Due to the sudden weather changes and the challenging terrain, the backcountry is not known for being forgiving. Therefore, outdoor enthusiasts understand the importance of having reliable equipment. Having a dry sleeping bag on a cold, wet night can determine whether one wakes up refreshed in the morning or experiences hypothermia.
Having a reliable knife is equally important. Whether you’re involved in field game cleaning or cutting wood for a makeshift shelter, the presence of a dependable knife can make a significant difference in simplifying your task or preserving your life. It is the worst scenario when you are several miles away from the closest road and the last thing you want to worry about is whether your knife is capable enough to carry out its function. In relation to your blade, it is crucial to have faith in its ability to accomplish the task at hand.
What Is a Bushcraft Knife?
When it comes to bushcraft knives, they are commonly regarded as survival knives in a broader sense. These knives are specifically designed to tackle various outdoor tasks such as constructing a shelter, igniting a fire using a Ferro rod, and batoning, which involves splitting wood using a knife and mallet or a stick as a hammer.
Bushcraft knives generally have long blades with a flat edge, and they are typically fixed-blade knives. The reason for the long blades is that shorter blades restrict the thickness of wood that can be worked with the knife, and serrated edges are not suitable for the cutting and chopping tasks mentioned earlier. In today’s context, most bushcraft knives have a handle that provides a secure grip, and this is typically made from synthetic material. However, it is worth noting that some still utilize wooden handles.
What to Look for in a Bushcraft Knife
When shopping for a bushcraft knife, it is important to first take into account the key characteristics mentioned above. It is worth noting that certain knives are advertised as bushcraft knives, even if they do not possess all of these traits. Additionally, you should also consider the intended purpose of the knife. For instance, if you primarily need a knife for using a Ferro rod to start fires and do not plan on batoning, then a smaller, lighter knife that is easier to carry may suffice. It is helpful to keep these general considerations in mind during the selection process.
Knife Construction:
When searching, make sure to find a knife that possesses a complete full-tang design. This indicates that the blade’s steel extends from the handle through to the butt of the knife. As a result, the knife becomes heavier but gains a stronger construction, capable of withstanding hammering and leveraging.
Blade Steel Quality:
When considering steel, it is important to note that not all types are the same, and focusing on one characteristic usually means sacrificing another. In the case of bushcraft knives, toughness is typically prioritized, as it determines how well a blade can endure sudden impacts and forces such as chopping. However, toughness often comes at the expense of edge retention. This is why carbon steel is commonly used for bushcraft knife blades, as it is not only tough but also easier to sharpen in outdoor settings. On the other hand, stainless steel offers better resistance to corrosion compared to carbon steel. Once again, there are always trade-offs, and the choice ultimately depends on the intended use of the knife.
Handle:
Wood handles may give off a traditional appearance, but they are frequently less grippy or lightweight compared to contemporary synthetic materials. It is important to keep in mind that a bushcraft knife is primarily a utility, and you must be able to utilize it as such, occasionally for extended durations, without it sliding in your hand. Additionally, do not overlook the importance of comfort.
Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Survival Knife
The thickness of the blade measures 0.126 inches.
The length of the blade is 4.3 inches.
The total length of the text is 9.1 inches.
The net weight is 5.4 ounces.
Morakniv is well known for its reputation. This knife is constructed of carbon steel that has been coated to resist corrosion and rust. The steel is hardened to HRC 56-58 in order to endure batoning. The blade features a Scandi Grind, designed to securely dig in without slipping. The durable sheath not only holds the knife but also includes a firestarter, which is a desirable and valuable addition to any prepper’s gear. The non-slip handle ensures comfort in various situations. Additionally, the firestarter has a rating of 7,000 strikes.
JEO-TEC Nº31 Bushcraft Survival Hunting Knife
The thickness of the blade is 0.2 inches.
The length of the blade is 4.52 inches.
The total length of the object is 9.44 inches, considering its step-by-step dimensions.
The shipped weight of the product is 15.5 oz Net Weight.
This is one of those knives that is difficult to not develop love for. This model is made in Spain. Companies like Puma have a reason for selecting Spain as an alternative manufacturing location instead of Solingen Germany.
The snazzy design of the bushcraft knife includes a full-grain leather sheath with a quality fire starter. Additionally, the blade is made of Stainless Steel Molybdenum-Vanadium 58 (MOVA-58) and has a hardness rating of HRC 56-58. The blade also features a small serration area on one side. Furthermore, the handle has a loophole which allows for the attachment of a lanyard if desired.
Browning Ultra Bushcraft Knife
The length of the blade is 4 inches.
The length of the total should be 9 inches.
The weight of the product excluding packaging is 11.5 ounces, including the packaging for shipping.
Browning is well-known for its firearms, but it also produces a reliable bushcraft knife. The knife is simple yet effective, with a comfortable handle, lanyard hole, and a wide, smooth blade. The blade is made of 7Cr17MoV stainless steel with a brushed finish, while the handle is G-10 laminate with built-in anti-skid grooves for a secure grip in challenging situations. If you’re in need of a basic bushcraft knife, this option is affordable and includes a full grain leather sheath.
Condor Tool & Knife Bushcraft Basic Camping Knife
The thickness of the blade measures 0.125 inches.
The length of the blade is 4 inches.
The length of the text should be maintained at 8.5 inches without adding or removing any information.
The weight of the product is 0.53 lbs.
Condor Knife and Tool provides a variety of incredible and exquisitely crafted knives.
When using a knife for activities that require significant force, such as high impact activities, carbon steel is the preferred option due to its ability to withstand such pressure. Condor has specifically utilized 1075 Carbon Steel in this scenario. Unlike stainless steel, which can be excessively hard and prone to brittleness during certain tasks, carbon steel offers a slight flexibility.
Based on the picture showing a leather sheath, it can be inferred that the knife is likely to come with a leather sheath instead of a nylon sheath as mentioned in the description. The general consensus about this knife is that it is a reliable and cost-effective choice, being efficient in maintaining sharpness. However, it is advisable to regularly apply oil to the blade since this particular grade of carbon steel is slightly more susceptible to corrosion.
Buck SELKIRK Fixed Blade Survival Knife
The thickness of the blade is 0.125 inches.
The length of the blade is 4 and 5/8 inches.
Keeping the same meaning, the length of the total should be 9.5 inches.
The weight of the item is 7.6 ounces.
Buck Knives is a brand that should be remembered because they have been making high-quality blades for a considerable period. They offer a reasonably priced bushcraft knife that is durable and long-lasting.
The blade of the knife is made of 420 HC steel and designed in a drop point shape. Additionally, it comes with a 2 1/4 firestarter that has an integrated whistle. The sheath is injection molded and can be worn on a belt either horizontally or vertically, ensuring convenient accessibility.
