Discover the Best Survival Knife – 5 Options to Stay Sharp!
We set out to find the best survival knife, and Hee Haw; we did it again! The data was collected by analyzing hundreds of ratings and reviews online. After slicing through the magazine articles, blogs, product reviews, and expert opinions, we’ve cut through enough to present the best knives.
The Best Survival Knife
- Best Everyday Carry Knife: Benchmade Griptilian 551
- Best Classic Fixed-Blade Knife: KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife
- Best All-Around Folding Knife: Spyderco Paramilitary 2 C81GP2
- Best Budget Bushcraft Knife: Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty MG
- Best Swiss Army Knife: Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool, SwissChamp XAVT
Best Everyday Carry Knife: Benchmade Griptilian 551
- Fixed-blade full tang knife, 3.45-inch 154CM stainless steel blade for edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Handle made from glass-filled nylon (GFN) with stainless steel liners for strength and grip.
- Features an Axis lock for secure blade retention and reversible pocket clip for versatile carry.
- Lanyard hole for easy gear attachment.
- Lightweight, durable, and versatile for all activities.
- Offers excellent value for its price.
- Retail: $200
Best Classic Fixed Blade: KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife
- Fixed-blade knife associated with US Marine Corps.
- Complete tang design for durability and heavy use.
- Blade made from 1095 Cro-Van steel, 7 inches long.
- Stacked leather handle for a comfortable grip.
- Pommel serves as a striking surface for emergencies.
- Leather sheath for easy carry and protection.
- Reliable, rugged, and used by military professionals.
- Top choice for high-quality bushcraft and survival.
- Retail: $90
Best All-Around Folding Knife: Spyderco Paramilitary 2 C81GP2
- Highly reputed, durable, and versatile outdoor knife.
- Features premium-grade steel blade
- Excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Comfortable G-10 handle with an ergonomic design.
- Compression lock mechanism for safe usage.
- Compact, lightweight, and ideal for camping and EDC.
- A top choice among outdoor enthusiasts for its quality and reliability.
- Retail: $185
Best Budget Bushcraft Knife: Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty MG
- Complete tang construction for superior strength.
- 1095 carbon steel with excellent edge retention
- 2.63-inch blade for precise cutting and heavy chopping.
- Black powder coating for corrosion protection.
- Micarta handle for a comfortable grip in wet conditions.
- Compact size, 6.75 inches overall length, easy to carry.
- Versatile for camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and survival.
- Black molded sheath with adjustable clip plate
- Impressive build quality and performance.
- Retail: $25
Best Swiss Army Survival Knife: Victorinox Swiss Army Multi-Tool
- Renowned brand with a century-long history of producing high-quality pocket knives.
- Popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and survivalists.
- Compact design with multiple functionalities.
- Includes a blade, scissors, saws, can openers, screwdrivers, and more.
- Portable and easily carried in a pocket or backpack.
- Quality stainless steel blade with impressive sharpness and durability.
- Sturdy construction to withstand harsh conditions.
- Versatile and durable, making it an excellent tool for survival.
- Retail: $65
Choosing the Best Survival Knife
When choosing the best survival knife, several things should be considered. First and foremost is the quality of the blade. You want a blade made from high-quality materials that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Fixed-blade knives are more durable than folding knives and are usually considered the best survival knives.
Another essential factor to consider when selecting the best survival knife is its size and weight. A good bushcraft knife should have enough weight to be useful as both a chopping tool and provide leverage when digging or prying objects open.
The blade’s tang refers to its extension into the knife’s handle. A full tang knife provides better balance and strength than a partial tang knife because it extends throughout the entire length of the handle.
You want to select an outdoor-edge knife with features that will make it easy to use in different scenarios. These may include serrations on part or all of the blade for cutting through rigid materials like rope or cordage; comfortable grip handles made from materials like G10 or Micarta that provide excellent traction even when wet; and sheaths with secure locking mechanisms that keep your best survival knife safe while on the move.
Overall, selecting the best survival knife requires careful consideration based on your particular needs and preferences for style and design, amongst other factors mentioned above.
For our complete guide to finding the best survival knife, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best survival knife in the world?
“Best” is subjective and depends on individual needs and context. There’s no single “best” survival knife, but popular choices prioritize durability, versatility, and ease of use in challenging environments.
What knife do SEALs use?
SEALs use various knives depending on mission and personal preference. Common choices include the SEAL Team Trident knife, Benchmade SOCOM Elite, and Emerson CQC-7.
What knives does Bear Grylls use?
Bear Grylls has used several knives throughout his career. Early on, he favored the Gerber Strongarm fixed blade knife. Later, he partnered with Gerber on custom designs like the Bear Grylls Ultimate Utility Knife and folding blades.
What knife does the US Army use?
The US Army currently uses the Ontario OKC-3S Bayonet as their standard issue. It’s a fixed-blade knife designed for combat utility and attaches to the M4 carbine.
Conclusion – Best Survival Knife
A reliable and durable survival knife can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency. The best survival knives are those that are sturdy, sharp, and versatile enough to handle any task that comes their way. They come in different shapes, sizes, and styles to fit the needs of every outdoor enthusiast and survivalist.
From the best survival knife to the fixed-blade knife, we’ve covered many options for choosing the best one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a full tang knife or a folding knife, there is something out there for everyone.
When selecting the perfect outdoor edge knife or best camp knife for your next adventure into the great outdoors, it’s essential to consider your unique needs. Are you an avid hunter? Do you enjoy camping in harsh environments? Or maybe you want a reliable everyday carry option to handle whatever life throws your way.
No matter what adventure lies ahead, having your best survival knife by your side will give you peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for anything. So don’t leave home without one – invest in the bushcraft knife, considered by many to be the best survival knife, and be ready for whatever life throws your way!