Choosing the top 3 pocket knives out of hundreds really isn't an easy task. Things that were taken into consideration quality, durability, cost effectiveness, design and popularity. Considering all these things, there are definitely other good brands out there, but these are my top 5 picks.
1) Gerber Knives. Because of their track record, durability and huge, huge selection of products, Gerber is at the top of our list. Gerber was established in 1939 by Pete Gerber. One of their most popular products is the LMF II which won Field and Streams "Best of the best" award as well as well as two IFA international knife awards. They have thousands of different types of products, everything from Utility blades, survival knives, tools, fishing, hunting, folding, straight blade and much more.
Spyderco Knives
2) Kershaw knives would be my number 2 pick. Kershaw got its start in Portland Oregon back in 1974. It was formed by a ex-Gerber employee. Kershaw specialized in kitchen cutlery, outdoor and pocket knives. At the blade show in Georgia in 2005 it won 4 major awards with the highest award being Overall knife of the year.
3) Swiss Army Knives are number 3. One of the greatest things about Swiss Army is their popularity among almost everyone, kids, teens and adults. They are very practical because of the many attachments and functions they have. Some of the newer models even have flash drives! Most are fairly inexpensive so anyone can afford them. Swiss Army knives are very durable and if taken care of, can last a life time.
Hopefully this list has been helpful and can help you make a educated decision. Some of the name brands that made the honorable mention, but not the top 3 are Cold Steel, Maxam, Spyderco, Remington, Fury and Buck knives.