Zero Tolerance is a premium brand of folding pocket knives made by the maker of Kershaw. The knives are built as everyday carry tools for opening boxes, cutting cord, prepping food at a picnic and general utility work. They tend to use solid handle materials and fast, smooth opening actions.
The six models below cover different sizes and handle styles. We have not used these products ourselves, so treat the descriptions as general. Please confirm the model number, blade steel, handle material and blade length on the current listing before buying, and check the rules for carrying a folding knife where you live.
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What to Look For
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Size | A compact folder carries easily; a larger one gives more grip |
| Handle | Titanium, carbon fiber and G10 each have a different feel and weight |
| Opening | Flippers and assisted designs differ in speed and feel |
| Clip | A good pocket clip keeps the knife secure but low-profile |
| Local rules | Check local laws on blade length and carry before you buy |
Specs at a Glance
| Model | Handle | Size class | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ZT 0452CF | Carbon fiber and titanium | Compact | Light everyday carry |
| ZT 0562CF | Carbon fiber and titanium | Mid-size | Popular larger folder |
| ZT 0350 | Check listing | Mid-size | Everyday utility folder |
| ZT 0357 | Check listing | Compact | Slim carry |
| ZT 0220 | Check listing | Mid-size | Practical working folder |
| ZT 0801 | Check listing | Compact | Streamlined carry |
The 6 Best Zero Tolerance Folding Knives
1. Zero Tolerance 0452CF
A compact folder with a carbon fiber and titanium handle, aimed at light everyday carry. Check the listing for the steel used and the exact blade length, since small details differ between model years.
Suits: light pocket carry. Strengths: a small, refined build. Weaknesses: small grip for large hands. Skip it if you want a big handle.
View Zero Tolerance 0452CF on Amazon
2. Zero Tolerance 0562CF
A larger folder in the same family, with a handle that gives more to hold in the hand. It suits heavier cutting jobs, such as breaking down cartons or trimming rope and garden twine.
Suits: bigger utility tasks. Strengths: more handle for the hand. Weaknesses: bulkier in a pocket. Skip it if you want a slim knife.
View Zero Tolerance 0562CF on Amazon
3. Zero Tolerance 0350
A mid-size everyday folder with a straightforward handle and a clean blade shape. It is popular among those who want a working knife for the garage, the workshop and the campsite.
Suits: general daily use. Strengths: a practical shape. Weaknesses: the exact specs vary by listing. Skip it if you want an ultra-light knife.
View Zero Tolerance 0350 on Amazon
4. Zero Tolerance 0357
A slim folder aimed at pocket carry. The slim profile is meant to sit flat and out of the way, which helps with dress pants and small pockets.
Suits: slim carry. Strengths: a low-profile shape. Weaknesses: a small handle. Skip it if you have large hands.
View Zero Tolerance 0357 on Amazon
5. Zero Tolerance 0220
A practical working folder with a medium size. It is meant to be used for regular utility cutting, such as opening packages and trimming materials.
Suits: working use. Strengths: a useful, solid shape. Weaknesses: check the exact specs. Skip it if you want a very compact knife.
View Zero Tolerance 0220 on Amazon
6. Zero Tolerance 0801
A streamlined folding knife with a smooth shape that is meant to slide easily in and out of a pocket.
Suits: minimal pocket carry. Strengths: a sleek design. Weaknesses: a narrow grip. Skip it if you want a hefty handle.
View Zero Tolerance 0801 on Amazon
Care and Setup
- Wipe the blade clean and dry after cutting food or damp items.
- Put a small drop of knife oil on the pivot now and then.
- Clean out lint from the handle with a soft brush.
- Check the pivot screw and keep it snug as the maker advises.
- Store the knife closed and dry.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the blade as a pry bar or screwdriver.
- Skipping a check of local carry rules.
- Ignoring a loose pivot screw.
- Buying without confirming the blade length.
- Leaving the knife damp in a pocket.
Zero Tolerance Knife FAQ
What is a Zero Tolerance knife?
It is a premium line of folding knives from the maker of Kershaw, built as everyday carry tools.
Which model should I buy first?
Pick the size that suits your hand and pocket. Compact models carry easily and disappear in a pocket, while larger ones are easier to grip for long tasks.
How do I care for the knife?
Keep it clean, dry and lightly oiled at the pivot.
Are these legal to carry?
Rules differ by place and sometimes by blade length or opening style. Check local laws on folding knives before you buy and before you carry one to work or school.
The Short Version
Pick by size. For light carry, the ZT 0452CF. For a larger handle, the ZT 0562CF. For general use, the ZT 0350. For slim carry, the ZT 0357. For working tasks, the ZT 0220. For a sleek shape, the ZT 0801.
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