Most of us will never need to break out of a crashed plane, fend off tigers, escape the jungle — or some impossible, Bear Grylls-esque combination of all three. However, being prepared with strong, sharp, survival knives and multi-tools could literally be a lifesaver. These blades not only act as tools for cutting down branches and animals, but they also come in handy during life and death situations in the wilderness. One thing’s for sure, though, survival knives are definitely not for everyday carry, but rather for having on hand for emergencies at home and in the backcountry. So before packing your bug-out bag, make sure to check out our list below of the best camping survival knives.
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Gerber StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife
As the successor to the popular LMF II, the Gerber StrongArm is just as strong and even more capable. The 4.8-inch, 420-HC (high carbon) steel blade holds an edge for a long time, although you’ll need to be mindful of abusing it with demanding tasks like chopping wood. The Cerakote ceramic coating is often used on firearms to improve wear and corrosion resistance. With the included sheath, the StrongArm can easily mount vertically on MOLLE straps, horizontally on a belt, or with a drop-leg system, making this one of the best fixed-blade survival combat knives in the market today.
Helle Temagami Traditional Field Knife
While more of a bushcraft knife, the Helle Temagami is still going to make quick work of camp chores. Norwegian’s Helle Knives designed the Temagami field knife with “Survivorman” Les Stroud to be a strong, yet beautiful handmade knife. The 5.5-oz knife has a 4-inch blade and a handle made from curly birch. The semi-full tang (the metal part of the blade) runs to the end of the handle but not quite to the fingers.
Fun fact: Stroud’s love of the brand started when he found a knife while hiking through the Temagami wilderness in Canada when he was young. The handle felt perfect in his hand and it was easy to sharpen. Only later did he found out it was a Helle knife.
ESEE 4P Fixed Blade Knife
The 4.5-inch blade with saver grind on the ESEE 4 means business. The 1095 carbon steel is sharp yet strong. The micarta handle is easy to hold on to in any conditions. If you’re truly out in the wilderness for days or if ever you’re in an emergency situation, it has the right size for a quick “grab-and-go.”
Ontario Knife Black Bird SK-5
Now for a different look and feel. The Black Bird SK-5 from Ontario has a full flat grind and a mirror finish. The sharp edges on the spine throw sparks from a Ferro rod for starting fires with ease. A G10 handle is very comfortable to hold on to for long periods of time. The 5-inch blade is long enough to hammer through firewood but not too big it’s going to get in the way.
Schrade SCHF9 Fixed Blade Knife
Fixed-blade survival combat knives can run north of $300 or more. But, the SCHF9 from Shrade is a great, affordable alternative. With a 6.4-inch blade and a thermoplastic handle meant for large hands, it’s built to tackle wood-chopping and other heavy-duty activities with ease. The blunt tip ensures that it’s stronger and won’t break when prying. The included nylon sheath with Kydex liner easily hooks to a belt or ties to a pack. Plus, the small removable pouch on the front is great for Ferro rods or emergency fishing kits.
If you’re looking for a knife but none of these meet your specifications, check out our picks for the fixed blade knives, best hunting knives, and best skinning knives.
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