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You are here: Home / Outdoor / Best Bushcraft Survival Knives to Buy in [current_date format = 'Y']

Best Bushcraft Survival Knives to Buy in 2023

by Rocky | Last Updated: March 21, 2022

Once in a while, it’s a good idea to take some time off our daily routine and go out for a hike, a hunting trip or a camping trip. But how well are you equipped for your outdoor events? Do you have the necessary outdoor gear?

 

Before setting off your journey, you must ensure that you carry along the essential camping gear if you want to get the most out of your trip. This includes everything from backpacks to hiking shoes to sleeping mats, and so much more.

What about taking the best bushcraft survival knife? If you are indeed a serious outdoor enthusiast, then you will certainly need it – you can use it to chop firewood, start a fire, clear the path, clean fish, cut meat, or cut strings and ropes, and sometimes for self-defense.

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

Contents

  • Best bushcraft knives February 2023
  • 1. Best Overall Bushcraft Knife: [amazon link=”B00BFI8TOA” title=”Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Survival Knife”]
    • Product specifications
  • 2. The Best Heavy-Duty Survival Knife: [amazon link=”B001N1DPDE” title=”Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion”]
    • Product specifications
  • 3. Best Budget Bushcraft Knife: [amazon link=”B0033H7VI6″ title=”Schrade SCHF9 Bushcraft Knife”]
    • Product Specifications
  • 4. Best Fixed Blade Survival Knife: [amazon link=”B078VDNV28″ title=”Esee RB3 Reuben Bolieu Fixed Blade Survival Knife”]
    • Product specifications
  • 5. Best Bushcraft Folding Knife: [amazon link=”B07YXR73NJ” title=”Columbia River CRKT 6235 TJ Schwarz Parascale Bushcraft Folding Knife”]
    • Product specification
  • 6. Best Camping Knife: [amazon link=”B002CC6BPM” title=”Condor Tool & Knife, Bushlore Camp Knife”]
    • Product specifications
  • 7. The Best Bushcraft Knife Blade: [amazon link=”B00ILC72V4″ title=”Spyderco G-10 bushcraft knife”]
    • Product specifications
  • 8. Best Fieldcraft Knife: [amazon link=”B00D3WINPG” title=”Tops Knives Brothers of Bushcraft Knife”]
    • Product specifications
  • 9. Best Outdoor Survival Knife: [amazon link=”B001JA9Y66″ title=”FallKniven F1″]
    • Product specifications
  • Buying guide (what to know before buying a survival knife)
    • i.  Blade material
    • ii.  Handle material
    • iii.  Tang
    • iv.  Blade shape
    • v.  Blade type
    • vi.  Blade grind
    • vii.  Sheath
  • How to use a bushcraft survival knife
  • How to care for a survival knife
  • FAQs
    • Which is the best Bushcraft knife?
    • Which is the best steel in making knives blades?
    • How does cutting edge influence the choice of a bushcraft knife?
  • Conclusion

If you are clueless as to what makes a good bushcraft survival knife, I have a solution for you. In this guide, I’ll discuss the top 10 best bushcraft survival knives of 2023, together with an in-depth buying guide to help you make a sound decision when buying a survival knife.

Best bushcraft knives February 2023

Description Product Availability
Best survival knives of all times Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Survival Knife[amazon fields="B00BFI8TOA" value="button"]
Best Heavy-Duty Survival KnifeKa-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion[amazon fields="B001N1DPDE" value="button"]
Best bushcraft knives under $100Schrade SCHF9[amazon fields="B0033H7VI6" value="button"]
Best Fixed Blade Survival KnifeESEE RB3 Reuben Bolieu[amazon fields="B078VDNV28" value="button"]
Best bushcraft folding knife CRKT 6235 Parascale Bushcraft Folding Knife[amazon fields="B07YXR73NJ" value="button"]
Best Camping KnifeCondor Tool & Knife[amazon fields="B002CC6BPM" value="button"]
Best Bushcraft Knife BladeSpyderco Serrata[amazon fields="B00ILC72V4" value="button"]

1. Best Overall Bushcraft Knife: [amazon link=”B00BFI8TOA” title=”Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Survival Knife”]


Morakniv

Morakniv has an unbeatable reputation when it comes to durable products. With this Morakniv carbon steel knife, you are well equipped for any outdoor event.

The first thing you’ll love about this knife is it’s blade design and strength. It features a 3.2 mm thick, heavy-duty blade that is capable of performing a wide array of activities in the wildness. It’s specially designed to withstand substantial force and pressure when performing demanding outdoor tasks.

The blade also features a thick carbon steel construction to ensure durability and extended edge retention. Furthermore, the blade is coated with a black layer coating to prevent edge corrosion, thus convenient for use in all-weather environments.

As for the knife’s handle, it’s designed with high friction rubber to give the user a firm grip even in wet environments. You won’t have to worry about the knife sliding off your hand in the middle of a task.

Besides, this knife comes with a ton of additional features that you won’t find with its competitors. First, the knife has a ground spine ideal for use with a fire-starter. You don’t have to carry a matchbox, or more importantly, it’s handier when you forget both your match and gas lighter when camping.

This Morakniv knife also comes with a plastic sheath with which a diamond sharpener is incorporated. You can always sharpen the knife at your convenient time.

The polymer sheath has a drainage hole in case water gets inside. It also comes with a removable belt loop and safety clip. You don’t have to pack the knife in your bag, just loop it on your belt, and you are good to go.

Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that this blade has some pretty good reviews on popular sites such as Amazon, and you should definitely give a try.

 

Product specifications

Dimensions 9.2”x1.2”x1.6”
Knife length 9.1”
Weight 142 grams
Blade Length 4.3 inches
Blade thickness 0.125”
Blade design Fixed
Blade material 12C27 Stainless steel
Blade type Drop point, plain edge
Handle material Rubber
Sheath type Plastic
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Non-corrosive
  • Integrated sharpener & fire starter
  • Budget-friendly
Cons
  • Does not ship internationally
  • Less-durable sheath
[amazon box=”B00BFI8TOA”]

2. The Best Heavy-Duty Survival Knife: [amazon link=”B001N1DPDE” title=”Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion”]

Ka-bar

Ka-Bar products never disappoint and neither will this Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campania survival knife. Made in the USA, this fixed blade knife is at the hearts of camping enthusiasts.

With this knife, setting up your camp and preparing food will be hassle-free thanks to its full tang blade design. The capability of this knife is such tremendous that it can help you to survive in the wild for an infinite amount of time. You can use it to cut twigs, cut meat, chop onions, or even skin an animal.

This Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Companion also comes with a sturdy nylon glass-filled sheath to keep the blade sharp and safe. Once you are done with the knife, you just slide it inside the shield. The sheath locks the knife safely to avoid accidents and ensure you don’t lose it along the way.

In case you need to use the knife again, you just have to press a spot on the backside of the sheath with your thumb to eject the blade – you don’t have to pull it out from the sheath every time you need to use it.

This knife won’t disappoint you when cutting things – it features a 20-degree blade angle for increased precision – no worries of distorting your food. Also, the grivory blade provides a balanced grip on the knife while performing any kind of task.

On the flip side, you should lower your expectations of the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion if you are looking to engage in some extra-tough outdoor tasks. Though it will help you some tasks such as splitting wood, it’ll only serve you for the small pieces of wood.

This knife is one of the best knives of all times: [amazon link=”B001N1DPDE” title=”Ka-ar Becker BK2 Campanion"]

Product specifications

Dimensions 3.4”x13.7”x2.5”
Weight 1lbs
Blade type & material Fixed, 1095 cro-van steel blade
Sheath type Glass-reinforced nylon
Blade length 5.5”
Handle type Grivory
Pros
  • Scalpel sharpness
  • Fixed blade
  • Reliable
  • Thick enough
Cons
  • May expose you to chemicals such as TDI
  • Somehow heavy
  • Extra-heavy coating
[amazon box=”B001N1DPDE”]

3. Best Budget Bushcraft Knife: [amazon link=”B0033H7VI6″ title=”Schrade SCHF9 Bushcraft Knife”]


Schrade

The Schrade SCHF9 bushcraft knife, made in Taiwan by Taylor brands, looks simple, yet it’s mighty. Despite its potential, the [amazon link=”B0033H7VI6″ title=”Schrade SCHF9 Bushcraft Knife"]is available for less than $100 on Amazon, and it will handle all critical outdoor tasks without glitches.

The high carbon blend allows the knife to perform excellently in any outdoor task. As for the blade, it’s crafted from superior 1095 carbon steel for increased durability and strength. It’s also long enough to handle demanding tasks efficiently. The blunt blade tip makes it convenient for piercing through things.

Compared to a stainless steel blade, the Schrade SCHF9 retains its sharpness and edges for a more extended period. Furthermore, the material is strong enough to withstand enormous pressure and force while in use.

This knife also features a full-tang design. This innovative design reinforces the blade on the handle, especially when dealing with heavy-duty tasks. It’s also fitted with a finger choil for increased control when in action.

In terms of security, this knife has a front quillon and thumb jumping. It’s noteworthy that the blade has a 90-degree flat spine, which increases precision.

Moreover, this bushcraft survival knife has a ring-textured thermoplastic elastomer handle. You get ultimate comfort and a firm grip on the knife, thanks to the unique handle design – even in wet environments.

The Schrade SCHF9 bushcraft knife also comes with a ballistic belt sheath, which includes a removable storage pouch for safe storage and convenience. To sum up the Schrade SCHF9 knife, a lanyard hole is available for safety or storage. Ensure to insert a lanyard when using the knife for added protection.

Due to its weight, this knife is not the best when it comes to personal defense in times of danger. Remember, the Schrade SCHF9 knife is made of carbon steel, which is heavier.

This knife is one of the best knives of all times: [amazon link=”B0033H7VI6″ title=”Schrade SCHF9 Bushcraft Knife"]

Product Specifications

Dimensions 8”x5”x13”
Knife length 12.1”
Weight 445.088g
Blade Length 6.4”
Blade design Full-tang
Blade material 1095 carbon steel
Handle material Plastic
Sheath type Nylon
Pros
  • Full-tang
  • High-carbon steel blade
  • Budget-friendly
  • Safety measure
Cons
  • Heavier
  • Plastic handle
[amazon box=”B0033H7VI6″]

4. Best Fixed Blade Survival Knife: [amazon link=”B078VDNV28″ title=”Esee RB3 Reuben Bolieu Fixed Blade Survival Knife”]


ESEE

Inspired by the downed pilot scenario, the Esee RB3 survival knife is a heavy-duty knife, capable of handling all sorts of tasks in the wilderness. With this knife in your pack, you are equipped to deal with every job that comes your way fairly.

The knife features a carbon steel blade and a stonewash coating to prevent rusting and corrosion. The steel blade is durable and divergent in uses- it’s ideal for day-to-day duties in the wild such as skinning, shaving, or chopping food.

The blade also features a plain edge (but you can opt the serrated one), thus more versatile. The plain edge makes it easy to sharpen. Also, it has a drop point. Additionally, the Esee RB3 survival knife comes with a micarta handle. It has an ergonomic grip, which gives the user a comfortable and strong grip, even with wet hands.

Since safety is paramount, the USA manufacturer added a lanyard hole on the knife. Therefore, if the knife slips off your hand accidentally, it can’t hurt you. Last but not least, the knife comes with a leather sheath to easy and stress-free storage and portability.

You can bet on this knife any day, anytime – its reliability is close to 100%. The fact that the manufacturer places a lifetime warranty on this knife speaks quality.

You can get this knife on Amazon: [amazon link=”B078VDNV28″ title=”Esee RB3 Reuben Bolieu Fixed Blade Survival Knife"]

Product specifications

Dimensions 8.1”x1.8”x9”
Knife length 8.125”
Weight 166.42 grams
Blade Length 3.50”
Blade thickness 0.13”
Blade design & style Removable, drop point
Blade material 1095 carbon steel
Handle material Canvas micarta
Handle length 4.625”
Made in USA
Pros
  • Multi-purpose
  • Beautiful
  • Lanyard safety hole
  • Lifetime-warranty
Cons
  • Not heavy-duty
  • Legal disclaimer for California residents
[amazon box=”B078VDNV28″]

5. Best Bushcraft Folding Knife: [amazon link=”B07YXR73NJ” title=”Columbia River CRKT 6235 TJ Schwarz Parascale Bushcraft Folding Knife”]

TJ Schwarz crafted the CRKT 6235 with a foldable design in mind – it works perfectly as a pocket knife. Although it looks simple, it will accomplish the necessary outdoor tasks.

In terms of strength and durability, this knife is fitted with a D2 steel blade. The satin-finished blade also features a plain edge for easy sharpening and extended edge retention. The drop point can be used for stabbing and skinning tasks.

As for the handle, it’s made up of glass-reinforced nylon and then wrapped with a paracord to enhance a secure grip. Interestingly, the paracord attached to the handle is about four feet. Thus, you can comfortably use the knife in the woods, even when the weather is wet.

The parascale folder has a deadbolt on the pivot, making the folding knife a handy outdoor companion.  A thumb stud is fitted for easy opening of the blade. An IKBS ball bearing pivot system makes the opening process faster and smoother.

Once opened, the blade locks in place, thanks to the deadbolt. The best part is that the blade endures massive stress and force when in action. A simple mechanism is used – steel bolts interlock with the steel blade when opened and generate enormous strength to achieve the incredible power.

In terms of safety, a dedicated button is located on the pivot for safe and straightforward disengagement. This button ensures you don’t cross fingers on the blade’s path during the disengagement process. The knife has a deep carry pocket clip for easy portability.

You can get this amazing bushcraft folding knife on Amazon: [amazon link=”B07YXR73NJ” title=”Columbia River CRKT 6235 TJ Schwarz Parascale Bushcraft Folding Knife"]

Product specification

Overall  length 7.875”
Closed length 4.682”
Weight 141.75g
Blade Length 3.191”
Blade thickness 0.134”
Blade design & style Folding, drop point
Blade material D2 steel
Handle material Glass-reinforced nylon featuring paracord wrap
Handle length 4.625”
Locking technique Deadbolt
Pivot design IKBS Ball bearing system
Made in Taiwan
Pros
  • Excellent edge retention
  • Multi-weather usage capability
  • Massive strength
  • Firm grip
  • Deadbolt locking mechanism
Cons
  • Limited availability
  • Slightly pricy
[amazon box=”B07YXR73NJ”]

6. Best Camping Knife: [amazon link=”B002CC6BPM” title=”Condor Tool & Knife, Bushlore Camp Knife”]


This bushcraft knife is ideal for a bush crafter with a limited budget. It’s simple, yet it serves the purpose. When great men said that looks could be deceiving, you may think they were referring to the Condor bushcraft knife. You’ll only stop doubting its capabilities when you get to work with it. Even so, the knife has a rich history to boast; it has been in production since 1787.

This Condor bushlore camp knife is fitted with a thick 1075 superior carbon steel blade. This robust construction is responsible for the durability and versatility of this knife. Furthermore, the knife’s satin finish not only makes it stylish but also protects it from rust and corrosion.

Despite the tough tasks its subjected to, the knife’s blade does not bend or break easily. Scandi grind ensures the knife is stronger enough to work seamlessly on wood. The knife’s blade also has excellent edge sharpness and extended sharpness retention too. Its flat 90 degrees spine makes it ideal for lighting fires.

The condor bushlore camp knife also features a full-tang design. Thus, the blade can resist bending and withstand incredible force or pressure while performing heavy-duty tasks. You can quickly chop or drill wood using this knife.

As for the handle, it’s made up of a beautiful and durable hardwood (walnut). The wooden handle gives the user a comfortable grip and enhances balance when the knife is in action.

To carry the knife, you only need to slide it inside its leather sheath. The fact that it’s 100% leather speaks quality – most bush crafters crave for leather sheaths. The sheath is equipped with a belt loop for safe and secure portability.

You can get this survival budget knife on Amazon: [amazon link=”B002CC6BPM” title=”Condor Tool & Knife, Bushlore Camp Knife"]. Alternatively, you can buy the smaller version that has a 3″ blade.

Product specifications

Knife length 9.5”
Weight 340.194 grams
Blade Length 4.375”
Blade design & style Fixed, drop point
Blade material 1075 Carbon Steel
Handle material Walnut wood
Handle length 5.125”
Sheath material Leather
Made in El Salvador
Pros
  • Budget-friendly
  • Good reputation
  • Lanyard safety hole
  • Quality and heavy duty
  • 100% leather sheath
Cons
  • Slightly heavy
  • Uneven grid
  • Sheath lacks a drainage hole
[amazon box=”B002CC6BPM”]

7. The Best Bushcraft Knife Blade: [amazon link=”B00ILC72V4″ title=”Spyderco G-10 bushcraft knife”]

Spyderco
For knife enthusiasts, Spyderco is a household name, and its prowess in self-defense knives is unrivaled. They are replicating the same reputation in the bush crafting knives with the Spyderco G-10 bushcraft knife. This knife is ideal for most heavy-duty tasks such as batoning wood or making shavings to light a fire.

This knife features a four inches high-carbon blade, which is to thank for its strength. Moreover, the carbon content makes it possible to start a fire – all you have to do is stick a flint alongside its spine.

Also, the hardened blade tip makes the blade capable of numerous camping tasks such as cutting, slicing, and chopping. The blade features beautiful slopes that run from the spine to the cutting edge – these bezels ease cutting or sharpening tasks.

What’s even interesting is that the knife has a full-tang construction maximum strength and balance when at work. Its ergonomic handle gives a comfortable and firm grip when using the knife. The handle is made of glass fibre with epoxy resin for added beauty and anti-corrosive protection.

On the safety side, the Spyderco G-10 bushcraft knife comes with a unique boltaron leather sheath. The sheath has a plastic liner in the interior to prevent any damage (cuts).  Also, there is a lanyard hole on the handle to prevent accidents. Lastly, the sheath has a belt loop and eyelets for easy accessibility.

You can get this knife on Amazon: [amazon link=”B00ILC72V4″ title=”Spyderco G-10 bushcraft knife"]

Product specifications

Dimensions 6”x1”x1”
Knife length 8.75”
Weight 219.71 grams
Blade Length 4.63”
Blade thickness 0.138”
Blade design & style Fixed, plain edge, drop point
Blade material 440C stainless steel
Handle material Woven glass fibre
Handle length 4.12”
Sheath material Leather, plastic liner (interior)
Made in New Zealand
Pros
  • Quality leather sheath
  • Ergonomic handle
  • Superior blade
  • Drop-point
  • Reliable
Cons
  • Slippery grip under wet conditions
  • Considerably weighty
  • Expensive
  • Rusts easily if used carelessly
[amazon box=”B00ILC72V4″]

8. Best Fieldcraft Knife: [amazon link=”B00D3WINPG” title=”Tops Knives Brothers of Bushcraft Knife”]

Brothers

The Tops BOB bushcraft is one of the best bushcraft knives in the market today. This heavy-duty knife is designed to work in the most extreme conditions. It’s sturdy and can certainly outlive you on this earth. In case you doubt this BOB knife, it’s been recommended by top wilderness experts who’ve used it in diverse conditions.

The blade is crafted from a 1095 high carbon RC 56-58 stainless steel material, making it non-corrosive and thus ideal in harsh outdoor conditions. The edge is sharp and strong enough to handle tough tasks such as cutting and chopping. It’s also quite easy to sharpen and retains its sharpness for long.

The ergonomic handle is made up of black canvas micarta material to provide a firm grip and increased comfort when handling it. There’s also a thumb area on the hilt, which provides a better grip when doing non-bush tasks.

The handles have a frictionless bow drill divot that helps in starting fires. A scraper is also available on the pommel for striking Ferro rods when lighting fires. A lanyard hole located at the end of the handle allows you to insert a lanyard for secure use.

Furthermore, this knife comes with a beautiful Kydex sheath for stress-free portability and safety. The sheath holds the knife firmly, so there’s no worry of losing it. The sheath has a clip to attach it on your belt or backpack. Still, the sheath has a whistle and fire steel too.

The [amazon link=”B00D3WINPG” title=”Tops Knives Brothers of Bushcraft Knife”"]is available on Amazon and other online sites.

Product specifications

Knife length 10”
Weight 280 grams
Blade Length 4.5”
Blade thickness 0.190”
Blade design & style Fixed, drop point
Blade material 1095 high carbon RC 56-58
Handle material Black canvas micarta
Sheath material Black Kydex
Made in USA
Pros
  • Top-quality sheath
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • it is durable
  • sharp edge
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Bulky sheath clip
[amazon box=”B00D3WINPG”]

9. Best Outdoor Survival Knife: [amazon link=”B001JA9Y66″ title=”FallKniven F1″]

Fallkniven

Fabricated by Japanese artisans, this FallKniven F1 can take care of all your survival needs. In case you doubt its prowess, it’s has been the official Swedish military knife since 1995and it achieves all international standards in terms of strength and security. It’s versatile and durable despite being lightweight.

The FallKniven F1 blade is crafted from VG-10 stainless steel and further coated with a stylish satin finish for increased durability and anti-corrosive protection. The spine is squared at 90 degrees along the edges. Hence, you can scrap to produce sparks if you want to start a fire. Still, the convex-shaped blade is perfect for the most delicate outdoor activities.

This knife is also super easy to sharpen – you can use the sharpening stone or have it done in the local knives shop. The blade achieves razor-sharpness and does not call for regular sharpening. It also has an incredible edge retention capability – not unless when subjected to tough tasks repeatedly.

The F1 slim checkered handle is made with Thermorum, usually a combination of rubber and thermoplastic. The handle gives the user a better grip and comfort when using the knife. It also features a full-tang design for increased strength to withstand immense pressure and effort when performing tough tasks.

Furthermore, the knife comes with a black Zytel sheath for safety and portability. The sheath’s sturdy design makes it capable of enduring years of wear and tear. Also, it has a lanyard hole for safety purposes. Remember to insert a lanyard on the hole to avoid injury in case the knife falls off accidentally. The sheath has 3” belt loop too.

This knife is ideal for camping, backpacking, hiking, hunting, or cleaning fish. The FallKniven F1 is undoubtedly a great addition to your camping accessories. You can purchase the [amazon link=”B001JA9Y66″ title=”Tops Knives Brothers of Bushcraft Knife"] easily on Amazon.

Product specifications

Dimensions 9.4”x2.4”x1.7”
Knife length 8.25”
Weight 181.44 grams
Blade Length 3.75”
Blade thickness 0.177”
Blade design & style Fixed, convex-shaped
Blade material VG-10 stainless steel
Handle material Thermorun
Sheath material Black nylon
Made in Sweden
Pros
  • Military-grade
  • Superb edge retention
  • Full-tang design
Cons
  • Uncomfortable for individuals with large hands
  • Considerably heavy
  • Prone to chipping
[amazon box=”B001JA9Y66″]

Buying guide (what to know before buying a survival knife)

When it comes to purchasing a bushcraft knife, you will need to understand what’s makes a good knife. Below, I have highlighted some essential factors to keep in mind when choosing a personal bushcraft knife. It’s necessary to pay attention to these factors before making a purchase.

i.  Blade material

One of the key features to consider when buying a bushcraft survival knife is the blade – it’s what’s defines the knife’s do’s and don’ts. While most people go for an all-purpose knife, it’s important to understand your needs so that you get the ideal knife.

While a knife’s blade can be made up of a variety of materials, the most popular ones are stainless steel and high carbon. If you are looking for a strong survival knife, then I’d recommend going for a stainless steel blade. Furthermore, if you’ll be working on wet and humid environments, the stainless steel blade comes in handy thanks to its rust-resistant abilities.

On the other hand, high carbon steel offers strength and sturdiness. It is, therefore, perfect for tight, detail-oriented tasks that involve a lot of pressure and force. The high carbon steel also prides itself on ease of sharpening and incredible edge retention. The only downside of this material is corrosion and rust. To avoid these challenges, most knives manufacturers apply a coating on the blade.

Take into consideration your needs and make an informed decision with ease.

ii.  Handle material

The handle is another crucial consideration to keep in mind when choosing a survival knife – unless you don’t mind the knife slipping off your hand every time you’re working.

While there is a wide array of materials used to make knives handles, the most popular ones include plastic, wood, rubber, thermorun, carbon, and grivory. A good survival knife should provide a firm grip, even when used in wet or humid environments.

To add on that, it should come with a lanyard hole for added protection. In case you drop the knife while working, the lanyard prevents it from falling or causing injuries.

iii.  Tang

A tang is an essential part of the blade that extends into the handle. If you are looking for the strongest survival knife in the market, then full-tangle is what you should get. It’s designed to withstand the toughest pressure and ensure that you get through your adventure stress-free.

iv.  Blade shape

When it comes to the knife’s blade shape, you have a variety of blade types to choose from. There is recurve, Wharncliffe, gut hook, hawksbill, spear point, tanto, sheepsfoot, drop point, and clip point. For the best bushcraft survival knives, I’d recommend the drop point blade type. These types of blades are ideal for outdoor tasks such as hunting, chopping wood, skinning, and stabbing.

v.  Blade type

There are two types of survival knives, one with a fixed blade and another with a folding blade. If you are looking for a sturdy knife to perform everything thrown at it, then the fixed blade is the way to go. Most fixed-knives manufacturers include a sheath for convenient storage and transportation.

A folding blade, on the other hand, will perform normal outdoor activities that do not require a lot of effort. Also, carrying the knife is more convenient – you simply fold it and put it inside your pocket.

vi.  Blade grind

It’s without debate that a good blade grind should be durable and versatile enough to withstand high pressure. While there are numerous types to choose from, the Scandi grind blades are the best for outdoor activities. Other grind types to look at include flat grind, convex grind, and chisel grind.

vii.  Sheath

A sheath is an essential component of any bushcraft survival knife. One minute you are using the knife- the next minute you are not. A sheath is necessary for convenient portability and increased safety when carrying the knife.

The sheath material is of utmost importance too – for a durable and robust sheath, I would recommend a leather or nylon material for the sheath. Still, make sure it’s secure and classy.

How to use a bushcraft survival knife

After buying the knife, the next step is to learn how to use it. While most knives have similar capabilities, some knives come with additional uses. Besides the typical daily tasks an ordinary knife can perform, I’ll focus on other outdoor tasks that a bushcraft knife can be used for.

  1. Constructing shelters – while in the wilderness, a survival knife comes in handy when setting up a simple structure to spend your night in. You can use the knife to cut tree branches, sharpen tent stubs, or create cordages to tie poles together.
  2. Food preparation – unless you are going on a hunger strike adventure, you’ll need a good knife to gather and prepare food. A survival knife can be used to hunt, slaughter, skin, slice, clean fish, dig root-based plants and chop food, among other uses.
  3. Survival tools – a bushcraft knife can be used to make survival tools in the jungle, such as spears, harpoons, batons, or mallets.
  4. Self-defense – In case of danger, like a wild animal attack, you can use the knife for protection.
  5. Make saps in trees – while in the wilderness, you may need to gather rainwater, and you’ll need to prepare saps. Furthermore, you may need to make tree dents when climbing trees for fruit harvesting.
  6. The knife can be used to create sparks when lighting fires.
How to use a bushcraft survival knife correctly

To avoid endangering your life and those of your crew members, it’s essential to use a bushcraft survival knife correctly. This entails;

  • Never use body parts such as fingers to test the knife’s sharpness.
  • When using the knife (chopping, cutting, or stabbing), always ensure the motion is away from your body.
  • In case you are with your friends’ company, always ensure you are using the knife at a safe distance from your friends.
  • Always ensure the knife is sharp when handling tough tasks

How to care for a survival knife

While most bushcraft knives manufacturers will tell you that their knives could last for a lifetime, proper care and maintenance is still essential. Otherwise, you will be surprised how false that claim could be. Some simple maintenance tips include;

  • Never use the knife on tough tasks when dull
  • Always sharpen the knife when dull
  • In case the knife’s blade is made of high carbon (prone to rusting), wash and dry it after use. In some instances, such as a wet environment, oil regularly
  • Store the knives in a dry place when not in use

FAQs

Which is the best Bushcraft knife?

This question is subjective. To start with, all the knives in this article are top-notch – there’s no right and lousy knife. The best knife, however, will depend on your needs and how you plan to use the knife.

Generally, the best bushcraft knife should have a durable and robust blade to withstand even the toughest pressure applied to it. Furthermore, its handle should be ergonomic to make sure that it doesn’t slip off when working. If the knife can come with a leather sheath, the better!

Which is the best steel in making knives blades?

As stated above, stainless steel and high carbon steel are the most widely and best blade materials for bushcraft knives. Stainless steel is less durable but perfect for wet environments due to its anti-corrosion and anti-rust capabilities.

On the other hand, high carbon steel is the best for individuals looking for a more robust and durable knife. The carbon steel material also boasts of brilliant edge sharpness and incredible edge retention.

How does cutting edge influence the choice of a bushcraft knife?

Once again, the best cutting edge depends on the intended purpose of the knife. A more significant angle yields a more substantial edge, while a steeper angle gives a weaker edge. With this in mind, blades with a thin cutting edge fare well in delicate tasks such as food preparation.

On the other end, knives with a thick cutting edge are ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as plying wood – a thick cutting edge can withstand massive pressure and force.

Conclusion

Now that you have a list of the best bushcraft survival knives of 2023 at your fingertips, it’s upon you to decide the survival knife that works for you.

Just remember to keep in mind the tips we’ve discussed above when identifying the ideal survival knife for your outdoor activities. Lastly, ensure you follow the safety precautions to avoid injuries.

All the best in your adventures!

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