Knife Market Size to Hit USD 5.19 Billion in 2025

Knife Market : Reimagined A Guide for New Businesses

Based on comprehensive market projections, the global knife market size was valued at USD 4.88 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 5.19 billion in 2025 to USD 9.12 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.45% during the forecast period. 

Last Updated: 02 July 2025 Category: Fast Moving Consumer Goods Insight Code: 5651 Format: PDF / PPT / Excel

Knife Market Intelligence, Benchmarking, Consumer Insights & Growth Strategies

The global knife market size is calculated at USD 4.88 billion in 2024, grew to USD 5.19 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach around USD 9.12 billion by 2034. The market is expanding at a CAGR of 6.45% between 2025 and 2034. The demand for kitchen and military knives has increased, driving the global knife market. Additionally, the growing consumer demand for tactical and survival gear is contributing to the market growth.

Knife Market Size

Key Takeaways 

  • North America dominated the knife market by generating the largest revenue in 2024 due to increased demand for premium knives in the region. 
  • Asia Pacific is anticipated to rise at the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2034, driven by the expanding manufacturing base in the emerging countries. 
  • By product type, the kitchen knives segment accounted for the 57.7% market revenue in 2024 due to increased cooking activities.
  • By product type, the tactical & combat knives segment is anticipated to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034, influenced by rising demand for safe and durable knives.
  • By material, the blade material segment marked its dominance by generating the largest revenue of 62.12% in 2024, driven by high demand for better strength and versatile use.
  • By material, the handle material segment is observed to rise at the fastest CAGR from 2025 to 2034, influenced by its high durability and resistance properties. 
  • By price range, the mid-range segment accounted for the 57.5% market revenue in 2024 due to a large consumer preference for better quality and affordable knives.
  • By price range, the premium segment is anticipated to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034, influenced by increased demand for high-quality knives.
  • By distribution channel, the offline segment accounted for the 57.5% market revenue in 2024 due to consumer preference for physically handling and inspection.
  • By distribution channel, the online segment is anticipated to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034, influenced by its convenience and accessibility. 
  • By end-use, the household segment marked its dominance by generating the largest revenue of 62.5% in 2024, driven by a large demand for knives for home activities.
  • By end-use, the military & defense segment is anticipated to grow at a notable CAGR from 2025 to 2034, influenced by increasing demand for high-quality and durable knives in the sector.

Growing Demand for Unique Knives: To Boost the Global Knife Market

The knife is a niche market, providing significant opportunities for the manufacturing companies, distribution channels, as well as supply chain logistics. The market has witnessed transformative growth driven by several factors like rising outdoor activities, demand for kitchen knives, growing DIY and home improvement activities, and expanding commercial sectors. The changing lifestyle and consumer preferences have driven demand for unique, survival or tactical knives, collectible or ceremonial knives, and custom or artisanal knives. The rising consumer concern for safety use has prompted for manufacturing of high-quality and safety-featured knives. The expanding commercial sector has increased demand for high-performance knives. Additionally, growing outdoor activities are increasing the popularity of low-budget, unique, durable, and high-quality knives. The rising trend of aesthetic appeals and sustainability has also contributed to increasing innovations in the knife market.

The growing demand for commercial kitchen knives is the key driver of the global knife market. The expansion of the food service industry, including restaurants, cafeterias, catering services, and fast-food shops, has increased demand for knives. The rising culinary industry is fueling demand for commercial grads. The commercial sector has witnessed significant growth in demand for high-quality, precise, and well-balanced knives for more efficient and safer use. This demand has led to several advancements in knife technologies, including innovative designs, materials, and features to improve knife performance. Ergonomics and durability. 

  • Increasing Outdoor Activity: The demand for high-quality knives has increased for outdoor activities like camping, hunting, and hiking, driving the market growth. The rising demand for multi-functional and durable knives for outdoor use further contributes to the market growth.
  • Trend of DIY and Home Improvements: The rising trend for home improvements and DIY activities, particularly in North American countries, has increased demand for versatile tools for woodworking and crafting, including knives.
  • Sustainability Trends: The sustainability and eco-friendliness trends are gaining traction, driving the need for sustainable material-made appliances, including knives and their folders, contributing to rising innovations in the market.

Report Scope

Report Attributes  Details
Market Size in 2025 USD 5.19 Billion
Expected Size by 2034 USD 9.12 Billion
Growth Rate from 2025 to 2034 CAGR 6.45%
Base Year of Estimation 2024
Forecast Period 2025 - 2034
Dominant Region North America
Segment Covered By Product Type, By End Use, By Material, By Distribution Channel, By Region
Key Companies Profiled Victorinox,  Wüsthof,  Zwilling J.A. Henckels , Global (Yoshikin) , Shun (Kai Corporation),  MAC Knife , Dalstrong , Cutco , Mercer Culinary , Dexter-Russell , Messermeister , Furi , Benchmade , Spyderco , Gerber Gear Other Players 

Opportunity

Growing Demand for Quality and Craftsmanship

The market is projected to witness transformative growth due to rising consumer appreciation of r quality and craftsmanship. The demand for high-quality, durable, and well-crafted knives has increased. Manufacturers are actively developing knife products with more attention to detail, durability, and unique designs. The competition of maintaining brand reputations, ensuring companies' establishment for high-quality and excellence. Additionally, the growing trend of sustainability and premiumization for kitchen appliances is creating a favorable road map for innovations in the knife market.

Restraint

Safety-Standard Demands

The safety concerns are the major restraint for the knife market. The rising activities like home cooking, DIY, and home improvements, outdoor activities, and the growing demand for kitchen knives have increased consumer demands for high safety standard-based knives, which can pose a risk to users. The market competition for low-cost knives among manufacturers is leading to the development of limited safety-concerned knives, impacting product purchasing.

Regional Analysis

North America Knife Market

North America dominates the global knife market, driven by strong demand for knives in various sectors of the region, including the culinary industry, kitchen knives, outdoor and hunting knives, and military. The growing outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and survivalist practices have also increased the demand for knives in the region. North

America has a well-established knife manufacturing sector.

The U.S. is a major player in the regional market, contributing to market growth due to increased demand for knives in kitchen appliances, outdoor activities, DIY, and home improvement activities. The well-established military & defense industry of the country has prompted major adoption of knives. The high disposable income enables U.S. consumers to invest in premium knives, shaping the market. 

  • In March 2025, the American Knife & Tool Institute (AKTI) announced the securitization of financial support from seven leading companies in the Knife industry to enhance AKTI’s outreach and educational activity, along with advocating for recognition of knives as valuable tools in the daily lives of law-abiding citizens.(Source: www.wjhl.com )

Asia Pacific Knife Market

The Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the global market, contributing to growth due to increased demand for kitchen knives and rising outdoor activities. The expanding manufacturing industry, rising disposable income, and government initiatives and support for local manufacturers are contributing to market competitiveness. Cyberknives are gaining traction in the Asian industry. The government initiatives like

“Made in China” and “Make in India” are fostering the adoption of advanced instruments, including knives. 

China is a major player in the regional market, driving growth due to large and strong manufacturing giants in the country. China is popular for the cost-effective and unique manufacturing of products, including knives. The expanding food service industry, government initiatives like “Make in China”, and a large consumer base for low-cost knives are fueling the market. The rising manufacturers' focus on developing technologically advanced knives is further supporting the market growth.
For instance, the Air Knives are gaining significant popularity due to energy efficiency and the ability to reduce waste in manufacturing procedures.

Segment Analysis

Product Type Insights 

Which Product Types Dominant the Knife Market?

The kitchen knives segment dominated 57.7% of the market in 2024 due to expanding cooking-at-home trends and the growing food service industry. The rising interest in cooking, growing household and commercial use of knives, and demand for premium products are fueling the segment. Additionally, the expansion of online sales enables easy accessibility and availability, contributing to the segment's growth.
The tactical & combat knives segment is expected to grow fastest over the forecast period, due to increased demand for safe and high-quality knives in major areas like military, outdoor recreation, personal safety, self-defence, and law enforcement. The advancements in materials and designs are enhancing the performance and durability of tactical & combat knives, to support segment expansion.

Material Insights 

Which Material Held the Largest Revenue of the Knife Market in 2024?

The blade material segment held 62.12% market revenue in 2024, due to its wide use in knives for high durability, performance, versatility, and overall value. Blade materials include steel, ceramic, alloy blends, and titanium. The steel segment dominates the market due to its high preference among professionals and casual users for easy sharpening.

The handle material segment is expected to grow fastest over the forecast period, driven by increased consumer preference for various weights, costs, and durability of the knives. Handle materials include wood, metal, G10, micarta, carbon fiber, plastic, rubber, bone, and other materials. These materials are highly durable, ergonomic designs that provide great resistance to wear and tear.

Price Range Insights

What Made the Mid-Range Segment Dominate the Knife Market in 2024?

In 2024, the mid-range segment dominated 57.5% market 2024, driven by a large consumer base for balances price and quality. The demand for budget-friendly and high-end products is high, compared to low-quality and low-cost knives. Companies' initiatives in providing better quality knives at affordable prices in the shaping segment.
Buck, a US-based company, is focusing on expanding its RDC offering in a big way for FY 2025. The company has launched various novel knives with of wide range of prices. The release of the Range Pro and Mini Rage Pro knives featuring with Cross Bar Lock gained top profit in Q1 of 2025. 

The premium segment is the second-largest segment, leading the market, due to increased consumer demand for high-quality, high-performance, and durable knives. The adoption of these knives is large in outdoor activities and safety & self-defence activities. The increased availability of disposable income enables access to premium-priced knives.

Distribution Channel Insights

How Offline Distribution Channel Dominated the Knife Market in 2024?

The offline segment dominated the 57.5% market in 2024, growth driven by large consumer preference for traditional shopping habits. Offline retailers offer expert guidance and advice, making them suitable for consumers to purchase the right knife according to their needs. The Kitchen knives and outdoor knives are mostly purchased by offline channels.

The online segment is expected to lead the market over the forecast period, due to expanding e-commerce platforms and growing consumer seek for convenience, wide accessibility, and competitive pricing products. Online channels provide great transparency and consumer reviews, making them suitable for consumer purchasing decisions.

End-Use Insights

Which End-use Segment Leads the Knife Market in 2024?

  • In 2024, the household segment led 62.5% 2024, due to high purchases of knives in household activities like cooking, DIY, and home improvements. Knives are one of the essential tools for household chores. The larger and consistent demand for knives for food preparation, cooking, and other chores is contributing to the segment's growth.

The military & defense segment is the second-largest segment, leading the market, driven by the wide use of knives in military & defense activities like self-defense, safety, and law enforcement. The segment is rapidly encouraging innovations in material, multi-functionality, and ergonomics. The rising geopolitical tension and increased defense budget have increased demand for high-end and premium knives.

  • In May 2025, President Donal trump passed a Republican bill championing $3.8 trillion for national debt through the U.S. House. The bill includes cutting several taxes, fuel military spending, and the bill has passed 215-214, which was opposed by Democrats and some Republicans concerned about increased debt.(Source: economictimes.indiatimes.com )

Recent Developments

  • In May 2025, Kershaw unveiled 21, a USA-made automatic knife with a CPM M4 blade and FDE anodized aluminium handle. The Kershaw 2025 lineup also includes the Bel Air, Runoff, Remnant, Conduit, Sequence, and Outright. (Source: www.youtube.com )
  • In January 2025, A leading American manufacturer of premium knives, W.R. Case & Sons Cultery Company showcased its recent released and novel knives, including traditional folding pocket knives, fixed blade hunting knives, and modern everyday carry (EDC) tactical models at the 2025 SHOT show, at the Venetian + Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. (Source: caseknives.com )

Top Companies 

Knife Market Companies

Major Showcases at the 2025 SHOT Show held in January 2025:

  • Benchmade unveiled several lines of novel knives for 2025, including Benchmade’s popular Bugout Knife, designed with premium blade steel and a bolstered/onlay. 
    5.11 featured the Pryme Double Duty DP folder, featuring a 3.25-inch blade made from 420J stainless steel. This knife has a rugged and sturdy construction, which allows it to tackle nearly any job assigned in its way.
  • Cold Steel added a new Frenzy II folder to its EDC selection. The folder features a 3.5-inch sheepfoot blade made from 3V steel with a solid black PVD finish. The folders are suitable for daily use and an outdoor or survival knife.
  • Columbia River Knife & Tool launched its first OTF knife by collaborating with Hogue Knives, the CRKT Twist Tighe Compact, which is designed y innovative knifemaker Brian Tighe and is made in the U.S. 
  • The Razor APX took Outdoor Edge’s popular RazorSafe platform and incorporated it into a fixed-blade hunting knife. The knife is now available with either a 3- or a 2.5-inch blade.

US Tariffs' Impact on Companies' Efforts

US Tariffs implemented in February 2025, issued by President Donald Trump, increased taxes on imports of steel and aluminum, particularly a 50% rise under section 232, significantly impacting on knife industry and manufacturers. Several small American brands with mostly dependent on foreign steel, like Buck, The James brand, and WESN, have faced immediate challenges in the US market. 

The implementation of these tariffs has led to increased consumer prices, and companies are increasing the price of their products. These metal tariffs are intended to hit goods.

Segment Covered in the Report

By Product Type: 

  • Kitchen Knives 
    • Chef’s Knife 
    • Paring Knife 
    • Bread Knife 
    • Utility Knife 
    • Cleaver 
    • Santoku Knife 
    • Boning & Fillet Knife 
    • Carving Knife 
    • Steak Knife Sets 
    • Specialty Knives (Tomato, Cheese, etc.) 
  • Utility & Pocket Knives 
    • Folding Pocket Knives 
    • Fixed Blade Utility Knives 
    • Multi-tools / Swiss Army Knives 
    • Retractable Utility Knives 
    • Safety Knives 
  • Tactical & Combat Knives 
    • Survival Knives 
    • Combat Knives (e.g., KA-BAR) 
    • Throwing Knives 
    • Bayonets 
  • Hunting & Outdoor Knives 
    • Skinning Knives 
    • Gut Hook Knives 
    • Field Dressing Knives 
    • Camp Knives 
  • Industrial Knives 
    • Food Processing Knives (slaughtering, butchery) 
    • Packaging Knives 
    • Carpet/Insulation Cutting Knives 
    • Glass and Rubber Industry Knives 
    • Machine/Fabrication Blades 

By End Use 

  • Household 
    • Daily Cooking 
    • DIY Utility 
    • Outdoor/Survival Enthusiasts 
  • Commercial 
    • Hotels & Restaurants 
    • Catering Services 
    • Butcher Shops & Meat Processing Units 
  • Military & Defense 
    • Combat & Tactical Use 
    • Survival Gear Kits 
  • Industrial 
    • Manufacturing 
    • Food Processing Plants 
    • Construction & Packaging 
  • Recreational & Sports 
    • Camping 
    • Hunting 
    • Fishing 

By Material 

  • Blade Material 
    • Stainless Steel 
    • Carbon Steel 
    • Damascus Steel 
    • Ceramic 
    • Titanium 
    • Alloy Blends (e.g., VG-10, AUS-8) 
  • Handle Material 
  • Wood 
    • Pakka 
    • Rosewood 
    • Walnut 
  • Plastic 
    • Polypropylene 
    • ABS 
  • Rubber / TPR Grip 
  • Stainless Steel 
  • G10 / Micarta 
  • Bone / Antler 
    • Traditional 
    • Artisan     

By Distribution Channel 

  • Offline 
    • Kitchenware Specialty Stores 
    • Outdoor/Survival Gear Shops 
    • Department Stores 
    • Supermarkets & Hypermarkets 
    • B2B Industrial Distributors 
  • Online 
    • E-commerce Platforms 
    • Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Brand Websites 
    • Subscription Boxes (e.g., bespoke knife clubs) 

By Price Range 

  • Low-End (Under $20) 
  • Mid-Range ($20–100) 
  • Premium ($100–300) 
  • Luxury/Custom (Above $300) 

By Region

  • North America
    • U.S.
    • Canada
  • Europe
    • U.K.
    • Germany
    • France
  • Asia Pacific
    • China
    • India
    • Japan
    • South Korea
  • Latin America
    • MEA
    • Rest of the World
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  • Report Covered: [Revenue + Volume]
  • Historical Year: 2021-2023
  • Base Year: 2024
  • Estimated Years: 2025-2034

Meet the Team

Vidyesh Swar, Senior Research Analyst at Towards Consumer Goods, specializes in market research, focusing on supply-demand evaluation, market trends, sustainable practices, and emerging opportunities in household products, personal care, and packaging.

Learn more about Vidyesh Swar

Aditi Shivarkar, with 14+ years in Consumer Goods market research, specializes in Consumer Goods. She ensures accurate, actionable insights, driving Towards Consumer Goods excellence in industry trends and sustainability.

Learn more about Aditi Shivarkar

Related Insights

FAQ's

Growth is driven by rising culinary demand, outdoor activities, DIY trends, and military needs, along with innovations in materials and premiumization.

North America leads in revenue via premium demand, while Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing due to manufacturing expansion and rising domestic consumption.

Kitchen knives dominate due to everyday use and culinary growth. Tactical & combat knives are growing fastest, driven by outdoor, military, and safety applications.

Strong—rising disposable income, demand for craftsmanship, and aesthetic value are fueling growth in premium and luxury knife segments globally.

Trends include demand for multi-functional, sustainable, ergonomic, and stylish knives, driven by outdoor use, DIY, self-defense, and home cooking culture.

Victorinox, Wüsthof, Zwilling J.A. Henckels , Global (Yoshikin) , Shun (Kai Corporation), MAC Knife , Dalstrong , Cutco , Mercer Culinary , Dexter-Russell , Messermeister , Furi , Benchmade , Spyderco , Gerber Gear Other Players