The best survival knives are undoubtedly the most important tool for anybody planning to go camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, or on any other outdoor trip. It is what will determine whether you live or die if you get stranded in the woods. best survival knives One of the most crucial tools for camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities is a survival knife.
When venturing into the wilderness, it’s important to be equipped with the best survival knives that can handle various tasks and ensure your safety. These knives are specifically designed to withstand rugged conditions, provide versatility, and assist in a range of survival situations. Whether you need to build a shelter, prepare food, make firewood, or defend yourself, the right survival knife can be a reliable companion.
It’s not like bushcraft or hiking, where you appreciate nature and rely on your skills. Those goals are fine. Once lost in the woods, it might be life or death. But survival is just that—escaping a dangerous circumstance with your wits and your equipment, including the best survival pocket knife.
You’ll need a sturdy, multi-purpose knife whether you’re trapped in the wilderness with a broken car or in the suburbs after a storm. Survivalist Doug Ritter says, “The right knife can turn a survival situation into a prolonged camping trip.”
So, choosing one of the best survival knives available can greatly increase your chances of survival and make your situation more manageable. There are several survival knives on the market, making it difficult to choose the ideal one. However, we have managed to sift and filter them out to offer you the top ten best survival knife reviews 2024.
I’ve verified that the products are available and made some minor language changes, and added a new ‘FAQ’ section, on March 23, 2024.
Out Top Picks
Top 10 Best Survival Knives Reviews and Studies 2024
1. Cold Steel Recon Tanto 13RTK
This beautifully crafted knife has a 3/16 wide-inch blade which is made of Japanese AUS Stainless Steel coated with a Tuff-Ex finish for that extra pinch of durability. It has a 7-inch long blade suitable for slashing through bushes and when faced with a one-on-one combat challenge in the hands of the enemy. For greater handling experience, the Cold Steel Recon Tanto 13RTK embraces a long Kray-Ex handle that is heavily studded.
Pros
- Consistently sharp knife
- Having a hollow ground tanto blade is a plus in my book.
- seems to be constructed with care
- Although it comes with a sharp edge, it might be much more so.
Cons
- This item’s handle is too small and square for even average-sized hands.
- Its front end is disproportionately hefty compared to the rest of the knife.
- The finger guard and the contour of the back of the grip make it very difficult to switch grips.
- COMBAT DESIGN - The Recon Tanto has been extensively used in various conflicts over the past two decades, earning its reputation as a go-to combat knife for military and SWAT teams worldwide, thanks to its exceptional performance and reliability
- SUPERIOR BLADE QUALITY - Crafted from SK-5 high-carbon steel, the Recon Tanto boasts a razor-sharp blade that delivers superior durability, abrasion resistance, outstanding cutting power, and edge retention, making it ideal for demanding combat situations
See more: feedback from users
2. Gerber LMF II Infantry Knife 22-01629
Pros
- Immediately effective
- Snug, portable, and versatile in its carrying options.
- Effective enough for starting fires
- Useful for batoning, and the integrated sharpener is a nice bonus.
- Simple to lace together into a spear
- The sheath fits like a glove (which could be a con)
Cons
- It seems heavy for its size to some folks, but I had no issue carrying it about.
- Chopping resulted in minimal damage to the handle near the blade.
- QUALITY CRAFTED: Features a partially serrated fixed blade that doubles as a pommel, lashing holes for use as a spear, low-profile sheath with built-in sharpener and leg straps, and lanyard hole
- SURVIVAL GEAR AND EQUIPMENT: USA Made with a 420HC stainless steel blade and MOLLE-compatible sheath made of ballistic nylon with fire retardant coating
See more: feedback from users
3. Cold Steel San Mai Tanto Series Fixed Blade Knife
As the name suggests, the Extreme SCHF3 is one of the best survival knives built for extreme survival situations. Its blade, made of tough 7Cr17 high-carbon stainless steel, ensures durability and reliability in challenging environments. This knife excels in combat and survival scenarios, thanks to its drop point blade, which is capable of handling a variety of tasks, including chopping, skinning, and making carvings.
In terms of handling, the Extreme SCHF3 features a handle made of Micarta, providing a sturdy and easy-to-grip design. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a survivalist, or a professional in need of a reliable tool, the Extreme SCHF3 is among the top choices when it comes to the best survival knives.
Pros
- Superior San Mai steel construction ensures longevity.
- The ergonomic handle design enhances grip stability.
- Tanto blade shape facilitates precise, forceful strikes.
Cons
- Weight may be considered slightly heavy for some users.
- A satin finish may require periodic maintenance to retain its luster.
- SUPERIOR BLADE - The Magnum Tantos feature VG-10 San Mai steel blades with a deep lustrous satin finish on the hollow ground bevels and a contrasting line grain finish on the flats, highlighting state-of-the-art grinding methods and enhancing appearance
- DURABLE HANDLE - Equipped with a flattened oval Kraton handle, the Magnum Tanto offers a solid grip that resists rolling or twisting during hard use; Kraton is a resilient space-age material that won't crack, rot, or succumb to adverse weather conditions
See more: feedback from users
4. BigCat Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife
The Viper Hunter’s blade is well-made to endure and stay sharp. Damascus blade with 15N25, 1080, and 288 layers. A handcrafted hunting knife with an ergonomic walnut wood handle increases grip and comfort. Thanks to its metal safety guard, this bushcraft knife is durable and attractive.
Pros
- The Damascus blade, the hand-carved wooden handle, and the leather sheath are all works of art in their own right.
- The blade is beautiful, and it has a satisfying weight and balance at the tang.
Cons
- The sheath seems rather big for such a little knife.
- 🔪 𝗕𝗨𝗜𝗟𝗧 𝗙𝗢𝗥 𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘: Our hand-forged 𝐏𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍 knife features a Damascus blade, combining 288 layers for superior strength and sharpness. Its overall length is 10″, featuring a 4.8″ blade, all in a lightweight design at just 8.2 oz.
- 💯 𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗟𝗘 𝗜𝗡 𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: The Predator Hunter is more than just a knife and hunting tool; it's a reliable partner for camping, hiking, skinning, fishing and any outdoor activity
See more: feedback from users
5. Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding Knife
This survival knife is razor-sharp and can handle any tough job it is thrown at. German 4116 Stainless Steel is used to make the blade and it has a Tuff-Ex non-reflective coating to protect the blade. The deeply textured handle is made of Kray-Ex for extra grip and comfort. Also on the handle are strong steel finger guards with double faces facing forward to protect your fingers.
Pros
- The blade is narrow and the overall design is unobtrusive.
- With the right resistance, opening with a thumb and wrist flick is easy.
- Its obvious yet comfortable texture makes the grip seem strong
Cons
- None
- SUPERIOR DESIGN - The Recon 1 folding knives are characterized by their thin, lightweight design, yet they are exceptionally strong and resilient; Available with different blade shapes and edges to suit diverse preferences and requirements
- EXCEPTIONAL BLADE - The Recon 1 folder features an American S35VN blade with DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating, combining exceptional sharpness with remarkable durability; The DLC coating enhances corrosion resistance and extends the lifespan of the blade
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6. CRKT M16-14SF EDC Folding Pocket Knife
The Elishewitz F.T.W.S. is among the best survival knives available, despite its simple appearance that could easily be mistaken for a typical kitchen knife. Crafted with a 6.3-inch full tang blade constructed from SK5 carbon steel, this knife boasts exceptional durability. Its modified blade tip enhances penetration strength, while the injection-molded Zytel handle, featuring a textured surface and deep finger grooves, ensures a secure grip in any situation.
Pros
- When it is closed, it is as sturdy as a fixed blade. Stronghold and complete protection.
Cons
- A full guard is large and has pointed edges. Too difficult to use
- Safe And Secure: Automated liner safety provides extra layer of lock security
- Cutting Power: Triple Point serrations cut fibrous materials with ease
See more: feedback from users
7. Survival Camping Knife | Fixed Blade Hunting Knife
Preoccupied with wilderness survival? You want a strong steel-blade hunting or camping knife for weekend outdoor adventures. Want to offer a loved fisherman or hunter a memorable birthday gift? Looking for the best survival knives for your car’s emergency supplies?
This high-end military fixed-blade knife fits securely in its K-Sheath and on your belt with the leather strap. Every outdoor lover needs a survival knife kit for trekking, camping, backpacking, hiking, hunting, and fishing. It may be clipped to your belt for gardening or crafting, or stored in your car trunk for emergencies.
Pros
- The use of ferro rods is effective
- The handle is well-padded and solid.
Cons
- Produced at a low cost
- HIGH QUALITY STEEL - D2 Steel is among the finest quality available, with edge retention like no other -- cut wood, rope, twine, aluminum and all without fear of a dulled blade.
- ERGONOMIC HANDLE - The G10 pocket knife was designed for maximum control and anti-slip grip, meaning you need never fear for loss of control.
See more: feedback from users
8. KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife
The BK2 is renowned as one of the best survival knives because it fits well in the hand. Its 5.25-inch drop-point blade is ideal for slicing and chopping, while its blade, made of 1095 Cro-Van steel, is hard to the core and as tough as it can be. Additionally, the handle boasts Grivory material, providing a strong grip to the knife.
Pros
- Metal 1095 Cro-van Steel is high-quality and versatile. Durable and sharpenable, it can cut like a razor.
- This knife is easy to customize. Several attachments let you customize it.
- The retention of the sheath is really good.
Cons
- The sheath’s nylon belt loop needs to be replaced with a stronger material.
- Full tang heavy duty field knife suited for camping chores.
- Made in Olean New York, U.S.A
See more: feedback from users
9. Ontario RTAK-II Serrated Edge Fixed Blade Knife
A little-tang outdoor fixed-blade knife with a sheath is best for drilling, chopping, piercing, and other bushcraft tasks. This full-tang knife with a leather sheath and belt loop is perfect for vertical EDC. Best-quality genuine leather is utilized to make the casing.
A slim, lightweight, full-tang survival knife with a 3.7-inch drop point blade and 7.9-inch overall length is perfect for a handbag, bag, or survival kit. This bush belt knife’s Scandi grind and razor-sharp high-carbon steel 1066 blade are easy to sharpen.
The knife has a 200 mm (8-inch) overall length, 93 mm (3.6-inch) blade length, and 2 mm (0.079 inch) blade thickness. Weight: 75 grams (3.5 oz.), 100 grams (sheathed).
Pros
- That’s a very reasonable price
- You won’t mind holding on to the BPS BS1FTS.
- Edges sharp enough for hair-shaving
- Weighty, yet too long to comfortably wear around the neck.
- Scabbard, made of leather
- Iron with Carbon
Cons
- The handles are rough and may require polishing.
- Extra-large hands may find the handle excessively short.
- ✅ MULTIFUNCTIONAL USAGE: The small full tang outdoor fixed blade knife with sheath is the best kind of fixed blade knife for survival, camping or bush craft gears, and perfectly suitable for drilling, cutting, piercing and other bush craft tasks
- ✅ SAFE CARRYING: Full tang knife with leather sheath has a belt loop for vertical carrying and perfect as everyday carrying (EDC) knife. The handmade leather case crafted from the highest quality premium genuine leather
See more: feedback from users
10. SOG Survival Knife with Sheath
The SOG SEAL Pup Tactical, Survival, and Hunting Knife is considered one of the best survival knives available on the market. With its 4.75-inch blade and sheath, this knife combines elegance with durability, making it a reliable choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The blade, measuring 7 inches, is made of AUS-8 steel that has undergone cryogenic heat treatment to enhance its wear resistance. The handle is crafted from contoured glass-reinforced nylon (GRN), ensuring a secure grip even in challenging conditions.
Pros
- Positive egos, at least
- Sharp
- Solid metal (aus8)
- Kydex sheath, well-designed
- Superior Quality
- Cheap cost
Cons
- Discs being rasped
- 4.75-INCH AUS-8 STAINLESS STEEL BLADE:, the SOG SEAL Pup full tang knife is a field-tested outdoor knife, boot knife and hunting knife with sheath; measures 9 inches in overall length
- 5.4 OUNCES W/ GRN HANDLE: A military knife design with a nearly indestructible field knife handle for this type of Bowie knife with sheath; glass-reinforced nylon offers great grip with zero maintenance
In short. this knife has undergone rigorous testing, including a two-week saltwater immersion, cutting tests, tip-breaking tension assessments, and hammering trials. These features and the successful completion of demanding military tasks make the SOG SEAL Pup Tactical, Survival, and Hunting Knife one of the best survival knives for any adventurer or survivalist.
See more: feedback from users
Best Survival Knives: Frequently Asked Questions
Which knife is best for survival?
To survive in the wild, experts suggest a blade with endurance, adaptability, and simplicity of maintenance. Survivalists choose carbon steel blades. Carbon steel knives are strong and easy to sharpen, but they also hold a sharp edge for long durations, making them trustworthy under tough conditions.
When planning for outdoor trips or emergencies, investing in the [best survival knives] crafted from carbon steel could prove to be a prudent decision, ensuring you have a reliable tool at your side when it matters most.
What’s the best feature of a survival knife?
That’s true! A full tang is a crucial feature of a survival knife. It makes the knife stronger and more reliable for demanding tasks you might encounter in a survival situation.
Here’s a breakdown of why a full tang is important:
Strength: With the full tang running through the handle, the knife can handle heavy chopping, prying, or batoning firewood without risking the blade snapping off.Durability: A full tang helps distribute force more evenly throughout the knife, preventing damage to the handle or blade during use.
While a full tang is a key feature, there are other important aspects of a survival knife like blade material, handle design, and even the sheath. Considering all these factors will help you choose the right knife for your needs.
What size knife is best for survival?
All things considered, a good size for an all-around survival knife is approximately 10 inches (give or take an inch or so). For example, this Gerber LMF II 22-01400 Survival Knife has a total length of 10.6 inches, with a 4.8-inch blade. This is a nice, medium-sized knife that will serve you well in a variety of situations
Which type of knife is safest to use, and why?
The safest knife depends on the situation! Here’s a breakdown:
- Safest Overall: Concealed-blade safety knives are considered the safest. The blade stays hidden within the handle until you need it, eliminating the risk of accidental contact.
- Safest for Carrying: Retractable blade knives are a good option if you need to carry a knife. The blade automatically retracts into the handle when you release a button, minimizing the exposed sharp edge.
Best for Specific Tasks:
- Straight blades are ideal for most cutting tasks where you need clean, precise cuts, like slicing vegetables or fruits.
- Serrated blades, while not the safest overall, are appropriate for cutting tougher materials like cardboard or rope where a clean cut isn’t essential, but a quick cut is desired.
- Remember, even with a safety knife, proper knife handling is crucial.
Here are some additional safety tips:
- Keep your knives sharp. Dull knives require more force to use, increasing the risk of slipping.
- Use a cutting board to protect your fingers and your countertop.
- Always cut away from yourself.
What is the best blade length for a survival knife?
You’re right, there isn’t a single “best” blade length for a survival knife. It depends on what you plan to use it for and how you plan to carry it. Here’s a breakdown of some factors to consider:
- Size and weight: A larger knife (over 7 inches) will be better at chopping wood, but it will also be heavier to carry. A smaller knife (under 5 inches) will be easier to carry and maneuver, but it won’t be as good at chopping.
- Carrying it: If you plan on hiking or backpacking with your survival knife, you’ll want something lightweight and easy to carry on your belt or pack. A larger knife might be better if you’re camping or canoeing and have more space to store it.
- Your Strength and Skill Level: A larger knife can be more difficult to control, so a smaller one might be a better option if you’re not very strong or experienced with using knives.
General guidelines for choosing a survival knife blade length.
- 4-6 inches: This is a good all-around size that’s good for most survival tasks. It’s large enough for basting wood and small enough for detailed tasks like carving.
- 6-8 inches: This is a good size if you think you’ll be doing a lot of chopping, like building a shelter.
- Over 8 inches: This size is best for people who are very strong and experienced with using knives, or for situations where you know you’ll need to do a lot of chopping, like in a jungle environment.
Ultimately, the best way to find the right survival knife for you is to try out a few different sizes and see what feels most comfortable and manageable.
Conclusion
The SOG Seal Team Elite knife is undoubtedly a contender for the title of best survival knives. It screams good looks, quality, and toughness from every angle that you look at it. Its reason for being the number one choice for the U.S. Marines is the fact that it is strong and a jack of all trades. However, if you pick any other knife on this list, be guaranteed that you will not be disappointed.
They are all designed to help you survive while you are out lost somewhere or when you just need a knife for your escapades. Choose one that does not mess up your budget and one that you will be comfortable with.
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