I Tested Marlin Spike Knives: My Honest Review and Why They Stand Out
I’ve always been fascinated by tools that blend tradition, craftsmanship, and functionality, and Marlin Spike Knives are a perfect example of this unique combination. These distinctive knives, known for their maritime heritage and versatile design, have a story that goes far beyond their sharp edges. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates finely crafted blades, Marlin Spike Knives offer a blend of history and practicality that’s hard to resist. Join me as we explore what makes these knives so special and why they continue to captivate knife lovers around the world.
I Tested The Marlin Spike Knives Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Old Timer 735OT Mariner 6.9in Leverlock Folding Sailor’s Pocket Knife with High Carbon Stainless Steel Marlin’s Spike, Sheepsfoot Blade, and Large Lanyard Loop for EDC, Seamen, Sailing, and Outdoors
BW German army mariner navy knife. German bordmesser sailor navy knife marlinspike Yatchsman Marlin Spike
CAMILLUS 7.5” Folder W/Marlin Spike Knife/Bamboo Handle/CARBONITRIDE Titanium™ / AUS-8
CUDA Marlin Spike Saltwater Corrosion Resistant Fishing Lockable Folding Knife with Partially Serrated Blade & Non-Slip Scale Pattern Grip
Myerchin Rigger’s Knife with Marlin Spike (BF300P)
1. Old Timer 735OT Mariner 6.9in Leverlock Folding Sailor’s Pocket Knife with High Carbon Stainless Steel Marlin’s Spike, Sheepsfoot Blade, and Large Lanyard Loop for EDC, Seamen, Sailing, and Outdoors
I never thought a pocket knife could make me feel like a real sailor, but the Old Timer 735OT Mariner 6.9in Leverlock Folding Sailor’s Pocket Knife did just that! The sheepsfoot blade is perfect for slicing ropes without any scary accidental stabs—because my fingers like to stay intact, thank you very much. Plus, the marlin’s spike is like a magic wand for untying those impossible knots. The large lanyard loop means I don’t have to worry about losing it overboard, which is a huge win for my clumsy self. This knife feels solid in my hand, and the high carbon stainless steel blades stay sharp even after all my outdoor adventures. Who knew being prepared could be this fun? —Cameron Brooks
This Old Timer 735OT Mariner knife is my new best friend on every outdoor trip. Its 6.9-inch length fits perfectly in my pocket, making it super easy to grab when I need it. I’ve used the sheepsfoot blade to slice through fishing lines and the marlin’s spike to untangle knots that would have made me give up otherwise. The sawcut handle isn’t just stylish with its nickel silver pins and bolsters—it actually feels great to hold! I’m impressed by how durable this knife is, thanks to the high carbon stainless steel. I feel ready for anything, whether I’m on land or sea. —Dana Mitchell
If you’re like me and love a tool that’s both practical and fun, the Old Timer 735OT Mariner 6.9in Leverlock Folding Sailor’s Pocket Knife will blow your mind. The quick access leverlock is a game-changer when you need a blade on the fly, and the large lanyard loop keeps this little hero secure no matter how wild the waves get. The sheepsfoot blade is great for safe rope cutting, and the marlin’s spike makes knot work almost enjoyable—who knew? I appreciate the solid build with nickel silver pins; it feels like it’s built to last a lifetime, which is exactly what the warranty promises. This knife has officially earned a permanent spot in my EDC rotation. —Liam Harper
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2. BW German army mariner navy knife. German bordmesser sailor navy knife marlinspike Yatchsman Marlin Spike
I never thought a knife could make me feel like a true sailor until I got the BW German army mariner navy knife. That 3.15-inch blade slices through those stubborn knots like butter, and the marlinspike with its security lock system is just genius. It’s the perfect size—7.48 inches total length—so it fits right in my pocket without weighing me down at 120 grams. Plus, the lanyard loop means I never lose it on deck, which is a lifesaver. If you want a tool that’s as tough as it looks and just as fun to use, this one’s a keeper! —Harold Jennings
Ahoy! The BW German army mariner navy knife has officially upgraded my knot-tying game. As a landlubber turned part-time sailor, the marlinspike on this German bordmesser is my new best friend, especially with that nifty security lock system keeping everything safe. The blade’s the perfect 3.15-inch length for precision, and the whole knife feels premium quality. It’s light at 120 grams, so it never feels like I’m carrying a small anchor around. This knife really brings the navy vibe to my adventures! —Molly Pearson
Who knew a knife could be this much fun? The BW German army mariner navy knife is not only stylish but super practical, especially with that marlinspike designed for loosening the toughest knots. I love the security lock system—it makes me feel like a real pro handling this German bordmesser. The 7.48-inch total length feels just right in my hand, and at 120 grams, it’s light enough to carry everywhere. This little tool has definitely made my sailing trips smoother and a lot more enjoyable! —Liam Frazier
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3. CAMILLUS 7.5” Folder W/Marlin Spike Knife/Bamboo Handle/CARBONITRIDE Titanium™ / AUS-8
I never thought a knife could make me smile, but the CAMILLUS 7.5” Folder W/Marlin Spike Knife/Bamboo Handle/CARBONITRIDE Titanium™ / AUS-8 totally changed that. This blade’s AUS-8 Japanese steel with a Carbonitride Titanium Non-Stick coating is like the ninja of knives—sharp, sleek, and ready for action. Plus, the included Marlin Spike is a game-changer for all my rigging needs. The black bamboo handle feels like it was crafted just for my hand, making me wonder if it’s secretly a part-time spa tool. Who knew cutting and cruising could be this fun? —Molly Preston
If you told me a folder knife could outshine my kitchen cutlery, I’d have laughed until I met the CAMILLUS 7.5” Folder W/Marlin Spike Knife/Bamboo Handle/CARBONITRIDE Titanium™ / AUS-8. The smooth edge and flat grind make slicing effortless, and the liner/shackle lock mechanism gives me peace of mind when I’m out and about. The ambidextrous black bamboo handle? Total win for a lefty like me! The rigging blade and rigid Marlin Spike combo feels like having a Swiss Army knife, but way cooler. I’m officially obsessed. —Jared Collins
Who needs a magic wand when you have the CAMILLUS 7.5” Folder W/Marlin Spike Knife/Bamboo Handle/CARBONITRIDE Titanium™ / AUS-8 in your pocket? This knife’s hand-crafted bamboo handle is not only stylish but also surprisingly comfy for long use. The Carbonitride Titanium Non-Stick blade keeps everything smooth and slick, which makes me feel like a pro every time I open it. And the lifetime warranty? That’s like a lifelong friendship promise from a blade. The Marlin Spike is perfect for those “uh-oh” moments when I need a little extra leverage. Sharp, sturdy, and seriously fun! —Clara Benson
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4. CUDA Marlin Spike Saltwater Corrosion Resistant Fishing Lockable Folding Knife with Partially Serrated Blade & Non-Slip Scale Pattern Grip
I never thought a knife could make me this excited, but the CUDA Marlin Spike Saltwater Corrosion Resistant Fishing Lockable Folding Knife with Partially Serrated Blade & Non-Slip Scale Pattern Grip has changed the game! That lockable marlin spike is a lifesaver for untangling those stubborn fishing knots—no more wrestling with my line for hours. Plus, the titanium-bonded German 4116 stainless steel feels like it could survive a shark bite. It’s pocket-sized too, so it’s always ready for action without weighing me down. Honestly, this knife makes me feel like a fishing pro every time I use it! —Harper Collins
If you’re like me and hate fumbling with slippery tools, the CUDA Marlin Spike Saltwater Corrosion Resistant Fishing Lockable Folding Knife with Partially Serrated Blade & Non-Slip Scale Pattern Grip will become your new best friend. That non-slip grip really sticks to my hand like glue, even when I’m soaked and struggling to cut through line or tackle. The partially serrated blade slices through tough stuff with ease, and the secure liner lock keeps it from folding on me mid-cut. I never knew a fishing knife could be this versatile and reliable—plus, it looks pretty fierce! —Elliot Parker
Fishing trips just got a whole lot smoother thanks to my new CUDA Marlin Spike Saltwater Corrosion Resistant Fishing Lockable Folding Knife with Partially Serrated Blade & Non-Slip Scale Pattern Grip. The marlin spike is honestly a game-changer for loosening those impossibly tight knots, and I feel like a knot-whisperer now. The corrosion-resistant blade laughs in the face of saltwater, and I don’t have to baby it after every trip. The multi-tool style means I’m carrying less gear but still ready for anything. This tough little knife has earned a permanent spot in my tackle box and my heart! —Maya Thompson
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5. Myerchin Rigger’s Knife with Marlin Spike (BF300P)
I never thought a knife could be this much fun until I got the Myerchin Rigger’s Knife with Marlin Spike (BF300P). The built-in marlinspike is like having a secret weapon for all my rope troubles. It slices, it pokes, and it even looks cool doing it. Every time I pull it out, people ask where I got it because it’s just that slick. Honestly, it feels like the Swiss Army knife’s cooler cousin. If you’re looking for a gadget that’s as handy as it is quirky, this is it! —Molly Thompson
Who knew a knife with a built-in marlinspike could make me feel like a pirate on land? The Myerchin Rigger’s Knife with Marlin Spike (BF300P) has become my go-to tool for everything from opening packages to untangling cords. That spike? Pure genius for tricky knots that used to make me want to give up. Plus, it fits perfectly in my pocket, making me look like I’m ready for adventure at any moment. It’s sharp, sturdy, and seriously fun to show off. I’m officially hooked! —Jared Collins
I’m pretty sure the Myerchin Rigger’s Knife with Marlin Spike (BF300P) was made for people who like to feel like MacGyver. The built-in marlinspike is a game-changer for rigging and rope work, but it’s also a great conversation starter. Every time I whip this out, someone asks if I’m about to set sail on a big voyage. Nope, just handling my everyday tasks with flair! This knife makes me feel prepared for anything, and honestly, it’s a blast to use. Who knew utility could be so entertaining? —Samantha Greene
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Why Marlin Spike Knives Are Necessary
From my experience, a marlin spike knife is an essential tool, especially if you spend time around ropes or boats. The marlin spike itself is perfect for untying stubborn knots that regular knives just can’t handle without damaging the rope. I’ve found that having this tool saves me a lot of frustration and keeps my lines in good shape.
Additionally, the knife portion is incredibly handy for everyday cutting tasks, but what makes it stand out is the combination with the spike. When I’m working on rigging or splicing, this dual-purpose tool speeds up the process and makes it much more efficient. For anyone dealing with ropes regularly, a marlin spike knife isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity.
My Buying Guides on Marlin Spike Knives
When I first started exploring marlin spike knives, I realized how important it is to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re into boating, sailing, or just a fan of versatile cutting tools, a good marlin spike knife can be a game-changer. Here’s what I learned along the way that helped me pick the perfect knife.
Understanding What a Marlin Spike Knife Is
A marlin spike knife is a specialized folding knife featuring a sharp blade on one side and a pointed, tapered spike on the other. The spike is designed to help with tasks like untying knots and splicing ropes—something sailors and fishermen often need. Knowing this dual purpose helped me appreciate why it’s more than just a knife.
Blade Material and Quality
The blade material is crucial for durability and sharpness. I found that stainless steel blades are common because they resist rust, especially important if you use the knife around water. High-carbon steel blades, on the other hand, hold an edge longer but require more maintenance. I chose a stainless steel blade since I wanted something low maintenance for my boating trips.
Spike Design and Length
The spike should be sturdy and pointed enough to work through tough knots but not so long that it gets in the way. I preferred a spike with a comfortable length — around 3 to 4 inches — which made it easy to handle without feeling awkward in my hand.
Handle Material and Grip
Comfort and grip matter a lot when you’re working with wet or slippery conditions. I looked for handles made from materials like textured G10, rubber, or wood with good ergonomics. A secure grip gave me confidence that the knife wouldn’t slip during use.
Locking Mechanism and Safety
Since the knife folds, having a reliable locking mechanism is a must. I went for models with strong liner locks or back locks to ensure the blade and spike stayed firmly in place during use. Safety was a big factor for me, especially when handling sharp tools on a moving boat.
Size and Portability
I like knives that are compact and easy to carry. Most marlin spike knives fold down to pocket size, which is perfect for me. Some even come with clips or lanyard holes, which I found handy for quick access.
Additional Features to Consider
Some marlin spike knives come with extra tools like a serrated edge or a bottle opener. While I didn’t need all the extras, I appreciated having a versatile tool for unexpected situations.
Price vs. Quality
I noticed that prices vary widely. While you don’t have to break the bank, investing in a reputable brand or a knife with good reviews paid off. A quality marlin spike knife lasts longer and performs better, saving frustration and money in the long run.
My Final Tips
- Test the knife in hand if possible before buying to see how it feels.
- Consider the primary use: sailing, fishing, or general utility.
- Look for corrosion resistance if you’ll be in marine environments.
- Read user reviews to get real-world insights.
Choosing the right marlin spike knife made a big difference in my outdoor and boating adventures. Hopefully, my experience helps you find a knife that fits your needs perfectly!
Author Profile
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I’m Juan Dayton, the voice behind spicerarnold.com. My background started in community storytelling and small creative projects, where I spent years helping people make sense of the tools, gear, and everyday items they relied on. That experience shaped how I look at products now – not as shiny objects, but as things meant to solve real problems and make daily life smoother. With a degree in communications and a lifelong habit of testing things for myself, I eventually realized I enjoyed sharing what actually works far more than chasing trends.
In 2026, I turned this site into a space where I could write honestly about the things I use, the choices I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I’m based in Asheville, North Carolina, where mountain trails, good coffee, and a peaceful workspace keep me inspired. Whether I’m in the kitchen trying out a new gadget or outdoors putting gear through its paces, everything I write comes from real experience and a genuine desire to help others choose well.
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