A bushcraft knife is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks such as wood carving, shelter building, fire making, and food preparation. It is a specialized tool that is designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and is made with high-quality materials that ensure durability and strength. However, if you’re looking for the best utility knife for bushcraft activities, you can check out our recommended options Best Utility Knife
Best bushcraft knife
In this article, I will list some of the best bushcraft knives available, highlighting their key features and what makes them stand out from the crowd. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned bush crafter, there is a knife on this list that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
- Morakniv Garberg
- LT Wright GNS Saber
- Condor Tool and Knife Bushlore Camp Knife
- Helle Knives Temagami Field Knife
- Ontario Knife Company 8696 Bushcraft Knife
- Cold Steel Finn Wolf
- Benchmade Anonimus
- Cold Steel Drop Forge Hunter
- Fallkniven A1 Knife
- Bark River Knives Aurora Bushcraft Knife.
- Mora Bushcraft Black With Firestarter
- KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion
Best bushcraft knife -Detailed Analysis
Whether you’re going for a wood carving, shelter building, fire making or food preparation, a good bushcraft knife is an essential tool to have in your arsenal. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect bushcraft knife for you.
Morakniv Garberg
The Morakniv Garberg is a popular survival knife that has been evaluated based on factors like quality, durability, functionality, and price. While it may not be specifically designed for kitchen use, its features and specifications can still be evaluated from a kitchen knife perspective.
The Garberg’s full-tang construction and high-quality stainless steel blade make it sturdy and well-balanced, but its blade thickness and Scandi grind may not be ideal for precision cutting tasks. Its handle is also durable but may not be as comfortable as other materials commonly used in kitchen knives.
Garberg’s quantitative measurements, such as blade length and thickness, set it apart from its competitors, with a Rockwell hardness rating of 58-60, a blade length of 4.3 inches, a thickness of 0.13 inches, and a weight of 9.6 ounces.
The benefits of the Garberg include its durability, versatility, and reputation for reliability. However, its weight, blade thickness, and handle material may not be ideal for everyone, and its price may be a concern for some users. Ultimately, whether the Garberg is the right knife for an individual depends on their individual needs and preferences.
It receives a rating of 9 out of 10 based on its quality and performance.
Here is a summary table of The Morakniv Garberg.
| Aspects | Summary |
| Product Name | Morakniv Garberg |
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| Versatility |
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| Blade measurements |
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| Rating | 9/10 |
LT Wright GNS Saber
The LT Wright GNS Saber is a reliable and durable survival knife that performs well in several key categories such as durability, edge retention, comfort and grip, versatility, and affordability.
The knife is versatile and comfortable to use, making it a popular choice for survivalists, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts. The knife’s design and construction are primarily geared towards outdoor and survival situations, and may not be well-suited for kitchen tasks due to its short blade length, non-stainless steel, and less hygienic handle materials.
Despite these drawbacks, the GNS Saber stands out from its competitors due to its handcrafted quality, full tang construction, A2 tool steel blade, and durable handle materials. The LT Wright GNS Saber is a reliable and durable knife that performs well in outdoor and survival situations. Its drawbacks should be considered before purchasing, but its benefits make it a worthy investment for those who need a reliable and versatile survival knife.
The LT Wright GNS Saber receives a rating of 8 out of 10.
Here is a summary table of The LT Wright GNS Saber.
| Aspects | Summary |
| Product Name | LT Wright GNS Saber |
| Design | Primarily geared towards outdoor and survival situations. |
| Durability | Strong and long-lasting due to full tang construction and A2 tool steel blade |
| Edge Retention | A2 tool steel known for holding an edge. |
| Comfort and Grip | Handle available in durable and comfortable Micarta, G10, or wood |
| Versatility |
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| Price |
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| Non-Stainless Steel | Not stain-resistant and may rust |
| Rating | 8/10 |
Condor Tool and Knife Bushlore Camp Knife
The Condor Tool and Knife Bushlore Camp Knife is a versatile and durable tool designed for outdoor activities such as camping, hunting, and survival. Its construction and materials are of high quality, and it stands out from its competitors with its full-tang blade made from 1075 high carbon steel and hardwood handle.
While the knife may not be the most optimal choice for precise cutting tasks in the kitchen due to the lack of a curved edge and non-slip grip, it can still be a useful addition for more general cutting tasks. The knife’s durability, versatility, value for money, and aesthetic appeal make it a worthwhile investment for those in need of a reliable and sturdy tool for outdoor activities.
I would rate the Condor Tool and Knife Bushlore Camp Knife 8 out of 10 for its quality construction and versatility.
Here is a summary table of The Condor Tool and Knife Bushlore Camp Knife.
| Aspects | Summary |
| Product | Condor Tool and Knife Bushlore Camp Knife |
| Versatility |
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| Construction |
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| Standout Features |
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| Kitchen Use | Not optimal for precise cutting tasks due to lack of curved edge and non-slip grip |
| Recommendation |
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| Rating | 8/10 |
Helle Knives Temagami Field Knife
The Helle Knives Temagami Field Knife is a durable and reliable knife that excels in outdoor and survival situations. While it may not be the best choice for use in a kitchen setting due to its thickness and weight, it can still be useful for cutting through meats and vegetables.
The knife’s triple laminated stainless steel blade is known for its sharpness and ability to hold an edge, while the handle’s ergonomic design provides a comfortable and secure grip. Additionally, the knife’s full-tang construction provides additional strength and stability.
The Temagami Field Knife’s attention to detail in its craftsmanship and collaboration with Les Stroud set it apart from its competitors, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists.
Ultimately, the knife’s benefits, such as high-quality construction and sharpness, must be weighed against its drawbacks, such as its weight and thickness, to determine its suitability for a particular user’s needs and preferences. In rating the knife stands out at 8/10.
Here is a summary table of The Temagami Field Knife.
| Aspects | Summary |
| Product Name | Helle Knives Temagami Field Knife |
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| Benefits |
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| Rating | 8/10 |
Ontario Knife Company 8696 Bushcraft Knife
The Ontario Knife Company 8696 Bushcraft Knife is a popular and versatile tool that is well-regarded among outdoor enthusiasts for its durability and rugged construction. Its rugged construction, high-quality materials, and well-respected brand name set it apart from many of its competitors in the outdoor knife market.
It offers a range of benefits, including its durable construction and high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting reliability in rugged environments. The full tang design provides added strength and stability, while the high carbon steel blade delivers exceptional sharpness and edge retention.
With an ergonomic handle for a comfortable and secure grip, the knife minimizes hand fatigue and enhances control during use. Some versions even come with a built-in fire starter, adding to its utility in outdoor situations. Additionally, the inclusion of a sheath ensures safe storage and easy carrying.
It is versatile and durable, but its relatively heavy weight, awkward blade length and thickness may make it less than ideal for certain tasks. However, potential buyers should carefully consider the knife’s weight, blade length, blade thickness, maintenance requirements, and handle comfort before making a purchasing decision. Despite these limitations, I would rate the Ontario Knife Company 8696 Bushcraft Knife 8 out of 10.
Here is a summary table of The Ontario Knife Company 8696 Bushcraft Knife.
| Aspects | Summary |
| Product | Ontario Knife Company 8696 Bushcraft Knife |
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| Reputation |
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| Limitations |
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| Rating | 8/10 |
Cold Steel Drop Forge Hunter
The Cold Steel Drop Forge Hunter is a hunting knife that excels in outdoor activities like hunting and camping due to its durability and performance.
The knife features a 4-inch blade with a drop point design, a full-tang construction for added strength and balance, and a traditional design that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
While not recommended for kitchen use due to its size and weight, the knife is highly reliable for outdoor activities. The blade has a Rockwell hardness rating of 58-60 and is 0.16 inches thick, while the American Hickory wood handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
The knife stands out from its competitors with its quality materials, drop point blade shape, traditional design, and value for money. However, its size and weight, non-stainless steel, handle material, and limited warranty may be drawbacks for some users.
The Cold Steel Drop Forge Hunter has several benefits and drawbacks to consider before purchasing. Its durability, full-tang construction, drop point blade shape, traditional design, and value for money are all significant benefits. However, the knife may be too large and heavy for some users, and the non-stainless steel and handle material may be drawbacks. The knife also comes with a limited warranty that may not provide sufficient coverage for all users.
The Cold Steel Drop Forge Hunter receives a high rating of 9/10 for its excellent performance and value for money.
Here is a summary table of The Cold Steel Drop Forge Hunter.
| Aspects | Summary |
| Product Name | Cold Steel Drop Forge Hunter |
| Blade Material | 52100 high carbon steel |
| Blade Length | 4 inches |
| Overall Length | 8 5/8 inches |
| Handle Material | American Hickory wood |
| Blade Shape | Drop point |
| Weight | 6.4 ounces |
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| Rating | 9/10 |
Fallkniven A1 Knife
The Fallkniven A1 Knife is a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists due to its durability, versatility, and comfortable grip. While the knife can be used as a kitchen knife in a pinch, it is not specifically designed for food preparation and may not perform as well as a dedicated kitchen knife. The knife’s quantitative measurements, including its blade thickness, hardness, length, weight, and handle design, help to give a better idea of its performance in various categories.
The Fallkniven A1 Knife is highly regarded for its exceptional durability and versatility. Crafted with high-quality materials, such as a full tang VG-10 stainless steel blade and a robust Kraton handle, it can withstand heavy-duty use in various outdoor activities. The A1 Knife delivers superior cutting performance, maintaining a sharp edge for extended periods and exhibiting excellent resistance to corrosion.
Its Kraton handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions, providing optimal control and reducing the risk of slippage. Fallkniven’s commitment to quality craftsmanship is evident in the A1 Knife, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.
While drawbacks include its high price, heavy weight, and thick blade. Overall, these factors provide a more complete picture of the knife’s strengths and limitations, helping readers make informed decisions about whether or not it is the right tool for their needs.
I would rate the Fallkniven A1 Knife as a 9 out of 10 for its durability and versatility.
Here is a summary table of The Fallkniven A1 Knife.
| Aspects | Summary |
| Product | Fallkniven A1 Knife |
| Benefits |
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| Kitchen Use | Can be used as a kitchen knife, but not specifically designed for food preparation |
| Quantitative Measurements |
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| Craftsmanship | High-quality materials, full tang VG-10 stainless steel blade, robust Kraton handle |
| Performance |
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| Drawbacks |
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| Rating | 9/10 |
Bark River Knives Aurora Bushcraft Knife
The Bark River Knives Aurora Bushcraft Knife is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and versatile tool for their adventures. It is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use and is well-suited for bushcraft, camping, hunting, and survival scenarios.
The Aurora Bushcraft Knife features a full-tang construction and a high-quality steel blade that holds an edge, making it ideal for tasks such as chopping wood, preparing food, and building shelters. While it may not have the same level of precision as a dedicated kitchen knife, it can still be useful for general food preparation tasks such as chopping vegetables and slicing meat.
The Bark River Knives Aurora Bushcraft Knife is a durable and versatile tool that is well-suited for a range of outdoor tasks. Its unique design, American-made craftsmanship, and premium materials make it stand out from its competitors. However, its higher price point and larger size and weight may not be suitable for all users.
The Aurora Bushcraft Knife is a reliable and sturdy tool and receives a rating of 9 out of 10 based on its features and performance.
Here is a summary table of The Bark River Knives Aurora Bushcraft Knife.
| Aspects | Summary |
| Product | Bark River Knives Aurora Bushcraft Knife |
| Benefits |
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| Outdoor Use |
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| Blade |
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| Kitchen Use | Useful for general food preparation tasks, but not as precise as dedicated kitchen knives |
| Design |
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| Premium Materials | High-quality materials for durability and performance |
| Standout Features |
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| Drawbacks |
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| Rating | 9/10 |
Mora Bushcraft Black With Firestarter
The Mora Bushcraft Black with Firestarter is a versatile tool intended for outdoor use that excels in several categories of performance.
The knife’s blade profile is designed for outdoor use, with a thickness of 3.2 mm and a length of 109 mm. The blade material is carbon steel, which provides durability and a sharp edge but requires more maintenance than stainless steel.
Its rubber handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, and the included firestarter is reliable and cost-effective. Despite its high-quality construction and unique features, the Mora Bushcraft Black with Firestarter is also relatively affordable compared to other high-end bushcraft knives, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget. The knife stands out from its competitors due to its blade design, including firestarter, comfortable grip, and competitive pricing.
However, potential drawbacks include the blade’s maintenance requirements, blade profile, grip preferences, and weight. With added convenience and value provided by its unique features The Mora Bushcraft Black with Firestarter rates at 8 out of 10 for its durability.
Here’s a summary table of The Mora Bushcraft Black With Firestarter.
| Aspect | Summary |
| Product | Mora Bushcraft Black with Firestarter |
| Blade Profile | Designed for outdoor use, 3.2mm thickness, 109mm length |
| Blade Material | Carbon steel for durability and sharpness |
| Handle | Rubber handle for secure and comfortable grip |
| Included Firestarter | Reliable and cost-effective firestarter included |
| Pricing | Relatively affordable $76.79 |
| Standout Features |
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| Drawbacks |
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| Rating | 8/10 |
KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion
The KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion is a versatile and durable outdoor knife that can handle heavy-duty tasks, making it ideal for survival and outdoor use. Its drop point blade and ergonomic handle provide a comfortable and secure grip, while its full-tang construction and 1095 Cro-Van steel blade make it highly durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Despite its excellent performance outdoors, it is not suitable for use as a kitchen knife due to its weight, blade thickness, and handle design. However, the knife’s durability, versatility, comfort, and value for money make it an excellent investment for those who spend time in the wilderness or need a reliable tool for survival or outdoor use.
The KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion offers a multitude of benefits that make it a highly sought-after knife. One of its key advantages is its exceptional durability. Crafted from 1095 Cro-Van steel, known for its toughness, the BK2 Campanion can withstand heavy-duty use and resist wear and tear. Its versatility is another notable feature, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks, whether it’s camping, hunting, survival, or general outdoor activities.
The full tang construction enhances its strength and stability, while the ergonomic handle design ensures a comfortable and secure grip, enabling precise control during use. Additionally, the BK2 Campanion is easy to maintain, thanks to its corrosion-resistant properties, and is proudly made in the USA, guaranteeing high-quality craftsmanship. With the inclusion of a sheath for safe storage and portability, the KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion stands as a reliable and indispensable tool for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and professionals in need of a dependable and versatile knife.
The KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion stands out from its competitors due to its reputation, durability, versatility, value for money, and design, making it a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts. While the knife’s drawbacks include its weight, blade thickness, maintenance requirements, and lack of a finger guard, it still remains a highly recommended outdoor knife and rates at 8 out of 10.
Here is a summary table of The KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion.
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Aspects |
Summary |
| Product | KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion |
| Benefits |
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| Outdoor Use | Ideal for survival and outdoor activities |
| Blade | 1095 Cro-Van steel blade for durability and resistance to wear and tear |
| Kitchen Use | Not suitable for use as a kitchen knife due to weight, blade thickness, and handle design |
| Drawbacks |
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| Design | Full-tang construction for strength and stability |
| Value for Money | Price may vary $115.95 |
| Rating | 8/10 |
The Purpose Of Bushcraft Knives
Bushcraft knives are an essential tool for anyone interested in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and survival. The primary purpose of a bushcraft knife is to assist in various tasks such as wood carving, shelter building, fire making, and food preparation. These knives are designed to be versatile and durable, able to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and be reliable in any situation.
One of the main purposes of a bushcraft knife is to help with wood processing. This includes tasks such as cutting and carving wood for various purposes, such as building a shelter or creating utensils for food preparation. The blade of a bushcraft knife should be sharp, sturdy, and able to maintain its edge even after heavy use.
Another important purpose of a bushcraft knife is to assist in fire making. The knife can be used to collect and prepare tinder, create fire starter kits, and help with the actual process of starting a fire. A good bushcraft knife should have a sharp and pointed tip, allowing it to be used for drilling into wood to create friction for starting fires.
A bushcraft knife is also useful for food preparation in the wilderness. It can be used to fillet fish, skin game, and chop vegetables or other food items. The blade should be sharp and able to handle a variety of different tasks.
Finally, a bushcraft knife can also be used as a self-defense tool. In the event of an emergency, a well-designed and sturdy knife can provide protection and aid in survival. While this is not the primary purpose of a bushcraft knife, it is a potential benefit to consider.
What Makes a Good Bushcraft Knife
Choosing the right bushcraft knife is crucial for anyone who wants to engage in bushcraft activities as it can mean the difference between success and failure in the wilderness.
There are several factors that make a good bushcraft knife, including.
Blade Material
A high-quality blade material is essential for a good bushcraft knife. Most bushcraft knives are made from high carbon steel, stainless steel, or Damascus steel. High carbon steel is durable and holds a sharp edge, but it can be prone to rusting. Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant but may not hold a sharp edge as well as high carbon steel. Damascus steel is known for its unique pattern and durability but can be expensive.
Blade Design
The blade design is also an important factor to consider. A good bushcraft knife should have a full tang construction, meaning the blade extends the entire length of the handle, providing extra strength and durability. The blade should also be thick enough to withstand heavy use, but not so thick that it becomes difficult to handle.
Blade Length
The length of the blade is another important consideration. A good bushcraft knife should have a blade length of around 4-6 inches. This length is versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks, but not too long that it becomes difficult to handle.
Handle Material
The handle material should be sturdy and comfortable to grip. Common materials used for bushcraft knife handles include wood, micarta, and G10. The handle should also have a non-slip surface to provide a secure grip, even when wet.
Sheath
A good bushcraft knife should also come with a durable and well-designed sheath. The sheath should be made from sturdy material, such as leather or Kydex, and should be designed to securely hold the knife in place.
Overall, a good bushcraft knife should be made from high-quality materials, have a sturdy and comfortable handle, and come with a well-designed sheath. By considering these factors, you can choose a bushcraft knife that is reliable, durable, and well-suited for your needs.
FAQs of best bushcraft knife
Q. What are the qualities of a good bushcraft knife?
A. A good bushcraft knife should have a high-quality blade material, a sturdy full-tang construction, a blade length of around 4-6 inches, a comfortable and non-slip handle material, and a durable and well-designed sheath.
Q. What makes a bushcraft knife a bushcraft knife?
A. A bushcraft knife is a specialized tool designed for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and survival. It is typically characterized by its versatility, durability, and ability to handle a wide range of tasks such as wood carving, shelter building, fire making, and food preparation. The blade of a bushcraft knife is usually thick, strong, and sharp, with a full tang construction, and the handle is designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip
Q. What is the best grind for a bushcraft knife?
A. The Scandi grind is considered the best grind for a bushcraft knife because of its ability to make precise cuts and its ease of sharpening in the field.
Q. What is the best length for a bushcraft knife?
A. The best length for a bushcraft knife is typically around 4-6 inches, as it provides a good balance of versatility and manageability for a wide range of tasks in outdoor activities.
Q. What is the difference between a bushcraft knife and a survival knife?
A. The main difference between a bushcraft knife and a survival knife is their intended use.
A bushcraft knife is designed for outdoor activities that involve primitive skills and techniques, such as wood carving, shelter building, and food preparation. It is typically smaller in size and has a thicker blade, making it ideal for precise and intricate tasks.
A survival knife, on the other hand, is designed for emergency situations and self-defense, with a larger blade and more robust construction. It is meant to be a versatile tool for a wide range of survival situations, including hunting, self-defense, and chopping.
Conclusion
A bushcraft knife is a crucial tool for anyone interested in outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and survival. It is designed to be versatile, durable, and capable of handling a wide range of tasks, from wood carving to shelter building and food preparation. A good bushcraft knife should have a high-quality blade material, a sturdy full-tang construction, a comfortable and non-slip handle material, and a durable and well-designed sheath.
When choosing a bushcraft knife, it is essential to consider personal preferences, intended use, and the specific features that make a good bushcraft knife. With the right bushcraft knife, one can enjoy outdoor activities with confidence and be well-prepared for any situation that may arise in the wilderness.
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