The best bushcraft knives are all-rounders providing maximum benefits while you are out in the wild. They are durable knives ideal for woodworking and can tackle anything you throw at them in the outdoors.
Having the right equipment in place for survival while you are out in nature is super important. Bushcrafting is more than just your gear. It is a way of life and requires the development of survival skills in the wilderness with whatever you can find.
Bushcrafter equipment is not heavy or cumbersome. But it is an efficient and all-in-one tool that does everything you need to survive. While there are plenty of items that you must take along, the first and foremost item on your list should be a knife.
Our Research:
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Knives Evaluated
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Trees Chopped
A good bushcraft knife fulfills various needs, such as building a shelter, preparing firewood, preparing food, and much more. Also, knives can act as a weapon if you feel threatened by a wild animal, ensuring safety.
There is a wide variety of bushcraft knives available on the market. You should pick a drop point blade that is versatile and widely useful for you.
In this article, we present you with the best bushcraft knives based on their features and specifications. All the products are reviewed in detail to give you a clear understanding of bushcraft knives. So, read on to learn more about them.
Best Bushcraft Knives for 2021
- Best Overall – Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade
- Best Value – Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon
- Most Comfortable – Condor Tool & Knife Bushlore Camp Knife
- Best Design – Schrade SCHF36 Frontier Fixed Blade
- Best Luxury – LionSTEEL M4 Bushcraft Knife
- Best for Outdoor Use – TOPS Knives Brothers of Bushcraft
First Time Buying A Fixed Blade Knife?
Hop down to our Buyer’s Guide for a quick course on finding the best EDC knife.
Editor’s Pick – Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife
Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Full Specifications
Overall Length: 8.5 in
Blade Length: 3.9 in
Handle: G-10 w/ rubber grip
Sheath Type: Plastic
Made In: Sweden
Steel: Sandvik 12C27
Weight: 4.1 oz
Blade Profile: Drop point
Grind: Full-Flat
Blade Thickness: 0.1 in
17,214 Ratings
This all-in-one companion knife is made for outdoor enthusiasts and capable of preparing food, carving, and woodcutting. The versatile fixed-blade features a 4.1-inch hardened Sandvik 12C27 stainless steel drop point blade.
The steel drop point blade is sharp and less likely to rust, which allows it to last longer than a 1095 carbon steel blade. Consequently, a stainless steel blade is suitable for marine use where knives are exposed to moisture and dirt.
The Morakniv Companion G-10 handle material has a patterned and high-friction grip that works well in cold and wet weather. As a result, the knife fits perfectly well in hand, ensuring safety and control.
Moreover, it comes with a matching color plastic sheath with a belt clasp that keeps the knife secure. With this knife, you can prepare delicate food on a camping site. It can easily carve thin slices and serve for filleting and skinning. Besides, it is also good for cutting tinder to help in starting a fire.
The Bottom Line
All in all, the Morakniv Companion knife is one of the best models on the market. It comes with all the good features that make your outdoor adventures safe and convenient.
The stainless steel drop point blade is sharp and more likely to last longer than carbon steel. If you are looking for a well-made, all-rounder knife, this bushcraft knife is a fantastic option for you.
It will allow you to perform various activities on the campsite, fulfilling your needs. So, do consider this all-in-one tool for your outdoor adventures.
Recommended For
Outdoor enthusiasts: People who often go for a camping or outdoor adventure will prefer this knife with its steel blade. It is good for those who require sharp-edged blades for hunting purposes. Also, it’s easy to sharpen.
Ease of use: The knife is made with a comfortable G-10 handle, good blade length, drop point design, and a full plastic sheath with a belt clip. As a result, you can carry it along comfortably.
Not Recommended For
Carbon steel users: Carbon steel users: The knife is not suitable for people who prefer 1095 carbon steel blade knives. Also, only partial, not full, tang.
Steel: Sandvik 12C27
Warranty: Lifetime
This high-quality Sweedish blade is razor-sharp and is one of the most reliable bushcrafters you can carry in your pack, making it our editors pick!
Best Carbon Steel – Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon
Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Full Specifications
Overall Length: 9.25 in
Blade Length: 4.3 in
Handle: G-10 w/ Rubber Grip
Sheath Type: Plastic
Made In: Sweden
Steel: High Carbon DLC-coated
Weight: 5.7 oz
Blade Profile: Drop point
Grind: V-Grind
Blade Thickness: .118 in
1,654 Reviews
The Morakniv Bushcraft Knife is made with a 3.2mm thick carbon steel drop point blade with an anti-corrosive black coating. The edge is highly durable and extremely sharp and made to make survival in the wilderness easy and safe for you. It is also super cool and fully blacked out.
The G-10 handle material of the knife has a high-friction rubber grip, offering anti-slip performance and good control. Further, the comfortable G-10 handle makes working easy with the knife in cold and wet weather conditions.
With a blade length of 4.3″, the back, called the spine, is specially ground to use with a fire starter. You can pull the spine along a fire starter to ignite a fire.
Moreover, you get a black plastic sheath that comes with a belt clip keeping the knife safe and secure. You also get a one-year warranty, securing your purchase for a specific period.
With the knife’s sharp edge and comfortable G-10 handle material, you can prepare tinder, make feather sticks, and cut wood conveniently. This lightweight and sharp knife will create a great feather stick.
The appealing thing about this model is that all these outstanding features are offered at fairly reasonable prices. So, those who are on a tight budget must consider this model.
The Bottom Line
To sum up, this model will allow you to perform various survival-related functions out in nature with its sharp edge and the tough drop point blade. It is made with an ergonomic G-10 handle material that sits well in your hand, enabling you to work safely and securely.
It will also help you in carving, igniting a fire, creating a feather stick, and more. Getting this model will save you bucks as it is pocket friendly.
Recommended For
Budget shoppers: This knife offers all the essential features at such affordable prices. It is ideal for people who are on a tight budget.
Not Recommended For
Daily-use: The carbon steel blade of the knife may require maintenance as it is prone to rust. However, the DLC coating, and oiling after every use, may protect against corrosion. Also, only partial, not full, tang.
Steel: High Carbon Sandvik
Warranty: Lifetime
This fully blacked out Morakniv high carbon steel blade is a breeze to use in the field. It's high carbon blade makes it super sharp, durable, and an excellent value for the package.
Most Comfortable – Condor Tool & Knife Bushlore
Condor Tool & Knife Bushlore Full Specifications
Overall Length: 9.25 in
Blade Length: 4.25 in
Handle: Hardwood
Sheath Type: Black Leather
Made In: El Salvador
Steel: 1075 High Carbon Steel
Weight: 7.05 oz
Blade Finish: Blasted Satin
Grind: Double Bevel/Scandi
Blade Thickness: 1/8 in
1,415 Reviews
The Condor Bushlore Camp Knife is made with a 1075 high carbon blade that is less prone to rust and lasts longer than other carbon steel blades. It comes with a black leather belt sheath that keeps the knife safe and secure with you.
To keep the blades rust-free, oil them well once in a while. Further, the wood handle fits perfectly well to the hand and is comfortable in use. You will feel great comfort and ease while using this knife.
Moreover, the knife is sharp and performs survival-related functions well. You can use it for cutting wood, carving, or feathering while on your outdoor adventure.
If you are planning on going camping or any such outdoor activity, carry this useful tool to get the job done. It will help you perform various tasks such as preparing food, igniting a fire, and much more.
The Bottom Line
In a nutshell, this model is ideal for people who go on camping often. It is easy to carry with the black leather sheath that holds it securely. The wooden handle adds to comfort and convenience while using the knife.
The comfortable handle sits perfectly in your hand, allowing you to work comfortably. It performs various functions while you are on a camping site or outdoor adventure. All these incredible features make this model one of the most popular on the market.
Recommended For
Campers: This knife is a great option for campers or hikers. The sharp blade is suitable for a variety of outdoor applications and will always get the job done.
Comfortable carrying: The comfortable wooden handle feels great in your hand. It adds convenience and comfort while working with the knife.
Not Recommended For
Demanding users: The knife may not perform well on challenging jobs and under harsh conditions. Also, only partial, not full, tang.
Steel: 1075 High Carbon
Warranty: Lifetime
Razor-sharp, full tang knife which is one of the most comfortable bushcrafters we tested. Impressive leather sheath makes it a breeze to carry while out in the field.
Best Design – Schrade SCHF36 Frontier
Schrade SCHF36 Frontier Full Specifications
Overall Length: 10.4 in
Blade Length: 5 in
Handle: TPE
Sheath Type: Polyester
Made In: USA
Steel: 1095 High Carbon
Weight: 12.3 oz
Blade Profile: Drop point
Grind: Compound Grind
Blade Thickness: .125 in
1,600+ Reviews
This model features a blade made of 1095 powder coated high carbon steel. The knife has a black thermoplastic elastomer handle material with a ring texture. It will fit perfectly in your hand and give a firm grip.
Besides, the polyester belt sheath gives you swift and easy access to the knife, making it suitable for EDC. The finger choil and jimping ensure the blade does not slip, adding to safety and security.
Further, the knife features a sharpening stone, a Ferro rod, and a lanyard hole. It makes the knife excellent for outdoor adventures, such as hiking, camping, hunting, and other such activities.
You can use the knife for several survival tasks as well. For instance, it can baton wood easily and create great feather sticks. So, with all these unique functions, who would not want to get this stylish and useful knife on their outdoor adventure.
The Bottom Line
To conclude, the Schrade SCHF36 Frontier offers all the essential features that a knife should have. It is robust and durable with a 1095 powder coated high carbon steel.
The comfortable black ring textured handle makes it easy to use and fits your hand perfectly. It ensures safety and security while you are camping or hiking. So, give this model a thought while shopping for a bushcraft knife.
Recommended For
Heavy use: This heavy-duty knife is suitable for tough jobs. It can be used regularly on a variety of challenging assignments.
Not Recommended For
Light users: People who prefer lightweight knives and do not use them regularly.
Steel: 1095 Powder Coated
Included: Ferro-rod, sharpening stone, lanyard hole
The Schrade SCHF36 is one hell of a fixed blade outdoor knife. Its got aggressive jimping on the TPE handle to ensure it stays in your hand during any weather conditions. The finger choil is rare in knives of this type and is a much-needed addition.
Best For Heavy Use – LionSTEEL M4
LionSTEEL M4 Fixed Blade Full Specifications
Overall Length: 8.0 in
Blade Length: 3.74 in
Handle: G-10/Micarta
Sheath Type: Leather
Made In: Italy
Steel: Bohler M390
Weight: 6.35 oz
Blade Profile: Drop point
Grind: Flat
Blade Thickness: .159 in
93 Reviews
The LionSTEEL M4 Bushcraft knife is an all-rounder, perfect for bush crafting, outdoor activities, camping, and other tasks. It has an M390 steel blade having a robust and reliable cutting surface suitable for daily use.
You can use the knife comfortably with its ergonomic wooden handle. Its handle fits your hand comfortably, providing a firm grip. The blade will give you ease and comfort while you use it on your outdoor adventure.
Furthermore, the model comes with a leather sheath with a belt clip, ensuring safety and convenience in carrying it. The high-quality components used in this knife make it the right pick for your outdoor activities such as hunting, camping, fishing, and others.
The Bottom Line
This high-quality model comes with all the crucial features that make it one of the top bushcraft knives on the market. It has sharp blades that make cutting and slicing on camp quick and easy.
The high-quality leather sheath keeps the knife secure and safe. It provides comfort with the ergonomic wooden handle that sits well in your hand. So, this superior quality knife could make for an excellent option for you.
Recommended For
Knife enthusiasts: The superior performance of the knife make it an enticing choice for knife enthusiasts.
Not Recommended For
Budget-conscious: People on a budget may not opt for this high-priced model.
Steel: M390
Warranty: Limited Lifetime
The M4 uses what is widely known to be some of the hardest use steel in all of knifemaking, placing this knife as our #1 top pick for hard use. Hit it with a hammer, a log, jump on it, and it will be there the next day to cut your food and support you in the outdoors.
Best High End – TOPS Knives Brothers of Bushcraft
TOPS Knives Brothers of Bushcraft Full Specifications
Overall Length: 10.0 in
Blade Length: 4.25 in
Handle: Canvas Micarta
Sheath Type: Black Kydex
Made In: USA
Steel: 154CM
Weight: 14.39 oz
Blade Finish: Tumble
Grind: Scandi
Blade Thickness: 3/16 in
82 Reviews
This blade is a well-made bush crafting knife with a stout blade that makes it one of the best survival knives. The strong edge allows carving, batoning, and cutting while you are out in the wild.
It comes with a black Kydex sheath that fits perfectly and holds the knife securely. Further, it works well in your hand and offers a comfortable handle. If you want a knife for heavy use, then this model is an ideal option for you.
It has a sturdy and durable blade that helps in various survival-related functions such as preparing food, woodcutting, starting a fire, and much more. Thus, if you frequently go for outdoor activities like camping, hunting, or hiking, this knife could be the ultimate survival knife for you.
The Bottom Line
To sum up, the TOPS Knives Brothers of Bushcraft comes with features that make it the top pick. The blade is razor-sharp that help you with carving, cutting, and batoning.
You can use it comfortably with the ergonomic handle, providing you a firm grip that sits perfectly in your hand. So, if you plan an outdoor adventure, do get this bushcraft knife for added security and safety.
Recommended For
Entry-level EDC. Just getting your feet wet? Start here.
Customizers. Get a variety of different configurations based on your use.
Not Recommended For
Food Prep. The blade is smaller and not great for cutting food.
Steel: 154CM
Warranty: Limited Lifetime
The Brothers of Bushcraft knife from TOPS is an amazing example of a high quality buscraft knife that will always be there when you need it. The comfortable and finely produced handle makes this knife one of our favorite high end fixed blades on the market today.
Bushcraft Knife Buyer’s Guide
A bushcraft knife serves as a tool to help you live out in nature. It helps in developing the skills that allow you to survive in the wilderness. The blade is primarily used to cut wood, create feather sticks, carving wood, and many other tasks.
These knives come with various features that let you live in nature for an extended period. It provides safety and security while you are on your outdoor adventures.
To choose the best knife, you must first understand your needs and personal preferences. Then, look for specific features that align with your needs. In this manner, you will better able to make a smart purchase decision. Read further to know how to choose the best knife.
What is the best knife for bushcraft?
The bushcraft knife you choose should offer convenience and security when you are out in the wilderness. A bushcraft knife is an essential tool for making your outdoor adventures enjoyable and secure. The best knife comes with a high-quality sheath that ensures safety and security as you carry it along.
The best knife is a functional tool with a robust blade that helps to perform survival-related functions. For instance, it lets you prepare food, ignite a fire, create feather sticks, and many other such chores.
Besides, it acts as a weapon offering you protection against wild animals that you may encounter while out in the wild.
Further, the best models offer ergonomic handles that fit well in your hand, are a comfortable weight, and offer ease and convenience. Bushcrafting enables you to hone survival skills, allowing you to live out in nature.
The best knife enables you to build a shelter and cook food. It comes in handy on outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, marine, or camping.
So, when buying a bushcraft knife, weigh your options based on specific features and specifications that suit your personal needs.
What is a bushcraft knife?
Some features that can help differentiate these types of knives vs standard survival knives are:
Blade size: One of the crucial factors when selecting a bushcraft knife is its blade size. The long blade will allow you to perform heavy-duty tasks. However, long blade knives may be inconvenient for you to carry around.
The small blade is more suitable for delicate tasks, but it might bend or break when used for woodcutting purposes.
Handle: A handle gives your knife a stable and firm grip. Handles made from high-quality materials provide a comfortable grip. Some feature handle scales and other designs.
Blade design: A blade design should be flat and extended with a drop point. The edge of the blade is designed in a particular way that can perform various survival tasks.
Blade grind: The blade edge grind should be versatile and robust. A knife-edge with a flat grind, Scandi grind, chisel grind, or the convex grind is a great choice.
Sharpness: A knife should be sharp enough to be able to perform different tasks. It should be able to cut wood or slice meat for cooking.
Some models come with accessories like a fire-starting Ferro rod.
To learn more about the specific differences between bushcrafters and survival knives check out this article over at Field and Stream magazine.
What should I look for in a bushcraft knife?
There are various aspects that you must consider before selecting a bushcraft knife. These factors will help you purchase a great knife. Let’s have a look at them:
Blade material
You will come across different steel types while shopping for a bushcraft knife. It includes:
- High Carbon: The material is softer, which makes it easier to grind. They are less likely to dull, but they are prone to rust. Oiling the blade regularly may prevent it from rusting, especially if you live in an area with wet weather.
- Stainless steel: This material does not rust but requires sharpening often. It could get challenging to sharpen stainless steel. A satin finish on the blade is popular among many bush crafters. A stainless steel blade is low maintenance but is not as sharp as a carbon steel blade.
Handle Type
You will find models coming with handles made of different materials, including plastic, rubber, canvas Micarta, Curly Birch, genuine leather, wood (as used in the original KA-BAR knife), etc. You must understand each handle type benefits to pick the right bushcraft knife.
The traditional bushcraft knives usually offer a wooden handle, a Micarta handle being one of the most popular. Many popular Scandanavian knives have a Curly Birch handle This handle type appears great because of the handle scales, but it absorbs moisture.
A rubber and plastic handle offers its users a firmer and stable grip, making the knife more comfortable in use. On the other hand, a high-end bushcraft knife might feature high-quality material like Micarta handle or a fiberglass handle. These materials are more durable and last longer.
Blade Sharpness
When looking for a bushcraft knife, be mindful of the sharpness of its blade. A sharp knife can help you in performing various survival tasks while you are out in nature.
A blade made with a thin edge is ideal for slicing meat or filleting for cooking. However, it may not last for a long time.
On the contrary, a blade made with a large edge is suitable for heavy-use and lasts for a long time. But it is less sharp than the thinner edge. So, depending upon your usage, select the bushcraft knife made with a suitable steel blade that fulfills your needs.
Blade Length
Apart from considering what the blade is made from, the length of the blade should match what you want to do with the knife. Typically, a longer blade allows you to do more with the knife and can make cutting easier.
Best Bushcraft Knives – Buying Tips
Before you purchase your bushcraft knife, take a look at some of the tips that you should follow:
Conducting Research
It is essential to look into different brands like KA-BAR and types of knives on the market to find the best knife that satisfies your needs and budget. Searching online is one of the easiest ways to look through various types of knives.
You may go through different YouTube videos where people have shared their experiences about a specific product and provided detailed reviews. Going through reviews will allow you to understand a knife’s benefits and downsides that the user may have experienced.
Researching online saves you time and money and lets you explore your options before selecting a product.
Online and In-person shopping
While online shopping has several advantages, it may have some downsides as well. When purchasing online, you will need to pay extra shipping and handling charges. Further, you may not get the chance to try out the knife before buying it. Lastly, the blade may take longer to arrive, as well.
On the other hand, in-person shopping allows you to try the knife. It will enable you to hold the knife and test it before purchasing it.
You can also check the materials used and other key features that a knife offers. The best part is you can take the selected knife home on the same day, no waiting for days and weeks for your product to arrive.
Buying And Selling Used Bushcraft Knives
You may consider buying a used bushcraft knife if you are keen on saving some bucks. Many people wrongly believe that used bushcraft knives or survival knives will not perform effectively. Instead, you may land a high-quality tool at reasonable prices.
However, to be sure, you must check with your local authority on the legality of buying and selling used knives in your area. Once you are sure of its legitimacy, there are many places where you could find used knives.
These places include online Facebook groups, Craigslist marketplace, flea markets, or antique stores selling genuine WWII flat grind KA-BAR knives
One of our favorite knife specific vendors for these fixed blades is KnifeCenter. They have been around a long time and are a reputable source for knives.
Hopefully, our buying guide helped you gather relevant information about the best bushcraft knife and will let you make an informed decision so you can make full use of the knife you buy.
Check Your Local Knife Laws
Before you purchase anything, make sure you check with your local state laws to make sure you’re in compliance with local laws.
Zach Belmont has been working in the outdoor apparel industry in one form or another for over 20 years. During his career, he has worked at some of the most well-known adventure brands including Patagonia and The North Face in marketing, operations and product development. Zach currently lives in Wyoming with his wife and 2 kids.