8 Best Scuba Diving Knives to Buy in 2026

The SCUBAPRO Mako doesn’t just cut through kelp and fishing line—it commands respect with its rugged, no-nonsense build and precision engineering. Forged from hard-tempered stainless steel, the 3.5-inch blade strikes a masterful balance between durability and agility, resisting corrosion while maintaining a razor-sharp edge over time. Its multi-function design—featuring a serrated edge, clean-cutting plain edge, line-cutting notch, and even a bottle opener—makes it a true underwater Swiss Army tool, solving the real-world problem of limited gear redundancy during dives. Whether you’re slicing through monofilament or prying open a stubborn hatch, this knife feels like an extension of your hand.

In real-world use, the Mako proves itself across saltwater environments, maintaining performance even after repeated exposure and minimal post-dive care. The ergonomic handle offers deep texturing and a prominent thumb guard, ensuring a secure grip even with thick gloves, while the sheath’s one-handed locking mechanism is among the most reliable in its class—snapping in and releasing cleanly without fumbling. At 8.5 inches overall and weighing just under 8 oz, it’s substantial enough for heavy-duty tasks but not so bulky that it drags on your leg. That said, the full-metal construction makes it heavier than titanium alternatives, which can be a drawback on long dives where every ounce counts.

Compared to the TUSA FK-940 X-Ppert II, the SCUBAPRO Mako trades some weight savings for raw toughness and broader utility. While the TUSA excels in elite corrosion resistance and featherlight handling, the Mako delivers uncompromising strength and practical features that appeal to technical divers, public safety teams, and wreck explorers. It’s the go-to choice for those who prioritize reliability over minimalism, offering a robust, field-tested solution where failure isn’t an option. In terms of value, it delivers premium performance with fewer frills than the TUSA, making it the more versatile workhorse of the two.

The TUSA FK-940 X-Ppert II is a masterclass in high-end dive knife engineering—lightweight, corrosion-proof, and built for precision. Crafted from Ti-6Al-4V titanium, this knife laughs in the face of saltwater, offering unmatched resistance to rust while tipping the scales at barely half the weight of steel counterparts. The 6-inch drop-point blade combines a serrated edge with a line-cutter notch, delivering surgical efficiency when slicing through tangled nets or cutting anchor lines. It’s not just a tool—it’s a confidence booster for deep dives where gear failure could mean disaster.

During field testing, the FK-940 proved exceptionally agile, its ergonomic grip and counterbalanced design reducing hand fatigue during extended use. The blade’s length gives superior reach without compromising control, making it ideal for reef divers and underwater photographers who need to clear obstructions without getting too close to fragile ecosystems. The single-button sheath release is intuitive and glove-friendly, though it demands proper alignment for smooth re-sheathing—something that can be tricky in low visibility. While its titanium build resists wear like nothing else, the blade is harder to sharpen in the field compared to stainless steel options.

Against the SCUBAPRO Mako, the TUSA shines in weight savings and corrosion resistance, but sacrifices some raw cutting power and utility features. The Mako offers more blade types and a bottle opener; the FK-940 focuses purely on performance and longevity. This makes it the ideal pick for frequent travelers and saltwater specialists who dive in harsh environments and value gear that lasts decades. It doesn’t offer the most features, but what it does, it does exceptionally well—outperforming steel knives in durability while undercutting them in long-term maintenance.

The GEAR AID Tanu redefines safety-first design in dive knives, blending high visibility, blunt-tip security, and rescue-ready functionality into one compact package. Its 3-inch 304 stainless-steel blade features a double edge—serrated and straight—plus a line cutter, all capped with a rounded tip that won’t puncture BCDs or inflatable rafts. This makes it the top choice for dive instructors, safety officers, and family divers who need a tool that’s effective without being dangerous in close quarters. The neon green handle pops even in murky water, ensuring you’ll never lose track of your knife during an emergency.

In real-world scenarios, the Tanu excels during rescue drills and shallow-water dives where accidental punctures are a real concern. The rubberized grip provides a non-slip hold, even with cold hands or gloves, and doubles as a tank banger—a small but critical feature for signaling underwater. The quick-draining sheath with removable belt clip offers flexible mounting options, whether on a BCD, thigh strap, or integrated mount via the optional adaptor plate. While the blade is shorter than others in its class, limiting reach on thick kelp or rope, it’s more than capable for most entanglement situations.

When compared to the Scuba Choice Compact, the Tanu offers better ergonomics, more mounting flexibility, and a brighter color scheme, making it far more functional despite a similar safety focus. It’s not built for combat or heavy digging, but that’s not its job. This knife is about smart, safe utility—delivering peace of mind without sacrificing performance. For those who prioritize team safety and quick access, the Tanu offers superior value and thoughtful design over basic budget models.

The Cressi Skorpion is a sleek, Italian-engineered performer that brings surgical precision and modern design to mid-range dive knives. Its 4.3-inch tempered AISI 304 steel blade—available in both pointed and blunt versions—delivers aggressive cutting power with a dual-edge setup: one side smooth, the other fully serrated, plus a built-in wire cutter near the handle. This makes it a standout for divers dealing with fishing gear, nets, or cables, where quick, clean cuts are non-negotiable. The technopolymer thumb tab ensures safe deployment, while the full-length blade offers excellent control during delicate tasks.

In practice, the Skorpion feels balanced and substantial, with a total length of 9.1 inches making it ideal for thigh carry without snagging. The one-hand release sheath locks securely but opens smoothly, even with thick gloves, and the two standard straps fit most leg configurations. During reef dives, the pointed tip proved invaluable for probing crevices or freeing stuck gear, though it demands extra caution around inflatables. While the steel holds up well in saltwater, it requires regular rinsing to prevent surface staining—something titanium users won’t worry about.

Pitted against the DRAGON RIOT, the Cressi feels more refined and purpose-built, trading sheer size for precision and ergonomics. The DRAGON RIOT offers a longer blade and more aggressive styling, but the Skorpion wins on design integrity and user control. It’s the ideal pick for recreational divers and underwater hunters who want a reliable, well-made tool without overspending. It doesn’t shout for attention, but it performs with quiet authority—offering better fit, finish, and function than many budget knives at nearly double the price.

The DRAGON RIOT dive knife is a brute-force performer built for divers who want maximum cutting power without breaking the bank. Its 10-inch double-edged blade, forged from German 1.4116 stainless steel, is razor-sharp out of the box and holds its edge through repeated use in saltwater, seaweed, and fishing line. The serrated edge slices through entanglements like butter, while the straight edge handles clean cuts with ease. Add a hook-and-line cutter and an unsharpened spine for grip control, and you’ve got a knife that’s as smart as it is aggressive.

Field tested in coastal kelp forests and murky river dives, the DRAGON RIOT proved its worth in high-stress scenarios—freeing snagged gear and cutting thick monofilament in seconds. The curved, textured handle locks into your palm, and the one-touch release sheath is among the easiest to operate underwater. At 10 inches, it’s one of the longest in the lineup, offering excellent reach but also increasing drag and snag risk. The ABS plastic sheath is durable but can feel less premium than Kydex or metal alternatives. Still, for the price, it’s hard to beat this level of utility.

Compared to the Cressi Skorpion, the DRAGON RIOT is longer, sharper, and more combat-oriented—but less refined in design. It’s not the slickest-looking knife, but it’s built for action, appealing to tactical divers, spearfishers, and adventurers who need a no-compromise cutting tool. While it lacks the Italian finesse of the Skorpion, it delivers raw performance and versatility that few in its price range can match. For those who value cutting power over compactness, this knife is a clear winner.

The Scuba Choice Compact is the perfect entry-level knife for new divers who want safety, simplicity, and dependability without overspending. Its 2.3-inch 420 stainless-steel blade may be small, but it’s surprisingly effective for slicing through kelp, cutting straps, or handling minor entanglements. The blunt tip design eliminates the risk of accidental punctures—making it ideal for training dives, snorkeling, or kids’ gear—while the plain edge ensures smooth, controlled cuts.

In real-world use, this knife shines during shallow dives and pool sessions where safety is paramount. The 7-inch total length keeps it unobtrusive, and the ergonomic nylon handle offers decent grip, even with gloves. It mounts easily to a BCD via sheath or straps, and the simple maintenance—just rinse and dry—makes it beginner-friendly. However, the shorter blade struggles with thick rope or dense seaweed, and the plastic sheath feels a bit flimsy compared to higher-end models. It’s not built for hardcore use, but that’s not its purpose.

Stacked against the GEAR AID Tanu, the Scuba Choice offers similar safety features at a lower price, but lacks the Tanu’s high-vis color, tank-banger function, and mounting versatility. It’s best suited for novice divers, snorkelers, and budget-conscious buyers who need a basic, reliable tool. It won’t impress experts, but for those just starting out, it delivers essential functionality with zero frills—a smart, safe first knife that gets the job done.

The Dive Knife B072MHM7KS is the ultimate budget warrior, offering surprising performance for just under $10. Don’t let the price fool you—this 4-inch 420C stainless-steel blade comes factory-sharp and capable of slicing through fishing line, kelp, and straps with ease. It includes two sheaths—one ABS plastic, one nylon holster—and four straps (elastic and nylon), giving unmatched mounting flexibility for arms, legs, BCDs, or belts. It’s a no-frills tool built for divers who need a spare, backup, or emergency knife without financial commitment.

In testing, the blade held up well in saltwater, though it demands immediate rinsing to prevent staining—a common trait across 420C steel. The tactical black finish helps it blend in, but also makes it harder to spot if dropped in low light. The handle offers basic grip, but lacks finger guards or texture found on pricier models. Still, for camping, snorkeling, or shallow diving, it performs reliably. The double-sheath system is a standout, letting you rotate or position the knife however you like.

Compared to the Scuba Choice Compact, this knife offers longer blade length and more mounting options, though with less ergonomic design and safety focus. It’s not for technical dives, but it’s perfect for casual adventurers, backup kits, or survival packs. If you need a disposable-grade knife that still cuts well, this is the most cost-effective option—delivering maximum utility per dollar without pretending to be something it’s not.

The TI GEEK Titanium Survival Knife is a featherlight powerhouse designed for divers who refuse to carry unnecessary weight. Crafted from corrosion-resistant titanium, this fixed-blade knife weighs next to nothing while offering exceptional strength and saltwater endurance. Its drop-point blade combines a serrated edge with a line cutter, making it ideal for emergency cuts, debris clearing, or even shark defense. But the real standout is its high-visibility neon yellow and green finish, ensuring you’ll never lose it in low-light or murky conditions.

In real use, the Kydex sheath and secure leg strap keep the knife locked in place, while allowing quick one-handed draw—critical in survival scenarios. The grooved rubberized handle works for both left- and right-handed users, and the lightweight build makes it a favorite for travel divers and cave explorers. While the blade isn’t as long as the DRAGON RIOT’s, it’s more than sufficient for entanglement rescue. The only real limitation? It lacks a blunt tip option, so caution is needed around inflatables.

Against the TUSA FK-940, the TI GEEK offers similar titanium benefits at half the price, though with less refined ergonomics and no counterweight. It’s not a luxury tool, but it’s incredibly functional for the cost. Ideal for budget-conscious tech divers, survivalists, and eco-cleaners, it delivers lightweight performance with high-visibility confidence. For those who want titanium durability without the premium tag, this knife hits the sweet spot.