Video Overview

Max LVL EDC dives into SRM’s budget knife lineup — specifically the 125L, the 105 Air, and the 135 Palfrey — to answer a simple question: can you get a genuinely good folding knife without spending Benchmade money? The short answer is yes, and SRM is one of the brands making that case most convincingly. If you’re shopping for a capable everyday carry knife under $50, this breakdown covers exactly what you need to know.

Items and/or Gear Mentioned in the Video

• SRM 125L Folding Knife – Purchase on Amazon
• SRM 105 Air Folding Knife – Purchase on Amazon
• SRM 135 Palfrey Folding Knife – Purchase on Amazon

All three SRM models represent strong value for the price tier. The 125L stands out for its balanced size and reliable action; the 105 Air impresses with its lightweight construction; and the 135 Palfrey brings a more refined aesthetic to the budget carry conversation. Any of them can serve as a capable daily driver.

Editor’s Insight

SRM (Shieldon Knife Manufacturing) sits in an interesting position in the knife market. They’re based in China, which still draws reflexive skepticism from some knife enthusiasts, but their track record over the past few years has earned them genuine credibility in the budget-to-mid-range segment. Max LVL EDC has built much of their channel around finding exactly this kind of overlooked value, and SRM is a recurring recommendation for good reason.

The 125L is likely the most versatile of the three models covered. Its blade length and handle geometry hit a sweet spot that works equally well for utility cutting — breaking down cardboard, opening packages, food prep at a campsite — and as a compact EDC option that doesn’t print visibly through a pants pocket. The flipper deployment is reliable, and the pivot is typically dialed in out of the box, which isn’t a guarantee at this price tier.

The 105 Air’s defining characteristic is its weight. Lightweight knives sound like a minor quality-of-life feature until you’ve carried a heavier knife for a full day and noticed the drag. The Air’s construction achieves its low weight through a combination of skeletonized liners and a blade profile optimized for minimal material without compromising structural integrity. For someone who EDCs a knife daily and values comfort above all, the Air is worth the trade-off in blade stock thickness.

Steel quality is the area where budget knives historically fell short, and it’s worth being honest about where SRM stands. They use 154CM and similar mid-grade stainless alloys that perform well for everyday tasks but don’t match the edge retention of premium steels like S35VN, M390, or Elmax. For most people’s actual cutting tasks — opening mail, breaking down boxes, light food prep — the difference is rarely noticeable. For people who use their knife hard and sharpen infrequently, the gap becomes more apparent.

The 135 Palfrey brings a slightly different design sensibility to the lineup. The “Palfrey” name fits a knife that leans toward refined carry rather than pure utility — the handle shape and finish are more polished, making it a better choice for professional environments where a tactical-looking knife would raise eyebrows. It carries discreetly and looks at home clipped to dress trousers alongside a nice pen.

One underrated aspect of the budget knife boom is what it’s done for new EDC carriers. Five years ago, someone getting into everyday carry knives faced a choice between buying something mediocre for $20 or spending $80+ to get into quality territory. SRM and similar brands have closed that gap, making it practical to start with a capable knife without a significant financial commitment. If the knife gets used and loved, the owner has learned what they value and can upgrade strategically. If the hobby doesn’t stick, they haven’t lost much.

For experienced carriers looking for a beater knife — something they can carry without worry about losing, damaging, or having confiscated at a venue — the SRM lineup makes a compelling case. Buying a second budget knife specifically for situations where you’d feel bad losing a Benchmade is a legitimate carry strategy, and the SRM 125L or 105 Air slots into that role perfectly.

Max LVL EDC’s coverage of the budget and mid-range knife space is consistently reliable. They don’t overhype and they’re honest about the trade-offs. Their Amazon shop link in the description is worth bookmarking for ongoing budget EDC finds. Subscribe if finding quality gear at reasonable prices is your carry philosophy.

Closing Remarks

SRM has earned a spot in the conversation about best budget folding knives, and Max LVL EDC makes the case clearly. Whether you’re a new carrier looking for a first knife or a veteran who wants a capable beater, the 125L and 105 Air are worth serious consideration. What budget knife is currently in your pocket? Share it below.

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