How to choose the best knife for survival in the forest and rating 9 popular models

For people who love extreme hiking, ordinary knives are not suitable. Therefore, attention is paid to special models for survival. A distinctive feature of such options is the performance of several functions and the high strength of the cutting part. The product is often found in portable emergency supplies (NAS). It will not be possible to use the design in everyday life, since it is not intended for solving everyday problems. But the blade is perfect for difficult forest terrain, where there will be no help.

The editors of the YaNashla website have prepared for you a rating of the best knives for survival in the forest for 2022.

Characteristics of survival knives

If necessary, this tool can easily replace a saw or an ax and will help in extreme situations. The harder the steel from which it is made, the less often it needs to be sharpened. The ideal hardness is between 55 and 58 units.

The length of the blade also plays an important role in ease of use. It is better to choose a knife blade with a length of about 80-150 mm. Manufacturers are constantly trying to increase the functionality of such products and do not position them as edged weapons.

The most convenient blade length for a survival knife is 80-150 mm

Scope of use

Survival knives are sometimes called multitools, which literally translates to multi-tool. If at first they were used only by the military, now they are used everywhere. A good multitool is made of high-strength steel and has many additional accessories built into the handle.

The design of multitools is increasingly being improved, complemented by various devices hidden in massive handles. This tool is indispensable in extreme conditions, in the forest and on hiking trips.

Multitool is a convenient device, the handle of which contains additional devices.

You should not save money when purchasing such a device, because if necessary, it may well save the life of its owner.

What are they made from?

An excellent, reliable blade is made of high-carbon steel with the addition of vanadium or chromium, has a long-term sharpening and a reinforced tip. The blade remains sharp for a long time, is not afraid of moisture, does not rust or break.

It is recommended to choose models with a high-quality steel blade

The handle inside can be hollow, and its shape allows it to accommodate an emergency emergency supply (ESP) for all occasions.

NAZ includes:

• wax matches;
• fishing line and hook for fishing;
• sewing and medical needles and nylon threads;
• tablets for water purification, potassium permanganate;
• pin;
• antibiotics;
• patch;
• thin blade;
• a piece of sandpaper for sharpening the blade;
• magnifying glass

Useful tools included in the NAZ
Some models include a compass, which significantly increases the chances of survival in a dangerous situation. The only condition is that the blade and handle must be made of non-magnetic material, otherwise such a compass will not be of much use.

Purpose Determines Shape

Most experts note that such a knife with a sharp blade is the best tool for survival. A person who finds himself in an extreme situation will be able to survive for some time in the wild forest using this device. With a wide blade you can chop wood or dig a hole, and a massive, strong butt will allow you to easily hammer a nail or hit an enemy.

A knife for survival in extreme conditions should be equipped with a fixed blade and a wide blade. When going to familiar places over short distances, it is better to take a pocket folding knife, but this option is not suitable for an experienced survivalist.

Peculiarities

The main feature of the tool is its versatility. So, with its help you can:

• make a bonfire;
• get food;
• carve a path in dense thickets;
• protect yourself from a sudden attack;
• cut and sew thick fabric or animal skin.

Using a functional tool, you can perform several actions.
If a compass is built into the handle, the knife will help you navigate the terrain and find your way.

If necessary, it is capable of acting as a military weapon for self-defense.

What is in the emergency emergency stock?

Standard models used for effective survival in any terrain and included in the NAZ differ in length and weight. A person can easily recognize them by their wide cutting part, as well as a large handle, which provides additional comfort. Most often it is hollow, since a small survival kit is placed inside, including the following components:

• Scalpel;
• Comfortable and durable needle, complete with surgical thread;
• An adhesive plaster and small tweezers so that a person can easily remove foreign objects from the upper layers of the skin;
• Safety pin for attaching some parts;
• A fishing line and a set of hooks will help you find food underwater. Almost any available products are suitable as bait;
• Compass. Although only professionals can navigate it, it will help beginners find a good route and not go astray;
• Thanks to the lens, you can easily light a fire, but this can only be done in sunny weather. If it is cloudy, there will be no result;
• A few matches. To prevent them from getting wet, they are pre-lubricated with wax. In addition to them, the kit includes a grater for ignition. It is important that each component is in moisture-proof packaging.

In addition to these elements, the set may contain a water purification tablet, a small mirror and a whistle. To ensure that the knife always remains sharp, there is a small piece of sandpaper.

Functions of survival knives

Ideally, a survival multitool is not just a strong knife with a sharp blade, but also a tool that allows you to easily cope with various tasks. Of course, a lot depends on experience and skill in its application. However, the characteristics of such a knife and the material from which it is made play an important role.

Shelter construction

Using a knife, you can dig a small hole, chop firewood and cut spruce legs, and sharpen pegs for an impromptu hut. It is enough to dig sharp stakes into the ground, tie the tops and cover the finished shelter with branches.

The knife can be used to create temporary shelters

Foraging for food

A fishing line with a hook in the handle will allow you to catch fish, and matches or a bag of flint will help you make a fire. A steel blade is indispensable during hunting, skinning and butchering game. You can use the butt to crack nuts, and use the blade to dig up edible roots and cut off thin branches to make traps.

Self defense and self defense

Considering that the knife is excellent for hunting, it can be used as a weapon in the fight against the enemy. Due to its design features, it is suitable as a melee weapon.

A multitool can be an effective means of self-defense

Making tools and weapons

The sharp blade of the blade is indispensable in the manufacture of a club, harpoon, spear, and oar. Moreover, not only wood is used as a material, but also bone, a fragile metal.

Starting a fire

You can chop firewood and prepare wood chips for kindling. Matches or flint in the handle will help start the fire.

Compact multifunctional knife has a number of tools for starting a fire and preparing firewood

Location orientation

If the NAZ includes a magnetic compass, then you can easily find your way in an unfamiliar place. If there is no such function, you will have to navigate using the solar vector. And again, a tactical survivalist knife will come to the rescue.

First aid

In most multitools, the handle contains medical needles and threads, tablets, bactericidal patches and magenta. If something happens, you can sew up and disinfect the wound yourself, apply and secure a splint.

The NAZ, located in the handle of the knife, may include basic medical supplies

What is a NAZ kit and what does it consist of?

NAZ is a portable emergency supply that is located in the hollow handle of the knife, but can also be placed in pockets on the sheath. Many tourism experts argue that the second option is preferable for survival. Initially, NAZ was invented and developed for pilots, military personnel, and astronauts.

The configuration of an emergency kit can be varied, depending on the preferences of the owner, size and weight restrictions, and the conditions in which it is expected to be located. And if we talk specifically about a survival knife - and its cost. The more complete the NAZ is, the higher the price of the product. Standard equipment most often includes the following elements:

• Line with hooks and sinkers;
• Matches and a grater in a waterproof casing;
• Means for ignition: flint or lighter;
• Compass;
• Thin razor blade;
• Sterile surgical needle and thread;
• A regular needle and thread;
• Safety pins;
• Water disinfection kit;
• Patch;
• Sharpening whetstone;
• Signal mirror;
• Whistle.

In some cases, the NAZ kit may include a second skinner knife, a slingshot, a mini-saw, wire cutters, a device for signal flares, and medicines. You can assemble an emergency kit yourself, the main thing is to keep it compact. Wearing it should not cause inconvenience.

Product classification

There are different types of knives, but when choosing, you need to consider the area of ​​its application. If you have an extreme hike in dangerous unfamiliar places, you shouldn’t skimp on buying such a tool. In this case, it is better to choose a versatile and reliable survival knife. They are classified according to several main positions.

According to blade material

The most common blade material is carbon steel. But in its pure form it is susceptible to corrosion, does not tolerate moisture well and periodically requires sharpening.

An alternative would be steel with an admixture of vanadium, chromium or coated with zirconium dioxide. An ideal blade should be resistant to high humidity, chemicals and dirt.

The knife blade, made of stainless steel, easily withstands moisture and maintains an edge.

As for the hardness of the metal, it is better to choose medium, because it is difficult to sharpen a blade that is too hard. The thickness of the blade also plays an important role, which ideally varies from 3.8 to 6.4 mm. Too thin can break, and thick is inconvenient to use.

By handle type

Some models come with a solid handle, while others have a hollow handle that houses the NAZ. In the latter case, the strength of the knife suffers, because the hollow handle breaks faster and holds a blow less well. Utility knives are often made with a durable handle, and the NAZ is stored in a sheath.

The handle is often made of natural bone, wood, metal or plastic. Many people choose wood, which, although it absorbs moisture, is suitable for use in hot or cold weather.

Wooden handles are more comfortable to hold, they are lighter and cheaper, but are susceptible to moisture

Bone is considered the most reliable material, but such a product is too expensive.

By sharpening method

There are two types of sharpening: regular and serrated, and the latter lasts much longer and allows you to cut any hard and layered materials. Expert opinion boils down to the fact that survival knives should be versatile and easy to use. This means that smooth sharpening is more suitable for them.

To maintain the sharpness of the knife, it is recommended to use a smooth sharpening

By shank type

With the help of a shank, the blade is attached directly to the handle, while for folding knives the fastening passes through the axis. When it comes to survival knives, they have full tangs and partial tangs.

In the first case, the shank is a continuation of the blade and completely fills the handle. In the second, it is half hidden, and the remaining part of the hollow handle is occupied by NAZ. If the first option is the strongest and most reliable, then the second is less durable.

Shank - a metal part completely or almost completely hidden in the handle of a knife

Blade shape

Each manufacturer tries to improve their product, so the blade can be of absolutely any shape and length. There is no definite advice on choosing here, because not a single blade will meet all requirements.

The blade with a straight spine is considered the most popular among experienced extreme sports enthusiasts: it is suitable for any needs, but is not used as a self-defense weapon.

The blade with a straight spine copes well with specific tasks

How to choose the right knife for tourism

Currently, a huge range of similar products is offered for sale. When choosing the most suitable option for yourself, you should decide what exactly you plan to do with such a knife in an extreme situation. To do this, it will be useful to listen to the opinion of experienced “survivalists” who have practically tested various knives for tourism and rated them according to the degree of reliability, functionality and convenience.

In terms of their range of characteristics and capabilities, universal knives are superior to any folding knife. At the same time, for many, a relatively large and massive utility knife will be heavy and inconvenient. The folding version provides more convenience when carrying, taking up little space.

A universal knife with a longer blade can be most effective in one case: when the place of its use can be the jungle or thickets comparable in density. In this case, the knife can be used as a machete.

To assess the effectiveness of a tourist knife, you should focus on the material of its blade. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, which will be especially justified when using the knife in a damp environment. Such blades do not require special care. The disadvantages of stainless steel include the high cost of products made from this material, the complexity of the sharpening procedure and rapid wear.

A characteristic feature of a carbon steel blade is that even if the knife is not used for a long time, it can rust. At the same time, carbon steel better preserves the cutting edge; many types of such blades are able to effectively “self-sharpen” during operation.

Vanadium is sometimes added to a high-carbon steel alloy to resist corrosion, and chromium is sometimes added to increase wear resistance. Sometimes tourist knives are made of special ceramics (zirconium dioxide, metal composition).

Rating of high-quality and inexpensive survival knives

Purchasing such an item can cause a serious blow to your budget. Although most are made in China, there are several options that combine affordability with high quality.

Gerber spine

A very simple and easy-to-use specimen, with a full shank and a rubberized handle. Although it looks unpresentable in appearance, it is made of durable steel, sharpens well, and has a well-fixed blade.

Pros:

• high quality steel;
• rubberized handle;
• practicality and functionality;
• durability.

The Gerber spine hunting knife is a convenient and reliable tool for survival in extreme conditions
. There are no downsides to the gerber spine, and it costs only 2,800 rubles, which is quite a bit for such a high-quality knife.

Nightnale

The product is Chinese, but extremely popular among experienced tourists and survivalists. It is useful in extreme conditions, although it weighs a little more than 200 g. It has a special fastening for a safety rope, a sharp blade 115 mm long and an ABS plastic handle.

Advantages:

• strength;
• practicality;
• ease of use;
• light weight;
• reliability.

Nightnale is a durable knife made of stainless steel.
You can buy such a blade for 3000-3500 rubles, and no shortcomings have been found in it during operation.

Ganzo g 8012

An equally interesting high-quality budget model produced in China. The blade is 115 mm long, tightly fixed in an ABS plastic handle. It also contains a diamond sharpener, a cutter and a hanging belt. Blade with straight sharpening, made of matte durable steel.

Pros:

• reliability;
• functionality;
• quality;
• durability;
• practicality.

Ganzo g 8012 is a budget model with a fixed blade.
In addition, the metal of the product is durable and does not glare. The price is reasonable - no more than 3,600 rubles.

Victorinox hunter pro 0 9410

This folding Swiss survival knife is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. It has a wide blade and a comfortable handle made of non-slip plastic. It is distinguished by high build quality and presentable appearance, simple and easy to use.

The manufacturer gives a lifetime warranty on the product, which indicates its reliability.

Among the shortcomings, tourists note the lack of additional tools in the set. The average cost is about 4,500 rubles.

The hunting knife Victorinox hunter pro 0 9410 is characterized by high corrosion resistance and ductility

Buck 656 pursuit

An excellent, durable, high-quality blade made of durable steel is fixed in a handle with rubber pads. Specially treated nylon is used for production, and a sheath made of durable polyester reliably protects the blade.

Advantages:

• durability;
• Ease of use;
• quality;
• strength.

Buck 656 pursuit stands out among many hunting knives due to its craftsmanship and high-quality materials.
No shortcomings were found, and the price will be about 4,450 rubles.

Courier aus 8 tw

A Russian-made product, specially manufactured for the Russian Federation Courier Service. The durable blade, 152 mm long, is resistant to any damage, and a special serial sharpening allows you to cut metal with ease. It has a polyamide handle with finger grooves and longitudinal grooves.

Pros:

• titanium coated steel;
• versatility;
• reliability;
• functionality;
• practicality;
• durability.

The blade of the Feldjeger aus 8 tw knife is highly reliable, and the handle is resistant to mechanical loads
. In this segment, this is one of the best knives, but it will also cost more - about 4900 rubles.

Morakniv Companion

Morakniv's Companion is proof that sometimes simplicity is the best solution, and that you don't have to spend a fortune to get a durable survival knife. It is chosen by some of the most experienced tourists around the world. This Scandinavian-style cutting tool is made from reliable and durable Sandvik stainless steel, and while it won't last you a lifetime, it's quite durable. This knife is also quite affordable, making it a good option to choose.

• Blade length: 4.1″
• Blade steel: 12C27
• Handle material: thermoplastic elastomer
• Buy: 990₽ (10% discount with promotional code: CONS10)

Rating of popular models of survival knives in the budget segment

Everyone can choose a product to their taste from budget models.

Basurmanin

This professional instrument, produced in the Russian Federation under the name “Basurmanin”, includes a whole set of necessary items.

It includes:

• matches;
• threads;
• needles and pins;
• water filtration tablets;
• fishing line;
• sulfur paper.

Basurmanin is an army survival knife, which is particularly durable and reliable.
A knife with a durable blued steel blade, 160 mm long and 35 mm thick. Inside the steel handle there are two compartments, one of which contains a durable cable, and the other contains a stiletto and saw.

This model is distinguished by quality, reliability, durability and practicality. An additional advantage is the complete set and ease of use. There are no downsides to this product, and the price starts from 5,000 rubles.

Camillus trekus

The Chinese folding knife is quite small in size, but weighs almost 350 g. The blade is made of hard steel, and the handle is made of fiberglass. The knife opens and folds quickly, remaining high quality, durable and strong. The cost reaches 5,570 rubles, which is quite acceptable for such a product.

Camillus trekus – multifunctional survival knife

Mora bushcraft survival

It is produced in Sweden and is deservedly popular among fishermen, hunters and tourists. It has a fixed blade made of durable steel with a length of 109 mm and a rubberized plastic handle. The manufacturer provides a warranty for the entire service life, which confirms the high quality of the product. The kit includes a flint, a diamond sharpener, and removable clips. You can buy a functional, reliable, durable tool for RUB 5,720.

The Mora bushcraft survival knife provides a good cut and has excellent cutting properties

Esee Ashley game knife micarta

It looks simple on the outside, but is highly durable and versatile. The comfortable extended handle is made of micarta and leather, and the blade is 117 mm long and made of hard steel. This high-quality American blade costs about 6,660 rubles, but it justifies its price by 200%.

The ideal hunting knife with which you can take on any animal.

Esee ashley game knife micarta is a convenient knife designed for hunting use

Survivalist zd 2 tw

The product of the Russian manufacturer not only looks impressive, but also impresses with its functionality. The blade is large (193 mm), and it weighs 360 g. The blade is made of high-strength hard steel with titanium coating and is indispensable in extreme conditions.

The aluminum handle contains the NAZ, which includes:

• a pair of blades;
• matches;
• pin;
• patch;
• needle and thread;
• wire;
• fishing line;
• sinkers.

NAZ in the handle of the Survivalist zd 2 tw knife
The knife is wear-resistant, not afraid of corrosion, and comfortable to use. The only drawback is the high price, which is 7,500 rubles.

We knife with vaquita

An excellent specimen, made using high-strength steel that is resistant to external influences. It has an unusual 8 cm long blade, a full tang and a comfortable handle with a neck hanger. A beautiful and practical knife sells for 7,990 rubles.

The We knife co vaquita knife has high quality, reliability, and an extraordinary design

Comparison of Russian and Western analogues

Russian “survival knives” of various types have been developed in a large number of different versions. The list of the most famous and practical domestic brands most often includes the Taiga, Katran, Alligator, Werewolf, Smerch, and Basurman knife models. Russian-made survival knives have very decent blade quality characteristics, but in terms of versatility, as a rule, they are noticeably inferior to their foreign counterparts.

The Kizlyar series of Survivalist Z serrated knives is not only made in the classic “movie Rambo” style (large blade with a wide spine, partial serrated sharpening on part of the blade, cuts on the spine and a deep milled fuller), but is also made of American tool steel. The blade combines carbon, chromium and alloying additives, which increases its protection against corrosion. There is space inside the handle to store emergency supplies.

The Taiga version of the machete knife is distinguished by a high degree of versatility, combining the functions of a knife, axe, machete and sapper shovel in a single tool. The prototype of this model was a Soviet-era machete knife from an aviation emergency stock.

Prices

The advantage of Russian survival knives over their Western counterparts is most noticeable in the “budget” segment of this product. Relatively simple and compact Alligator knives in a minimal configuration are offered at a price of 2,600 rubles. Versions with blades made of high-quality Damascus and damask steel, the price of which starts from 7.5 thousand rubles, are quite justified. At the same time, “elite” class models cannot always compete with foreign brands in terms of price, functionality and product quality guarantees.

Which company is better to buy a premium survival knife?

Those who are not afraid of high prices should pay attention to expensive premium knives.

They can be used in an unusual situation or presented as a gift for real men who love extreme sports.

Esee 4p

Functional universal blade of optimal size with a fixed blade made of high carbon steel. The durable micarta handle and polymer sheath make it even more attractive to the buyer.

Esee 4 p is a great survival hunting knife

Advantages:

• high strength;
• quality;
• quality factor;
• functionality.

There are simply no disadvantages to this model, and the cost will be 10,600 rubles.

Rershaw launch 1

A very lightweight and convenient folding tool with a durable, hard blade. Its light weight and size allow you to take it with you in any situation and attach it to your pants belt using a strong clip. Indispensable for avid fishermen and hunters, comfortable and functional when using, durable.

Rershaw launch 1 – lightweight knife with fully automatic blade opening

The automatic blade and sleek design complete the list of advantages. The only drawback noted is that the aluminum handle is not the most durable. The price of the product is 11,550 rubles.

Tops bull trout

A small but multifunctional knife will be a welcome gift for an experienced fishing enthusiast. The blade with a full tang, 7 cm long, is made of high-strength metal and remains sharp for a long time without sharpening.

The comfortable micarta handle is equipped with a special groove for fingers, and the stylish leather sheath will protect the blade from external influences. The average price tag for a product starts from 11,800 rubles and above.

The Tops bull trout knife has a durable blade that holds an edge well and requires minimal maintenance

Bastinelli creations sin wrapped

A model with an original and rather aggressive design, made of Kydex, with a steel blade almost 9 cm long. The blade has grooves and two cutting surfaces at once. This practical and durable knife will last a long time and is ideal for those who love active tourism. The cost of the product is quite high and amounts to a little more than 13,300 rubles.

The Bastinelli creations sin wrapped knife is functional and practical

Ka bar becker kephart

The product is based on the drawings of the famous traveler and writer Horace Kephart. It was he who, at the beginning of the last century, wrote and published a unique book, which became a practical guide for American extreme tourists.

A characteristic feature of the knife is a durable steel blade in the shape of a spear and a wooden handle. Thanks to its high functionality and practicality, it is suitable for use in any situation. The issue price is about 14,000 rubles, which is certainly a lot.

Ka bar becker kephart knife is great for survival in extreme conditions

Spanish King of the Jungle

One of the most popular models among those who like to tickle their nerves on a dangerous journey. In addition to the high-strength blade, made of an alloy of steel with vanadium, chromium and molybdenum, the product is equipped with a compass and NAZ.

It includes:

• gunpowder and flint;
• antibiotics;
• tweezers;
• tourniquet;
• patch;
• antiseptics;
• stiletto screwdriver;
• insect repellent;
• strong cable.

The Spanish King of the Jungle is the ideal knife for a true survivalist.
The manufacturer produces knives with three different blades to choose from. All of them have an anti-corrosion coating and are resistant to damage. Such pleasure is not cheap - 18,800 rubles.

Cold steel 3 v srk

The name of the model literally translates as “knife for rescue and survival,” which is completely true. The durable steel blade can easily withstand any load and operating conditions. It is characterized by increased wear resistance and versatility.

The shape of the blade and handle externally resembles the legendary weapon of the American Navy SEALs.

Such a knife costs about 19,000 rubles, and you can purchase it in specialized stores.

The Cold steel 3 v srk knife is able to withstand any load and maintain functionality under any conditions

Spyderco respect

The most expensive copy from the premium segment, but it fully justifies its price. A powerful 20-centimeter blade is suitable for chopping and cutting hard materials. The G 10 plastic handle and high-strength steel blade are packaged in a handmade leather sheath.

A convenient, multifunctional knife will become the first assistant of an extreme tourist, hunter or climber. You can buy it for 29,000 rubles.

Spyderco respect knife is great for hunting and survival in harsh conditions

First tests in special forces

In order to survive in truly extreme conditions, a person will need a certain set of items, including a steel knife (possibly a folding knife). Such devices can be found in every, without exception, emergency emergency stock (ESP). It’s not customary to use this kind of item in everyday life, but it’s still worth taking it for a long hike with your family.

Initially, such devices were used by the military (army). The design was developed in the early 60s and was in enormous demand among pilots who served in Vietnam.

A characteristic feature is considered to be the presence of a saw (disc type) instead of a blade and a heavy handle. In the impenetrable jungle, such a device is simply irreplaceable. Such products gained popularity after the film adaptation of “Rimbaud.” The world's best manufacturers took years of persistent experimentation to develop the design. Today, tactical weapons are in great demand both among the military and ordinary people (tourists).

Tips for choosing the best camping knife for survival in extreme conditions

A folding knife is more convenient to use, has a small size and a spacious handle. However, this option is not suitable for everyone, because in an emergency it is of little use.

Flaws:

1. Due to the folding design, such a knife is more likely to break even under light loads.
2. It has a small blade and a narrow spine.
3. Difficulties arise when an instant reaction is required, and it is unlikely that it will be possible to open it so quickly.

In extreme situations, opening a folding knife is much more difficult than a knife with a fixed blade.
This option is more suitable for a traveler or tourist, but for extreme hikes, choose a reliable model with a fixed blade.

Blade shape

A knife is one of the most important items on any trip, and you need to choose it carefully, taking into account all the nuances.

The blade shape is:

• with straight butt;
• with a rising (falling) butt line;
• spear-shaped;
• with a concave blade;
• American tanto.

Basic blade shapes
Survival knives are often chosen with a universal spear-shaped blade. They are easy to use and are used by hunters and fishermen.

Shank

A professional survivalist tool can have a full or partial shank. There are models in which the shank is half hidden in the handle, and the remaining part is occupied by the NAZ.

However, specimens with a full shank that runs through the entire handle have increased reliability and strength.

A knife with a full tang is considered more durable and reliable.

These knives are designed for use in extreme field conditions; they are unlikely to break and will last much longer than others.

Steel

When choosing a tool, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the steel from which the blade is made. Ideally, it should be carbon or stainless steel. Pure high-carbon steel is susceptible to corrosion, so chromium or molybdenum impurities are often added to it. Stainless steel is not afraid of moisture, but is less durable.

A knife made of stainless or carbon steel will last longer

A blade made from steel that is too hard stays sharp longer but breaks faster. Extreme survival knives have a hardness of 54-58 Rockwell. This steel is much stronger and more durable and can withstand heavy loads better.

Materials for creating the handle

The handle is often made of steel or plastic, but can also be made of wood or rubberized. Steel is better for the handle, but it should be of medium hardness. In this case, the product will have a sufficient margin of safety. The shape of the handle is also important, as it determines the ease of use of the knife.

The knife handle is made of wood, plastic, rubber or steel

Additional options

Almost all good knives have some features and secrets. Some have a fully equipped NAZ, while others have a sharpener and flint inside the handle. Sometimes the manufacturer builds a lighter into the knife, although it is not a mandatory attribute of a survivalist’s kit.

Main distinctive features

Camping knives have a number of distinctive features:

1. Many users buy cheap Chinese cutting tools; their steel will bend under any strong pressure. Survival knives have a stronger design as they are made from high-alloy steel.
2. Such weapons are usually forged from a single piece of metal, there are no fastening points.
3. Survival knives are provided with long-term sharpening and are made of stainless or high-carbon steel. The specimen is also equipped with a reinforced tip, since this place on the blade is one of the most vulnerable. The knife blade is not afraid of corrosion, loss of sharpness and breakage.
4. It’s not for nothing that a survival product got its name; most often in the kit it has a NAZ - portable emergency supply. The equipment may be different; it should be chosen based on where and for how long the tourist is going. NAZ is compact and always nearby when needed.
5. This weapon is great for self-defense as it can be easily drawn from its sheath. A sheath on a belt would be an ideal option.
6. The sheath for such a tool is not just a case for the blade, it also has its own tricks and is equipped with additional gadgets.
7. The survival knife has a bright color, this is necessary in order to easily find it if lost.

It would seem that such a convenient product does not have its drawbacks, but they still exist. Firstly, the price is high. High-quality steel and handle materials cannot be cheap, and the buyer also pays extra for a well-known brand. Secondly, NAZ, which is an advantage of the knife, also becomes its disadvantage. The hollow handle gives it reduced strength. In addition, if the owner of the tool loses it, he will part with all the emergency supplies he carries.

Making a DIY Survival Knife

If you can’t buy the item you need, you can try to make it yourself. For a person who is familiar with metal processing first-hand, this will not be difficult.

Required:

• metal for rivets;
• sandpaper;
• blade blank;
• wooden block for the handle;
• hacksaw for metal;
• file.

Tools for making a knife
Once all the materials are at hand, you can start working.

Procedure:

1. To make a blade, you need to carefully draw its boundaries on the workpiece and make several holes along the edges. A file is ideal for these purposes.
2. You will have to drill holes in the future handle where the rivets will be attached.
3. Next, the blanks are given their final shape.
4. Mark the cutting edge on the blade, grind it off and sand it with sandpaper.
5. The finished blade is quenched over hot coals for 15 minutes and then cooled with oil.
6. After which, the blade is placed in the oven and baked at 300 degrees for at least 40 minutes.
7. When it cools down, sand it again and bake again.
8. It is more convenient to make the handle from wood, and the shape and dimensions are selected individually.
9. As soon as the handle blank is ready, it needs to be coated with a special antiseptic and sanded.
10. The easiest way to attach the blade to the handle is using epoxy resin. Pour it into a hole pre-drilled on the workpiece and place the blade shank inside. Leave the product in a carpenter's vice for two days.

Step-by-step making of a knife with your own hands
The result will be an excellent homemade knife that will last for many years.

Opinel No. 12 Explore

As a general rule, we don't recommend choosing folding knives as a survival tool. But Opinel no. The 12 Explore is certainly an exception to this rule for a number of reasons. First, this knife features a durable 12C27 steel blade that is paired with a shock- and moisture-resistant handle. Secondly, it comes with a built-in 110-decibel survival whistle and a built-in fire starter. This knife is essentially an all-in-one survival kit, which is why it makes it to our top list.

• Blade length: 3.94″
• Blade steel: 12C27
• Handle material: glass fiber reinforced polyamide
• Buy: 3,190₽ (10% discount with promotional code: CONS10)

Sharpening a tourist knife with your own hands

You can’t do without a sharp tool on a hike, so it’s important to know how to sharpen it correctly. Here you will have to take into account some nuances. So, if the knife will be used for cutting food, then it needs to be sharpened at an angle of 15 degrees.

To cut hard materials, you will need to sharpen at an angle of 25 degrees. There is also a more serious “chisel” sharpening, with an angle of 40 degrees. It is used when using a knife to chop wood chips or open canned food.

First, the blade is sharpened on a rough, coarse-grained stone to define the cutting edge. Then comes the turn of a stone with a smaller grain size. With its help, the blade is leveled and thoroughly polished.

Blades used for cutting hard materials have a sharpening angle of 25 degrees

To achieve perfect smoothness, the blade can be sanded by hand on leather using a special paste.

During sharpening, it is important to strictly monitor compliance with the required angle. It’s good if the knife has already been sharpened at this particular angle, then there won’t be any difficulties. However, it happens that the blade has to be sharpened to a completely different angle. In this case, you need to use a holder, but you should not press hard on the sharpening stones.

Initially, survival knives were part of military equipment and were used only for the needs of the army. Over time, these unique products became available to everyone. Sharp, practical and reliable knives are the calling card of true extreme sports enthusiasts and experienced travelers.

Which of the presented knife models would you like to purchase and why?

OKC 499 Air Force

OKC created their 499 Air Force knife for pilots, and it ended up becoming one of the most iconic blades of all time. And this is not just a classic model - it is one of the best survival knives. Its reputation is due in part to its versatile 1095 steel bowie blade with serrated edge, comfortable and attractive leather handle, and sheath with whetstone pouch.

• Blade length: 5″
• Blade steel: 1095
• Handle material: leather
• Buy: $44.95