When deciding upon the best survival knife there are arguments that can be made for several different styles of knives as well as brands. The discussions are likely to become heated and intense as outdoor enthusiastic are passionate when it comes to their tools. There are several hundred survival knives to choose from. Countless hours of research have gone into the issue regarding the best survival knife. Numerous reviews have been read. The conclusion, the best survival knife for you depends on what you are looking for.
Each knife is unique and as such has viable pros and cons that come along with owning it. Each person has a characteristic unlike that of another so we will never agree on which one is “the best” for everyone. There are however, some important characteristics to look for that create a survival knife that will become an everlasting family heirloom.
When it comes to purchasing a knife for survival purposes you have two choices in blade styles; fixed blade and folding blade. I would never recommend a folding knife blade to a true survivalist. Folding knives have improved over the years however are not as well built or resilient as a genuine fixed blade knife. When choosing a fixed blade knife look for a full tang instead of a partial tang. The difference is that in a full tang the blade metal extends the full length of the knife into the grip-portion of the handle. A partial tang, in my opinion, does not offer the strength or stability that a full tang survival piece can.
Another significant portion of the knife that needs to be considered is the steel in which the blade is made. This could be the most debated part of the knife as well. Knives can be manufactured out of variety of steels or combinations of such. When looking for a long-lasting knife for survival purposes the best option for the blade, in my opinion, is a combination of stainless steel and carbon steel. Carbon steel allows for the knife blade to stay sharper longer as well as being incredibly durable while stainless steel looks sleek and is a non-corroding, rust resistant material.
A considerable feature when it comes to purchasing a true piece meant for survival you will want something with some girth. A thick blade is a must have when it comes to finding the perfect survival piece. When you are out in the back country living off the land you need a knife that will slice, hack, split, bone, skin and save your life. You should be looking for a blade that is at least an eighth of an inch thick. A knife being used to save your life should be made in such a manner that failure is not an option. If the blade fails it could mean your life.
The last piece of advice I will give you on the topic is to purchase a brand name knife from a reputable outdoor gear company. Brand names in knives are plentiful. Outdoor knife suppliers range from brands such as Ka-Bar, Cold-Steel, Buck and Becker just to name a few.