Owning the best hunting knife on the market would be a wise move for every serious or recreational hunter. If you were ever in a situation that required you to have a good knife on hand, would you have come prepared? What if that particular situation had something to do with cleaning a fish, cutting some rope, or dressing a deer? Would you happen to have a blade on hand? Hunting is a VERY popular sport, that attracts many each year, from all over the world. It’s also necessary to hunt for survival, otherwise, we would all face hunger (unless you’re vegetarian). This means it’s extremely important to not only have a good one but the best you can find. If you’re looking for a good one to take hunting and don’t know where to look, check our hunting knife reviews!
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- Really Good Hunting Knives That I Personally Own
- And these are some skinners I have owned:
- How to Choose the Right Hunting knife
- A list of the top brands famous for producing the best hunting knives
Really Good Hunting Knives That I Personally Own
I own more than 30+ different hunting knives; I collected them throughout the years. I am always on the search for the best hunting knife and since the cost of them is low, I test a lot. Below are some reviews:
1. Ka-Bar Becker BK2
Not only does this knife look the part, but it also acts it too. One of the best hunting knives currently on the market, with excellent features. If you’re looking for a truly ultimate survival, hunting, and camping blade, then you can’t go wrong with the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Companion. After all, it was designed by famed mountain climber and survivalist Ethan Becker and carries his seal of approval.
As far as looks go, this is sexy. The handle is made from Grivory, and provides a firm grip, feeling solid and heavy in the hand, very reassuring. Obviously, the most important part is the blade, and this blade is a doozy. A 1095 cro-van steel blade that keeps its edge for longer than most, it’s a thick, high-quality fixed blade, that isn’t going to break or split from the handle. The steel itself feels solid, and there’s no movement of the blade in the handle however tough the task is that you put the knife to. At a quarter-inch thick, it’s a beast of a blade. The blade itself is five and a half inches, a drop point shape, with a twenty-degree angle, making it perfect for anything you want to do. From chopping onions to cutting wood, to skinning that deer you just got, this knife can do anything. It’s by far one of the best hunting knives you can get, given its versatility and serious sharpness.
Perfectly designed to address the needs of those who hunt, camp, or spend time in the outdoors, the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 offers users versatility whether it’s just to split out some kindling or to pry joints apart while skinning game. This hunting knife feels right at home whether it’s just for chopping onions or building a campfire. This heavy-duty hunting knife will surely be your favorite go-everywhere companion if you love the outdoors.
Strong, solid build
Handle all your survival needs using this super strong and robust hunting knife that feels capable of handling all the survival needs you could have. Made in the USA, this knife delivers a fantastic performance as can be seen by its appearance and feel in the hand. You are assured of reliable craftsmanship and the high-quality materials used in its manufacture. It is made of 1095 Cro-Van steel, which is plain carbon steel that makes the tool easy to sharpen.
The fixed blade design ensures that the knife will not suddenly close on your finger, making the cutting implement a safer alternative to folding knives. Since no joint is present in the middle of the tool, you can be sure of a strong blade that can easily handle the stresses associated with slashing, chopping, etc. It also offers better leverage and greater force aside from being made of thicker stock, so you can deploy the knife faster. With no moving parts, you will need no lubricant. The blade makes the knife quite versatile as a cutting tool, hatchet, and pry bar.
Easy handling
With a blade length of 5.25 inches, the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 is easy to manipulate during use. Lightweight at just 1 pound, this hunting knife has an overall length of 10.5 inches that ensures optimum handling. It has a flat grind tapering from the top of the blade on to the cutting edge for easy sharpening while being extremely sharp.
The Ultramid® handle is a type of high-density Grivory plastic that may have been given glass reinforcement to make the component tough and nice looking with its smooth matte black finish. The full grip provides a sure and comfortable grip. The slightly textured handle is rigid and is tough enough to withstand dropping, beating, and being thrown without showing scratches at all most of the time. The wide, rounded ergonomic curves of the handle create a balance that makes the BK2 comfortable to use while the front-rear guards are effective at keeping your hand safe from slipping off the knife.
The 100 percent synthetic blade ensures more than enough strength to handle every survival need of modern-day hunting. The 20-degree edge angle has been designed to be sharp enough while being hardy enough to take lots of abuse. The hefty ¼-inch flat ground blade offers sustained resistance against stress. This knife offers exquisite grip and amazing forward balance that you’ll fall in love with right out of the box. It takes an edge quite effortlessly and keeps it longer, eliminating the need to do frequent sharpening.
The black non-reflective coating protects the knife steel fully except for the edge. You get a wide, thick and heavy blade with a full tang that runs the entire length of the knife through the handle, which is the strongest way to build a blade. The strong drop point makes the tip really tough, perfect for piercing, poking, and bushcraft tasks such as drilling. Toward the handle near the very end of the edge is the small choil or cutout that allows sharpening of the edge of the knife without running into the handle and also makes a great fire starter.
Comes with the necessary accessories
This impressive cutting tool ships to you with a MOLLE compatible hard plastic glass-filled nylon sheath made in Taiwan, which makes the tool safe and easy to carry. The sheath also ensures that the blade keeps sharp and won’t be damaged during transit. Best of all, more than any other accessory, the limited lifetime warranty the knife comes with serves as a distinct assurance of total quality and premium craftsmanship.
2. Buck Knives 119
It’s the Buck 119 Special. When I was a kid, if you happened to see a black-handled knife, you knew it was a Buck hunting knife. No questions asked. The only other blade I can remember that radiates the personal of a hunting knife is the old Western hunting knife with the leather washer handle. You knew if you saw these, the owner was a hunter! Buck claims this is their best-selling sheath knife and I can believe it.
The Buck 119 Special has a 6-inch blade and is 10 1/2 inches overall. The blade steel is a 420HC steel that Buck uses in most, if not all, of its knives. It’s an older type of steel, but it still works great today. It’s not the hardest knife steel out there, but it holds an edge well and is easy to resharpen if you know what you’re doing.
The handle is Phenolic, which I believe is a type of extra-hard plastic. I could be wrong because I’m not aware of any other knife company that uses it. I love the look of this handle material, plus it has ever-so-slight finger grooves at the bottom. The handle is not as slippery when wet as you might think, or at least it wasn’t for me.
The guard and butt are aluminum, so don’t go using the butt for a hammer or you’ll ding it up!
Older Buck 119 Specials came with leather sheaths. I guess in an attempt to cut cost, Buck has started shipping many of the newer ones out with nylon sheaths, but they do still offer the leather ones if you look hard enough. They’re still a good sheath, but I prefer leather. You can find the leather sheaths online at several place for between $10 and $15. I’ve even seencustom leather sheaths for the Buck 119 Special for around $25.
Two other great features about this knife are that it’s made in the U.S.A. Plus, it comes out of the bubble pack razor sharp! If that was the only two things this knife had going for it, those two things alone would make it worth the price! I simply can’t stand a knife manufacturer who sends out dull knives!
What is the Buck 119 Special Good For?
In my opinion and experience, the Buck Special is too large for field-dressing deer and other big game such as Elk. The 6″ clip point blade is just too unwieldy and it makes puncturing intestines or the stomach a real possibility. Not to mention cutting yourself when working up in a chest cavity of an animal.
I’ve seen some reviews where the people say they use it to clean small game such as squirrels and rabbits…umm…yeah! I’ve created hundreds of gut piles in my time from all types of big and small game animals including and up to Moose. The best all around blade length for getting the insides of an animal on the outside is a 3″ to 4″ blade, preferably with a drop point.
Two things that I do use if for when I have an animal down is splitting the brisket and the pelvis bone. I cut through the hide and mean down to the brisket, find me a good stout stick and hammer the knife from back of the rib cage to the front. This makes getting to the guts an easy chore. The same goes with the pelvis. Take a good club and whack the Buck through and get the remaining intestines out of the canal that runs through the pelvis. This job is made much easier with a small saw, but if my saw is forgotten and I have the Buck, the job goes just as quickly using a club.
So what other uses do I use the Buck 119 for? I use it as a general camp knife when I’m camping. I also carry it while trapping and hiking. It’s a great all-around general-use knife.
If you don’t have a Buck 119 Special, get yourself one ASAP! If you have one, you know what a great knife it is, so get yourself another one!
3. Benchmade – Hidden Canyon Hunter
The Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter 15016 Knife is made to perform under many circumstances, most of them as challenging as possible. This is a product that will withstand the test of time, giving you the reassurance you need that you are going to be able to use it time and again and for as many hunting seasons to come as possible. Let’s look at what makes it stand out from the crowd.
One of the essential features of this unit is its stainless steel blade. According to the claims of the manufacturer as well as the feedback received by the knife from hunters just like you, the blade retains its sharpness for a long time, and since it is well-balanced, it has excellent edge qualities. Besides, the material that it is crafted from renders it rust-resistant, so that’s one less thing to worry about.
When it comes to reliability, this model definitely seems to be a winner in this respect. If you didn’t know and you’re getting your first hunting/skinning knife, fixed blade alternatives are far more reliable compared to their counterparts, and that’s because this particular feature puts your mind at ease with respect to potential injuries or times when the knife could have performed better due to the blade mobility. Fortunately, you won’t have to encounter any issues if you decide to go for this Benchmade option since it is a fixed blade full tang knife. The simplicity of its design highly recommends it, and we have no doubt that it will become one of your trusted friends.
There’s also something to be added in relation to the size of this tool. Some knives can be too large or a little heavy, which makes them cumbersome both with regard to transporting them (since they occupy a lot of space in your hunting bag or backpack) and both with regard to the user experience. The Benchmade 15016 Hidden Canyon Hunter is compact and lightweight, allowing you to maneuver it conveniently and effectively, but it also gives you the advantage of a highly portable design.
Another aspect that makes this unit stand out from the crowd is the leather sheath that accompanies it. It is ambidextrous, so it can be used by virtually all hunters. Besides, this accessory can be comfortably attached to your belt – horizontally – which makes transporting it even easier. This factor adds to the space-saving design of this product.
One mistake that some hunters, especially those that are the beginning of their learning curve, tend to make is that they will use just any kind of knife they have in their kitchen for hunting purposes. Needless to say, this can have a negative impact on their performance, especially when it comes to skinning. You need a sharp tool that can be maneuvered effectively, and that’s what Benchmade has created. The knife boasts a drop-point large-radius blade that takes the cake when it comes to removing the meat off the bone or for skinning purposes. Since it is made specifically for hunting applications, you needn’t worry about this unit letting you down when you need it the most.
Given that the needs of all hunters differ largely from one person to the next, you might want to know that this product is covered by a lifetime warranty and LifeSharp service is ensured by the brand. What that means for you is that you can give it a try and, should it fail to meet your expectations, you can simply get in touch with customer support to find out how you can solve the issue or whether you can opt for a different alternative. The LifeSharp service also comes in handy since the brand will take care of sharpening or repairing the knife. One thing we do have to note is that you have to purchase the product from an authorized dealer in order to get these benefits.
Since it wouldn’t be fair to showcase only the pros of this knife, we’d like to note that there have been some issues reported regarding the sheath and its usability. It has a fixed belt loop and unsnapping the safety strap takes a little time to get used to. Other hunters note that when you take the knife out of the sheath, you can accidentally cut the stitching, which means that you will basically destroy the sheath. Some users have had to restitch it as many as three times before deciding to order a kydex one for the knife.
4. ESEE ESLSP-BRK Laser Strike
The Laser Strike Knife by ESEE can prove its worth under a myriad of circumstances, whether you like hiking, camping, or hunting. It is one of the most effective survival knives out there and it cuts through pretty much anything as if it were butter. Let’s look at some of the features that make this unit stand out from the crowd and that render it fully capable of withstanding the challenges thrown at it by the wilderness.
One of its best qualities is its uncomplicated design. It’s simple and it consists of a one-piece made out of steel and two handle scales. The knife measures ten inches on the whole and it is equipped with a 5-in blade. This is the ideal size if you want to make sure that you can carry your knife conveniently and comfortably, but the handle also gives you the power you need in most situations.
The next attribute that might convince you to give it a go is its weight. It’s not exactly lightweight, and while for some, this aspect might be a disadvantage, we’ll argue that its weight is just what makes it reliable since you will have a good grip on it while handling it.
The full tang design of this product is another thing to write home about. It’s basically made from a single ten-inch slab of steel. The outline of the handle matches the tang, and the product is outfitted with a reasonably sized finger choil. There are virtually no weak spots that can be discovered and there’s metal almost anywhere. The saber ground blade is flat and some hunters note that it is slightly thicker than other models they have tested in the past. Many of its competitors are equipped with thinner and lighter blades, which means that they do not feel as solid as this knife in the user’s hand. The extra weight renders this tool effective even for chopping purposes. In theory, that would be impossible with a product of this size, but if you decide to spend the night in the woods, you’ll definitely make use of it and chop some wood for a fire thanks to its tang, weight, and design.
The cutting edge measures 4.5 inches and is extremely sharp. Since it is made of carbon steel, you will have to make a bit of effort in the way of ensuring it is properly maintained, but it does have an excellent advantage, especially when compared to stainless steel. It retains its edge for a really long time. While the spear point can be used effectively for fine cutting, the flat and thick back surface makes it more than adequate for skinning purposes.
Since the handle plays an important role in the whole user experience and is probably one of the essential features when it comes to safety, let’s see how this one performs. It’s made from canvas-laminated micarta, so there’s a woven surface texture that will give you a great grip even when it’s raining. The ergonomic design of the handle is another aspect to take into account, and the fact that it has a finger groove located behind the choil complete with a slight bolster at the pommel end renders it usable. For extra security, the manufacturer has added a lanyard hole bored through the scales and tank so that you can conveniently and easily secure your knife to the belt.
On top of everything, the model is accompanied by a sheath that also makes it stand out. Why is that? Well, compared to many of its competitors, the sheath of this knife is made from Kydex, so that means that it will definitely stand the test of time. Furthermore, sheathing the blade results in locking it firmly so that it is virtually incapable of falling out on its own. However, that doesn’t mean that you’ll encounter any problems when drawing it out. Additionally, the sheath is equipped with a removable paddle complete with a high-quality belt clip made out of steel. You can mount the paddle on either side of the sheath by using the lashing holes with the supplied bolts.
All in all, the ESEE ESLSP-BRK Laser Strike is a comfortable and solid knife that has excellent cutting power. It is a handy tool for survival and hunting purposes, and you’ll have no trouble using it for skinning. It can even be utilized for starting fires, so it can get you out of a tricky situation.
5. Gerber Strongarm Fixed Blade Coyote
If you’re in the market for a highly versatile and rather affordable hunting knife, this Gerber unit is definitely worthy of your consideration. It’s also made in Portland, Oregon, so it speaks to the requirements of those hunters that are in search of a knife made from quality materials and crafted in the United States. It’s a rather sensible option for hunters who are on a budget, especially those that are at the beginning of their learning curve. The Coyote Brown color it comes in even looks good, so you’ll find it a pleasure to use it even visually.
The Strongarm comes with a 420 HC ceramic-coated steel blade that measures 4.8 inches in length. The whole knife measures 9.8 inches, so it’s reasonably sized and fit to handle a lot of applications. It weighs in at 7.2 ounces on its own and about 11 ounces complete with the MOLLE strap and the sheath. The full tang construction boasted by this alternative is an advantage in itself, and the best thing about it is its versatility since it can cut anything from wood and paper to rope and even thin metal (like soda cans, for example). Needless to say, you can also utilize it for meat removal and skinning purposes and it cuts through these just like through butter.
One aspect that needs to be considered is the fact that this product boasts a steel blade. What that means for you is that you’ll get both an advantage and a disadvantage. On the one hand, steel is extremely reliable and it makes this knife capable of standing the test of time, allowing you to use it for as many hunting seasons without worrying about it leaving you down when you need its services the most. Another advantage is that it doesn’t require as much effort in the way of maintenance as some other materials. It does have to be sharpened from time to time. Finally, we’d like to note that carbon steel is better when it comes to retaining sharpness and keen, so there’s that as a downside that you have to mull over to decide whether this tool suits you or not. Based on the owner feedback, the blade can dull rather quickly, which means that you will have to sharpen it regularly to ensure that its edge is kept.
The handle of the Gerber Strongarm Coyote Brown is also something to write home about. It boasts a rubberized diamond texture grip and adds a lanyard hole at the base and a striking pommel. The rubberized texture is an advantage in itself, especially if you do not want to cut yourself while skinning your prey. What that means for you is that you will be able to maneuver this cutting tool even when the weather isn’t on your side and in wet conditions, especially those involving blood. The small hole to place the lanyard is a great feature, and the proportions between the handle and the blade make it comfortable to hold and highly ergonomic. Due to its design, it can be conveniently used by people with small and large hands alike. The point is that this handle is just as good as the blade considering that you can even use it to break glass in case there’s an emergency you need to manage. Note that the handle can seem a bit thin if you’re used to thicker ones.
What about the sheath? Needless to say, this is an important aspect to take into account when you’re comparing knife models. This one has one of the most versatile sheaths in this category since it can be carried either vertically or horizontally, in your backpack or on yourself. Thanks to the holes boasted by the sheath, you will be able to mount it on any belt, body armor, or pack so carrying it will definitely not be a nuisance. There have been some issues reported with regard to this accessory, however, and they typically revolve around the belt loop attachment, which could use some improvements in relation to its design.
As we have noted before, this is a budget-friendly option, but none of the features it comes with make it cheap in any way. It’s dependable, well-balanced, and can be used for multiple purposes, and it’s also rather easy on the eyes. It’s designed for outdoor adventurers of any kind, be they fishermen and women, hunters, or hikers.
6. ESEE Knives 5P Fixed Blade Knife
The ESEE 5P Fixed Blade Knife is one of those tools that can be used under most circumstances and even in the harshest situations you’ll encounter throughout your hunting adventures. It’s one of the favorite choices of professional hunters, but it has been deemed capable of withstanding the requirements of hardcore hikers and campers, and even hunters who are unexpectedly caught in a tricky situation and have to spend the night in the woods. Let’s see why the product stands out from the crowd and why it is a good option to consider these days.
First off, the blade that this knife comes outfitted with is made of high carbon 1095 steel, which automatically sets it aside from many of its competitors. In case you didn’t know, steel blades are okay and have a decent performance, but carbon steel ones retain their edge for a longer time and besides, they are much sharper. You do have to invest a little time in making sure that the blade is kept on par, but we believe that this is a reasonable trade-off. It is your duty, after all, to ensure that the blade is kept clean and lubricated so that it does not rust.
The blade can be sharpened conveniently and easily, and the best thing about it is that it keeps its keen for a long time, thereby making this hunting knife a friend in need. The blade measures 5.25 inches and the overall length of this knife is 11 inches. This is a medium to big-sized hunting knife that can be handled comfortably both by people who have small and large hands alike. Why is that?
Here’s where things start to become really interesting. Since the product comes with a micarta handle, you won’t have any issue holding it in your hand as you maneuver it. Whether you intend to chop wood, skin an animal, or perform any other type of cutting operation in the wilderness, this particular knife will be fully capable of meeting your expectations. The Micarta material is far better than rubber and other similar alternatives since it can allow you to benefit from the superior grip, therefore giving you the reassurance that you will not accidentally cut yourself even if you use the knife in wet conditions, whether they involve rain or blood.
The sheath that accompanies the product is made out of Kydex, which automatically means that it is superior to those crafted from leather. The thing with leather sheaths is that they come with seams, so there will always be a possibility of you cutting through them if the knife is sharp and the orientation isn’t correct. However, with Kydex this situation is almost impossible since it is quite a rugged material.
In terms of design, this tool is a rather standard survival knife. We would like to note that the blade is black, and that might be an advantage for hunting applications since you don’t want to lose your stealth on account of your knife reflecting any light and attracting attention on yourself.
Whether you’re interested in this detail or not, we’ll note it anyway. This knife is manufactured in the United States of America, in Idaho, to be more precise. It is not some cheap cutting tool that will last you for a whole of two weeks before getting damaged. It’s rugged, versatile, and built to last, and some owners argue that they have the feeling that the knife will last them for several generations. Given that the product has received favorable ratings from individuals that have spent over ten years in the Army Infantry, it’s pretty clear that it does precisely what it has been designed to do.
As for complaints, we didn’t find any that were deal-breaking. However, we would like to add that the knife can be attached to the belt only vertically, which means that it might be uncomfortable for some hunters to use. You can’t change the orientation so that you keep the knife horizontally, and this is what a buyer has found after trying it. Another aspect that has to be considered is that this is not a small knife by any means. Some hunters consider it big while others describe it as medium – it all depends on your own physical attributes, after all, and the size of your hands.
7. Buck Knives 124 Frontiersman
If what you have been searching for is a lightweight and great all-around hunting knife that can be utilized for various applications, then it’s high time you checked out the Buck Knives 124 Frontiersman Fixed Blade Knife. It comes with an ergonomically designed handle as well as a sharp blade, which means that the item can give you plenty of value for every cent spent. Let’s look at some of the features that make this item unique so that maybe you can make up your own mind about giving it a try or not. We found that it is significantly more budget-friendly than others, so this one definitely speaks to the needs of beginning hunters who aren’t prepared of making a huge investment.
Every hunter needs a quality knife because it is one of those tools that can help him or her effectively while they are in the field. In choosing one, you don’t just have to go for the most popular model. You have to consider things like the materials that have been used for its construction, its design, its functionality, as well as the quality of the blade. The 124 Frontiersman seems to be a winner in all of these respects.
The blade measures 6.25 inches and is crafted from 420HC steel. It has excellent corrosion resistance, amazing edge retention, and its strength is also something to write home about. The overall length of the product is 11.75 inches, so it is not the smallest knife in its class. It weighs in at 13.3 ounces, and many users say that this weight is perfect as it gives them the feeling that they’re actually benefiting from a solid grip. An area where this product really shines is its handles since it is made of Micarta and it boasts an aluminum pommel and aluminum guard. The unit is accompanied by a leather sheath.
The blade is corrosion-resistant, and you can re-sharpen it with ease. It also has excellent wear-resistance properties, which means that it can last you for a long time. If you do fail to be impressed by what this blade can offer you or you receive a product that is faulty, you needn’t worry about anything since this one is backed by the Buck Forever Warranty coverage. Therefore, you can simply get in touch with the brand’s customer support if you run into any issue of this sort.
What about the design? The 124 Frontiersman Fixed Blade Knife is made in such a way so as to be able to serve you even in the most challenging situations. It has strength and tenacity and can be utilized for the heaviest duty tasks. It’s sleek and sharp, and while we’re at it, we might also add that it’s also easy on the eyes. Since it comes with a lightweight design, it won’t hang heavy on your belt or in your hunting pack.
As stated before, this product comes with a high-quality sheath made out of leather to which a snap fastener has been added. The integrated belt loop enables you to carry the knife safely and securely on your belt so that you reach for it whenever you need it the most. While the sheath is not made in the US, the knife is – we added this bit of information for those of you who are not looking to purchase a cheap item that doesn’t last for a decent amount of time.
When it comes to the owner feedback that this product has garnered, we couldn’t fail to notice that it has gathered the appreciation of many hunters, hikers, campers, and survivalists. Many of these individuals report that they received knives in a perfect condition in terms of the finish, fit, and materials. Others argue that the geometry, sharpness, weight, quality and balance of this knife are unparalleled and can’t even compare to some of the other such tools that they have tried out in the past.
One area where this option won’t be able to help you is chopping wood. However, considering the fact that it is not primarily marketed for survival purposes or for various outdoor applications aside from hunting, we’d argue that you’d have to use a different tool for this type of activity. In short, this USA-made fixed-blade knife can definitely be a useful hunting tool, especially if you are on the hunt for a heavy-duty alternative. It is solid, reliable, and versatile, and it will last you for a good deal of time.
8. Buck Knives 390 Omni Hunter
Since it is designed by a manufacturing brand that has been making knives for close to one hundred and twenty years now, it goes without saying that the 390 Omni Hunter is at least worth considering. This one’s a classic hunting knife that comes with a handle in a camo design. Its construction, rigidity, strength, edge retention, as well as its user-friendly features all, recommend it. Let’s look at some of the things that seem to make it stand out from the crowd so that you can make the right decision and see whether it suits your needs.
Let’s start with the size so that you can tell whether you’ll find it hard or easy to use this hunting knife. While the blade measures 3.25 inches, the overall length of this tool is 7.75. It weighs in at 4.6 ounces, which means that it is easy to hold and handle. One area where this product truly shines is the handle it is equipped with. It is rubberized, so you can rest assured that you won’t injure yourself while slicing meat or while you are skinning your prey. You can also utilize this product for survival applications, by the way, especially since you can hold it properly and the blade it comes with makes it a good fit for such purposes.
The handle boasts a Realtree Camo design, which will assist you in blending into the hunting environment as best as possible. If we can add something with this respect, we’d like to note that a black blade would have been a bit more useful than the one that this knife is equipped with. The black matte design would have been capable of making light reflections practically impossible, thereby further adding to your stealth.
However, the 390 Omni Hunter comes with a 420 HC steel blade which is said to have excellent corrosion-resistant properties, and that seems to be capable of retaining its edge for a long time. You can conveniently re-sharpen the blade without encountering any issues, especially judging by the feedback provided by other hunters in this sense. The best thing about the high carbon stainless steel that the blade is crafted from is that it can be sharpened to a mirror finish and a very fine cutting edge. As such, you will be able to benefit from excellent sharpness, allowing you to perform your tasks in a timely fashion and with significantly less effort than you’d have to make if you were to use a duller knife.
As for safety, you needn’t worry about anything with this product since it comes with the rubberized handle that we have mentioned already, and the latter boasts grip ridges so that you can handle it safely and effectively. The lanyard hole will allow you to attach the knife to pretty much any accessory. You can even leave it to hang in its sheath from a backpack strap if you do not like carrying it on your belt.
Part of the reason that you ought to consider this unit is its versatility. Due to the blade and its excellent handle, this knife is capable of serving you in a myriad of situations, something that you might not expect from all types of hunting knives. For example, there’s nothing stopping you from utilizing the 390 Omni Hunter to split some wood (just not logs) for a nighttime fire that you might have to build if you intend to spend more than one day hunting in the woods, should you decide to do so. Naturally, this knife can get you out of a tricky situation when you have to deter wild animals, especially while you are sleeping.
The knife is accompanied by a Realtree Camo Sheath that will allow you to keep your stealth as you walk through the hunting environment in search for the perfect vantage point to see your potential targets. The nylon sheath is equipped with a snap closure.
Despite the fact that this particular hunting knife is one of the most affordable options that we were able to track down nowadays, it is manufactured in the United States of America and best of all, it is backed by the Buck Lifetime Warranty. What this means for you is that, should you receive a product that fails to meet your expectations in terms of performance (whether it is regarding the blade or the handle), you can simply get in touch with the manufacturer’s customer service and they will swiftly solve the problem.
9. Havalon Piranta Edge Blaze
The Havalon Piranta Edge is one of the most popular hunting knife alternatives these days. We call it an alternative because it cannot be considered an actual knife, at least not in the traditional sense of the word, seeing how you can replace the blades and they look like something taken out of a TV show like House M.D. or E.R. This option is definitely not an all-purpose knife that you can use in a plethora of situations, so it won’t help you if you have to build a fire, for example. On the other hand, it is one of the most effective choices for tasks such as field dressing or skinning the animal you have hunted. It does come with several features you should definitely consider before deciding whether this makes a suitable choice for the type of hunting you engage in. Let’s look at some of the things that make it so popular among hunting enthusiasts.
One thing you definitely do not have to worry about with this knife is performing any sort of maintenance practices in order to maintain the edge and sharpness of the blade. Since this one comes with removable blades, you can simply throw the dull one away and replace it with a new one, therefore making sure that you skin the animal in an effective manner. Of course, almost no other hunting knife dulls after just one use, but this one is undoubtedly convenient in this respect. Also, note that the blades are small-sized, so there shouldn’t be anything stopping you from carrying a dozen with you in your backpack, for instance.
The overall length of this product is 7.25 inches, so it’s not the biggest one ever to have seen the light of day. However, due to its ergonomically molded handle, you can surely hold it comfortably in your hand whether you have smaller or bigger hands. The easy grip black rubber inlay design boasted by the handle is another aspect worth writing home about since it allows for a proper fit and an enhanced degree of comfort. All in all, the size of this particular handle makes it a great choice for most backcountry hunters out there.
Another aspect worth considering and that makes the difference between the Havalon Piranta Edge and some of its competitors is the fact that this unit is outfitted with a proprietary liner-lock design. This feature has been specially engineered so as to add further rigidity and assure the user that he or she can rely on this knife for as many hunting seasons as possible. While some might argue that the bright orange design of the handle is an inconvenience since you won’t be able to blend into the hunting environment, the truth is that it makes the item easy to spot among the rest of your gear. In case you drop it on the ground, you’ll have no trouble identifying it through the weeds.
If you decide that carrying this knife in its own sheath isn’t something you want to do, you can rest assured that you can simply do so in your pocket since the Havalon Piranta Edge comes with a convenient pocket clip. What about usability? To put it simply, that’s an area where this product really shines since it weighs in at just 2 ounces, which means that it is among the lightest models in its class. It is the perfect alternative for a weight-conscious hunter and its size also recommends it if you want to make sure that you don’t pick gear that takes up a lot of room in your backpack.
What gives a cutting edge to this knife is the fact that you can replace its blade with ease and in as little time as possible. The surgical blades are effective and sharp and they won’t fail to provide you with the performance you require especially when it might be critical. The truth is that, while it might not be a typical choice, it is a dependable one since you will never be without a knife that is razor-sharp and that is perfectly capable of serving you.
Finally, the fact that this unit is shipped with twelve additional stainless steel blades as well as a sheath is another aspect that you ought to bear in mind. Last, but not least, we’d like to note that the Havalon Piranta EDGE is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We advise you to get in touch with the brand’s customer service representatives for any issue you might encounter.
And these are some skinners I have owned:
There are several brand names to choose from when purchasing the best skinning knife. The best skinning knife will have a sharp edge blade, with a curved finish, making slicing, cutting, and dicing easier to do. The top-rated skinning knife will also have a long-lasting blade edge, eliminating the need to sharpen regularly, and should be made with the top-quality steel materials, for longevity, and to avoid possible damage or rust, when being used in rain or other outdoor conditions.
A sturdy handle is also something that the top-rated skinning knife will provide. Easy to grip, ergonomic handle, and a handle that retains moisture well, are some features to look for when purchasing. Materials from fiberglass to titanium are used, but should provide a comfortable grip, and durable finish, to avoid easy wear.
Comfortable use and an affordable price, are some features that will make for the best skinning knife for the money. Whether it is a fixed blade or folding design, it should provide a comfortable grip handle, easy to maneuver design, and a lightweight finish, so that the knife is not going to weigh you down, when you are using it in certain conditions, or need to pull it out quickly for use.
1. Cold Steel Mini Tac Skinner Serrated Knife
The Cold Steel mini tac knife provides a 3 3/8” blade, and weighs in at under 2.5 oz; as the name implies, it is extremely tactical and can be used in a number of situations, for different tasks. The knife also features exterior shears, so you can wear the blade on your clothing, making skinning in the wild easier to do. The blade’s direction and G10 design, not only make it simple to swipe and skin nearly any surface, but also make the knife easy to use for cutting, or performing other tasks with it also. Below you can see our comprehensive review.
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The blade features an extremely sharp edge same like with curved knife. This means you are going to be able to dice, chop, cut, and of course skin, nearly any animal fur, or the knife can also be used for gutting if you are a fisherman. The knife provides an extremely ergonomic grip along with a rugged design, so you do not have to worry about breaking or damaging the knife, regardless of the situations that you find yourself in when you are using it. The batoning capabilities are also a nice feature that you will appreciate if you are one for the outdoors. The comfortable, ergonomic grip design, also allows you to grasp the knife tightly, so skinning is a breeze, regardless of how long you are using it, or what type of fur you are skinning with the knife.
The comfortable grip design also eliminates issues such as bruising or otherwise injuring your hands when using the knife blade for extended periods of time. In addition to this, the design is extremely tactical, allowing you to hold the knife nearly in any position, so you can easily skin the fur, or other items that you are working on with the knife.
The quality of the design is a nice feature, and the top of the line stainless steel blade finish is something that you can’t beat when you are looking for durability, and something that is not going to rust over when you are using it in wet or otherwise difficult conditions when you are using the knife outdoors. The sturdy and light in weight design, is also something that you won’t find with too many other blades. At only 2.2 oz, you can’t find many blades out there which are lighter in weight than this one is.
In addition to the quality of the design, well made blade, curve, and ergonomic grip, you are also going to find that this knife is made by a trusted manufacturer in the industry. Along with this, you are going to receive a warranty with your purchase, so you can use it as desired, and not have to worry about wasting your money or damaging the knife or the blade after only a short time of use or ownership.
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Verdict
In comparison to other skinning knives on the market, you can buy Cold Steel Mini Tac Skinner Serrated Knife for a reasonable price. Indeed you are not going to find too many blades that will match the power, dexterity, and high end design as this knife offers!
2. Lone Wolf Skinner Hunting Knife with Plain-Edged Blade (Orange, 7.97-Inch)
Although the Lone Wolf Skinner Hunting Knife with Plain-Edged Blade (Orange, 7.97-Inch) comes in at a higher price point than other knives on the market, the high-end finishes, polished look, and quality materials used to construct the knife are going to be noticed from the very minute you put it in your hands for use. Hunters are sure to appreciate the fixed lock mechanism; not only is this a great safety feature to prevent injuries, but it is also a feature that ensures you are not going over or undercut when skinning or performing other tasks when you are using the blade outdoors. The locking mechanism is also a simple way to ensure the skinning knife doesn’t get jammed when you need to pull out the blade on a short notice situation.
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At 2.65”, the plain edge drop design of the blade is another feature that you are going to appreciate when using this knife for skinning. Although the blade is short, it is sharp; and, the tactical grip design and smooth finish blade, allow you to cut through and work through nearly any surface, with the slightest of ease each time you put the knife to use. At a total length of 8”, the blade is easy enough to carry around in a pocket or bag; and, the sturdy, leather sheath is going to provide you with a stable carrying pouch, as well as something that will provide you with more security if you do carry the blade in a pocket.
A shorter 8” length also means a more ergonomic, comfortable grip design. Due to the fact that the blade and knife are shorter than others, it allows you to cut holding it in nearly any direction in your hand. Whether you are skinning away from or towards your body, it is going to fit comfortably in your hand, and you are easily going to be able to cut through any surface with no problems at all when you are using the blade for such outdoor tasks. Regardless of the situation, you find yourself in, what rugged surface you are trying to cut through, or what you are skinning, it is going to be rather simple to cut through, when you are using the Lone Wolf blade to perform the tasks.
In addition to skinning, the knife blade can also be used for shearing, it is great for gutting, and cutting through nearly any surface, because of the shorter blade, and the sharper finish that the knife features. There is a finger slot found at the top of the blade as well; not only does this make for a more comfortable design, it also gives the user far more control, especially when they need to be as precise as possible in using the blade for any task or skinning job they are doing.
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Final Verdict
One of the best sellers in the market today is this Lone Wolf Skinner Hunting Knife with Plain-Edged Blade. Lightweight finish, durable design, and the best material finishes are a few of the many features you are going to appreciate. Perfect for outdoor activities!
3. Outdoor Edge SZP-1 SwingBlaze-Pak Rotating 2-Blade Knife
Although the extremely bright, orange handle is one of the most noticeable features of this Outdoor Edge knife, it is surely not the only thing you are going to notice once you put the knife into your hands for use for the very first time. It features an AUD 8” stainless steel blade. With the most durable material, this blade is neither going to rust with continued use nor is it going to become dull after a few uses of the knife. The razor-sharp edge is sure to impress you the first time you use it, and will continue to do so, even if you do not sharpen the knife on a regular basis after using it outdoors.
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The knife also features a rotating edge, a skinning edge, and a side for gutting. In addition to being a tactical skinning knife, it also has additional features which any outdoor enthusiast is sure to appreciate. And, with the all-in-one design, you are going to be able to replace all the other knives that you are currently using, with this single knife. It also comes with a durable nylon sheath; not only is this going to keep your clothes from tearing when you attach it to your belt or pant leg, it is also going to keep the knife blade in place, and secure, so you do not run the risk of losing it when you are using it outdoors, and are moving around in a fast-paced environment with it.
The knife is light in weight as well; coming in at just 8 oz, it is a bit heavier than other blades, but considering the fact that it is a dual-purpose knife, you should expect it to weigh a little more when you latch it into the sheath. With this knife consumers will also receive a warranty for all parts; from the blade to the surface and grip handle.
Everything is going to be protected, so you do not have to use it gingerly or worry about damage, as the knife will be repaired or replaced for you, in the event some type of damage does ensure when you are using it. A gut hook is yet another added feature, which eliminates the need for you to carry around other tools when you go fishing or are using the knife for other outdoor jobs or tasks you are performing. And, if the bright orange color does not draw you in the first time you lay eyes on the knife, all of the add-on features, and additional design pieces are sure to impress you when shopping for a new skinning knife.
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Conclusion
If you are searching for an excellent skinning knife, which also serves various other purposes, you do not have to look much further than this blade by Outdoor Edge SZP-1 SwingBlaze-Pak Rotating 2-Blade Knife. Light in weight, comfortable rubber grip handle, a bright finish, and a sharp blade, are just a few of the many features you are going to appreciate as a consumer!
4. Havalon Baracuta-Blaze Skinning Knife
If you are looking for tactile, mobility, and comfort, look no further than the Havalon Baracuta skinning knife. At a total length of just 6”, including the blade and handle, you are not going to find too many other knives out there which are as comfortable to grip, or as short in length as this one is. A very slim grip handle is yet another design feature that those who are looking for something that is tactile, and extremely mobile, are sure to notice the minute that they lay their eyes on this perfect outdoor skinning knife and blade.
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The blade is almost the entire length of the knife, at 4 3/8” in length, meaning you are going to have a small area of under 2” for the grip of the knife. The knife also has the added feature of five, on-and-off quick change options, which will allow you to do much more than just skin an animal when you are outside, or performing a job outdoors and want to use this slim knife.
The quick change features lock into place when you are using one of them, so you do not have to worry about slipping, or otherwise injuring yourself when you are using this knife either. And, with the touch of a button, you are going to be able to change the many different design features of the knife, so you do not have to worry about being slowed down, or not being able to use the knife blade when you need it in a minute’s notice.
An ABS plastic handle is a bright orange color; so, in addition to being extremely slim and comfortable in the hand, it is also going to be very visible, so you are going to be able to use it in nearly any outdoor situation or condition. And, it comes with a couple of replacement blades, which are just as sharp as the original blade that comes on the Havalon knife that you purchase. An ergonomic, slim grip is a nice feature, for those who want to move quickly; and, the ABS rubber finish grip is also a nice touch as it is going to prevent any rust from forming at the base, or on the blade, even if you are using the knife in wet situations or outdoor situations that are not ideal for use.
A bright finish is a nice added bonus, and the slim grip is sure to be comfortable in your hand, especially if you are using the blade for extended periods of time. All of these great features, simple-to-use switches, and a low price tag, are all features and benefits that any consumer is sure to appreciate when they are comparing and trying to find the absolute best skinning knife for outdoor use.
Final Verdict
As you can see Havalon Baracuta-Blaze Skinning Knife is perfect for skinning, a great tool for your outdoor activities. The quick change features of this knife allow you to select the perfect blade, and the perfect grip, regardless of what it is that you are going to be doing with the knife and blade.
5. Victorinox Skinning Curved Black Fibrox 6 in.
A curved, 6” blade is the first thing you are going to notice when you look at the Victorinox skinning knife. A comfortable, black, rubber, ergonomic grip contours perfectly into your hands, so you do not have to worry about discomfort, or the knife moving in any way when you are using it for extended periods of time. A plain edge, high-quality stainless steel blade is 6” in length, and it features a curved detail, so you can use the knife for more than just skinning if you are using it for outdoor projects, or even for gutting a fish with it. The ergonomic grip design also makes this the best skinning knife for anyone, whether you are a left or a right-handed user of the knife.
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The Fibrox grip material is a high-end and durable grip material; not only does it withstand any weather conditions, but it will also withstand sweat, water, and other debris that gets onto the handle as you are using the knife on a regular basis. The highest quality stainless steel is also used in the construction of the blade; what this means is that you do not have to worry about rust, or the knife becoming dull, after only a few uses.
It also comes along with a carrying sheath; this will attach to a belt loop, your boot, or other areas on your clothing. So, it is quick for you to pull out when you need the knife right away, plus you are not going to have to worry about injuries, as the knife is going to sit comfortably in the sheath when it is not in use.
The knife’s edge and the sharp finish are sure to last for extended periods of time as well, and you are not going to have to sharpen it on a regular basis, as you would have to do with other knives. When shopping for a hunting knife, it is important to look for one with a blade that is not going to dull easily; with this knife, this is exactly what you are going to get. It can also be used on nearly any animal for skinning, and it will easily and seamlessly cut through nearly any skin when using the knife. It also has a gutting feature, if you want the knife to serve for dual purpose, if you are using it while fishing as well.
The ergonomic grip, the sharp edge, and a 6” blade, are ideal for outdoor use and skinning. The knife is also produced by a well-known manufacturer, and it is going to come along with a warranty as well, so you do not have to worry about damage or loss when using the knife.
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Conclusion
Victorinox Skinning Curved Black Fibrox 6 inch is the perfect knife for skinning as the curved edge is something that is sure to stand out, and it is a feature that you are going to appreciate if you are the outdoor person who is looking for something that is comfortable, dexterous, and very easy to use when you are skinning.
How to Choose the Right Hunting knife
How do you go about choosing a good hunting knife? Well, quality can be determined by its versatility – meaning it can do everything the average hunter would need it to do. This can be anything from dressing a deer or skinning a hog, to splitting through bone or a carcass. In many cases, this is more than enough for most hunters. Before choosing any kind of knife – especially for hunting – it’s important to know what you’ll be using it for and what type of game you are hunting for. Obviously, anyone hunting for big game will want to be using a knife that differs from what you would use to hunt a rabbit. However, if you think going for the biggest game in the forest is better, you could be wrong. Using a big knife to clean smaller animals will make your job much more difficult, and you could possibly end up cutting yourself.
Take some time to think about what size game you plan on hunting; then you should consider how often it is that you hunt. Some people may only hunt occasionally and want a knife that will allow them to do a variety of different things, so having a smaller folding knife is usually just fine. But if you’re dedicated to the woods and the hunting game, a strong one with a fixed blade will probably make a lot more sense. So choosing between the best folding hunting knife and the best fixed blade hunting knife is really just a personal preference.
You’ll then need to decide how (and where) you want to carry it – this could be in a sheath or just your pocket – and this is VERY important. Carrying a large blade in your pocket can lead to slicing your leg wide open, and carrying a loose blade in your hand or elsewhere could lead to losing it. However, it really is dependent upon your budget. There are knives that fit within everyone’s budget so choose wisely, you don’t want to end up with something you do not like. But hey, almost any knife is capable of getting whatever job it is you need done.
Choosing the best deer hunting knife
We have always covered why we need to pay attention to aspects such as blade type, handle, and material composition when considering a knife. Here we will be a bit more specific. We are going to talk about what knife to choose for deer hunting.
Firstly, let’s get one thing out of the way here, which is the knife type. Between a fixed blade and a folding-blade knife, it can safely be said that going with a fixed-blade knife would be the best choice, not compromising on strength which could be a bit of an issue with folding blade types which consist of moving parts. With a fixed-blade, full-tang knife, you have on your hands, a very powerful knife fit for the purpose.
Now that we have the knife type out of the way, let’s move on to the blade itself. A drop point blade is the one you would want to go for, considering that it is the best type of blade that can handle tasks such as field dressing and skinning of the game. Other blade types such as clip point or tanto are not as efficient as a drop point blade as far as deer hunting is concerned. There are knives out there with a drop point blade and a partially serrated edge. If you do prefer serrated edges as well, partially serrated drop point knives are perhaps the best purchase you can make. A blade with a gut hook can be a matter of preference. A gut hook can be handy to cut open the deer’s abdomen, although the drawbacks far outweigh the advantages, as they can often ruin the game if not used properly, and do not serve as all-round, multi-purpose knives. The main problem with gut hooks is that they are very difficult to sharpen. In fact, gut hooks can be much more difficult to sharpen than even serrated edge blades.
Now that the blade type is taken care of, let’s talk a bit about the blade’s metal composition. What we want to go for is a material that won’t corrode and rust easily. A blade with high carbon steel concentration is a good choice. There are blades with chromium and vanadium composition that prevent corrosion and abrasion of the blade.
With the metal composition taken care of, let’s move on to the handle and the sheath. The handle and sheath should be able to withstand extreme weather conditions. For that, we need a handle that won’t slip easily. A hard rubber handle can get the job done, providing a good grip. As for the sheath, you might want to choose a Kydex or nylon sheath. They are a little more expensive than leather sheaths, but they are worth the money. We will get into the details of sheath types on a separate page dedicated to it.
Now that you know what to look for, you can easily choose the best hunting knife for deer.
So, in summary, a fixed-blade, full-tang, drop-point knife is what we’d recommend for deer hunting. Scoring perfectly on strength, usability, and longevity, you cannot go wrong with a drop-point, fixed-blade knife for hunting.
A list of the top brands famous for producing the best hunting knives
When you are going to buy a knife, you do not want to settle for an inferior quality knife that is not going to last long. So, which brand should you consider buying from? There is no single answer to that, so we have made a list of brands, in no rank, which you should certainly look into. Below is a list of five well-known knife manufacturers that have been in the business for a long time. These are the best hunting knife brands in the world.
Buck: Buck is one of the famous manufacturers of knives which has been in the business for a long time(over a hundred years now). Selling some of the finest knives that are heat-treated and tampered blade knives made to last, Buck is one of the most renowned manufacturers of knives. Buck also provides a lifetime 4-ever Warranty on its knives. A Buck knife is built to last. You can go over to the Buck website where we see that the product listing has been simplified for easy navigation. Not only can you select the kind of knife you want, but also the length of the blade as well as the price range within which you’d like to see knives. This is excellent because several other well-known knife manufacturers out there do not have this on their sites.
Gerber: Gerber started out in the year 1939 producing handmade cutlery. By just the 1960s, Gerber had become one of the most well known knife manufacturers. They are known for their high quality and even innovative knives. As far as quality and longevity is concerned, Gerber is right up there with other well known names in the business. Gerber offers 25 years’ warranty on their knives and guarantees to the consumer that their knives will be free of defects in material and workmanship for the designated warranty timeframe. On their website, you can even visit the maintenance section where frequently asked questions about knife maintenance are answered by Gerber.
Kershaw:Kershaw is one of the finest brands of knives that you should consider when you want to buy a knife. Kershaw knives are high quality even when it comes to their entry-level products. Kershaw introduced knives with interchangeable blades. They’re also known for using what they call the Composite Blade technology, wherein the knife is made up of two different types of steels. So you have a steel capable of edge retention for the blade and a steel of good strength for the spine of the knife. Kershaw provides limited lifetime warranty on its products. They will also sharpen your knife for free when you send it to them for warranty service.
Cold Steel: Cold Steel is a Ventura, California based manufacturer of knives, swords, machetes and other tools. Many of their products use VG-1 stainless steel, which has a good resistance to abrasion and corrosion. Almost all of their knives are very highly rated and some of them are best-selling on Amazon. They even provide the DVDs demonstrating their products, which isn’t something you’d see other manufacturers do. On their website, they have many knives which are categorized properly where you can choose which ones you wish to view.
Case: The oldest manufacturer of knives on this list, Case has been in the business since the late 1800s. They sell premium quality knives, many of which have chromium vanadium steel, which make the steel more hardened and prevents corrosion, abrasion and rusting of the steel.
There are several other well-known names that have been around in the business for a long time, including Schrade and even Smith & Wesson. So check out the products of these brands by going to their website and looking into Amazon user reviews to help you determine the brand you wish to go with.
Finding the best hunting knife is highly dependent upon your needs.