When it comes to survival gear, knives play an important role. With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the best one. In this article, we will explore some of the top survival knives for the money, based on performance, versatility, and durability.
When selecting a survival knife, it’s important to consider its intended use. Some knives are designed for hunting, while others are better suited for wilderness survival tasks. For example, a larger, heavier blade is ideal for cutting through thick brush, while a smaller, lighter blade is better for skinning game animals. Additionally, some knives come with different blade shapes and grinds, allowing you to customize the knife for specific tasks. Whatever the intended use, make sure to select a knife that is comfortable to use and of the highest quality. Additionally, pay attention to the knife’s handle material and construction, as well as its sheath, to ensure you get the most out of your purchase.
The Ka-Bar Becker BK-2: The Ultimate Survival Knife
The Ka-Bar Becker BK2 is a fan favorite and is often found at the top of best-of lists. It’s made of 1095 Krovan steel and has a 5.25-inch blade. The handle is two pieces of Zytel and the full tang is held together by three screws. It has a drop point shape, making it great for stabbing and prying. This knife is heavy and rugged, designed to tackle tough tasks without hesitation. The sheath has lashing points for alternate carry methods.
ESEE Laser Strike: A Reliable Tool in Difficult Situations
The ESEE Laser Strike is another reliable survival knife. It has a powder-coated 4.75-inch blade and several features that make it a standout. It’s a medium-sized knife that can outperform some of the larger fixed blades.
The new ESEE is a powerhouse. With a 5.25-inch handle covered in Micarta scales – complete with a bow-drill divot and lanyard washer – it’s ready for whatever comes its way. Along with the steel construction, inside you’ll find a ferrocerium flint and two tinder tabs – essential for any wilderness situation. The blade itself is a drop-point design, tough enough to handle tough chopping and drilling, yet still sharp enough for detail work and scraping. At over half a pound, it’s a formidable chopper that can stand up to even the most demanding tasks.
Morakniv Spark: The Budget-Friendly Option for Outdoorsmen
The Morakniv Spark takes the legendary Companion model and adds a fire-steel to the handle. This 4-inch blade is made of 12C27N stainless steel, with Mora’s Scandi grind, perfect for carving and kindling prep. The spine is also different from the Companion – the Spark has a more defined upper edge. All in all, it’s a great knife for any survival situation, and at a budget-friendly price.
What could be improved upon? The Morakniv Spark is a great answer to that question. It combines a classic blade design with a fire-steel handle, making it perfect for any outdoorsman. With its Scandi grind and drop-point blade, it’s ready for any task that comes its way. A great knife for a great price – what more could you ask for?
Edge-angled and unpolished, the Morakniv Companion Spark is the perfect all-in-one system for those on a budget. This knife is renowned for its comfort and stability in the hand, thanks to its rubberized friction grip and gentle swell for the palm. Its rounded shape and subtle finger guard provide a secure grip even when wearing winter gloves. Morakniv has been making these knives for decades, so you can trust the quality and durability of the partial tang.
Plus, at this price, you can buy a whole batch to keep in your car, camping bag, or anywhere else you need a reliable and versatile tool.
Conquer the Wilderness with the TOPS Brakimo Knife
For those looking for the ultimate wilderness-conquering knife, the TOPS Brakimo is the ideal choice. This Scandi-style full-tang knife is made of 1095 carbon steel, and features a 5.25 inch blade that’s around 5 millimeters thick at the spine and an overall length of 10 inches, with a weight of 9.4 ounces. The aggressive design and small features make it perfect for bushcraft, and combined with the solid sheath and fair price point, it’s a great choice for any outdoor enthusiast.
A Legacy of Quality: The Helle of Norway Utvær Knife
When it comes to Scandinavian-style knives, Helle of Norway is a family company that’s been making top-quality blades for three generations. Their Utvær knife is a full-tang with a curly birch handle and stainless steel Sandvik 12C27 steel blade. The thin blade makes for excellent slicing, while the handle provides great comfort and durability. It’s a great choice for those wanting to carve wood.
The Gerber Strong Arm: A Survival Knife for the Ages
Finally, the Gerber Strong Arm is an amazing bargain for a survival knife. It’s made of ceramic-coated 420HC steel and features full-tang construction and a rock-solid grip. At nearly 5 inches, this USA-made knife is one of the best in any class or price point. With great rust resistance and blade performance, it’s a great pick for anyone looking for a reliable survival knife.
The Gerber Strong Arm is a great choice for a survival blade. Its edge retention and toughness hold up to extended use, and it sharpens quickly and easily. It also has a rubberized diamond pattern to ensure a comfortable and secure grip. The pommel and lanyard hole adds a bonus layer of utility for light hammering or striking. All in all, for less than $70, this survival knife is one of the best on the market.