Are Artisan Cutlery knives good quality?

Yes, Artisan Cutlery is known for producing well-made knives with excellent fit and finish. Their budget models use D2 and AR-RPM9 steel with solid lockup and smooth action.

What steel does Artisan Cutlery use on budget knives?

Most Artisan Cutlery budget knives under $70 use D2 tool steel or AR-RPM9 steel. D2 offers excellent edge retention, while AR-RPM9 provides better corrosion resistance.

Where are Artisan Cutlery knives made?

Artisan Cutlery knives are manufactured in China and Taiwan. Despite this, they maintain high quality control standards comparable to many American brands.

What is the best Artisan Cutlery knife under $50?

The Artisan Cutlery Simoon ATZ-1882 at $49.99 is the best option under $50, offering an AR-RPM9 blade, Recoil Lock V2, and G10 handle.

5 Best Artisan Cutlery Budget EDC Knives Under $70 in 2026

Artisan Cutlery: Premium Quality Without the Premium Price

Artisan Cutlery has built a reputation for producing well-designed, high-quality folding knives that appeal to both collectors and everyday carriers. While they're known for premium titanium and M390 models, their budget-friendly D2 steel lineup proves that you can get Artisan's signature craftsmanship for under $70.

In this guide, we've hand-picked the 5 best Artisan Cutlery EDC knives that deliver exceptional value without exceeding $70.

1. Artisan Cutlery Simoon ATZ-1882 - $49.99

The Simoon is one of the best-value folding knives in Artisan Cutlery's lineup. Featuring an AR-RPM9 steel blade with black PVD finish and a durable G10 handle, it offers a 3.47-inch Bowie-style blade that excels at both slicing and piercing tasks. The Recoil Lock V2 mechanism provides rock-solid lockup, while the ceramic ball bearing pivot ensures smooth, drop-shut action.

Key Specs: AR-RPM9 steel, 3.47-inch blade, G10 handle, Recoil Lock V2, 4.59 oz.

Price: $49.99

2. Artisan Cutlery Proponent ATZ-1820P - $69.99

Designed by Dirk Pinkerton, the Proponent is a large, heavy-duty folder that delivers serious cutting performance. The 3.85-inch Wharncliffe blade made from D2 steel is perfect for box cutting, rope slicing, and heavy utility tasks. The G10 handle provides excellent traction, and the flipper tab offers satisfying deployment every time.

Key Specs: D2 steel (HRC 59-61), 3.85-inch blade, G10 handle, Liner Lock, 6.7 oz.

Price: $69.99

3. Artisan Cutlery Tomahawk ATZ-1815P (G10) - From $52.49

The Tomahawk is a versatile EDC knife available with both curved and flat G10 handle options. Its 3.94-inch Tanto-style D2 blade is ideal for precision cutting and piercing tasks, while the stonewash finish helps hide everyday wear.

Key Specs: D2 steel (HRC 59-61), 3.94-inch blade, G10 handle, Liner Lock, 5.11 oz.

Price: $52.49 - $59.24

4. Artisan Cutlery Apache Nomad ATZ-1813P - $55.29

A tactical folder with serious personality, the Apache Nomad features a 3.7-inch D2 Tanto blade with a stonewash finish. What sets it apart is the aluminum handle with carbon fiber onlays - a combination that looks far more expensive than its $55 price tag suggests. It also includes a glass breaker on the pommel.

Key Specs: D2 steel, 3.7-inch blade, Aluminum + Carbon Fiber handle, Liner Lock, glass breaker.

Price: $55.29

5. Artisan Cutlery Tradition V2 1702M - $89.99 (Honorable Mention)

While slightly over the $70 mark, the Tradition V2 deserves a mention for its outstanding S35VN steel blade - a premium steel typically found on knives costing twice as much. The G10 handle, thumb stud deployment, and liner lock make it a reliable EDC companion.

D2 Steel: The Budget Performer

Several Artisan Cutlery budget models use D2 tool steel, known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance. While D2 is not fully stainless, a quick wipe after use keeps it rust-free. At the sub-$70 price point, D2 offers the best balance of toughness, edge holding, and affordability.

Final Verdict

Artisan Cutlery proves that premium EDC knife design doesn't have to come with a premium price tag. From the versatile Simoon to the heavy-duty Proponent, these five knives offer exceptional build quality, reliable materials, and great designs - all for under $70.

Prices and availability may vary. Affiliate links are used in this post.