- Brand Morakniv
- Color Black
- Blade Shape Drop Point
- Brand Kershaw
- Color 1605CKTST
- Item Weight 68 Grams
- Brand Buck Knives
- Color Black/Silver
- Item Weight 0.5 Pounds
- Brand Defender Xtreme
- Blade Shape Clip Point
- Compound Bevel
- Brand OUTDOOR EDGE
- Color Orange
- Blade Shape Drop Point
Choose the Best Hunting Knife
Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Hunting Knives
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If you’re a hunter, then you know that having a good knife is essential. A quality hunting knife can make all the difference in the world when it comes to success in the field. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the best hunting knives on the market today. We’ll take a look at what makes these knives so great, and we’ll also provide some tips for choosing the right one for your needs. So if you’re in the market for a new hunting knife, read on!
Table of Contents
Morakniv Companion Outdoor Knife
Do you like going on outdoor adventures? Do you like the idea of having a companion by your side that can help make all your tasks easier? If so, then you need to check out this Morakniv Companion knife.
This is perfect for anyone who loves spending time outdoors – it’s great for beginners and experienced adventurers alike. The stainless steel blade is easy to care for and makes precision work a breeze, while the TPE rubber grip provides a soft, comfortable hold. Plus, the 3/4 tang ensures superior power and control when using this knife. Ready to take your outdoor explorations to the next level? Then pick up this knife today!
Kershaw Clash Pocket Knife
Kershaw is a budget-friendly, reliable, top-of-the-line Chinese-produced steel, 8Cr13MoV steel has carbon and slightly less nickel for hardness and edge retention.
Kershaw’s precision heat treated 8Cr13MoV steel strongly takes and holds an edge. Bead blasted for a high-tech finish, Kershaw is aesthetically pleasing and perfect for your end-use.
Buck Knives 119
The Buck Knives 119 has been a top seller for many years because of its combination of beauty, balance, and durability. The 420HC steel blade is both strong and corrosion resistant while the comfortable phenolic handle provides a good grip.
The aluminum pommel/guard further enhances the knife’s durability and beauty. Whether you’re using it for piercing, detail work, or cutting in tight places, the Clip Point blade is sure to come in handy. And with its protective leather sheath, the 119 can be safely carried with you wherever you go.
12″ Tactical Bowie Knife
Introducing the Bowie knife! This high-quality military hunting knife is perfect for any use. The 7” stainless steel blade is sharp and durable, with a double saw edge spine. The 5” knurled grip handle fits comfortably in your hand, providing a superior grip.
Plus, the solid weight of 12oz gives you extra power when you need it most. Comes with a hard composite sheath with an easy-open fastening system and belt hanging system. You won’t be disappointed with this one!
Outdoor Edge RazorLite
If you’re looking for an edge that will last, the best thing out there is this razor-sharp hunting knife. The black oxide-coated blade holder supports high-quality stainless steel blades which makes these 3 inch long cutting instruments perfect to use in any situation from gutting game all of way through skinning it down!
Not only do they have strong TPR handles but also rubberized exterior liners designed specifically so no matter whether wet or dry your hands won’t slip off their grasp when handling one
Buyer’s Guide
Why Do You Need A Knife For Hunting?
Hunting has been a way of life for millennia. It is only recently that we’ve become so reliant on supermarkets and grocery stores to provide us with meat. And, even though it might seem like hunting is something reserved exclusively for those who have the money (or time) to hunt big game animals like moose or elk, there are plenty of ways to get started hunting with a minimal amount of equipment.
A knife is a critical piece of gear for any hunter. There are many reasons why you need one, so let’s take a look at some of them:
- Removing an animal from the field: You’ll need to remove your trophy from the field so you can bring it back home. A knife is a critical tool for this task, and many hunters will use a skinning knife to do it. The type of blade you choose depends on the size of your catch; if it’s a small animal like a deer, you can get away with using a smaller blade. But if you’re hunting something larger, you’ll need something bigger.
- Gutting the animal: You also need to remove the internal organs of the animal. This is often called “gutting” and it needs to be done as quickly as possible in order to prevent spoilage. A sharp knife makes this process much easier – and faster than using your hands alone.
- Safety: A sharp knife can be used for defense if you’re attacked by another animal or a human who might want to steal your kill! Or, if you get lost in the woods, a knife can be used to build a shelter or start a fire.
- Preparing food: Once you’ve got the meat back home, you’ll need to start preparing it for storage or cooking. A good knife will help make this process much easier (and safer) than using a blunt kitchen knife.
- You never know what might happen: When out in the wild, things can go wrong. For example, you could trip over a log and cut yourself on some branches as you fall onto them. Or maybe there are thorns around that scratch at your skin while walking through a thick bush? Either way, having something sharp nearby will help with these types of scenarios.
There are many other reasons why you might need a knife while hunting, but these are some of the most important ones. Make sure you choose a good quality knife that is designed for hunting – it will make your life much easier in the field.
Types of Hunting Knives
The most common types of hunting knives are:
- Fixed blade knives: They are the simplest type of hunting knife. They have a single, solid piece of metal for the blade, which means they’re incredibly strong and durable. Moreover, they’re easy to sharpen and maintain. However, fixed blade knives are also relatively large and bulky, which can be a disadvantage in tight spaces.
- Folding blade knives: Folding blade knives are much smaller than fixed blade knives, and fold in half for easy storage. They have a retractable blade that folds into the handle when not in use. This makes them very compact and easy to carry around. This makes them perfect for hunting trips. However, they are less strong and durable than fixed blade knives, and the folding mechanism can wear out over time.
- Hybrid knives: Hybrid knives have both a fixed blade and a folding blade. This gives you the best of both worlds – a strong, durable blade when you need it, and a compact, easy-to-carry knife when you don’t. Moreover, hybrid knives have a variety of blade types, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
- Multi-tools: Multi-tools are an all-in-one solution to your hunting problems. They include a wide variety of tools, such as saws, pliers, and screwdrivers. Also, many multi-tools have a knife blade, so you can easily take down your prey. Multi-tools are perfect for when you’re on the go and don’t want to carry around a bunch of different tools. However, they are not as specialized as other types of hunting knives, and may not be suitable for all tasks.
Which type of hunting knife is right for you? That depends on your personal preferences and needs. Make sure to choose a knife that is strong and durable, yet still compact enough to carry with you on your hunting trips.
What To Look For In A Hunting Knife
A good hunting knife is an essential piece of equipment for any hunter. Not only can it be used for skinning and butchering games, but it can also be used for a variety of other tasks, such as building shelters and traps, cutting wood for a fire, or even self-defense.
There are a number of different factors to consider when choosing the best hunting knife for you. Some of them are:
Terrain
The first factor to consider is the type of terrain you will be hunting in. It is important to understand that the type of terrain will dictate what kind of hunting knife you need. If you choose the wrong knife, it could lead to an unsuccessful hunt.
If you are going to be out in a mountainous region, then it is important to have something with an improved grip. This can come from the handle itself or from the grip on your hand when holding the knife. When in a hilly region, you will also need a knife with a long blade so that you can reach the animal from a distance.
A hunting knife for use in forested areas does not necessarily have to have a long blade, but it should be sharp and able to handle multiple tasks. The grip is also important in this type of terrain as you may be holding onto branches or vines as you move through the forest.
For desert areas, a hunting knife with a very sharp blade is important. You want to be able to cut through small amounts of brush and plant life without damaging your skin or the animal’s hide.
Most hunting knives come with a sheath that will hold the knife in place while you are using it. It is important to choose one that fits well so that your hands do not get cut or injured when using the knife.
Knives that are designed for specific tasks are ideal for the habitat or terrain where they will be used most. A knife built solely for skinning is great if you are mainly going to use it as such but not ideal if you need to whittle wood or cut through a thick brush.
The best type of knife for hunting is a multi-purpose one, which can handle multiple tasks and be used in different habitats.
A hunting knife that is too big or small can be dangerous to use. It is important to choose one that fits your hand perfectly so you do not injure yourself while using it. This will ensure the blade does not slip out of your hands and cut something else during the hunt.
Type of steel
When looking for the best hunting knives, it is important to consider the type of steel that the blade is made out of. There are many different types of steel available, and each one has its own advantages and disadvantages. Some steels are better at holding an edge than others, while others are more resistant to corrosion. It is important to choose a steel that will best suit the needs of the individual hunter.
The most common types of steel used in hunting knives include: [1]
*High carbon – This kind of steel has a higher concentration of carbon that allows it to hold an edge longer than other steels. High carbon steel is also easier to sharpen and offers a good balance of strength, weight, and flexibility. The downside is that it’s more susceptible to corrosion than other types.
*Stainless – This type consists of steel mixed with chromium for added durability. Stainless steel tends to be heavier than high carbon and may be harder to re-sharpen, but it’s less likely to corrode. Moreover, many of the newer stainless steels offer good edge retention.
There are many different types of stainless steel available, including 420HC, 440C, VG-10, and AUS-eight.
- 420HC is a popular choice for budget knives because it offers good edge retention and is relatively easy to sharpen.
- 440C is by far one of the most prevalent types of steel in production today, with many companies using this material for their blades. It has excellent corrosion resistance and edge-holding ability, but can be difficult to re-sharpened.
- VG-101 is a popular material among high-end knives because it offers great edge retention and can be sharpened easily. It’s also resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor use.
- AUS-eight is another stainless steel that offers good edge retention and corrosion resistance, but it’s only used by a few manufacturers.
You can find many other types of stainless steel used in hunting knives, but the ones listed above are among the most common. It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each before making a purchase.
There are also several other types of steel that can be used in hunting knives, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, Damascus steel is known for its strength and unique patterns, while titanium-coated blades offer a sharper edge and are less likely to corrode.
The best type of steel for a hunting knife depends on the specific needs of the hunter. If durability is more important than sharpness, stainless steel is a good choice. But if edge retention is key, high carbon steel may be a better option.
Blade Length
The next thing you’ll want to think about is the blade length. It is important because you want a blade that is long enough to handle the task at hand, but not so long that it becomes cumbersome.
The right hunting knife is one that you can easily use in the environment where you hunt, so it’s not too small or too large. Blade lengths vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but most are between three and six inches long. [2]
- 3 inches – The three-inch blade is a great size for most hunting situations. It is small enough to be easy to carry and not cumbersome, yet large enough that it can handle almost any hunting task you throw at it.
- 4 inches – If you are looking for something that can handle a larger game, then the four-inch blade might be more your speed. This size is long enough to get the job done, but not so big that it becomes too difficult to handle.
- 5 inches – The five-inch blade is a great size for hunting large games. It can easily handle bigger prey, but it’s still short enough to be comfortable to carry around. However, if you are new to hunting and want something that is easy to handle, then you might want to stick with the smaller blade lengths.
- 6 inches – The six-inch blade is the largest that you will want to carry while hunting. It is a great size for larger prey, but it can be difficult to handle in tight spaces. If you are looking for a knife that can do it all, then this might be the right choice for you.
You can also find shorter and longer blades, but the three to six-inch range is the most common.
The length of the blade is important to consider when you are looking for a hunting knife. You don’t want it to be too cumbersome and difficult to use, but you also need it to be long enough to handle the task at hand.
Many things will affect how long your knife needs to be, so it’s important that you consider all of them before making a final decision. Some of these factors are:
- Your height – A taller person will need a longer blade than a shorter person. The reason for this is that a shorter person can more easily reach up and around their prey to make the necessary cuts.
- The size of your game – If you are hunting larger games, then you will need a longer blade. A five or six-inch blade is perfect for this type of situation, as it can easily handle larger prey but still be short enough to be comfortable carrying around.
- Your hunting style – The type of hunting you do will also affect what size knife is best for your needs. If you like stalking smaller games with a bow and arrow, then a three-inch blade might suffice. However if you want something more versatile that can be used on larger prey as well, then you might want to consider a six-inch blade.
- The environment – The size of the hunting knife that is right for you will also depend on where and how often you hunt. If it is a small area with little vegetation, then having something large enough to cut through a brush may not be necessary. However, if you are in a thick forest then you will need something that can handle more than just the average task.
- Hand size – Some people require larger knives because they have bigger hands. If you have larger hands, then a five or six-inch blade might be the perfect size for you.
There are many things to consider when choosing a hunting knife and the length of the blade is just one of them. Make sure that you take all of these factors into account before making your decision so that you can find the best knife for your specific
A shorter blade is easier to handle, but it may not be able to cut through thick hide or bone as well as a longer one would. A long blade will also take up more space in your bag and can be heavy if the knife isn’t balanced correctly.
If you choose a hunting knife with a blade that is too long, it can get caught on things in your path or cause you to lose your balance if the handle isn’t balanced correctly.
In general, choose a blade length that is comfortable for you to use and fits the environment where you will be hunting.
Blade Grind
Another feature you need to consider when purchasing a hunting knife is the blade grind. There are five main types of blade grinds: hollow, flat, saber, double bevel, and convex. [3]
- Hollow ground knives have a concave shape on the blade that makes them thinner and sharper than other blades. This type of grind is often used on knives that are meant for precision tasks, such as skinning and filleting.
- Flat ground blades have a straight edge and are the most common type of blade grind. They offer a good balance of strength and sharpness, making them ideal for general use. They are strong and durable, making them perfect for heavy-duty tasks like butchering.
- Saber grinds are triangular in shape and have a sharp bevel on only one side of the blade. This grind is perfect for knives that need to be able to withstand a lot of wear and tear.
- Double bevel blades are the most versatile type of grind because they offer a sharp edge on both the inside and outside of the blade. This makes them great for precision tasks as well as heavy-duty use.
- Convex ground blades have a curved shape that makes them stronger and more resistant to wear and tear than other blade grinds. They are perfect for knives that need to withstand a lot of abuse, such as hunting knives.
The grind you choose will depend on the type of tasks you plan to use your hunting knife for.
If you need a versatile blade that can handle a variety of jobs, then a double bevel or convex ground blade is the best option. If you need a knife that is specifically designed for butchering or heavy-duty tasks, then a saber grind or flat ground blade would be better suited.
When choosing a hunting knife, it is important to consider the type of grind on the blade. Each type of grind has its own strengths and weaknesses, so you need to choose one that will best meet your needs.
If you are not sure which blade grind is best suited for your needs, then it may be helpful to ask an expert at the store where you are purchasing from. They should be able to provide guidance and give advice on what type of grind would work best for your particular needs.
Blade Styles
There are several different types of hunting knife blades on the market today, and each has its own set of advantages/disadvantages. Below is a list of some common blade styles: [3]
- Drop point – This style is designed for skinning animals such as deer or elk (and sometimes even larger game like moose). It is characterized by a broad, curved blade that gradually tapers to a point, and typically has a sharpened edge on the concave side of the curve. This type of blade is also very effective for piercing and slicing.
- Clip point – The clip point is similar to the drop point, but features a more sharply pointed end and less curving. It is ideal for penetrating small or thin prey, as well as performing precision cuts. However, it is not as strong or durable for skinning larger animals with thicker hides.
- Tanto point – The tanto point blade is designed for stabbing and piercing, but can also be used for skinning. It has a triangular-shaped tip that allows it to penetrate deep into the animal’s body without bending or breaking. Moreover, the tanto blade is also very strong and resistant to breaking, making it a good choice for those who plan to use their hunting knife for heavy-duty tasks.
- Spear point – This style is the most common type of blade found on hunting knives. It features a straight edge and symmetrical shape, which makes it suitable for all-purpose use. In addition, the spear point is also very durable and can withstand a great deal of wear and tear. However, it is not as effective for slicing or piercing as some of the other blade styles.
- Straight back point – This style is the most basic of all. It has a straight edge and can be used for slicing or cutting, but it’s not well-suited for stabbing or piercing because its tip is too blunt. It is also not very strong, so it’s not a good choice for skinning.
- Trailing point – The trailing point blade has a curved edge and is designed for skinning. It features a sharp tip that can be used to pierce the hide of an animal, but it’s not very good at slicing or cutting because its sharpness diminishes towards the heel of the knife. The point is also very weak and can easily bend or break if pressure is applied to it.
- Sheepsfoot point – This style is similar to the trailing point, but it has a rounded tip instead of being pointed. It can be used for skinning or cutting thick hides and fur, but not very well suited for stabbing due to its rounded end. However, it does have one advantage over other blade styles: because there’s less risk of accidentally piercing yourself while using it, you can safely carry it with your finger on the blade.
Each of these blade styles has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your needs.
For example, if you plan on using your hunting knife for skinning larger animals, then a drop point or clip point blade would be a better choice than a spear point or straight back point. Similarly, if you’re looking for something that can be used in a variety of situations, then the tanto or trailing point styles might work well.
In general, most experienced hunters agree that having two different types of blades is usually better than trying to find one perfect blade style to meet all your needs. That way you’ll always have what you need for any given situation.
Handle material
The next thing you need to consider when buying a hunting knife is the material of its handle. The handle should be comfortable enough so that you can use it for hours without feeling any kind of pain or discomfort.
You may also want a balanced knife, which means that it has an even distribution of weight throughout its length. This will make your cutting easier and more efficient.
The most popular handle materials are:
- Wood: It is comfortable to grip and has a good feel in the hand. Wooden handles also absorb moisture, which makes them resistant to slippage. However, they are not as durable as other materials and can break easily. In addition, wood is prone to rotting if left outside for too long periods of time without proper care.
- Plastic: It is lightweight, easy to grip and very comfortable in the hand. It does not absorb moisture and is resistant to slippage. Moreover, it is durable and does not rot. However, plastic can become brittle over time and may crack or break if dropped on a hard surface.
- Aluminium: It is lightweight and durable. However, it can become slippery when wet or greasy. Also, aluminium is not comfortable to grip for long periods of time because it conducts heat and cold very well – your hands might get burned in the summer or frozen in the winter.
- Stainless steel: Steel is an excellent choice for knives because it does not rust and has a great feel in the hand. In addition, it is very durable and can be easily sharpened. However, stainless steel does not absorb moisture so well and may become slippery when wet or greasy.
- Bone: It is a very good material for knife handles because it offers great grip and comfort. However, bone can rot when exposed to moisture so you need to keep your knife well protected from the elements (rain or snow). Bone is a very attractive material and gives your knife a unique look. However, it is also the most expensive option.
- Rubber: It has an excellent feel in the hand and provides great grip even if wet. In addition, rubber handles are very durable and resistant to cracking or breaking. However, they are not comfortable over long periods of time because they conduct heat and cold well (just like aluminium).
- Leather: It is the traditional material for knife handles, which means that it offers a great grip and feel in the hand. In addition, leather has been used on knives since the dawn of time because it is very durable and can be easily repaired if damaged. However, leather does not absorb moisture well.
- Synthetic composite: It is a very good choice for knife handles because it offers comfort and excellent grip. In addition, synthetic composites are very durable and resistant to cracking or breaking. They come in variety of colors, so you can choose one that matches your style. However, they can become slippery when wet or greasy.
There are also a few other materials that can be used for knife handles, but the ones listed above are the most popular. So, take your time and choose the one that is best suited for your needs.
Handle material affets not only comfort but also grip and durability. The material of the handle does not affect how sharp your knife will be, but it does affect how easy or difficult it is to sharpen your knife once its edge has been dulled by use.
Durability
Hunting knives must be strong and sturdy enough to endure the harsh conditions that may come with hunting. They need to be able to withstand the elements, as well as being able to hold an edge while being used.
Durability depends on such factors as the type of steel used in the blade, how well it has been heat-treated, and the overall construction of the knife.
Every knife manufacturer has its own specifications which they use to determine what is considered a durable hunting knife.
Knives with stainless steel blades are more likely to be able to stand up against the elements and hold an edge, while carbon steel knives offer more flexibility in how well they can withstand the elements.
Some manufacturers also make their own proprietary materials that they claim make their knives more durable than others.
Carbon steels have a lower chromium content, which means they can be sharpened more easily and tend to hold an edge better.
The hardness of the blade is measured on the Rockwell scale (HRC) – with harder blades being able to take and keep an edge for a longer time.
Knives with high carbon content are often more durable and have a better ability to retain an edge, but they’re also more susceptible to corrosion if not properly taken care of.
Taking care of the handle by applying a protective coating helps keep the wood or other material from drying out and splintering over time. Applying a lubricant to the blade helps keep it in good condition and prevents corrosion.
There is no rule that says what makes a hunting knife good or bad – it all depends on personal preference and how you plan to use the knife.
FAQ
What knife do you use for deer hunting?
The best knife for deer hunting is a fixed-blade full tang knife. You’ll also want to make sure you get one with a drop point, as this design features greater control and strength than other blade shapes.
How much should I spend on a hunting knife?
It depends entirely upon your needs and wants. Compact knives for skinning can be as low as $20, while large fixed blades can cost over $300. However, there are plenty of great-quality options in the $60-$120 range that offer superior quality without breaking the bank.
What is the best metal for hunting knives?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as different knife blades are made from various metals and all have their own advantages and disadvantages. However, some of the most popular blade materials for hunting knives include: carbon steel, stainless steel and Damascus steel.
Useful Video: Top 10 Best Hunting Knives
Final Thoughts
When you are looking for the best hunting knives, it is important to consider all of your options. There are a variety of different knives on the market, and each one has its own unique benefits and drawbacks.
Make sure to take into account the type of game that you will be hunting, as well as your personal preferences, before making a purchase.
It is also important to consider the price tag of each knife. While it may seem expensive at first, you will eventually get used to using them and save money in the long run!
In the end, the best hunting knives are those that fit your specific needs and preferences. Do your research and find the perfect knife for you!
We hope that this guide has helped you find the best hunting knives for your needs.
If you liked it, please share!
Happy Hunting!
References:
- https://huntingreview.net/knives/best-steel-for-hunting-knives/
- https://knifeinformer.com/finding-the-best-hunting-knife/
- https://huntinglot.com/best-hunting-knives/#uses-and-types-of-hunting-knives