Best All Around Survival Knife (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a reliable survival knife that can tackle any situation you might face, then you’ve come to the right place. A good all-around survival knife should be able to perform well in different environments, from cutting through thick branches to piercing tough materials, such as animal hides and cords.
When looking for the best all-around survival knife, there are several factors that you should consider. The blade must be strong and durable enough to withstand the toughest jobs, while the handle must be ergonomic and comfortable, to ensure a secure and firm grip. A good quality sheath is also important to keep your knife in tip-top condition and easily accessible when you need it.
But with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know where to start. What are the key features to look for? How do you know if a particular knife is right for you? Is it worth investing in a more expensive option or will a cheaper one suffice? These are just some of the questions that people commonly ask when looking for the best all-around survival knife.
If you want to know more about choosing the right knife for your needs, keep reading. We’ll give you some helpful tips on how to evaluate the options and make an informed decision. After all, having a reliable and versatile survival knife is essential whether you're planning a camping trip or dealing with an unexpected emergency.
10 Best All Around Survival Knife
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1
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Ideal for survivalists, hunters, campers who need a durable and sharp knife with additional firestarter and sharpener.
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2
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Ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, fishing, and survival situations. Includes firesteel and sharpener stone. Handmade.
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3
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Ideal for outdoor activities such as hunting, camping, and survival situations with its partially serrated blade and line cutter.
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4
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Ideal for survival gear and tactical situations, featuring a strong fixed blade with a plain edge.
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5
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The product is ideal for survival situations, with its sawback blade and natural leather handle and sheath.
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6
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Ideal for survival gear or tactical situations with a serrated edge and coyote brown color.
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7
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Ideal for outdoor and survival activities such as hunting, camping, hiking, and emergency situations.
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8
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Ideal for hunting, camping, hiking, and outdoor activities.
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9
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The product is ideal for outdoor activities, survival situations, and as a concealed-carry knife due to its compact size.
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10
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Ideal for bushcraft and survival situations, featuring carbon steel blade, fire starter, and protective sheath.
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1. Bushcraft Pro: Knife, Sheath, Firestarter, Sharpener
Experience adventure like never before with this exceptional knife designed for explorers, hunters, fishermen, and the military. No matter the challenge, this knife is built to withstand rough conditions and hard outdoor environments.
With a blade length of 170 mm / 6.70", an overall length of 315 mm / 12.40", and a blade thickness of 5 mm / 0.20", this knife is perfect for tactical fishing, hunting, camping, rescue, and fieldwork. The handle is made of Cocobolo Exotic Wood, providing a comfortable grip that won't slip even in wet conditions.
Crafted from high-quality Stainless Steel Molybdenum-Vanadium 58 (MOVA-58) with a hardness rating of HRC 56-58, this knife is built to last. The genuine leather multi-positioned sheath ensures that the knife is always within reach, while the included sharpener stone, firesteel, and strap make it easy to maintain and use in any situation.
Designed in the USA and handmade in Spain, this knife is a reliable companion for any outdoor enthusiast. The manufacturer is so confident in the quality of this knife that they offer a 100% risk-free purchase. They have tested this knife hundreds of times in various conditions and are sure of its quality. If the knife doesn't live up to your expectations, they offer a 100% money-back guarantee.
2. Mova Blade Bushcraft Knife With Firestarter
Adventurers, outdoorsmen, and military personnel can now experience the thrill of rough outdoor conditions with the JEO-TEC Nº45 knife. This knife is designed to withstand the rigors of the wild and provide a reliable cutting tool in any situation.
Crafted with a 150 mm / 5.90 inches blade length and 280 mm / 11 inches overall length, the JEO-TEC Nº45 is made with a sturdy 5 mm / 0.20 inches blade thickness. The knife’s handle is made with Cocobolo Exotic Wood, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
The JEO-TEC Nº45 comes with a multi-positioned genuine leather sheath, a sharpener stone, a firesteel, and a strap, making it a must-have accessory for camping and survival. It can be easily packed with other essential survival tools such as a Swiss army knife, multifunction tool, binoculars, compass, backpack, solar charger, paracord, rope, stove, first aid kit, and thermal bag.
This knife is designed for hunters, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts who require a sturdy, reliable, and versatile tool. Whether used for tactical, fishing, camping, or hiking purposes, the JEO-TEC Nº45 is an ideal choice.
JEO-TEC Nº45 has been tested in various conditions, and the company stands behind its quality. They offer a 100% money-back guarantee, making it a 100% risk-free purchase.
3. Sog Tactical Bowie Survival Knife With Sheath.
The SEAL Strike fixed blade knife is a versatile and reliable tool that has been field-tested as a combat knife, camping knife, boot knife, and hunting knife. Its 4.9-inch blade is made from durable AUS-8 stainless steel and features a full tang design for added strength and stability. With a total length of 9.6 inches, this knife is the perfect size for any outdoor adventure.
The handle of the SEAL Strike knife is made from glass-reinforced nylon, which provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions. Additionally, the handle is reinforced with stainless steel for added durability and strength. Weighing in at 5.6 ounces, this knife is lightweight and easy to carry.
The blade of the SEAL Strike knife is coated with black titanium nitride, which makes it far stronger than your average bushcraft knife or Bowie knife. SOG’s cryogenic heat treatment process hardens the blade at the atomic level, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
The SEAL Strike knife comes with a deluxe sheath that makes it easy to carry and access while on the go. This sheath is perfect for hiking, rescue missions, military operations, and any other outdoor adventure. It includes a line cutter, ferrochromium fire starter, and sharpener, making it a versatile and valuable addition to your gear.
At SOG, we stand behind our products and offer a lifetime warranty on all of our knives. If you take care of your SEAL Strike knife, we’ll take care of you. Our knives are built to last, and we are always happy to consider repair and replacement requests.
4. Gerber Gear Strongarm – Fixed Blade Tactical Knife For Survival Gear – Black, Plain Edge
The Strongarm knife is a reliable tactical tool that boasts of a full-tang 420HC steel blade and a plain edge. Its black handle ensures a firm grip, making it a reliable companion in any situation.
Crafted to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities, the Strongarm knife is an excellent survival tool. Its ceramic blade coating and rubberized diamond texture grip make it durable and comfortable to use. Whether you are in the wilderness or navigating through tough terrain, this knife is a reliable tool that you can count on.
In case of an emergency, the striking pommel can be used to break through hard surfaces. This feature adds an extra layer of functionality to the knife, making it an essential part of any survival gear.
The Strongarm knife comes with four mounting pieces and a sheath that can be used for mounting on MOLLE, belt, or in the drop-leg fashion. This feature ensures that the knife is easily accessible, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and anyone who needs a reliable tool at their disposal.
Gerber is renowned for its commitment to quality and service, and the Strongarm knife is no exception. The company offers a limited lifetime warranty on all its products, giving you peace of mind knowing that you are investing in a high-quality tool that is built to last.
5. Air Force Survival Knife – 5" Sawback Blade
The Iconic 499 Survival Knife is a must-have tool for anyone who values quality and durability. For generations, pilots have carried this knife as a reliable survival tool in any environment. Its 1095 carbon steel blade, which measures 0.1875 inches in thickness, is one of the knife's standout features. This type of steel is known for its toughness and ability to hold a sharp edge, making it ideal for survival situations.
The knife measures 9.5 inches in overall length, with a blade length of 5 inches. The sawteeth on the spine of the blade make it easy to saw through tough materials. The knife is also U.S. Army and Air Force-issue, attesting to its quality and reliability.
The 5-inch Parkerized blade features a serrated top edge that adds to its versatility. The comfortable leather handle ensures a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The knife also comes with a sheath for easy storage and transport.
In addition to the knife and sheath, the package includes a sharpening stone with a pouch. This allows you to keep your knife in top condition, ensuring that it is always ready for use when you need it.
The Iconic 499 Survival Knife is GSA-compliant, meaning that it meets the rigorous standards set by the General Services Administration. This ensures that you are getting a high-quality product that is built to last.
6. Gerber Gear Strongarm – Fixed Blade Tactical Knife For Survival Gear – Coyote Brown, Serrated Edge
The Strongarm Tactical Knife is the perfect tool for any outdoor enthusiast or survivalist. It features a sturdy, full-tang steel blade with a serrated edge and a coyote brown handle that provides a comfortable and secure grip. This knife is designed to withstand the toughest conditions and is built to last.
The Strongarm Survival Knife is also equipped with a ceramic blade coating and a rubberized diamond texture grip, which makes it even more durable and reliable. The ceramic coating ensures that the blade stays sharp and rust-free for a longer period of time, while the rubberized grip provides a non-slip surface for a secure and comfortable hold.
In addition to its impressive cutting abilities, the Strongarm Survival Knife can also be used as a striking tool in emergencies. Its striking pommel can break through hard surfaces, making it an essential survival gear for any outdoor adventure.
The Strongarm Tactical Knife comes with 4 mounting pieces and a sheath, which provides multiple mounting options. It can be mounted on MOLLE, belt, or in drop-leg fashion, making it easy to carry and access when needed.
Gerber, the manufacturer of the Strongarm Tactical Knife, stands behind their product and offers a limited lifetime warranty on all their products. This is a testament to their commitment to quality and service, and gives customers peace of mind knowing that their investment is protected.
7. Cds-Survival Mova-58: Ultimate Outdoor Knife Kit
Introducing a premium quality handmade knife that is expertly crafted in Spain with the highest quality materials. The blade is made from Stainless Steel Molybdenum-Vanadium 58 (MOVA-58) and has a hardness rating of HRC 56-59, making it incredibly durable and long-lasting.
The blade is cut by laser and has a length of 145mm or 5.70 inches, with an overall length of 275mm or 10.82 inches. The blade thickness is 4-3/4 inches, which gives it a robust and sturdy feel in your hand.
The knife comes with a genuine leather sheath that is designed to protect the blade from any damage. Additionally, a sharpener stone and firesteel are included, making it easy to keep your knife sharp and ready for use.
The handle of the knife is made from Cocobolo wood, which is known for its strength and durability. It provides a comfortable grip that allows for precise and controlled cutting, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and hunting.
8. Surviv-All Knife: Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Companion
The StatGear Surviv-All Outdoor Knife is an exceptional tool that every adventurer should have. Made of high-quality stainless steel, this full tang knife is incredibly durable and can withstand even the toughest outdoor conditions.
Featuring a drop point blade, this knife is equipped with a blade sharpening stone located at the rear of the sheath, ensuring that your knife remains sharp and sturdy at all times. This feature is particularly useful when you're out in the wilderness and need to sharpen your blade quickly and efficiently.
Additionally, the sheath includes a fire starter and cord cutter, making it a versatile and practical tool. The cord cutter, in particular, is an excellent option for minor cuts, eliminating the need to take out your knife for every small task.
If you're an avid hunter or enjoy spending time outdoors, the StatGear Surviv-All Outdoor Knife should be your go-to choice. Its reliable performance and durable design make it an excellent option for any outdoor activity. Don't leave for your next adventure without it!
9. Sog Snarl Mini Survival Knife.
Introducing the Snarl – a compact and durable fixed blade knife that is perfect for tactical use, hunting, or everyday carry. Measuring at 4.3 inches in length, this knife features a 2.3 inch full tang blade that is designed to be nearly indestructible. The blade is made of 9CR18MOV stainless steel and is satin-polished for a sleek appearance.
The Snarl comes with a Kydex sheath and utility neck knife chain, making it easy to clip onto a backpack or wear around the neck. The multi-grip design, created by renowned knife designer Jason Brous, includes an oversized blade ring finger choil, ring pommel, and jimping, providing solid grip options for any situation.
This knife weighs in at 1.9 ounces, making it a lightweight option for those who prefer not to carry a heavy blade. Additionally, it is built to last and comes with a lifetime warranty from SOG Knives. If you take care of your Snarl, SOG will take care of you.
10. Carbon Bushcraft Knife With Fire Starter Set
Looking for a durable and reliable knife that can withstand all your outdoor adventures? Look no further than the Morakniv Bushcraft Knife! This fixed-blade knife is an ideal choice for campers, backpackers, fishermen, hikers, and survivalists alike.
Crafted from premium 1/8-inch carbon steel, the Morakniv Bushcraft Knife delivers exceptional strength and stability with every cut. The black DLC blade coating provides additional protection against rust and prevents unwanted reflections, ensuring that you can use this knife for years to come.
The handle of this knife is made with an ergonomic polymer design that features a soft friction grip and finger guard, making it both safe and efficient to use in all weather conditions. Whether you're working in the rain or snow, this knife will stay securely in your hand.
The Morakniv Bushcraft Knife comes complete with a protective polymer sheath that is easy to clean and features a convenient belt clip and belt loop, allowing you to quickly access your knife when you need it. With a blade length of 4.3 inches (109 mm), blade thickness of 0.126 inch (3.2 mm), total length of 9.1 inches (232 mm), and a net weight with sheath of 5.4 ounces (154 g), this knife is the perfect size for all your outdoor needs.
Best All Around Survival Knife FAQs
Can a folding knife be a good option for a survival knife?
A folding knife can be a good option for a survival knife depending on the situation and intended use. Folding knives are compact and easy to carry, making them a convenient choice for outdoor activities. However, they may not be as sturdy or reliable as fixed-blade knives, which are typically considered the best option for survival situations.
If you do decide to use a folding knife as a survival knife, it's important to choose one that is well-made and durable. Look for a knife with a strong locking mechanism and a blade made from high-quality steel that can hold up to heavy use. Additionally, consider the size and weight of the knife, as well as its blade length and shape, to ensure that it will meet your specific needs in a survival situation.
Ultimately, while a folding knife may not be the ideal choice for all survival situations, it can still be a useful tool to have on hand if chosen wisely and used correctly.
How does the blade shape affect the knife's survival capabilities?
The blade shape of a knife plays a crucial role in determining its survival capabilities. The shape of the blade determines the knife's cutting ability, durability, and versatility. A knife with a sharp point and a curved edge is ideal for cutting and slicing tasks. The point allows for precision cutting, while the curve in the blade enables it to slice through tough materials. A straight edge blade is ideal for chopping tasks, as it provides a consistent cutting surface. The thickness of the blade also affects its durability. A thicker blade can withstand heavy use and abuse, making it ideal for survival situations. However, a thicker blade may also be heavier, making it less versatile. A thinner blade is lightweight and versatile, but may not be as durable as a thicker blade. Ultimately, the type of blade shape you choose depends on the specific tasks you will be using your knife for and the conditions in which you will be using it.
How important is the handle material and design in a survival knife?
The handle material and design are crucial factors to consider when it comes to selecting a survival knife. The handle is the part of the knife that provides the user with a comfortable and secure grip, which is especially important in survival situations where the knife will be used for extended periods of time. The material used for the handle can vary, with options such as wood, plastic, rubber, and metal. Each material has its own pros and cons, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and intended use.
In addition to the material, the design of the handle is also important. A good handle design should provide a secure grip even when wet or covered in debris, and it should also be comfortable to hold for extended periods of time. Some knife handles have additional features such as finger grooves or a textured surface to enhance grip.
Overall, the handle material and design can greatly impact the functionality and safety of a survival knife, and it is important to carefully consider these factors when selecting a knife for outdoor or survival activities.
Should a survival knife have a full tang or a partial tang?
A survival knife is an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast and choosing the right one can make a big difference. When it comes to tang, there are two options: full tang and partial tang. A full tang knife has a blade that extends all the way through the handle, while a partial tang knife has a blade that only partially extends into the handle.
In general, a full tang knife is considered to be more durable and reliable than a partial tang knife. This is because the full tang provides a stronger connection between the blade and handle, making it less likely to break or become loose during heavy use. Additionally, a full tang knife is better balanced, which can make it easier to handle and control.
However, a partial tang knife can still be a good option if you prioritize lightweight and portability over durability. Partial tang knives are often more compact and easier to carry, which can be important if you are trying to minimize the weight of your gear.
Ultimately, the choice between a full tang and partial tang knife comes down to personal preference and intended use. If you plan on using your knife for heavy-duty tasks or in survival situations, a full tang knife is likely your best bet. However, if you need a lightweight and easy-to-carry option, a partial tang knife may be more suitable.
Should a survival knife have a serrated edge or a straight edge?
When it comes to survival knives, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether they should have a serrated edge or a straight edge. Both types of edges have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on the intended use of the knife.
A straight edge is ideal for tasks that require precision cutting, such as carving and slicing. It is also easier to sharpen and maintain than a serrated edge. On the other hand, a serrated edge is better for tasks that involve cutting through tough materials, such as rope or wood with knots. It can also be used for sawing, which makes it a versatile option in the wild.
In summary, if you plan to use your survival knife for tasks that require precision cutting, a straight edge will be the best option. But if you're going to be cutting through tough materials and need a more versatile blade, then a serrated edge may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your intended use, preferences, and comfort level with each type of edge.
What are some of the best all-around survival knives on the market today?
When it comes to survival knives, there are a lot of options on the market today. However, some of the best all-around survival knives are those that are versatile, durable, and reliable. Here are a few options to consider:
1. ESEE 5: This knife is made of high carbon 1095 steel and has a full tang construction, making it very durable. It also has a comfortable handle and a blade length of 5.25 inches, making it a good all-around size.
2. Gerber StrongArm: The StrongArm has a 4.8-inch blade made of high carbon stainless steel and a diamond-texture rubber handle for a secure grip. It also comes with a modular sheath system for easy carry.
3. Benchmade Bushcrafter: The Bushcrafter has a 4.4-inch blade made of high-quality steel and a comfortable G10 handle. It also has a versatile drop-point blade shape that can handle a variety of tasks.
4. Morakniv Companion: This knife is a great budget-friendly option, but still has a high carbon stainless steel blade and a comfortable handle. It also comes with a plastic sheath and a belt clip for easy carry.
Ultimately, the best survival knife for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, these knives are all great all-around options that can handle a variety of tasks in a survival situation.
What are the different types of blade materials and which is best for survival knives?
There are several types of blade materials available for survival knives, and each has its own pros and cons. Some of the most popular types of materials include stainless steel, carbon steel, Damascus steel, and ceramic.
Stainless steel is a popular choice because it resists corrosion, is easy to sharpen, and is relatively affordable. However, it may not hold an edge as well as other materials and can be prone to chipping.
Carbon steel is another popular choice for survival knives because it is durable, holds an edge well, and is easy to sharpen. However, it is prone to rust and corrosion, which can be a problem in wet or humid environments.
Damascus steel is a high-quality material that is known for its unique pattern and durability. It is made by layering and folding different types of steel together to create a strong and flexible blade. However, it is often more expensive than other materials.
Ceramic blades are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and extremely sharp. They are also highly durable and can last for many years. However, they can be brittle and may chip or crack if dropped or used improperly.
Ultimately, the best blade material for a survival knife depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as durability, corrosion resistance, sharpness, and cost when choosing a material for your knife.
What are the top features to look for in a survival knife?
When it comes to survival knives, there are a few key features that you should look for to ensure that it will meet your needs in a survival situation. Firstly, the blade should be made from a high-quality steel that is durable, corrosion-resistant, and holds a sharp edge. A full tang blade is also important as it provides strength and durability to the knife.
Another important feature is a comfortable and non-slip handle that provides a secure grip in all weather conditions. The handle material should also be durable and able to withstand impacts and moisture.
The blade should also have a versatile design that allows it to perform a range of tasks, from chopping wood to skinning game. A serrated edge can also be useful for sawing through tough materials.
A good survival knife should also come with a sturdy and reliable sheath that allows for easy and safe carry. The sheath should also be made from a durable material that can withstand wear and tear.
Lastly, the size and weight of the knife should be appropriate for your needs and personal preferences. A knife that is too heavy or too large may be difficult to carry and handle, while a knife that is too small may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
What is the ideal size and weight for a survival knife?
The ideal size and weight for a survival knife depend on various factors, such as the intended use, the user's preferences and physical abilities, and the environment in which it will be used. Generally, a survival knife should have a blade length of at least 4 inches and a total length of 8 to 10 inches. A blade thickness of around 3/16 to 1/4 inch is also preferred as it provides enough heft and durability for heavy-duty tasks.
As for weight, a survival knife should not be too heavy that it becomes cumbersome to use for extended periods. A weight of around 7 to 10 ounces is ideal as it strikes a balance between durability and ease of use. However, some users prefer heavier knives for their chopping and hacking abilities.
It's worth noting that the ideal size and weight of a survival knife may vary depending on the user's skills and needs. It's essential to choose a knife that feels comfortable and well-balanced in your hand, allowing you to perform various tasks with ease.
What makes a knife the best all-around survival knife?
Choosing the best all-around survival knife can be a daunting task, as it depends on various factors. However, some features can make a knife stand out as the best choice for survival situations.
Firstly, a survival knife should have a fixed blade, as they are more durable and reliable than folding knives. The blade should be made of high-quality steel, with a full tang construction that extends through the handle, providing strength and stability.
The size and shape of the blade are also essential factors to consider. A blade that is too small may not be able to handle heavy-duty tasks, while a blade that is too large may be challenging to carry. The blade should be versatile enough to perform various tasks, from chopping wood to preparing food.
A good survival knife should also have a comfortable and non-slip handle, as this prevents accidents and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. Additionally, the knife should come with a reliable and durable sheath, which makes it easy to carry and access when needed.
Ultimately, the best all-around survival knife should be strong, versatile, and reliable, making it an essential tool for any survival situation.
