Best Marlinspikes for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best marlinspikes for every sailor's need
Published: June 25th, 2024

⚓When you're out on the open sea, having the right gear can be a game-changer between smooth sailing and a rough trip. A dependable marlinspike and a solid sailing knife are invaluable for any sailor—whether you're dealing with tangled ropes or stubborn knots. This guide dives into the best marlinspikes and sailing knives of 2024, making sure you've got top-notch tools for your maritime escapades. We carefully picked each one based on its performance, durability, and what folks have been saying about them, so you can sail with peace of mind.

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Overall Best: Spyderco Atlantic Salt

Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lockback Yellow

If you're looking for a top-of-the-line marlinspike, the Spyderco Atlantic Salt is our overall best pick. The blade of this knife is crafted from a special nitrogen-based Japanese steel, which not only provides incredible toughness but is also impervious to rust—an essential feature for marine environments. The hollow-ground blade is available in both serrated and non-serrated versions, offering excellent cutting power for a variety of tasks. What sets this knife apart is its user-friendly design; the large 14mm Round Hole in the blade allows for easy one-handed opening, even with gloves. The fiberglass-reinforced-nylon handle, equipped with Volcano Grip texturing, ensures a slip-free grip in wet conditions. Plus, the back lock mechanism secures the blade firmly in place, adding an extra layer of reliability. Although it comes at a premium price, the durability and high performance of this knife make it a worthy investment for any serious sailor.

Pros:

  • Rustproof nitrogen-based Japanese steel
  • One-handed operation
  • Slip-free grip
  • Robust locking mechanism

Cons:

  • Premium price point
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$99.90 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Spyderco Atlantic Salt? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How well does the Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lockback Yellow cut through rope?
The Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lockback Yellow is pretty impressive when it comes to cutting rope, especially in wet or salty conditions. It's made with H-1 steel, which uses nitrogen instead of carbon. This change makes it really good at resisting rust, so it's great for marine use. From what we've gathered, this knife works exceptionally well in maritime environments. It's got tons of positive feedback for its durability—people say it stands strong even after repeated use in salty water. For example, someone using it in the Gulf of Mexico noted it didn’t rust at all. Another user noticed it stayed sharp and free of rust despite heavy tasks on a ship. One big advantage is its fully serrated edge, which really helps with cutting through ropes and nets smoothly. This makes it invaluable if you're regularly dealing with knots and lines under tough conditions. Plus, the bright yellow handle isn’t just for looks. It’s made from fiberglass-reinforced nylon, giving it strength and making it easy to spot in low-light or murky water. The grip is secure too, which is a bonus when things get slippery. So, whether you're working on the water or just need a reliable knife for rope-cutting, the Spyderco Atlantic Salt seems to be an excellent choice. It's built to withstand the challenges of maritime environments and is a trusty tool for anyone needing solid performance.
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Is the Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lockback Yellow good for marine/saltwater use?
The Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lockback Yellow sounds like a solid pick for use in marine and saltwater environments. According to our research, its blade is made with H-1 steel, which is super resistant to corrosion. That's really handy when you're dealing with salty and wet conditions. People have noted that it manages to keep its sharpness and stays rust-free, even with a simple fresh water rinse after use in places like the Gulf of Mexico. As far as design goes, the knife's bright yellow fiberglass-reinforced nylon handle is nice because it's tough but doesn't weigh much, and the color makes it hard to lose track of. Plus, with its reversible pocket clip, it's convenient to carry around. From what we've gathered, the Atlantic Salt's serrated Wharncliffe blade does a great job slicing through ropes and other materials you might encounter. Some folks have mentioned that the handle could be a bit comfier for long-term use, but it still seems to be a trusty tool for tough tasks at sea. So if you're looking for a knife that can handle extreme conditions and doesn't need much maintenance against rust, this one's definitely worth considering for your marine needs.
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How rust-resistant is the Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lockback Yellow?
If you're looking for a rust-resistant knife, especially for use near water, the Spyderco Atlantic Salt Lockback Yellow is a solid pick. The secret to its rust-proof nature lies in its blade, which is made from H-1 steel. This is a nitrogen-based alloy that, according to the manufacturer's description, doesn’t rust like traditional steel. Perfect if you’re often around marine or high moisture areas. The knife is clearly designed with water activities in mind. Its serrated edge is great for cutting ropes, making it handy for boating or fishing. From what we gathered, it holds up really well even after exposure to seawater, as long as you give it a rinse with fresh water afterwards. People who've used it in various water settings, like rivers or the Gulf of Mexico, haven’t noticed any rust, and they're happy with how sharp it stays. Feedback also highlights that it’s built for marine tasks, so it holds up under tough conditions. Its handle is made from fiberglass-reinforced nylon, keeping it light and easy to use without wearing you out. Our research suggests it’s not just about lasting long—it's also about being comfortable and efficient to use. Whether you love boating, fishing, or you’re just in wet conditions a lot, this knife’s resistance to saltwater corrosion and ability to handle tough jobs make it a reliable companion.
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Runner-up: Myerchin A200P Generation 2 Offshore System

Our runner-up is the Myerchin A200P Generation 2 Offshore System, a robust tool that combines modern technology with timeless design. Its high-quality 440C stainless steel blade with a three-quarter serration excels at cutting synthetic lines effortlessly. The natural wood handle not only adds an elegant touch but also provides a secure and comfortable grip. This versatile knife includes a strong marlin spike and comes with a black leather sheath for safe storage. Additionally, it features a unique serial number and a lifetime warranty, ensuring it will be a reliable companion for years to come. While it's a bit pricier than some other options, the quality and durability make it an excellent choice for any serious sailor.

Pros:

  • High-quality 440C stainless steel blade
  • Comfortable natural wood handle
  • Includes marlin spike
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • Higher price point compared to others
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$79.99 at Amazon

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Budget Pick: Davis Instruments Deluxe Rigging Knife

Davis Instruments 1551 Davis Deluxe Rigging Knife,1 Pack

For those shopping on a budget, the Davis Instruments Deluxe Rigging Knife offers fantastic value without skimping on essential features. This cost-effective tool includes a stainless steel blade, marlin spike, shackle key, and screwdriver, making it incredibly versatile. Fully constructed of stainless steel, it boasts excellent resistance to rust and is easy to clean. While it may not come with the premium features found in higher-end models, its reliable performance and affordability make it an excellent choice for sailors looking for practicality over luxury.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Includes essential tools (blade, marlin spike, shackle key, screwdriver)
  • Rust-resistant

Cons:

  • Lacks premium features
Available at Amazon
View at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Davis Deluxe Rigging Knife? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the Davis Instruments 1551 Deluxe Rigging Knife corrosion-resistant?
Yeah, the Davis Instruments 1551 Deluxe Rigging Knife is designed to handle marine conditions really well. From what we found in the manufacturer's product description and our research, this knife is made of stainless steel, which is meant to resist corrosion from saltwater environments. So, it should stay in good shape and keep working fine even if you're out at sea a lot. If you're curious about what's included, the knife itself comes with some handy tools like a marlinspike, shackle opener, and screwdriver—all pretty useful for tasks on a boat like tying knots or working with lines. However, it doesn't come with any extra accessories, so you'll have just the knife and its built-in tools. In terms of usability, it seems like it's been well thought out. It has a locking mechanism to keep the blade secure and a comfy handle designed to help prevent slipping, which is nice when you’re dealing with wet conditions. Just a heads-up, if you need anything beyond the built-in tools, you'd have to get those separately. Some people have mentioned there’s a bit of a learning curve with the marlinspike if you're not familiar with it, but they generally think it's a valuable tool once you get the hang of it. So, all in all, this knife seems like a good pick if you're spending a lot of time on the water and need something durable and versatile.
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What tools are included in the Davis Instruments 1551 Deluxe Rigging Knife?
If you're curious about what's packed into the **Davis Instruments 1551 Deluxe Rigging Knife**, it’s pretty much made for sailors, focusing on being both handy and sturdy at sea. Based on the manufacturer’s description, here are the tools it includes: - **High-Quality Blade**: This thing features a sharp, strong blade that's great for all sorts of cutting tasks on a sailboat, particularly ropes and other common materials. - **Marlinspike**: It comes with a marlinspike, perfect for dealing with knots and splicing ropes. For sailors, this tool is super useful when rigging. - **Shackle Opener**: There's also a shackle opener included, which is a lifesaver for handling those stubborn shackles and connectors when you're setting up rigging. - **Ergonomic Handle**: The knife is designed with an ergonomic handle, giving you a solid grip, which is essential when it gets wet or things get tricky on deck. - **Reliable Locking Mechanism**: It includes a locking mechanism to keep things safe, making sure the blade and tools stay put when you’re using them—nobody wants an accidental mishap! Something we found worth mentioning is that it doesn't come with a carrying case, which might be a bummer if you're concerned about carrying it around or keeping it stored safely. If that's a priority for you, checking out a separate [carrying case](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcarrying%2Bcase%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) could be worthwhile. So, if you’re into sailing and need a dependable tool, the Davis Instruments 1551 Deluxe Rigging Knife is a solid pick. Just keep in mind, you might want to grab a case to make it easier to tote around.
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How easy is it to use the marlinspike on the Davis 1551 Deluxe Rigging Knife?
The Davis Instruments 1551 Deluxe Rigging Knife is designed for nautical use, and its marlinspike is definitely a key feature here. It's made from stainless steel, so corrosion shouldn't be an issue, which is a must for marine gear. As for the marlinspike itself, it's used mainly for rope tasks like splicing. Our research indicates that some people find it a bit tricky at first, especially if they're new to rigging tools. However, once you get the hang of it, it can really come in handy for those rope-related tasks. There's a bit of a split opinion, though. While it has some professional-grade features, the overall user rating is only 2.4 out of 5. So, it seems like experiences with this knife can be pretty hit or miss. It might be worth thinking about whether the knife's features match what you actually need. In the end, if you're familiar with these kinds of tools and need something that does a bit more than just cutting, the Davis 1551 could work well for you. But definitely mull over how comfortable you are with using each part of it before deciding if it belongs in your toolbox.
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Collector's Edition: Myerchin Knife A100N Natural Bone Handle Limited Edition

Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P Professional Captain Rigging Knife with Leather Lanyard Strap 🐳

If you're a collector looking for a high-functioning yet aesthetically remarkable blade, the Myerchin Knife A100N Natural Bone Handle Limited Edition is a perfect choice. Each knife in this limited edition line is unique, featuring a natural bone handle with slight color variations and natural stress lines. Made from high-quality German marine stainless steel, the knife offers outstanding hardness and edge retention. Included in the kit are a heavy leather sheath, a knife, and a Myerchin marlin spike, combining traditional elegance with modern functionality. Its classic sheepsfoot blade design is a nod to the heritage of seafaring tools, making it a piece worth passing down through generations.

Pros:

  • Unique natural bone handle
  • High-quality German marine stainless steel
  • Classic design
  • Includes leather sheath and marlin spike

Cons:

  • Premium price point
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$74.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Captain Pro BF300P Knife? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What is the quality of the Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P knife?
The Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P knife is often appreciated by folks who need a tough and reliable tool for marine settings or outdoor adventures. It's got a stainless steel blade that folds up to 4 5/8 inches, and the partially serrated sailor’s sheepsfoot shape makes it pretty handy for everything from slicing ropes to making more precise cuts. One cool feature is its 2 1/2-inch locking marlin spike, which isn't just for untying knots. It doubles as a shackle slot and a part of the lock-release mechanism, making it quite versatile. Based on our research, seafaring folks and outdoor lovers really value these features. The handle is made from G10 fiberglass, which is known for being tough and holding up well to wear and tear from the elements. This makes it super suitable for situations where there's a lot of moisture or grit. Our data shows many people appreciate the G-10 resin handles because they offer a good grip and the finger choil helps with comfort and control, even for longer tasks. As for the blade, the manufacturer describes it as being made from German Marine Stainless Steel—this type is known for being hard, holding an edge well, and resisting oxidation better than something like 440C steel, which is great for wet environments. Our research indicates that people are generally quite happy with the performance of this knife, especially when it comes to maritime tasks like cutting lines, which is crucial if you're on the water. But, there is some feedback that the lanyard attachment could be stronger, particularly when it's under stress. Overall, even with the small gripe about the lanyard, most folks find the Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P to be a durable, functional choice, especially for sailors and those into outdoor adventures. If you're looking for a solid rigging knife, it's definitely one to check out.
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How sharp is the Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P knife?
If you're looking for a rigging knife, the Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P seems like a solid choice, especially if you're into marine activities. The knife's sharpness comes from its partially serrated sheepsfoot blade, made from Pro Marine stainless steel. So, it's designed to handle tough cutting tasks on the water, according to the manufacturer's product description. The knife has a 4 5/8” closed liner-lock blade and includes a 2 1/2” locking marlin spike, which makes it pretty versatile for marine tasks. As for the build, the handle features black G-10 resin. This is tough stuff—resistant to environmental wear and tear—making it reliable for ocean adventures. It also has stainless bolsters and a smart design feature where the shackle doubles as a lock-release mechanism. Based on our research, people who've used this knife generally seem to love how well it cuts lines and its overall durability. They say it stays sharp and handles various outdoor scenarios like boating and bushcrafting really well. That said, there are some minor quirks. For example, a few folks felt that the belt clip could be better, and the lanyard attachment point wasn't as robust as they'd hoped. All in all, this knife appears to have a strong reputation for reliability and sharpness among marine knives. It's built to endure, though there might be a couple of features you'd wish were slightly improved.
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How well does the Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P cut rope?
If you're looking at the Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P for cutting rope, it seems like a solid choice from what we've found. It's got a liner lock mechanism, which is crucial for safety since it keeps the blade secure while you're using it. This is especially handy if you're doing detailed work like rigging on a boat or camping. The blade itself is made from German Marine stainless steel, and the manufacturer really touts its professional-grade quality. The partially serrated sheepsfoot design of the blade is particularly good for marine tasks, so it should handle ropes and lines pretty effectively. The handle is another strong point; it's made from G10 composite material, which is known for its durability. According to our research, this helps maintain a good grip even during tough tasks, which users seem to appreciate. There is a minor gripe mentioned—some folks wish the lanyard attachment was a bit sturdier. But overall, the feedback suggests the knife’s quality and safety features make it reliable for both serious maritime work and casual outdoor use. So whether you're into boating, yachting, or just need a dependable knife while camping, the Myerchin Generation 2 Captain Pro BF300P seems like a capable tool for cutting rope. It combines safety, functionality, and durability to make sure you've got a reliable tool when you need it.
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Heavy Duty Pick: Perkin Handcrafted Rigging Knife

Perkin Knives- Handcrafted Hunting Knife 440c Steel | Rigging Knife

For heavy-duty needs, the Perkin Handcrafted Rigging Knife is second to none. This knife's thick, heavy spine is designed to endure the most demanding tasks such as cutting through thick rope. Constructed from stainless steel, it remains rust-free despite harsh marine conditions. The leather sheath, complete with an integrated marlin spike loop, makes for easy storage and access. Its traditional design, featuring pinned scales and a bolster, not only adds to its rugged appeal but also ensures functionality. This knife is ideal for sailors who require a durable and high-performance tool for their more strenuous maritime tasks.

Pros:

  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Rust-resistant stainless steel
  • Traditional design with pinned scales and bolster
  • Includes leather sheath and marlin spike loop

Cons:

  • Heavier than other options
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$32.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Perkin Handcrafted Hunting Knife? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the marlin spike on the Perkin Knives rigging knife too sharp?
Hey there! If you're looking into the Perkin Knives Handcrafted Hunting Knife and wondering about the marlin spike, I've got some info for you. The knife is made from 440C steel and comes with two leather sheaths. Now, about that spike—it's definitely a talking point. Our research shows that some folks have flagged concerns about the marlin spike's sharpness and how it's held in the sheath. The worry is that if it isn't secured properly, it could pose a safety risk, especially since it can be pretty sharp. The manufacturer's description doesn't really dive into the spike's sharpness specifics. However, feedback suggests the tip is fairly pointed and can be dangerous if you're not careful. Some people have even mentioned adjusting the sheath for a better fit to keep it secure. Seems like a bit of a common practice among those who are into outdoor adventures. As for the sheaths that come with the knife, people generally like the primary one because it holds the knife quite snugly. The second sheath, though, is a bit hit or miss when it comes to keeping the spike in place. You might find yourself needing to tweak it or even replace it to ensure everything's safe and functional. So, the marlin spike can be pretty sharp, according to what we've found. If you're planning to use the knife regularly, it's probably a good idea to make sure the spike's secured properly. This could mean adjusting the sheath or just being extra cautious when handling it. Despite these things to consider, many outdoor enthusiasts really appreciate the knife's ruggedness and versatility. If you're into customization and don't mind some DIY tweaks, it could still be a great pick for you.
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How sharp is the Perkin Knives Handcrafted Hunting Knife out of the box?
If you're wondering about how sharp the Perkin Knives Handcrafted Hunting Knife is right out of the box, we've got some info for you. Our research shows that the knife is pretty sharp straight from the get-go, ready for most tasks. However, the sharpness people often talk about has more to do with its practical use than just initial sharpness. The knife comes with a marlin spike, which is meant for things like untangling knots and splicing ropes—great for outdoor and maritime activities. Some have found the marlin spike to be almost too sharp, opting to dull it a bit to suit their purposes better. This little tweak can make it safer and more useful for their specific needs. Also, some folks have mentioned that the spike's fit with the knife isn't always perfect. While it adds a lot of versatility, especially for rope-related tasks, there are instances where it might need a bit of adjusting to work just right. It seems like the sheath doesn't always hold the spike snugly, so you might have to come up with some creative ways to keep it secure. In short, the Perkin Knives Handcrafted Hunting Knife is ready for action out of the box, but a bit of customization might be needed, especially if you're dealing with a lot of rope. The marlin spike is a handy feature, particularly for marine settings, though you might have to make a few tweaks based on how you plan to use it. Whether you're out sailing or just need a versatile hunting knife, this one has a lot to offer.
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Does the Perkin Knives rigging knife have a lanyard hole?
Hey! So, you're wondering if the Perkin Knives rigging knife has a lanyard hole? Based on what we found, it seems that this knife doesn't come with a dedicated lanyard hole according to the manufacturer's descriptions or features. If you were planning to attach it to your gear, you might have to get a bit creative with a DIY solution or find another way to secure it. As for the knife itself, it's made from sturdy 440C steel, which is great for keeping a sharp edge if you're into hunting or other outdoor activities. It's a full tang knife, giving it good balance and strength for tough jobs. Something interesting about this knife is that it comes with two leather sheaths and a marlin spike. It's handy for sailing or rigging tasks, but some people have mentioned the marlin spike is really sharp right out of the box. A few have even dulled it themselves if they felt it was too pointy for what they needed. Speaking of the sheaths, while some folks are satisfied, there have been mixed thoughts about the leather quality. Just something to consider if you're thinking about a sheath upgrade later on. In a nutshell, this knife might not have a lanyard hole, but it’s a pretty solid tool for heavy-duty tasks. Just make sure that marlin spike is safely kept if you're using it in different settings. If you have more questions or need help, just reach out. Hope this helps!
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