When it comes to everyday carry (EDC) knives, the pocket clip might look like a small detail—but it makes a huge difference in how your knife carries. The right clip changes how the knife rides in your pocket, how easy it is to draw, and even how the knife looks when you’re carrying it.
From classic bent clips to modern deep-carry designs, here’s a breakdown of the most common pocket clip styles you’ll run into in the knife world.
The Origins of the Pocket Clip
We’ve got to give credit where it’s due: Spyderco was the first production knife company to mount a pocket clip from the factory. It debuted on their model The Worker. That original design only had a single position, but today Spyderco offers multiple mounting points so you can set things up just how you like it.
Bent Titanium Clip (Traditional Style)
The bent titanium clip is the standard setup you’ll see on a lot of knives. Simple, functional, and proven.
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Knives like a Strider use this design—a bent clip secured with a screw.
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To keep it from rotating, many brands add a second anchor point. For example, Chris Reeve Knives countersink the screw into the handle so the clip locks firmly in place.
It’s a straightforward, durable style that’s been around forever because it works.
Machined Titanium Clip
On higher-end or custom knives, you’ll often find a fully machined clip.
Take Attention to Detail Mercantile as an example—even their smaller models feature fully machined titanium clips. Mounted with two screws, the retention strength is engineered directly into the design.
This gives the knife a premium look and feel while adding a touch of precision to the carry experience.
Wire Clip
The wire clip has a look all its own. Lightweight, minimalist, and unobtrusive, it’s a nice change of pace from standard solid clips.
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Brands like GiantMouse use wire clips that are reversible for left- or right-hand carry.
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To keep them steady, set screws and recessed grooves in the handle prevent the clip from rotating.
Wire clips may not be everyone’s favorite, but they’re practical and surprisingly strong.
Multi-Position & Ambidextrous Clips
Once again, Spyderco deserves a shoutout here. They’ve pushed the envelope on ambidextrous and multi-position clip setups.
Take the Spyderco Delica—it can be configured for left or right carry, tip-up or tip-down. With four mounting points, you can adjust the knife exactly how you like to carry it.
Deep Carry Clip
For those who prefer to keep things discreet, the deep carry clip is a standout.
On knives like the Protech Malibu, the clip sits flush with the very top of the handle. That lets the knife ride deeper in your pocket, with almost nothing exposed.
The trade-off? It can be a little harder to draw quickly. But if you want a low-profile carry that doesn’t call attention to itself, deep carry clips are tough to beat.
Final Thoughts
From Spyderco’s pioneering factory clip to today’s refined machined and deep carry designs, pocket clips have come a long way. Whether you want something low-profile, fully customizable, or just a dependable classic, there’s a clip style to fit your everyday carry.
At KnifeJoy, we stock everything from classic Spydercos to custom makers with premium clip setups. Whatever your preference, you’ll find a knife—and a clip—that feels right in your pocket.