As an outdoor enthusiast, I’ve had my fair share of adventures. Believe me when I say, your survival knife is your best friend out there. Why, you ask? Well, from chopping wood, cutting ropes, preparing food to more survival-related tasks, it’s the most versatile tool you can carry. But finding the perfect survival knife can be tricky. Survival knife is also an essential item that should be part of any survival kit. In this guide, we’ll dissect what makes a great survival knife and list the top 10 options available in the market today.

What Makes a Great Survival Knife

The effectiveness of a survival knife largely depends on its features. Let’s go over some of the most crucial ones.

Size and Weight

Size does matter when it comes to survival knives. A blade too big might make detailed tasks challenging, while a tiny one could struggle with heavy-duty jobs. A good survival knife usually has a blade between 4 to 6 inches. The weight should be enough to feel sturdy but not so much as to be burdensome.

Blade Material

Most survival knives are made of either stainless steel or carbon steel. Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust but might need frequent sharpening. Carbon steel, on the other hand, holds an edge longer but is prone to rust.

Handle Material

A good handle provides a comfortable, secure grip and can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Materials vary from rubber, which offers excellent grip, to wood, which is durable but may require maintenance to keep it in good condition.

Source of References

“The Cutting Edge: The Science of Knives” – This article from the American Chemical Society delves into the science behind knife blades, discussing aspects such as material, hardness, and sharpness.

“Choosing a Survival Knife” – This piece from Outdoor Life provides more commentary on the importance of choosing the right survival knife and what factors to consider.

Top 10 Best Survival Knives

Now, let’s dive into our top 10 picks, shall we?

Survival Knife Review #1: Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro Knife

Quick Words: Gerber’s partnership with the famed survivalist Bear Grylls has resulted in a knife that boasts a 4.8-inch fine-edge, full-tang blade. It’s crafted from high carbon stainless steel and is an excellent choice for a variety of tasks. A useful bonus is the included fire starter and sharpener in the sheath.

Pros: Durable, versatile, and features an additional survival toolkit.
Cons: The handle can feel a bit bulky for some users.

The Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro Knife is more than just a knife – it’s a complete survival system in itself. Born out of the collaboration between Gerber, a trusted name in the knife industry, and Bear Grylls, the renowned survival expert, it has been carefully designed to help you tackle all manner of wilderness tasks and survival scenarios.

The Ultimate Pro Knife features a full-tang, fine-edge blade made from premium 9Cr19MoV stainless steel. With a length of 4.8 inches, it is compact yet robust enough to perform a wide array of tasks, from slicing, chopping to precision cutting. The high carbon content of the steel gives the blade excellent strength and edge retention, while the stainless factor ensures resistance to corrosion, essential in a survival knife.

But the Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro Knife doesn’t stop at the blade. The handle, made from durable and grippy rubber, ensures a firm hold even in wet or cold conditions. It also has two holes at its base for secure lashing to a stick, enabling you to create a makeshift spear – an essential feature for hunting or self-defense in the wild.

There’s more. The base of the handle is designed as a pommel, sturdy enough to be used for striking or hammering, turning the knife into a useful tool for breaking hard objects or setting up camp.

One of the most distinctive features of this knife is the additional survival toolkit integrated into the sheath. A pull-through sharpener helps keep the blade in top condition. There’s also a fire starter rod tucked into a watertight holder, allowing you to start a fire even in wet and cold conditions.

Pros:

The Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro Knife offers you a plethora of survival tools in one compact package. The design is well thought out, prioritizing versatility and durability. The blade is high-quality and retains sharpness for a long time. The fire starter and sharpener included in the sheath are handy bonuses that add value.

Cons:

Despite its many pros, the knife is not without potential downsides. Some users may find the handle a bit bulky, making it uncomfortable for prolonged use. The knife is also slightly on the heavier side compared to some other survival knives, which may be a consideration for those needing to travel light.

In summary, the Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro Knife is a highly capable survival knife, designed with a keen understanding of the challenges you might face in the wild. Its multifunctional nature, combined with high-quality construction, makes it an excellent choice for both seasoned adventurers and beginners.

Survival Knife Review #2: KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion Knife

Quick Words: This hefty knife with a full-tang 5.25-inch blade is a reliable tool for all outdoor adventures. It’s rugged, sturdy, and the drop point blade design makes it a great choice for chopping and slicing.

Pros: Incredibly durable and suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
Cons: Slightly heavy and may be too robust for detailed tasks.

The KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion Knife is a robust, reliable tool that’s designed to handle all your camping chores. It’s a product of the collaboration between KA-BAR, a brand known for its military-grade knives, and Ethan Becker, a seasoned outdoorsman and knife designer.

This knife features a 5.25-inch full-tang blade crafted from 1095 Cro-Van steel. This carbon steel variant is known for its toughness, wear resistance, and easy-to-sharpen nature. The thickness of the blade – a hefty 1/4-inch – speaks volumes about the durability and hard-use capabilities of the knife. Its drop-point shape, coupled with a wide belly, makes the knife proficient at a variety of tasks from splitting wood, skinning game, to preparing meals.

The handle of the Becker BK2 is another highlight. Made from Grivory, a high-strength, glass-reinforced nylon, it provides a secure grip and is ergonomically shaped to reduce hand fatigue during prolonged use. Its size is generous enough to accommodate large hands, and the texture ensures a non-slip grip even in wet conditions.

The knife comes with a glass-filled nylon sheath that’s as durable as the knife itself. The sheath includes a belt loop for easy portability, and its design ensures that the knife stays securely in place.

Pros:

The KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion Knife stands out for its toughness and versatility. It’s built to handle heavy-duty tasks, making it an excellent choice for camping, hunting, or any outdoor adventure. The use of 1095 Cro-Van steel makes the blade easy to maintain in the field. The Grivory handle offers a firm grip and is comfortable for prolonged use.

Cons:

On the flip side, the knife’s robustness also leads to its primary disadvantage – weight. Weighing just over a pound, it’s one of the heavier knives in its category, which might be a concern for weight-sensitive outdoor enthusiasts. Also, while the knife excels at heavy-duty tasks, it might not be as agile for delicate tasks such as carving or preparing small game.

In conclusion, the KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion Knife is a high-performing survival knife. If you’re seeking a hard-use tool that can withstand the rigors of the great outdoors, this knife could be your reliable “companion.”

Survival Knife Review #3: Fallkniven A1 Fine Edge Fixed Blade Knife

Quick Words: The A1 from Fallkniven features a VG10 steel blade known for its edge retention and resistance to corrosion. Its rugged design and 6.3-inch blade length make it ideal for tough outdoor situations.

Pros: Superior edge retention and great resistance to corrosion.
Cons: Higher price point than some other models.

Sweden’s Fallkniven has a sterling reputation for producing high-quality knives, and the A1 Fine Edge Fixed Blade Knife is no exception. Engineered to withstand the rigors of harsh climates, this knife is a top contender for any survival situation.

The A1 features a 6.3-inch blade that is constructed from laminated VG10 steel. This particular type of steel, sandwiched between two layers of softer stainless steel, provides excellent edge retention, sharpness, and an impressive level of resistance to corrosion. The laminated construction grants additional durability and resistance to breakage, as the softer steel layers add flexibility while the VG10 core maintains the sharp edge.

The blade is designed with a drop point and a convex grind, creating a strong, sharp tip that is ideal for piercing, while the grind ensures the blade is robust and remains sharp over extended use. The knife’s full-tang design further enhances its overall strength, offering you the confidence to tackle hard-use tasks without the fear of breakage.

The handle of the Fallkniven A1 is made from Kraton, a semi-rubber material that ensures a reliable grip in a wide range of environmental conditions. It’s also ergonomically designed to provide comfort during extended use, reducing hand fatigue.

Pros:

The Fallkniven A1 Fine Edge Fixed Blade Knife delivers an impressive performance with its premium VG10 steel blade that offers superior edge retention and excellent resistance to corrosion. The full-tang construction guarantees a high level of strength, and the Kraton handle provides a secure, comfortable grip in any weather.

Cons:

One of the few drawbacks of the A1 could be its price point, which is higher than many other survival knives on the market. However, considering its outstanding features and superior performance, it can be argued that it provides excellent value for the money. Some users may also find the knife a bit large for more delicate tasks.

In conclusion, the Fallkniven A1 is a fantastic survival knife that offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and comfort. It’s a great choice for those who are willing to invest in a high-quality tool for serious outdoor survival scenarios.

Survival Knife Review #4: Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Survival Knife

Quick Words: Morakniv Bushcraft features a 4.3-inch carbon steel blade and a high-friction rubber grip handle that ensures secure handling. It comes with an integrated fire starter and diamond sharpener.

Pros: Great value for the price, and includes useful accessories.
Cons: Carbon steel requires extra care to prevent rusting.

The Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Survival Knife is a solid and highly regarded tool from a Swedish manufacturer known for producing reliable, affordable knives.

This knife features a 4.3-inch blade made from high carbon steel, boasting impressive toughness and sharpness. It’s incredibly thick for its size, approximately 3.2mm, which means you won’t need to worry about it breaking under pressure. The carbon steel also allows for easy sharpening in the field, although it requires extra care to prevent rust and corrosion. It’s coated with a black anti-corrosive layer to mitigate this issue.

The blade is designed with a Scandinavian grind, making it perfect for carving, cutting, or chopping tasks, and it retains its edge well. The drop point design enhances the knife’s versatility, allowing for a wide range of bushcraft and survival tasks.

The handle of the Morakniv Bushcraft knife is made from high-friction rubber, ensuring a secure grip even in wet conditions. It’s ergonomically shaped to fit comfortably in your hand, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

One standout feature of this knife is the integrated survival kit that comes with it. The knife sheath includes a diamond sharpener and a fire starter, making it a comprehensive survival tool that’s ready for any scenario.

Pros:

The Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Survival Knife offers great value for its price, featuring a robust carbon steel blade and a comfortable, high-friction grip. The included fire starter and sharpener add significant value, making it an all-in-one survival tool.

Cons:

While carbon steel offers many benefits, it is more susceptible to rust compared to stainless steel, so it will need extra care, especially in wet environments. The knife’s relatively short blade may also not be ideal for larger bushcraft tasks.

To sum up, the Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Survival Knife is a practical and affordable survival tool that combines a tough blade, a comfortable handle, and useful survival accessories. It’s a fantastic option for outdoor enthusiasts on a budget who still want a high-performing, durable survival knife.

Survival Knife Review #5: ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife

Quick Words: The ESEE 6P offers a 6.5-inch high carbon 1095 steel blade that’s perfect for rigorous outdoor tasks. Its full-tang design ensures durability, and it’s backed by ESEE’s no-questions-asked warranty.

Pros: High durability and excellent warranty.
Cons: It’s on the heavier side.

The ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife is a popular choice among survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts, and for good reason. Designed by real survival trainers, this knife delivers high performance in all survival scenarios.

The ESEE 6P features a 6.5-inch blade made from 1095 high carbon steel, known for its toughness and easy sharpening. The blade is designed with a drop point, making it suitable for a variety of tasks such as slicing, chopping, batoning, and even skinning game. Despite its strength, the blade has a thin profile, allowing for precise cutting tasks.

The knife’s full-tang design offers an added level of durability, making it capable of withstanding even the harshest of survival situations. A unique feature of the ESEE 6P is its textured powder coat finish, which provides excellent corrosion resistance, an important attribute for any survival knife.

The handle of the ESEE 6P is made from gray Micarta, providing a secure grip regardless of the conditions. The handle’s design also contributes to its comfort, reducing hand fatigue during long-term use. An additional feature is the lanyard hole in the handle, allowing for various carry options.

Pros:

The ESEE 6P Fixed Blade Knife delivers top-notch performance with its high carbon steel blade, full-tang construction, and comfortable Micarta handle. It’s a versatile, reliable tool suitable for a wide range of survival tasks. The knife’s corrosion resistance and easy sharpening also stand out.

Cons:

Despite its many advantages, there are a few potential drawbacks to the ESEE 6P. The high carbon steel, while tough and easy to sharpen, is more prone to rust if not properly maintained. The knife is also relatively heavy, which could be a consideration for some users.

In conclusion, the ESEE 6P Fixed Blade Knife is a versatile, durable, and dependable tool, making it an excellent choice for any survival situation. Its performance, coupled with ESEE’s lifetime guarantee, make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a high-quality survival knife.

Survival Knife Review #6: Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 Knife

Quick Words: The Bushcrafter 162 is a premium offering from Benchmade, featuring a 4.4-inch stainless steel blade and a comfortable G10 handle. It’s designed for precise control during bushcraft tasks.

Pros: High-quality materials and excellent craftsmanship.
Cons: Premium price tag.

The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 Knife is a premium survival tool, designed with the specific needs of the modern outdoorsman in mind. Known for its high-quality craftsmanship and materials, this knife is one of the top performers in the Benchmade lineup.

The blade of the Bushcrafter 162 is a 4.4-inch, high ground drop-point made from American-made CPM-S30V steel. This high-quality stainless steel is renowned for its excellent edge retention, rust resistance, and overall durability. The blade is thick and robust, well-suited to heavy-duty tasks such as batoning wood, yet it is still capable of performing fine cutting tasks due to its razor-sharp edge.

The knife features a full-tang design, enhancing its strength and reliability. The tang extends beyond the handle, creating a small pommel that can be used for light hammering tasks.

The handle of the Bushcrafter 162 is made from contoured G10, a high-pressure fiberglass laminate that is both lightweight and durable. The handle’s ergonomic design fits comfortably in the hand, reducing fatigue during prolonged use, and its textured surface ensures a secure grip even in wet conditions.

Pros:

The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 Knife offers outstanding performance with its top-tier CPM-S30V stainless steel blade, providing excellent edge retention and rust resistance. The full-tang design guarantees strength, and the ergonomic G10 handle offers comfort and a secure grip.

Cons:

One potential downside of the Bushcrafter 162 could be its price. Given its high-quality materials and construction, it is more expensive than many other survival knives on the market. However, for those who are willing to invest, the quality and performance of the knife are well worth the cost.

In summary, the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 is a high-quality, reliable survival knife, designed to excel in a variety of bushcraft tasks. It’s an excellent choice for those who demand only the best tools for their outdoor adventures.

Survival Knife Review #7: Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Folding Knife

Quick Words: This folding knife from Spyderco has a unique, ergonomic design with a 3.42-inch stainless steel blade. It’s compact and perfect for those preferring a foldable option.

Pros: Compact, ergonomic, and easy to carry.
Cons: Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks due to folding design.

The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Folding Knife breaks away from the norm of fixed-blade survival knives but does not compromise on reliability or performance. It’s an excellent tool for those seeking a highly functional, compact survival knife.

This knife features a 3.42-inch blade made from CPM-S30V stainless steel. This premium steel is celebrated for its remarkable edge retention and corrosion resistance. The full flat grind of the blade gives it an excellent balance of strength and cutting performance, while the blade’s clip point shape allows for precise control during detailed tasks.

One of the standout features of the Paramilitary 2 is Spyderco’s patented Compression Lock mechanism. This innovative design not only ensures the blade stays securely in place during use, but it also allows for easy one-handed operation.

The handle of the Paramilitary 2 is made from textured G-10, offering an excellent grip. The ergonomic design of the handle and the strategically placed finger choil contribute to the overall comfort during extended use.

Pros:

The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Folding Knife shines with its high-quality CPM-S30V stainless steel blade, providing excellent cutting performance and high corrosion resistance. The folding design, coupled with the innovative Compression Lock, adds a layer of safety and convenience. The ergonomic G-10 handle ensures a secure and comfortable grip.

Cons:

Despite its many advantages, there are a few potential downsides to the Paramilitary 2. It may not be suitable for heavy-duty survival tasks due to its folding design. The price may also be a consideration, as it is on the higher end for folding knives.

In summary, the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 Folding Knife is a fantastic option for those looking for a compact, reliable survival tool. With its exceptional blade, comfortable handle, and innovative locking mechanism, it delivers excellent performance in a convenient, portable package.

Survival Knife Review #8: Cold Steel SRK Survival Rescue Knife

Quick Words: Cold Steel’s SRK Survival Rescue Knife features a 6-inch high carbon blade and is designed for any situation. It’s versatile, durable, and lightweight.

Pros: Versatile, durable, and lightweight.
Cons: The handle might feel less ergonomic for some users.

The Cold Steel SRK (Survival Rescue Knife) is a versatile and rugged tool, designed with the needs of survival and rescue operations in mind. A favorite among military and tactical personnel, this knife packs performance and reliability into an affordable package.

The SRK features a 6-inch blade made from VG-10 stainless steel. This type of steel is highly regarded for its balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance. It also maintains a sharp edge, even with heavy use. The blade’s clip point design enhances its versatility, making it well-suited to a wide range of tasks from slicing and chopping to puncturing and prying.

The full-tang construction of the SRK ensures its durability and strength, enabling it to withstand rigorous use in survival situations. The blade also features a black Tuff-Ex finish, enhancing its rust resistance and reducing glare.

The handle of the SRK is made from a high-strength polymer called Kray-Ex. This material offers excellent grip, even when wet, and it’s designed to minimize hand fatigue during extended use. The handle also features a finger guard for added safety and a lanyard hole for various carry options.

Pros:

The Cold Steel SRK Survival Rescue Knife delivers outstanding performance with its tough VG-10 stainless steel blade, which offers excellent edge retention and rust resistance. The full-tang design and durable Kray-Ex handle ensure its reliability in survival situations.

Cons:

While the SRK has many strong points, there are a couple of potential drawbacks. Its blade may not be as sharp out of the box compared to other survival knives, although it can be easily sharpened. Additionally, although the Kray-Ex handle offers excellent grip, it might feel a bit hard and less comfortable to some users compared to softer handle materials.

In conclusion, the Cold Steel SRK Survival Rescue Knife is a reliable, versatile, and affordable tool that excels in a wide range of survival and rescue tasks. Whether you’re an outdoorsman, a military personnel, or a first responder, the SRK could prove to be an invaluable companion.

Survival Knife Review #9: Buck Knives 119 Special Fixed Blade Knife

Quick Words: Buck Knives 119 Special offers a 6-inch clip point blade made from 420HC steel. It’s classic, versatile, and backed by Buck’s excellent warranty.

Pros: Classic design, versatile, and excellent warranty.
Cons: Not ideal for more complex survival tasks.

The Buck Knives 119 Special Fixed Blade Knife is a classic and timeless piece from a company that has been producing quality knives for over a century. Known for its elegance and effectiveness, the 119 Special combines traditional craftsmanship with modern materials to create a reliable survival tool.

The 119 Special features a 6-inch blade made from 420HC stainless steel. This type of steel is a favorite of Buck Knives due to its balance of hardness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. It’s also easily sharpened in the field. The clip point design of the blade enhances its versatility, making it suitable for a variety of tasks from slicing to detailed cutting.

The knife features a full-tang construction, enhancing its overall strength and durability. It’s worth noting that the blade has a mirror polish finish, which not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also helps to prevent rust.

The handle of the 119 Special is made from phenolic, a durable and water-resistant material. It’s elegantly designed with a polished aluminum butt and guard, adding to its classic look. The handle’s ergonomic design and finger grooves ensure a comfortable and secure grip.

Pros:

The Buck Knives 119 Special Fixed Blade Knife offers outstanding performance with its 420HC stainless steel blade, which offers good edge retention and corrosion resistance. The knife’s full-tang design ensures durability, and the phenolic handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The lifetime warranty provided by Buck Knives is also a significant advantage.

Cons:

While the 119 Special offers many benefits, there could be potential downsides for some users. The handle, while durable and ergonomic, may feel slippery to some users, especially in wet conditions. The knife’s polished finish, although attractive, can also reflect sunlight, which may not be ideal in tactical situations.

In summary, the Buck Knives 119 Special Fixed Blade Knife is a reliable, versatile, and elegant tool, perfect for those who appreciate classic design combined with modern performance. It’s an excellent choice for a wide range of outdoor and survival tasks.

Survival Knife Review #10: Ontario Knife Company Rat-7

Quick Words: The Rat-7 from Ontario Knife Company is a solid survival knife featuring a 7-inch plain edge blade. It’s made from 1095 carbon steel, ensuring high durability and effectiveness.

Pros: High durability, suitable for a wide range of tasks.
Cons: Larger size might not be suitable for everyone.

The Ontario Knife Company (OKC) Rat-7 is a formidable survival tool that packs durability and reliability into a robust package. Built to take on the harshest environments, this knife is a favorite among survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts.

The Rat-7 features a 7-inch blade made from 1095 carbon steel, a material known for its toughness and easy sharpenability. The drop-point blade design enhances the knife’s versatility, making it well-suited to a wide range of tasks from slicing and chopping to puncturing and prying. The full-tang construction of the Rat-7 ensures its strength, enabling it to withstand the rigors of survival situations.

The blade also features a unique texture with a powder coat finish, which provides excellent rust resistance, an important attribute for any survival knife.

The handle of the Rat-7 is made from canvas micarta, offering both durability and a comfortable grip. The ergonomically designed handle features a slight palm swell, reducing hand fatigue during extended use, and the finger choil ensures a secure grip for precise cutting tasks.

Pros:

The Ontario Knife Company Rat-7 delivers exceptional performance with its tough 1095 carbon steel blade, offering excellent durability and ease of sharpening. The full-tang design and durable micarta handle ensure its reliability in survival situations. The knife also comes with a nylon sheath, adding to its utility.

Cons:

While the Rat-7 offers many benefits, there are potential drawbacks for some users. The 1095 carbon steel, while tough and easy to sharpen, is more prone to rust if not properly maintained. Some users might also find the knife’s weight and size a bit too much for lighter outdoor tasks.

In conclusion, the Ontario Knife Company Rat-7 is a robust, versatile, and reliable survival knife. Whether you’re braving the wilderness or facing a survival situation, the Rat-7 is a tool you can count on.

Conclusion

Choosing the right survival knife is a critical decision for any outdoor enthusiast. It must be versatile, durable, and fit perfectly in your hand. The top 10 list provided here offers a variety of choices that cater to different needs and preferences.

FAQs

Q: What is the ideal size for a survival knife?

A: The ideal size for a survival knife is generally considered to be between 4 to 6 inches in blade length.

Q: Stainless steel or carbon steel, which is better?

A: Both have their merits. Stainless steel is rust-resistant but requires frequent sharpening, while carbon steel retains an edge longer but is more prone to rust.

Q: How important is the handle of a survival knife?

A: Very important. A good handle should provide a secure and comfortable grip and be able to withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Q: What’s the most versatile survival knife?

A: This depends on personal preferences and the specific tasks you plan to do with the knife.

Q: How to maintain a survival knife?

A: Regular cleaning, proper storage, occasional sharpening, and handle maintenance (if it’s made of materials like wood) are essential for maintaining a survival knife.