Understanding Survival Knives: Key Features to Look For
Survival knives are essential tools for those who find themselves in the great outdoors, whether for camping, hiking, or survival situations. When selecting a survival knife, consider the following features:
Blade Material
- Stainless Steel: Offers corrosion resistance, ideal for wet environments.
- High Carbon Steel: Easier to sharpen and offers superior edge retention but is prone to rust if not maintained.
Blade Design
- Fixed Blade: More durable with a full tang (the blade extends through the handle), providing strength and stability.
- Folding Knife: Compact and easy to carry but may not offer the same strength as fixed blades.
Blade Length
- Typically ranges from 4 to 10 inches. A length of 5 to 7 inches is often ideal for versatility.
Handle Material
- Rubber: Provides good grip, even in wet conditions.
- Micarta or G-10: These composite materials offer durability and moisture resistance while providing a solid grip.
Additional Features
- Sheath: A good knife will often come with a sheath that offers safety and ease of transport.
- Multipurpose Tools: Some survival knives come with additional tools like a fire starter, whistle, or built-in sharpeners which enhance their utility.
Top Survival Knife Brands and Models
1. ESEE Knives
ESEE is known for its rugged, reliable survival knives that thrive in harsh conditions.
ESEE-6:
- Blade Length: 6.5 inches
- Material: 1095 high carbon steel
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Features: A versatile blade designed for both cutting tasks and batoning, it also has a Micarta handle for a comfortable grip, enhancing survival situations.
ESEE-4:
- Blade Length: 4.5 inches
- Material: 1095 high carbon steel
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Features: Compact and easy to carry, with a thicker blade for added durability.
2. KA-BAR
An iconic brand known for its tactical and combat knives, KA-BAR also offers excellent survival options.
KA-BAR Becker BK2:
- Blade Length: 5.25 inches
- Material: 1095 cro-van steel
- Weight: 16 ounces
- Features: The Becker BK2 is famous for its robustness, perfect for heavy-duty tasks like chopping and prying.
KA-BAR TDI Law Enforcement Knife:
- Blade Length: 2.31 inches
- Material: AUS-8A stainless steel
- Weight: 3.5 ounces
- Features: Compact and designed for safety, it’s ideal for emergency scenarios.
3. Morakniv
Swedish brand Morakniv is celebrated for its simplicity, functionality, and affordability.
Morakniv Companion:
- Blade Length: 4.1 inches
- Material: Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel
- Weight: 4.1 ounces
- Features: Great for both beginners and experts, this knife is lightweight yet robust, perfect for a variety of tasks.
Morakniv Garberg:
- Blade Length: 4.1 inches
- Material: High carbon steel
- Weight: 8.8 ounces
- Features: Full-tang construction provides added durability, and it’s compatible with a variety of accessories like a fire starter.
4. Benchmade
Known for its premium quality and innovative designs, Benchmade combines performance with elegance.
Benchmade Bushcrafter 162:
- Blade Length: 4.43 inches
- Material: CPM-S30V stainless steel
- Weight: 6.5 ounces
- Features: Features a full tang with a grippy rubber handle, making it perfect for bushcraft.
Benchmade Hidden Canyon:
- Blade Length: 2.67 inches
- Material: CPM-S30V stainless steel
- Weight: 4.69 ounces
- Features: A compact design suitable for intricate tasks like skinning or food prep.
5. Cold Steel
With a reputation for strong and practical knives, Cold Steel emphasizes performance in every aspect of knife-making.
Cold Steel SRK:
- Blade Length: 6 inches
- Material: VG-1 stainless steel
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Features: Well-balanced for both utility and tactical use, this knife is a favorite among survivalists.
Cold Steel Recon Tanto:
- Blade Length: 7.5 inches
- Material: AUS-8A stainless steel
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Features: This knife boasts a strong blade shape ideal for heavy-duty cutting and bushcraft tasks.
6. SOG Knives
SOG is recognized for their tactical designs and features.
SOG Seal Pup Elite:
- Blade Length: 4.85 inches
- Material: AUS-8 stainless steel
- Weight: 8.40 ounces
- Features: A compact, all-weather knife ideal for survival or outdoor use, with a durable glass-reinforced nylon handle.
SOG Pillar:
- Blade Length: 4 inches
- Material: CPM-S35VN stainless steel
- Weight: 4.6 ounces
- Features: A minimalist design focusing on utility, suitable for everyday carry and survival situations.
Popular Features of Survival Knives
When choosing a survival knife, the following features significantly enhance its performance:
Sheath
Look for a knife that comes with a quality sheath. Kydex or nylon sheaths are popular as they offer durability and ease of access.
Multipurpose Features
Knives with added features such as fire starters, bottle openers, or even fishing lines can come in handy during emergencies.
Grip and Comfort
The handle should feel comfortable and secure in your hand, particularly in wet conditions, to avoid slipping during use.
Balance and Weight
A well-balanced knife will perform better. Heavier knives might work well for chopping, while lighter models are better for extended carrying.
Care Tips for Survival Knives
Proper maintenance extends the life of your survival knife:
- Clean After Use: After each use, clean the blade with water and mild soap to remove any residues.
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the knife is completely dry to prevent rust, especially for carbon steel variants.
- Sharpen Regularly: Use whetstones or sharpening systems to maintain the blade edge. Keeping it sharp is crucial for efficiency.
- Oil the Blade: Maintaining a thin layer of oil on the blade helps prevent corrosion and keeps the knife in optimal condition.
In Summary
Choosing the right survival knife involves understanding the key features that make a knife effective in outdoor scenarios. Brands such as ESEE, KA-BAR, Morakniv, Benchmade, Cold Steel, and SOG offer some of the best models for various needs. Carefully consider the characteristics that matter most to you, and practice regular maintenance, ensuring that your survival knife is always ready for your next adventure.
