jacket for a non-slip and comfortable grip, thus reducing the chances of hand-cramp.
The carbon-steel blades feature excellent strength and sharpness to work with various sorts of material effortlessly. The different types of blades enable you to be as creative as you can be. Changing the blades are made to be simple so that anyone can get used to this set.
Pros:
- All-purpose craft knife set.
- Suitable for professional application.
- Easy to maintain.
- Comes with an attractive storage box.
Cons:
- Bad quality control service.
FAQ
Q: How to choose the most suitable blade for a project?
A: Knowing about the different types of blades of precision knives helps a lot. There’s 15A Surgical, 11 Surgical, 11 ACM, 10A Surgical, scalpels and swivel, etc. Each blade is designated to execute a distinct task; one is adept for detail works, while the other is for carving; the material you’re working on will impact the decision too.
Q: How to ensure the durability of a blade?
A: Notice the material that the blade is made of, stainless steel, high carbon steel, inlays of tungsten carbide, high chromium, etc. each vary in sharpness and durability. But the longevity depends on maintenance and the intensity of use. Make sure to maintain proper keep for the blades and you’re guaranteed an enhanced performance and longevity.
Q: Are the craft knives safe to hold?
A: To confirm the safety of the handle, make sure it has a grippy body. A craft knife must feature a non-slip handle; as the precision work calls for maximum control over the blade. Except for a comfortable grip, working long hours will hardly be possible.
Q: Why do I need flexibility in my craft knife?
A: Flexibility is a feature that you must prioritize in a craft knife. It indicates the blade’s ability to work with a wider range of materials; it explicitly enhances the knife’s performance and versatility.
Final Verdict
This best craft knife review is aimed to guide you through the best available choices in the market. As a hobby tool, don’t take a craft knife lightly. The right blade can pave the way to creating your very own masterpiece, while a wrong piece may just mess up any crucial details. Hopefully, this post will be able to help you in your quest to find the finest craft knife for you.