Knife Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Folding Blade, Fixed Blade, Side Slide), By Material (Steel, Titanium, Ceramic), By Size, By Application, By Distribution Channel, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2033

Knife Market Growth & Trends

The global knife market size is expected to reach USD 7,790.2 million by 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% from 2025 to 2033. As people become more aware of the need for environmental preservation, the demand for environmentally friendly camping equipment is increasing. As a result, vendors are introducing environmentally friendly equipment to differentiate and expand their product line.

Because of such innovation, sales of camping equipment, such as hunting and survival knives, will increase during the forecast period. Post-peak pandemic, outdoor recreation, which included hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and strolling, has become increasingly popular as a fitness and socially distant activity. As a result, the demand for products in these industries, such as Swiss knives, daggers, and fixed-blade knives, has soared.

The introduction of new materials, particularly in the production of commercial knives, is estimated to help the market, driving leading manufacturers to seize opportunities that exist in this field. Powdered steel is quickly becoming the most preferred material for making knives and has been gaining popularity in the market. Using powdered steel as a raw material improves the sharpness of a knife blade.

Consequently, powder metallurgy, a technique used to produce powdered steel, is expected to gain popularity in the forecast period as this technology allows for the use of various grades of steel, including SG2 and R2. To stay competitive in the knife industry, prospective market players are expected to use this technology over the forecast period. ZWILLING J.A. HENCKELS, LLC and Kai Corporation are two well-known companies that manufacture knives using powdered steel.

Over the forecast period, design innovation is estimated to create industrial opportunities at a macro level. Regarding product distinctiveness, 'craftsmanship' is likely to emerge as the operative word. In terms of design, there is a range of business prospects available, including the use of a variety of colors and minimalistic designs, as well as the use of natural materials for kitchen knife handles.

Knife Market Report Highlights

• Based on type, fixed blade knife dominated the global market in 2024, driven by their superior strength, reliability, and long-lasting edge retention, particularly in professional, outdoor, and tactical use. Fixed blade designs are favored for heavy-duty applications such as hunting, survival, and combat, where folding mechanisms are unsuitable. In addition, the growing popularity of camping, wilderness expeditions, and military-grade tools has expanded demand.
• Based on material, steel knife dominated the global knife industry in 2024, primarily due to their affordability, durability, and widespread availability. Steel variants, particularly stainless and high-carbon alloys, offer superior edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of maintenance, making them suitable for both household and commercial applications. Continuous innovation in metallurgical technologies, such as cryogenic treatment and powder metallurgy, has further enhanced steel knife performance.
• Based on size, 3-6 inches knife is set to grow significantly in the forecast period, due to rising demand for compact, multi-functional blades ideal for urban households and small-scale food preparation. These knives, including paring and utility types, offer convenience and precision for everyday kitchen tasks. In addition, younger consumers and space-constrained kitchens increasingly favor smaller knife sets over individual large knives.
• Based on application, kitchen knife dominated the knife industry in 2024, largely driven by increased home cooking, expansion of culinary content, and rising demand for premium cookware. Pandemic-induced shifts toward home-based meal preparation have had lasting effects on consumer behavior, further stimulating demand for high-quality kitchen tools. Global culinary trends, health awareness, and rising disposable incomes have led consumers to invest in durable, sharp, and versatile kitchen knives.
• On the basis of distribution channel, knife sales through online/e-commerce is set to grow significantly in the forecast period, due to enhanced digital accessibility and the convenience of at-home shopping. Consumers increasingly purchase knives online due to product comparisons, reviews, and broader selection. Digital-native knife brands have leveraged direct-to-consumer models to increase market penetration, supported by influencer marketing and social media visibility. Subscription-based knife services and niche culinary platforms have also gained traction.
• Based on region, Europe dominated the global market in 2024, attributed to its long-standing tradition in cutlery manufacturing and strong presence of heritage brands such as Victorinox (Switzerland) and Wüsthof (Germany). European consumers prioritize quality craftsmanship and functionality, supporting demand for forged knives and high-grade materials. Moreover, the region benefits from structured retail networks, rising interest in premium kitchenware, and culinary tourism. Regulatory focus on sustainable materials and traceability has further driven innovation.