Testing the Best Outdoor Knives on the Market: Expert Insights and Top Picks

Outdoor activities often demand reliable and versatile gear, particularly when it comes to knives. A high-quality outdoor knife can play a crucial role in various tasks such as cutting ropes, preparing food, or even assisting in emergency situations. This article aims to discuss the process of testing and reviewing the best outdoor knives available in the market, as well as their most important features and practical applications.

Understanding and comparing different outdoor knives is essential to ensure their performance in specific contexts. Besides the basic features of a knife, a number of factors need to be taken into account when testing, such as the blade materials, handle design, safety features, as well as the overall durability and reliability of the knives. The experts conducting these tests follow a systematic methodology, closely examining the best options to provide a comprehensive evaluation and comparison.

Key Takeaways

• Examining various outdoor knives based on their features, materials, and design.
• Using a methodical testing process to review and compare the performance of each knife.
• Understanding the practical applications and proper usage of the best outdoor knives.

Understanding Knife Basics

Types of Outdoor Knives

There are various types of outdoor knives that cater to different needs and preferences:

1. Fixed Blade Knives: These knives have a solid, single-piece construction, providing strength and durability. Examples include bushcraft knives and survival knives.
2. Folding Knives: Also known as pocket knives or everyday carry (EDC) knives, these have a folding mechanism that allows the blade to be stored in the handle.
3. Bushcraft Knives: Designed for various wilderness tasks such as wood carving, cutting branches, or preparing food, bushcraft knives are versatile and reliable.
4. Survival Knives: These knives are designed for emergency situations and often have additional features like lanyard holes, fire starters, or built-in signal mirrors.

Blade Materials and Steel Types

Outdoor knife blades are commonly made from the following materials:

• Stainless steel: A popular choice due to its corrosion resistance, stainless steel may have lower edge retention compared to other blade materials.
• Carbon steel: Known for its excellent edge retention and ease of sharpening, carbon steel is more prone to rust than stainless steel.
• Tool steel: A type of high-carbon steel, tool steel is often used in survival knives and has a good balance of edge retention and corrosion resistance.

Some specific steel types include O1 tool steel and the coated carbon blade mentioned in the search results.

Edge Types and Blade Shapes

Knife blades come in a variety of shapes, each suited for specific tasks:

1. Clip Point: A popular choice for hunting knives, the clip point has a curved edge leading to a sharp tip, offering better control for detailed tasks.
2. Drop Point: Characterized by a curved blade and a broad tip, this versatile shape is suitable for various outdoor tasks and is often found in bushcraft knives.
3. Tanto: A Japanese-inspired blade shape with a straight edge and an angular tip, the tanto design is great for piercing tough materials.
4. Serrated Edge: This type of edge features small, sharp teeth that are effective for cutting through fibrous materials.

Handle Types and Materials

A knife’s handle can greatly affect its comfort and ease of use. Some common materials include:

• Wood: Traditional and visually appealing, wooden handles offer a comfortable grip, but may be less durable compared to synthetic materials.
• Synthetic: Materials such as G-10, Micarta, or Kraton provide excellent durability and grip, even in wet conditions.
• Metal: Often found on folding knives, metal handles can be stronger and more durable, but may be less comfortable or slippery when wet.

It’s important to consider factors such as the knife’s intended use, your preferred grip style, and personal aesthetic preferences when choosing a handle material.

Testing Criteria and Methodology

When it comes to evaluating the best outdoor knives on the market, it is crucial to use a rigorous and methodical approach. Our testing methodology includes various factors such as sharpness, edge retention, handling, ergonomics, durability, material quality, and versatility in use. In this section, we will outline the key aspects of each testing criterion and discuss their importance in assessing the overall performance of outdoor knives.

Sharpness and Edge Retention

The primary function of an outdoor knife is cutting, making sharpness and edge retention crucial factors to consider. We begin by examining factory sharpness and how well each knife maintains its cutting edge over time. Evaluating the knives’ performance on various tasks such as slicing, cutting, and chopping is crucial to understand their overall cutting ability. Using standardized testing materials, we measure the sharpness and durability of the edge by doing tasks like cutting a rope, slicing cardboard, and whittling wood.

Handling and Ergonomics

An outdoor knife must be comfortable and easy to use, ensuring a safe and efficient experience for the user. We assess the ergonomics by considering factors like grip, weight, and balance. Evaluating the knives under various conditions ensures a comprehensive evaluation. We also test the grip in both wet and dry conditions, and while wearing gloves, to simulate real-world use and ensure the user will be comfortable and secure in different situations.

Durability and Material Quality

The durability of an outdoor knife is crucial, as it often faces harsh conditions and heavy use. We examine the knives’ construction, including tang construction and the materials used, such as blade steel and handle materials. High-quality materials like stainless and carbon steel for blades and G10 handles for grips contribute to the longevity and performance of a knife. Additionally, we subject the knives to stress tests like tip strength, lateral force, and corrosion resistance, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of field use without compromise.

Versatility in Use

Finally, we evaluate the versatility of each outdoor knife by examining how well-suited they are for various tasks and environments. Some popular blade grinds for outdoor knives include scandi grind and survival blades, which need to excel in tasks like batoning, carving, and food preparation. By testing the knives in different scenarios and comparing their performance, we gain insight into their overall adaptability, ensuring a well-rounded and functional tool ideal for any outdoor enthusiast.

In conclusion, our testing criteria and methodology provide a thorough and consistent evaluation of the best outdoor knives on the market, ensuring that users can confidently make informed decisions about the most suitable outdoor knife for their needs.

Specific Knife Reviews

Hunting Knives

When it comes to hunting knives, the Montana Knife Company Blackfoot 2.0 stands out as the best field dressing knife. This knife is designed to make cutting tasks during hunting trips easy and efficient. It features a sharp and durable blade, ergonomic handle, and a sturdy construction ideal for hunters.

Bushcraft Knives

For bushcraft enthusiasts, the Morakniv Garberg BlackBlade is an excellent choice for a bushcraft knife. This knife is designed to handle a variety of tasks such as carving, cutting, and even processing wood for a fire. Its versatility, durability, and comfortable grip make it a popular choice among bushcraft experts.

Survival Knives

In the survival knife category, three top performers deserve mention. The Tom Brown Tracker, known for its unusual shape and diverse functionality, is highly regarded as the best overall survival knife. It can handle various tasks such as chopping, splitting, and carving, making it an indispensable companion in a survival scenario.

The Morakniv Kansbol, priced at a more budget-friendly range, offers exceptional value without compromising on quality. This knife’s balance of durability, cutting ability, and ergonomics make it a reliable option.

A top choice for a small survival knife is the ESEE Izula II. Despite its size, the Izula II is tough and capable of tackling various tasks, making it an ideal backup or neck knife.

EDC and Tactical Knives

For everyday carry (EDC) and tactical knives, the Gerber StrongArm stands out for its impressive durability, strength, and versatility. With its fixed blade design and diamond-texture rubber handle for a secure grip, the StrongArm is an excellent option for both utility and self-defense purposes.

Overall, these knives mentioned above have proven themselves to be exceptional choices in their respective categories – hunting, bushcraft, survival, and EDC/tactical applications – ensuring that users have the right tool for each situation.

Key Features to Consider

When looking for the best outdoor knife, several key features should be considered to ensure you find the right one to meet your needs. This section will cover four crucial factors, helping you make an informed decision.

Blade Length and Thickness

Blade length and thickness play a significant role in determining a knife’s versatility and durability. Shorter blades, typically between 3 to 5 inches, offer more control and precision for tasks like carving and food preparation. Longer blades, usually ranging from 5 to 10 inches, provide additional reach and are better suited for chopping and batoning wood.

Thickness is another crucial aspect, as it contributes to the knife’s overall strength. A blade thickness of 0.125 inches to 0.25 inches is generally considered suitable for most outdoor activities, offering a balance between strength and weight. Thinner blades lend themselves well to delicate tasks, while thicker blades can withstand heavier use.

Full Tang vs Partial Tang

The tang refers to the part of the blade that extends into the handle. A full tang knife has a tang that runs the entire length of the handle, providing strength and durability. Partial tang designs, on the other hand, have a tang that extends only partially into the handle. Full tang knives are typically preferred for outdoor use due to their sturdiness, with examples found in the market.

Fixed vs Folding Design

Deciding between a fixed blade and a folding knife is another important consideration. Fixed blades are typically stronger, more reliable, and better suited for heavy-duty tasks. They often come with sheaths for secure storage.

Folding knives, contrastingly, are compact, lightweight, and ideal for everyday carry. A folding knife with a pocket clip ensures quick access, making it convenient for daily use.

Specialty Features

Some outdoor knives come with unique features to enhance their functionality, such as:

• Kydex sheath: A weather-resistant and durable option for protecting your blade.
• Ferro rod: An integrated fire starter, useful in emergencies or when building a campfire.
• Feather stick capabilities: The ability to create feather sticks for kindling, which requires a sharp and precise blade.

In conclusion, pay attention to blade length, thickness, tang design, fixed vs folding, and specialty features when selecting the perfect outdoor knife. This will ensure that you are well-equipped and prepared for various tasks in outdoor settings.

Additional Considerations

Sheath Options and Carry Methods

When selecting an outdoor knife, it’s important to consider the available sheath options and carry methods. A good sheath not only protects the blade but also ensures easy access to the knife. There are various materials used for sheaths, such as leather, nylon, and kydex, each with their own pros and cons. Leather offers a classic look and feel, while nylon is lightweight and affordable. Kydex, on the other hand, is a durable and weather-resistant option.

The carry method is equally important, as it affects how comfortably and securely you can carry your knife. Some common carry methods include belt loops, MOLLE attachments, and neck lanyards. Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your personal preferences and intended use for the knife.

Knife Maintenance and Care

Proper knife maintenance and care can greatly extend the lifespan of your outdoor knife. Regular cleaning is crucial, especially after exposure to corrosive substances or moisture. Be sure to remove dirt and debris from the blade, handle, and any moving parts.

It is essential to maintain the blade profile, as it can affect the cutting performance. A field sharpener is a valuable tool for keeping the edge sharp in the outdoors. Moreover, using a rust-resistant steel such as 52100 steel can reduce the need for frequent maintenance, since this type of steel is less likely to corrode.

Price Range and Value for Money

Outdoor knives are available in a wide price range, from affordable to expensive options. When considering the cost of a knife, it’s crucial to assess the overall value for money. Factors that contribute to the value of a knife include materials, craftsmanship, and durability. Ideally, you should aim to find a knife that offers a good balance between quality and price.

Here’s a simple table to outline some general price ranges and associated features:

Keep in mind that expensive knives are not always better, but they may offer extra features or outstanding performance that might justify the higher cost. Ultimately, the best outdoor knife for you comes down to finding the perfect balance between your budget and requirements.

Practical Application and Use Cases

Camping and Backpacking

When it comes to camping and backpacking, a reliable knife is an essential gear. A lightweight folding knife like the Kershaw Iridium Black is suitable for various tasks, from preparing food to setting up a shelter. Many backpackers also prefer the Morakniv Garberg BlackBlade for its robust, durable design, perfect for crafting tools and bushcraft.

Hunting and Field Dressing

A selection of quality hunting and field dressing knives is crucial for efficient processing of game. The Montana Knife Company Blackfoot 2.0 is a top pick for field dressing, while the White River M1 Caper is a versatile option for everyday carry. For a more specialized approach, the TOPS Muley Skinner is a great choice for skinning, and the Gerber Moment Gut Hook provides a practical solution for gutting game.

Fishing and Processing Game

When it comes to fishing and processing game, a sharp and precise knife is essential. The CRKT BIWA compact knife is ideal for small game and fish, offering an ergonomic grip and a durable stainless steel blade. Additionally, the Havalon Piranta Original features replaceable blades, making it perfect for cleaning and filleting fish on-the-go.

Survival Situations and Preparedness

In survival situations and preparedness, a reliable and durable knife is a critical tool. The ESEE-4 3D Hunting Knife is a popular choice for bushcraft and survival enthusiasts, thanks to its robust design and high-quality materials. The Benchmade Altitude Carbon Fiber also stands out as a lightweight fixed blade knife, providing reliable performance in various environments.

Each of these knives offers unique benefits in various outdoor activities. Selecting the right knife for the specific application will ensure users have a dependable tool to rely on when needed.

Comparative Analysis

In this section, we will analyze the best outdoor knives on the market through a comparative lens. We will provide a knife comparison chart and a list of top picks for various categories.

Knife Comparison Chart

Top Picks for Various Categories

Longest Blade: Benchmade Meatcrafter – With a blade length of 6.08 inches, the Benchmade Meatcrafter is ideal for precise cutting tasks such as slicing.

Smallest Knife: Benchmade Raghorn Carbon Fiber – The compact Benchmade Raghorn Carbon Fiber is an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality knife without the bulk.

Best Edge Retention: Montana Knife Company Stonewall Skinner – The Montana Knife Company Stonewall Skinner boasts high-quality steel, S35VN stainless steel, offering exceptional edge retention.

Best Bushcraft Knife: Morakniv Garberg – The Morakniv Garberg features a durable Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel blade, making it ideal for bushcraft activities like feather stick creation and wood carving.

Best Survival Knife: Tom Brown Tracker – Designed with survival situations in mind, the Tom Brown Tracker pairs a 4.25-inch high carbon steel blade with a versatile, multi-functional design, allowing for chopping, crafting, and more.

In conclusion, the best outdoor knife for your needs will depend on your intended use and personal preferences. Consider factors such as blade length, weight, edge retention, and intended use when selecting the right knife for you.

Conclusion

It is evident that the market offers a variety of high-quality outdoor knives, each with a specific focus and use case. Outdoor enthusiasts should consider the knives’ specific features when choosing the ideal option for their needs.

Some knives excel at piercing tasks, like the Tom Brown Tracker, and are exceptional for self-defense and hunting. In contrast, others are designed for prying and heavy-duty tasks, such as the Helle Nord, which has a sturdy construction for extreme conditions.

For those who require an all-rounder that delivers smooth slices, options like the Morakniv Garberg BlackBlade stand out. This knife is versatile enough for both bushcraft and kitchen chores, making it a practical and useful addition to any outdoor adventure.

Splitting kindling is another common task when camping or exploring the wilderness. The Mossy Oak Survival Knife is known for its efficiency in creating small kindling for fires with its robust blade, adding another level of practicality to an outdoor enthusiast’s gear.

Comfort and grip are also essential factors to consider. Many outdoor knives, such as the Gerber StrongArm Tactical Knife, feature rubberized handles to ensure control and ease of use even in wet or challenging conditions.

For backpackers and trekkers who prioritize carry weight, ultralight folding knives like the Kershaw Iridium Black offer a convenient and reliable cutting tool on the go without adding too much weight to their packs.

In conclusion, outdoor knife enthusiasts have many options to choose from, each providing a unique set of features and capabilities. By considering the required tasks and preferences such as weight, grip, and blade type, one can confidently select the perfect outdoor knife to accompany their adventures.

Glossary of Terms

Tang: The part of the knife blade that extends into the handle, providing stability and balance. There are two main types, full and partial tang. A full tang runs through the entire length of the handle, while a partial tang is shorter and doesn’t reach the handle end.

Spine: The unsharpened “back” or “top” of a knife. It is the side opposite the sharp edge. Double-edged knives do not have spines. The spine provides strength to the knife and is sometimes used for tasks like striking a fire starter.

Blade Shapes:

• Clip Point: A popular blade shape found in many folding and fixed blade knives, with a curved or straight spine that tapers to the tip, providing precise control for tasks like piercing and cutting. Bowie knives often feature clip points.
• Drop Point: A versatile blade shape with a convex spine that slopes gently from the handle to the tip, creating a strong point suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Used in ESEE Izula II and popular as a survival and hunting knife.
• Sheepsfoot: A blade shape with a straight edge and a spine that curves down to meet it at the tip. This design is ideal for cutting and slicing tasks while minimizing the risk of accidental piercing.

Rockwell Hardness: The standard test for determining the hardness of a blade’s steel, where a diamond point is forced into a finish blade and the level of penetration is then measured. Blades with higher Rockwell hardness values tend to have better edge retention but may be more brittle.

Grind: The shape of the bevel that forms the knife’s edge. Different grinds result in different performance characteristics. Some common grinds include:

• Hollow Grind: A blade that has been ground with a concave shape, creating a thin and extremely sharp edge.
• Flat Grind: A blade with a straight taper from the spine to the edge, offering a balance of sharpness and durability.
• Scandi Grind (Sabre Grind): A blade with a flat bevel that extends from the edge halfway up to the spine or sometimes almost to the spine, resulting in a robust edge perfect for bushcraft knives such as the Morakniv Garberg BlackBlade.

With a clear understanding of these terms, you will be more knowledgeable when exploring the best outdoor knives on the market.