Survival knives are essential tools for any prepper or survivalist. A good survival knife can help you perform a variety of tasks, from building shelter to preparing food, and can even save your life in an emergency situation.
But with so many different types of knives on the market, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we’ll take a look at what you should consider when choosing a survival knife for your kit.
Blade Material
The first thing to consider when choosing a survival knife is the material of the blade. There are three main types of blade materials: carbon steel, stainless steel, and high-carbon stainless steel.
Carbon steel is a popular choice for survival knives because it is very strong and durable. It is also easy to sharpen and holds an edge well. However, carbon steel can rust if not properly cared for, so it’s important to keep it dry and oiled.
Stainless steel is also a good choice for survival knives because it is resistant to rust and corrosion. However, it is not as strong as carbon steel and may be more difficult to sharpen.
High-carbon stainless steel is a blend of carbon steel and stainless steel and combines the best of both worlds. It is strong, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. However, it may be more expensive than other types of blade materials.
Blade Shape
The shape of the blade is another important factor to consider when choosing a survival knife. There are three main types of blade shapes: drop point, clip point, and tanto.
A drop point blade is a versatile shape that is good for a variety of tasks. It has a curved edge that makes it easy to slice through things and a sharp point that can be used for piercing.
A clip point blade is similar to a drop point but has a concave curve near the tip of the blade. This makes it better for fine work and detail work, but not as good for heavy-duty tasks.
A tanto blade has a straight edge and a very sharp point. It is good for piercing and cutting through tough materials, but may not be as versatile as other blade shapes.
Blade Length
The length of the blade is also an important factor to consider when choosing a survival knife. Generally, a blade that is between 4 and 6 inches long is a good choice for a survival knife.
A longer blade may be better for heavy-duty tasks, such as chopping wood or cutting through thick brush. However, a longer blade may be more difficult to handle for fine work.
A shorter blade may be better for detail work, but may not be as effective for heavy-duty tasks.
Handle Material
The material of the handle is also important to consider when choosing a survival knife. The handle should be comfortable to hold and provide a good grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
Common handle materials include wood, rubber, and synthetic materials such as G10 or Micarta. Wood handles are attractive and provide a good grip, but may not be as durable as synthetic materials.
Rubber handles are comfortable and provide a good grip, even in wet conditions. However, they may not be as durable as synthetic materials.
Synthetic handles such as G10 or Micarta are durable and provide a good grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. However, they may not be as comfortable to hold as wood or rubber.
Tang
The tang of the knife is part of the blade that extends into the handle. A full tang is a solid piece of metal that runs the length of the handle, providing extra strength and stability. A partial tang is a smaller piece of metal that is inserted into the handle, and may not provide as much strength and stability as a full tang.
A full tang is generally considered to be the better choice for a survival knife, as it provides extra strength and durability. It also helps to balance the knife and makes it easier to control.
Sheath
Finally, the sheath is an important consideration when choosing a survival knife. The sheath should be durable and provide a secure fit for the knife. It should also be easy to carry and access when you need it.
Common sheath materials include leather, nylon, and Kydex. Leather sheaths are attractive and provide a secure fit for the knife, but may not be as durable as other materials. Nylon sheaths are durable and lightweight, but may not provide as secure of a fit as other materials. Kydex sheaths are extremely durable and provide a secure fit for the knife, but may be more expensive than other materials.
Conclusion
Choosing the best survival knife for your kit can be a daunting task, but by considering the factors above, you can find a knife that meets your needs and will be a reliable tool in an emergency situation.
Remember to consider the blade material, blade shape, blade length, handle material, tang, and sheath when making your decision.
With the right knife, you’ll be prepared for whatever challenges come your way. And who knows, you may even end up using it for non-emergency tasks like opening packages or cutting your steak at a campfire!
