How to Store Pocket Knives: Everything You Need to Know
- Knives can be stored in a variety of places according to your tastes
- Magnetic strips offer a simple way to display your knives
- Lockable display and transport cases help secure your knife collection
Collecting pocket knives is great, but it’s only a matter of time before you have to figure out how to store pocket knives. Like anything, pocket knives need a place to be when you are not using them.
Sometimes they can be stored decoratively. Other times, they are stored out of sight for various reasons. Let’s review some pocket knife storage ideas to keep your collection safe and secure.
Best Places to Store Pocket Knives
The focus here is on storing pocket knives when they’re not in use. While carrying a knife in a bag or on your person is straightforward, determining where to store it when it's not in use can be a bit more challenging. Below are some of the most common knife storage options, from everyday use to more specialized situations.
On a Dresser/Nightstand
If you carry a knife daily, figuring out how to store pocket knives may be rather simple. Your best option is to place it on your nightstand or dresser.
Do you have children where safety is a concern, or maybe you just want a little more security? For this pocket knife storage idea, consider getting a small organizer or even a little lock box to put your knife in when you’re not using it. This helps keep things organized and accessible when you start your day or get ready to go out. The organizer can also keep your keys, wallet, phone, or any other belongings you bring with you when you leave the house.
Display Cases
If you have a large collection of knives or a few special knives you want to showcase, a display case is a great option. Now, the term 'display case' can be a little misleading. Most people will think of something in a museum or a store where there are racks of pocket knives. But, in reality, it can be something very simple!
A case with a see-through lid may be the perfect option for your knife collection, or it could be as simple as a small shelf on your wall where you can display your knives. All you need is something that allows your knives to be seen while they are stored.
Magnetic Displays
We’ll take some tips from chef knives when it comes to how to store pocket knives in the form of magnetic strips. Most knives are made from steel, and magnetic knife strips can hold a significant amount of weight if they’re mounted correctly.
Having a magnet strip for your knives is a convenient way to display and access them, especially if you rotate your carry knife frequently. It also allows you to adjust how they are displayed (diagonally or up and down, for example) without a complicated process. Simply remove them and reposition them at the desired angle.
Storage For Travel
If you’re going on a trip, you may be wondering how to store pocket knives in this sort of scenario. Traveling with your knives is a little bit different than the normal pocket knife storage ideas. If you’re moving your collection, it will need some protection. Often, this means a protective case.
Pelican cases or similar large plastic totes with foam inserts will be very handy in this situation. You can cut out spaces in the foam to fit each knife securely. This is especially important if you have more collectible or expensive knives.
If they are expensive, you may want to consider a multi-locking system for the container, just in case. This is a good idea if you are moving or doing things like flying. In any situation where you have to be away from your home and even your luggage for extended periods.
Safe & Secure Storage

Speaking of how to store pocket knives securely, you should have some way to safely store your knives so that other people do not get access to them. This is particularly important if you have children, irreplaceable knives, or a significant amount of money invested in them.
Small lock boxes, larger safes, and even lockable travel containers can be used to secure your knives. Since pocket knives are usually small, they can fit into many containers, just like cash, jewelry, or identification cards can. All of the methods used to secure those items work with knives and are great for pocket knife storage ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
+ How do I know if I should store my knives in a safe?
If you have spent a significant amount of money on them or if you cannot obtain another knife in the same model, you should probably store your knives in a safe or at least in a secure location. If it is a family heirloom, it definitely should be stored in a secure place.
+ Are there legal restrictions on where and how to store pocket knives?
As long as your knives are legal to own in your jurisdiction, there should be very few restrictions on how you store your knives. However, legal requirements are constantly changing; be sure to check the laws of both your current location and your planned destination if you’re traveling.
+ Can you store a pocket knife in luggage?
Although pocket knives are prohibited in carry-on luggage on all U.S. flights, regardless of size or type, you can pack them in checked luggage. International flights may follow similar rules, but it’s best to check local laws before traveling. For more information about traveling with pocket knives, please visit this blog. This information is intended solely for general informational use and does not constitute legal advice.

