backpacking knives
If you're an avid backpacker, you understand the importance of having the right gear for any situation on the trail. One essential piece of equipment that's worth investing in is a quality backpacking knife. In this article, we've compiled a roundup of the top backpacking knives available in the market, ensuring you have all the information you need to make the best choice for your outdoor adventures.
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Reviews
Myerchin Generation 2 Pro Wood - Bear Grylls Knife
Crafted for the adventurous soul, the Bear Grylls Generation 2 Pro Wood is a performance-driven tool. With a stainless steel sheepsfoot blade and full tang design, this knife exudes durability and reliability. The cocobolo wood handle provides a comfortable grip, while the included stainless Marlin Spike adds versatility to your outdoor adventures.
Dragon King Bamboo Tanto: Versatile Backpacking Knife
Experience the perfect blend of style and functionality with the Dragon King T10 High-Speed Tool Steel Bamboo Tanto. Its 10-inch overall length and 5-inch high-carbon steel blade provide excellent performance, while the elegant Choji hamon pattern adds a touch of beauty. With its solid bamboo-style handle and scabbard, this Bamboo Tanto is not only practical for backpacking adventures but also a stunning showpiece in any setting.
Albainox 18475 Folding Pocket Knife with Stainless Straight Razor Blade
Experience the elegance of Albainox's ABX18475 Folding Straight Razor Pocket Knife, a sophisticated addition to your everyday carry. With a 4.25-inch stainless blade, this meticulously designed pocket knife offers both style and functionality. The extended tang guarantees a secure and comfortable grip, while the etched blade and scroll handle artwork add a touch of class. Whether it's an impressive gift or a personal essential, this folding knife will surely impress.
Multifunction Camping Knife with Bottle Opener and Detachable Utensils
The Four Function Camping Tool is a nifty camping companion designed for adventure seekers. With a 3.5-inch closed length, it features a stainless steel blade and handle, ensuring durability and ease of use. This versatile tool comes with four additional accessories, including a detachable spoon and fork for your culinary needs during camping trips. Despite a few minor issues reported, this tool has generally received favorable reviews for its convenience, quality, and affordability.
Cold Steel Trapper Blue Backpacking Knife
The Cold Steel FLTRPRB Trapper Blue, a versatile backpacking knife, boasts a mirror finish 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade and a smooth blue bone handle, giving it a classic, rugged charm. Perfect for all your outdoor adventures, this pocket edc knife is made in Taiwan and guaranteed to impress.
Cold Steel Kyoto II Tanto Fixed Blade Knife
The Cold Steel Kyoto II Tanto Fixed Blade Knife offers impressive cutting capabilities in a compact design. This versatile knife features a strong full tang blade and stainless steel guards, providing durability and edge retention. The Kray-Ex handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, while the sheath is versatile and accepts a variety of lanyards. With overwhelmingly positive reviews praising its build quality, sharpness, and design, this knife is a great choice for everyday tasks or as a backup option.
Damascus Steel Antler Handle Pocket Knife
Embody the essence of durability and style with our exquisite Staghorn Antler Pocket Knives. Crafted from high-quality Damascus Steel, these knives offer a perfect blend of elegance and functionality for outdoor enthusiasts and collectors alike. With a solid grip and exceptional performance, these beautifully designed knives are sure to become a cherished addition to your collection.
Bear & Son 219R Rosewood One-Blade Peanut Knife
Experience the perfect blend of compactness and durability with the Bear & Son Peanut Knife. Crafted with a smooth Rosewood handle and high carbon stainless steel blade, this one-blade gem promises a secure grip and impressive rust resistance. The pocket knife comes complete with nickel silver bolsters and a collectors stamp for that extra touch. With an open length of 4.75 inches, a closed length of 2.75 inches, a blade length of 2 inches, and weighing 1 ounce, the Peanut Knife is ready for everyday adventures while maintaining its unforgettable quality, made entirely in the USA.
Stylish Cold Steel Nightshade Tanto EDC Knife
Experience the ultimate lightweight and durable defense mechanism with the FGX Cat Tanto. This sleek and versatile knife, black as a moonless night and silent as the grave, seamlessly blends into your surroundings for strategic hiding and protection. Its advanced Grivory construction offers a combination of strength and flexibility, while its Kraton handle provides an unmatched grip that withstands any weather condition. Perfect for self-defense, outdoor activities, or simply as a backup tool, the FGX Cat Tanto gives you the peace of mind you deserve.
Cold Steel 49LCKD SRK Compact Folding Knife
The Cold Steel 49LCKD SRK Compact Fixed Blade is the ideal low-profile option for those seeking a smaller, sleeker knife. Designed with the same features as its renowned big brother, this compact version offers ease of use and superior performance thanks to its lightweight and compact build. The knife is equipped with a sturdy Secure-Ex sheath, ensuring a comfortable and secure carry. With a sleek black finish, the Cold Steel 49LCKD SRK Compact Fixed Blade is a perfect addition to any tool collection, offering premium quality at an affordable price.
Experience the nostalgia and precision of the original Mark I with its epoxy powder-coated, black blade. This classic folding knife, with a modern twist, boasts a material nearly indestructible to sweat, chemicals, water, and wear - Kraton G. The versatile MOLLE compatible sheath ensures safety and easy access. A reliable cutter for everyday tasks, perfect for tactical purposes.
Buyer's Guide
Finding the right backpacking knife can be an important decision for outdoor enthusiasts. It's essential to consider several factors before making a purchase, such as the knife's size, blade type, locking mechanism, weight, and durability. Here's a buyer's guide to help you navigate the world of backpacking knives.
Size
The size of a backpacking knife matters, as it affects how easily you can carry it, use it, and store it in your backpack. A smaller knife is generally lighter and more compact, making it ideal for ultralight backpacking. On the other hand, a larger knife may have more features and a stronger blade, but it can also be heavier and more cumbersome to carry. Consider your backpacking preferences and the type of activities you'll be doing when choosing the size of your knife.
Blade Type
Backpacking knives come in various blade types, each offering different benefits. Some of the most common blade types include fixed-blade, folding, and assisted-opening. Fixed-blade knives are typically stronger but heavier, while folding and assisted-opening knives offer more convenience and portability. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing the blade type for your backpacking knife.
Locking Mechanism
If you're going with a folding or assisted-opening backpacking knife, pay attention to the locking mechanism. It should be secure and easy to release, allowing you to open and close the knife with one hand. Common locking mechanisms include liner locks, lockback mechanisms, and friction locks. Research and test different locking mechanisms to find one that suits your preferences and provides the security you need.
Weight and Durability
Backpacking knives made from higher-quality materials are usually more durable and perform better, but they may also be heavier. Consider the trade-off between weight and durability when choosing a backpacking knife. Some high-quality materials include stainless steel, carbon steel, and titanium. Also, consider the knife's overall build quality and how it will hold up to regular use in the outdoors.
FAQ
What is the ideal size for a backpacking knife?
The ideal size for a backpacking knife depends on personal preference and use. Some backpackers prefer a larger, more versatile knife that can handle tasks such as cutting branches and splitting wood. Others prefer a smaller, more compact knife that is easier to carry and handle. It is essential to consider factors such as weight, blade length, and ease of use when selecting the right size for your backpacking trip.
Most backpacking knives range in size from 3 to 10 inches in length, with an average blade length of 4 to 7 inches. Consider your specific needs and requirements when choosing the best size for your backpacking knife. Remember that a smaller knife may be less effective for certain tasks, but it will also be lighter and more comfortable to carry.
What materials are commonly used in the construction of backpacking knives?
Backpacking knives are typically made from a combination of materials to provide strength, durability, and lightweight performance. Common materials include stainless steel, carbon steel, and titanium for the blade, and aluminum or plastic for the handle. Stainless steel provides a balance of strength and corrosion resistance, while carbon steel offers increased edge retention. Titanium is lightweight and durable, but can be more expensive.
The handle material should be comfortable to grip, resistant to water and other elements, and easy to maintain. Aluminum and plastic are common choices because they are lightweight and inexpensive. Some backpacking knives also feature G-10 or Micarta handle scales for added grip and durability. When selecting a backpacking knife, consider the materials used and how they will affect the performance, weight, and cost of the knife.
What features should I look for in a backpacking knife?
When selecting a backpacking knife, consider the following features to ensure it meets your specific needs and requirements: blade length and shape, locking mechanism, weight, and versatility. Look for a blade length that provides a good balance between cutting power and portability. The blade shape should be suitable for the tasks you plan to use the knife for, such as whittling, skinning, or cutting wood.
A locking mechanism, such as a locking blade or assisted opening, can provide added safety and convenience when using the knife. The weight of the knife should be a consideration, as you will be carrying it on your back for an extended period. Finally, look for a knife that is versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, such as camping, hiking, or outdoor survival situations.
What is the difference between fixed and folding backpacking knives?
The main difference between fixed and folding backpacking knives lies in their design and functionality. A fixed-blade knife features a single, non-retractable blade that is attached to the handle. This design provides greater stability and cutting power, making it ideal for tasks such as batoning wood or splitting branches. However, a fixed-blade knife can be more challenging to carry and transport, as it cannot be folded or collapsed.
A folding backpacking knife, on the other hand, has a retractable blade that can be folded into the handle when not in use. This design provides increased portability and convenience, making it easier to carry in a backpack or pocket. However, a folding knife may have a slightly less durable blade and may require more maintenance to ensure proper function. Consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing between fixed and folding backpacking knives.
How should I maintain my backpacking knife?
Proper maintenance of your backpacking knife is essential to ensure its longevity and performance. Regularly inspect the knife for any signs of wear or damage, such as chipped or dulled edges, and sharpen or replace the blade as needed. Clean the knife after each use to remove any dirt, grease, or debris that may accumulate on the blade or handle.
Additionally, protect your knife from water and moisture by coating it with a light layer of oil or wax, and storing it in a dry, protective sheath or case when not in use. Proper maintenance will not only keep your backpacking knife in optimal condition, but also prolong its lifespan and ensure its continued effectiveness on your outdoor adventures.
What is the best way to sharpen a backpacking knife?
Sharpening a backpacking knife is an essential part of its maintenance. The best way to sharpen your knife depends on the type of blade and the tools you have available. For most backpacking knives, a simple whetstone can be an effective and portable sharpening option. Choose a whetstone with a grit suitable for your knife's blade material, typically between 600 and 1000 grit.
To sharpen your knife on a whetstone, begin by holding the blade at a 20-degree angle to the stone and applying even pressure. Slowly pull the blade along the stone, keeping the angle consistent and the motion smooth. Repeat this process on both sides of the blade until you achieve the desired sharpness. Consider investing in a sharpening kit or taking a knife sharpening course to learn more advanced techniques and tools for sharpening your backpacking knife.
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