Founded in the early 1990s, Strider Knives built its reputation on rugged, American-made blades trusted by military and law enforcement professionals. From fixed blades to the iconic SnG and SMF folders, Strider knives deliver strength, durability , and purpose-driven design—made entirely in the USA.
Built from the Ground Up for Hard Use
Hey folks—Jade here with KnifeJoy, just in from the road and excited to talk about one of the toughest names in the knife world: Strider Knives.
Strider started back in the early 1990s—around 1993—in Oceanside, California, founded by Mick Strider and Dwayne Dwyer. What began as a small operation making hardcore fixed blades for military and law enforcement quickly grew into one of the most respected brands in the tactical knife community.
At first, the team swore they’d never make folders. Their focus was on fixed blades designed for extreme use—combat, breaching, and survival. But around 2001, that changed with the introduction of their first folding model, a liner lock in the AR and GB configurations. they quickly followed up with the SnG model. This became an iconic game-changer, soon followed by the larger SMF (Strider Military Folder or Special Mission Folder)—a knife tough enough to meet military contract standards.
American Made, Through and Through
Every Strider knife is 100% made in the USA—from the blades, handles and hardware to the pouches and nylon gear. Their manufacturing is still based in the greater San Diego area, with a focus on precision machining and hand-finishing.
That dedication to domestic production is a big part of what makes Strider stand out. These knives aren’t just designed here—they’re built here, by hand, for those who rely on them in the field.
The SNG: Compact Strength and Purpose Design
Let’s start with the SnG , one of Strider’s most recognizable folders. Originally born out of military demand, the SnG carries Strider’s fixed-blade DNA in a folding format.
Key features include:
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There are several blade options: from a Hollow-ground Tanto blade to a Flat ground spearpoint. And everything in between.
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They are available in limited handle finishes like the Partisan Camo, created using a laser process that gives each blade a distinct pattern and texture.
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Titanium frame lock for maximum durability and lock strength.
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Oversized pivot screw, a hallmark Strider feature that eliminates weak points and adds rigidity.
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Reversible clip for left- or right-handed carry on some models.
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A forward choil positioned behind the blade edge to protect your fingers—so even in the unlikely event of a lock failure, your hand is safe.
That’s the kind of thoughtful, purpose-built engineering that defines the Strider ethos.
The SMF: Military-Tested, Field-Ready
The SMF (Strider Military Folder) takes everything great about the SnG and scales it up. With a slightly larger blade and handle, it’s built for maximum control and strength.
The SMF features:
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Machined aluminum, G10 and titanium handles.
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The famous “Strider stripes”—heat-treated titanium finishes that give the knife its tiger-striped look. Each one is torched by hand, making every piece unique.
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A flat-ground spear point Tanto or Bowie-style blades are available .
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A wide range of premium steels, including Magnacut, PD1, S30V, and 3V, depending on production runs or specific contract requirements.
These blades are more than tools—they’re trusted by military operators and collectors alike for their toughness and reliability.
From the Pro-Tech Collaboration to Collectors’ Favorites
Fans of Strider might recognize the Pro-Tech collaboration—a smaller automatic side-opener modeled after Strider’s signature folder shape. Pro-Tech produced that collaboration for a full decade before wrapping it up on its 10th anniversary. While Strider doesn’t make automatics in-house, that project showed just how influential their designs have become across the industry.
Today, Strider continues to offer both machine-ground and hand-ground blades in several configurations:
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Tanto, spear point, or Bowie styles.
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SnG (smaller) or SMF (larger) sizes.
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A variety of finishes and camo patterns—all proudly made in the USA.
Engineered for Control and Comfort
Strider knives are known not only for strength, but for ergonomic performance. The handle design offers excellent forward and reverse grip security.
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When pushing, your hand is stopped by dual finger guards.
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When pulling, the flared rear end prevents your grip from slipping off.
Every curve and contour is intentional—designed for real-world use, not just looks.
KnifeJoy and Strider: A Rare Partnership
At KnifeJoy, we’re proud to carry Strider Knives. And trust us—it’s not easy to get them. These knives are in such high demand that collectors literally line up at shows to get one.
At the last Blade Show in Atlanta, the first ten people through the doors—after camping out for two nights—went straight to the Strider table. That says everything you need to know about the passion surrounding this brand.
We’re fortunate to have a great relationship with the team at Strider and to offer a limited selection of their knives online. When they’re gone, they’re gone—so if you see a SnG, SMF, or limited camo edition, don’t wait long.
Wrapping It Up
From their early fixed blades to today’s premium folders, Strider Knives represents the best of American craftsmanship and combat-tested performance. Each piece is a tool with a purpose—built to serve, built to last, and built right here in the USA.
Check out the Strider Knives collection on KnifeJoy.com to see our current selection, including limited editions and hand-ground models.