The 7 Best Zero Tolerance Pocket Knives Made in the USA 2024

Zero Tolerance Knives, often known as ZT Knives, is a brand of knives manufactured by Kai USA, which has its headquarters in Tualatin, Oregon. The Kai Group is an international cutlery corporation, of which Zero Tolerance and Kai USA are also subsidiaries. We present you the best Zero Tolerance Pocket Knives made in the USA.

The History of Zero Tolerance Knives

In 2006, Kai USA began manufacturing ZT knives alongside their more established Kershaw Knives brand. Custom knife maker Ken Onion collaborated with Strider Knives to produce some early ZT knives, which were part of the original ZT range. The first offerings were tactical knives, but as time went on, Zero Tolerance extended its product line to include blades for a wider variety of uses. At the moment, the Kai USA factory in Tualatin, Oregon, is responsible for the production of each and every ZT product.

Limited Lifetime Warranty

From the manufacturer’s website: “Zero Tolerance knives from Kai USA Ltd. carry a limited warranty for the lifetime of the original owner, except when stated otherwise. We guarantee our knives against manufacturing defects in material and construction and to perform as advertised when properly used and maintained.”
The company gives you free sharpening as well. Check the details on their website.

The Best Zero Tolerance Pocket Knives

Zero Tolerance 0562TI Hinderer Pocketknife

Knifemaker Rick Hinderer is responsible for the creation of the rugged and functional Zero Tolerance 0562TI tactical folding knife. He has given the knife a unique appearance. Because the handle of this iteration of the world-famous 0562 series is totally constructed of titanium, the knife seems to be even more sturdy than its forebears did in previous iterations.

Surprisingly, despite having titanium handles, this knife is a few grams lighter than the variant that is made of carbon fiber. The pocket clip is attached to the outermost edge of the knife, which allows it to nearly completely conceal itself inside the confines of the pocket it is carried in. The pocket clip is reversible. You can carry the knife right or left with the tip up.

The CPM 20CV steel was used to make the blade. This kind of stainless steel is very corrosion-resistant and keeps its edge exceptionally well. A true premium steel grade, perfect for a pocket knife of the highest quality. The KVT ball bearing allows for a smooth and easy opening of the knife. The space provided for your index finger on the huge flipper is more than enough. Even though the blade has a thumb pin built into it, you are most likely just going to make use of the flipper.

A frame lock may be used to secure the blade while it is not in use. This titanium frame lock has a changeable steel insert so that it may maintain its pristine condition.

Knife Details

• Blade Length 3.5 in. (8.9 cm)
• Blade Thickness 0.156 in. (0.396 cm)
• Closed Length 4.8 in. (12.2 cm)
• Overall Length 8.3 in. (21.1 cm)
• Weight 5.3 oz. (152 g)

Zero Tolerance 0452CF

The ZT 452CF is a sturdy pocket knife that comes with a black finish on one side of the Handle. This knife is ideal for those who have bigger hands due to its total length of 23.4 centimeters and a blade length of 10.4 centimeters. Dmitry Sinkevich, who specializes in making bespoke knives, came up with the design for this folder. Already, he had developed the Limited Edition 454 for Zero Tolerance, but the product was pulled off the shelves so soon because of how popular it was. The 452CF is the same size as the 454, but the handle is made of a different material, and it has a different finish on the blade.

Because the left handle is constructed of carbon and rounded at the edges, the knife may be used comfortably in one hand even when it is being used for extended periods of time. A pleasing stonewashed finish can be seen on the titanium that makes up the right-handle side. When the knife is open, the blade has a smooth-running mechanism that is secured in place by a robust frame lock. There is a tiny steel insert inside the lock that prevents needless wear while also acting as an overtravel stop for the blade. During the process of unlocking, it is thus impossible to expand beyond the confines of the frame.

Because it uses a KVT ball-bearing technology, the flipper can open the blade with almost any resistance at all. The blade is made of S35VN steel, so it is reasonably sharp out of the box and is extremely simple to sharpen further if necessary. However, in spite of its widespread adoption and popularity, this particular quality of steel keeps its edge for an exceptionally long period.

Knife Details

• Blade Length 4.3 in. (10.4 cm)
• Blade Thickness 0.156 in. (0.396 cm)
• Closed Length 5.2 in. (13.2 cm)
• Overall Length 9.3 in. (23.6 cm)
• Weight 4.3 oz. (122 g)

Zero Tolerance 0308

The Zero Tolerance 0308 is a substantial pocket knife that comes in a big size. This Zero Tolerance pocket knife was designed specifically for all field tasks. The knife is evocative of Zero Tolerance’s 300 series from their earlier days when they were just getting started. This means that the series has resumed! A fresh version of the same model, but with all the most recent updates.

The flipper has ball bearings in it so that it can open the blade very rapidly. After that, the blade is secured by a sturdy frame lock. There is a steel insert that will ensure excellent locking for many years to come. A luxurious alternative for a good knife!

One of the first things that one notices about the Zero Tolerance 0308 is its texture. The elaborate pattern is carried through to the finish on both the titanium locking side and the G10 handle scale. Not only does this look fantastic, but it also has a lot of practical applications. Even if you are wearing gloves, you do not need to be concerned about the knife falling out of your hand.

The blade is crafted from steel of the highest grade, CPM 20CV. This particular kind of steel is very resistant to wear and corrosion, thus it keeps its edge for a very long period without becoming dull. It is now one of the choices that is receiving the greatest interest.

Zero Tolerance has decided on a hinge screw that can be adjusted with an open-end wrench of size 1/2 in. (or 13 mm), so that it is easier for you to take care of the knife while you are on the go. This was done so that you would have an easier time maintaining the knife. Again, this demonstrates that professional users were a consideration for Zero Tolerance throughout the design process of this knife.

This is another example of Zero Tolerance returning to its foundational principles. The design has a rugged appearance and is of the highest possible quality. This is exactly what we have come to expect from ZT.

Knife Details

• Blade Length 3.75 in. (9.6 cm)
• Blade Thickness 0.156 in. (0.4 cm)
• Closed Length 5.2 in. (13.2 cm)
• Overall Length 8.9 in. (22.5 cm)
• Weight 6.9 oz. (197 g)

Zero Tolerance 0762

This stylish pocket knife from Zero Tolerance, model number 0762, looks excellent both in your pocket and in the display case you keep it in. A knife of very high quality, with several interesting technological aspects. It weights only 2.9 oz. (82 g)! You will not even know you have it with you.

For instance, Zero Tolerance makes use of an intriguing blend of titanium and carbon fiber in their products. Titanium is used in the construction of the handle’s vivid blue portions in their entirety. The liners, the lock, and the pocket clip are the three components that are visible through the carbon fiber. The liners were made as compact as they could be while yet giving a sufficient amount of support for the frame.

The sub-framelock is Zero Tolerance’s most notable and popular product. A lock that combines a mortise lock and a frame lock into one device. Because of this, the line of the lock bar may now more closely correspond to the design of the handle. Without suffering any reduction in strength. An extremely clever and useful concept that is only used by Zero Tolerance and Kershaw. Naturally, a steel insert was included into the construction of the sub-frame lock. This ensures that the lock will function well for years to come.

The Tuned Detent System (TDS) is yet another one of the brand-new features. When it comes to keeping the blade closed, (sub-)frame lock flipper pocket knives typically depend on the detent ball located in the lock bar. However, the TDS features a second “arm” in the frame, which also contains a detent ball. Because of this, it makes no difference whether you push down on the latch with your fingers or not; it will always flip open in the correct manner. In addition, Zero Tolerance gives users the ability to independently alter the amount of resistance felt throughout the locking and opening processes. Because of this, the system is called the Tuned Detent System.

The CPM 20CV steel was used to make the blade. This particular kind of steel is very resistant to wear, keeps its edge for an extended period of time, and is quite stainless. A grade of steel that performs very well for everyday carry and requires very little honing.

In a nutshell, the Zero Tolerance 762 is a pocket knife that exemplifies the phrase “Beauty & Brains,” but it does it in a physical manner. Beautiful, nice, handy. All the aforementioned. Complete in every respect.

Knife Details

• Blade Length 3.4 in. (8.6 cm)
• Blade Thickness 0.121 in. (0.31 cm)
• Closed Length 4.75 in. (12.1 cm)
• Overall Length 8.1 in. (20.6 cm)
• Weight 2.9 oz. (82 g)

Zero Tolerance 0350TS

This knife looks like the 0350. It has the same durable construction. The same high degree of accuracy. Nevertheless, the Zero Tolerance 0350TS is distinguished from the other models by its daring tiger-stripe blade. The 0350TS is identical to the traditional 0350 in every respect, except the fact that it has a more edgy appearance.

The Zero Tolerance 0350TS is a reliable pocket knife designed for usage in demanding environments. It was designed by Ken Onion, who is known across the globe for his work as a knife producer and inventor. The 0350TS is a true workhorse in every sense of the word. As an example, in order to cut through thick plastic wrapping or to shred cardboard. The 0350TS performs well in each and every assignment.

The SpeedSafe® opening assistance is included with the knife that you have purchased. This is a device that allows the blade to be opened with the flipper or thumb rest by making use of a spring as an assisting mechanism. As a result, it cannot be considered an automated knife. The mechanism is the sole thing that ensures the blade will open in any given circumstance.

The handle is constructed out of G10 material. A highly secure hold on the knife may be attained thanks to its ergonomically designed handle. CPM S30V steel was used in the construction of the blade. This type of steel is very durable and maintains its edge for a very long period. When the knife is closed, the blade is secured by a liner lock that is very tight.

Knife Details

• Blade Length 3.25 in. (8.25 cm)
• Blade Thickness 0.121 in. (0.31 cm)
• Closed Length 4.6 in. (11.7 cm)
• Overall Length 7.6 (19.3 cm)
• Weight 6.2 oz. (175.8 g)

Zero Tolerance 0230

Jens Ans is responsible for the creation of the sleek slipjoint pocket knife known as the Zero Tolerance 0230. This Danish designer is famous for his one-of-a-kind bespoke models called the Haddock and the Monte Carlo. The Sheepsfoot/Wharncliffe blade and Jens Ans’s distinctive lug are just two of the many striking parallels that can be seen between the Zero Tolerance 0230 and the pocket knives in question.

To open the Zero Tolerance 0230, you will need the use of both hands. When open, the blade is held by a detent slipjoint. In addition to it, there is a partial stop. Although the blade is not entirely obstructed by this kind of locking mechanism, the closing motion is met with a degree of resistance. Because of all of these aspects working together, the Zero Tolerance 0230 may be legally carried out in a variety of nations throughout the world.

The blade is crafted from steel of the highest grade, CPM 20CV. This particular kind of steel is very resistant to wear and does a good job of keeping its edge. The handle is made out of carbon fiber, which is likewise of very high quality.

In conclusion, the Zero Tolerance 0230 is a men’s knife that is solidly crafted in the Zero Tolerance manner while yet maintaining a sleek and lightweight design.

Knife Details

• Blade Length 2.6 in. (6.6 cm)
• Blade Thickness 0.121 in. (0.31 cm)
• Closed Length 3.7 in. (9.5 cm)
• Overall Length 6.2 in. (15.7 cm)
• Weight 1.8 oz. (52 g)

Zero Tolerance 0990

The Zero Tolerance 990 Everyday Carry (EDC) Pocket Knife is a really nice EDC pocket knife that is based on the iconic Zero Tolerance 999. The key distinction is that anybody may purchase and use this version of the model.

The “floating” stop pin that is located on the reverse side of the handle is the defining attribute of this pocket knife. The pin is suspended in front of the handle, much like the sting of a scorpion would be. In order to ensure that the frame is sufficiently robust, Zero Tolerance constructed a portion of the handle out of stainless steel. The other component is a stunning carbon fiber design. Backspacers are typically constructed of plastic and have the Zero Tolerance emblem on their surfaces.

Using either the flipper or the huge thumbhole, you may swiftly open the knife. You rarely feel any resistance because the well-known KVT ball bearings were used in its construction. That is how easily the knife can be opened up! The locking mechanism is composed of a sturdy liner lock. This will ensure that your fingertips are safe.

CPM 20CV steel was used in the construction of the blade. This particular variety of steel is very resistant to wear and keeps its edge for a long time. In addition to this, 20CV has moderate corrosion resistance. An extremely high quality of steel that, when used for everyday carry purposes, requires very little honing.

When Zero Tolerance manufactures a knife that is a manufacturing version of such a renowned knife as the 999, it is quite a risky business move on their part. The level of expectation is pretty high. The 990 most definitely does not let anyone down. It is a fantastic pocket knife, and surprisingly affordable for a ZT product. A fantastic addition to your collection, as well as a high-quality utility knife.

Knife Details

• Blade Length 3.25 in. (8.3 cm)
• Blade Thickness 0.121 in. (0.31 cm)
• Closed Length 4.4 in. (11.2 cm)
• Overall Length 7.6 in. (19.3 cm)
• Weight 2.9 oz. (82 g)

Do you like to see more Knives made in the USA? We have a page where you will find your new Knife made in the US!