The 10 Best Camping Survival Knife in 2023 (Review) – Top Picks

Last Updated on March 1, 2023

A camping survival knife cannot be bought at random: you have to choose the best model, the one that will be your best ally and will save your life in a difficult situation.

Unfortunately, there are thousands of types of knives, and it’s hard to choose the best camping survival knife. To help you in this task, our team of experts offers you a comparison of the 10 best camping survival knives.

The 10 models below have an unbeatable quality/price ratio. They can be used to cut wood, defend you, make fire, build a shelter, open tin cans, cut out food and much more.

Quick Answer – Top 10 Best Camping Survival Knife

1. ESEE 6P-B Plain Edge Fixed Blade Survival Knife

In the first position of this classification, the Esee 6 survival knife. This ultra sturdy and very functional knife is particularly suitable for forestry work, hunting or camping work. Its price is quite high, so it is aimed rather at connoisseurs, who will have a real utility.

This camping survival knife in flat construction measures 29.8 cm, with a drop point blade with a length of 16.5 cm and a thickness of 4 mm. The length of the cutting edge is 15 cm, and the blade can be straight or serrated edges. The fixed blade is made of ultra-strong 1095 carbon steel, hardness 55-57 HRC.

Because the carbon steel is not very resistant to corrosion, the blade has been covered with a powder to protect it from corrosion. The sharpened part, however, remains more sensitive, so you will have to maintain your blade regularly. On the other hand, the blade of this knife is very easy to sharpen and is very resistant.

This knife is full silk, so it is shock resistant. It is so resistant that the manufacturer describes it as an unbreakable knife and offers a lifetime warranty.

The handle is designed in Micarta, and its shape guarantees an optimal grip. The handle is very resistant a and does not shrink from extreme temperatures, abrasion, shocks or chemicals. A wrist strap or a rope can be passed through the hole at the end of the sleeve, so you can attach your knife to your wrist or bag to make sure you do not lose it.

This knife weighs 320 grams, and the plastic case that comes with it weighs 50 grams (to which we must add the weight of a belt clip). It is therefore rather light for its size.

The case comes with a cord. It should be emphasized that the case allows a small game, which some users might find embarrassing. This knife was designed by an American brand renowned for the efficiency and safety of its models. It is available in 3 colors (black, olive or green).

The Esee 6 survival knife is an ultra durable and very functional knife that is particularly suitable for forestry work, hunting or camp work. The fixed blade, which can be straight or toothed, is made of sturdy but corrosion-resistant steel.

2. Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife

The Ka-Bar Becker BK2 is often referred to as a camp knife. It is not very stylish, but it owes its success to its functionality and affordability. It is ideal for camping work, cutting wood and hunting.

The Ka-Bar Becker Campanion is a solid silk knife that does not go unnoticed. With a total length of 27 cm and a weight of 450 gr, this knife with a fixed blade measuring 13.2 cm and 6.6 mm thick is ideally suited for forestry and construction work. It is, for example, capable of cutting wood 10 cm thick. Given the length of its blade and its weight, this knife is not suitable for precision work.

The smooth blade in the drop is made of carbon steel 1095 hardness 58 HRC, which makes it very resistant but also more sensitive to corrosion. To compensate for this small weakness, the blade is covered with a thin layer of black carbon oxide which, in addition to protecting it from corrosion, makes it anti-reflective.

The blade is very sharp and does not require frequent sharpening (and when it needs to be sharpened it will not be a problem since sharpening is very easy).

The handle in Grivory is ergonomic and guarantees a pleasant grip. The knob is made of steel, which will allow you to use your knife as a hammer. In the end, you can slide a wrist strap into the hole provided for this purpose.

You will not be hurt by the Kydex case and strong nylon in which the knife is protected by a safety catch. The case can be attached to a bag or belt in different ways. It has a small compartment to put a fire light or a sharpener.

Ka-Bar Becker Campanion is an affordable full-silk camping survival knife that is perfect for camp work, wood cutting, and hunting. With its blade is fixed and straight, long and thick, this knife is rather heavy.

3. Cold Steel SRK Kraton Handle

The Cold Steel Srk 38Ck is a professional knife designed for both survival and first aid in all types of environments. Its purpose is also included in the original English name, SRK, for Survival Rescue Knife. It offers excellent value for money due to its lifetime and practicality.

This fixed blade knife measures 27.2 cm, with a smooth clip-on blade with a length of 15.2 cm and a thickness of 4.78 mm. The blade is made of AUS-8 steel, stainless steel, and is also covered with a thin layer of black epoxy powder.

The blade of this camping survival knife will not fail you because its hardness index is 57 HRC; it is, therefore, easy to sharpen (the sharpening of origin is durable, so you will not have to worry too quickly) and resistant over time.

This silk knife is very light (about 240 gr) since it is ergonomic and does not include any frills. The manufacturer has focused on efficiency. With this ultra-versatile knife, you can cut wood as well as a game or perform precision work thanks to the shape of the blade in point clip.

Its black handle is in Kray-ex, a non-slip material that ensures a good grip but is less resistant than the Micarta. It also contains kranton, which will allow you to use your knife under water to fear to damage the handle. However, these materials are not resistant to chemical solvents.

Once in hand, this knife is very balanced. You will be able to hang a strap by the hole provided for this purpose at the end of the handle. The black case is in kydex and can be attached to a belt or bag in different ways. The knife-holder assembly weighs only about 330 grams.

The Cold Steel Srk 38Ck is a professional knife designed for both survival and first aid in all types of environments. This solid silk knife with a fixed and thick blade, made of stainless steel, offers excellent value for money considering its lifespan and versatility.

4. Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife

The morakniv companion fixed blade outdoor knife is a thin and discreet Swedish brand knife that is very efficient and suitable for all kinds of activities, for survival, bushcraft or housework. If you’re looking for a small, effective knife at an unbeatable price, the Mora Companion is surely the right one for you.

This camping survival knife measures 22 cm, with a fixed blade of 10 cm and 2.5 mm thick. Extremely lightweight, it weighs only 78 grams and 115 grams when placed in its case; so you can take it anywhere.

Unlike the models analyzed so far, this model has a silk that only reaches ¾ of the knife, which is enough to make it a secure and dependable knife.

The fine blade in point clip is very easy to sharpen. Versatile, it can be used to cut wood but also to cut out a game, chip fish and do do-it-yourself jobs. Of course, given the reduced size of this knife, it will not be effective in cutting large hard objects such as logs or bones. The blade is made of carbon steel.

If it is very resistant (its hardness index is 57/59 HRC) and very simple to sharpen, it is, unfortunately, oxidizable, so you will have to take care of your knife and clean it regularly if you want to ensure a long duration of life.

In other words, if you intend to use your knife in water or mud, this camping survival knife is not the right one for you.

The handle incorporates a non-slip plastic grip black and green that ensures a good grip that rivals the more expensive knives. There is no hole to slide a wrist strap.

The protective case is hard and contains the same plastic as the handle, so it is also non-slip. It connects to a cummerbund with a clip (supplied). Also, it is olive green (other colors are available), thanks to which your knife will blend well in the forest environment.

The Mora Companion is a small knife thin and discreet but especially very versatile and with a good grip, offered at a price defying any competition. It has a ¾ silk and a fixed blade in point clip. The carbon steel blade is resistant and easy to sharpen but sensitive to corrosion.

5. CDS-Survival MOVA-58 Stainless Steel Outdoor

The Celtibero Micarta is survival, hunting, and Camping knife. This knife is a bit expensive but it is very durable, and it is handmade in Spain with quality materials.

This knife is rather imposing, which is why it is intended rather to the heavy work of stirring or the work on the camp. It weighs 350 grams, and once in its case, the whole weighs more than 500 gr.

This knife measures 27.5 cm, with a blade 14.5 cm long and a thickness of 5 mm. The fixed blade is laser-cut and is made of stainless steel MOVA-58, steel with a hardness of 56/58 HRC, therefore resistant and easy to sharpen. The blade is straight along the lower but slightly toothed length of the upper edge.

All details have been worked, from the manufacturer’s logo to the name of the knife engraved on the top of the blade.

The handle is designed in Micarta and cocobolo wood, which gives it exceptional strength. Moreover, its shape guarantees an optimal grip. As the handle is relatively wide, it is ideally suited to large hands.

The handle is very resistant and does not shrink from extreme temperatures, abrasion, shocks or chemicals. You will be able to slide a strap or cord in the hole provided at the end of the sleeve but also of the birth of the blade.

The case can be fixed either vertically or horizontally. It incorporates a front compartment to store and always have at hand a fire light and a sharpening stone (both included). It is made of leather, the finishes are impeccable, and it ensures a good maintenance of the knife. However, it is a bit rigid at the beginning of its use.

The Celtibero Micarta is survival, hunting, and outdoor knife. This solid knife is a bit expensive but it is very durable, and it is handmade of quality materials. It incorporates a fixed stainless steel blade, straight and also toothed on the top edge.

6. Fallkniven A1 Fine Edge Fixed Blade Knife

The Fallkniven A1K knife is a high-performance and reliable survival, hunting, camping and bushcraft knife that is currently one of the best camping survival knives on the market. Given its very high price, it is intended for experienced professionals or survivalists.

Manufactured in Japan in a traditional way using quality materials, it offers a 10-year warranty. This long-term guarantee is not surprising given that the Fallkniven brand is known for making the toughest steel knives in the world. Ultra strong, this knife will withstand heavy use.

With a total length of 28 cm, the strength of this solid silk knife comes from its ultra sharp blade. Moreover, the weight of the knife (312 gr) is more concentrated in the blade, which allows making cuts on the fly of a formidable efficiency.

The blade, slightly inclined towards the front, is 15.8 cm long and 6 mm thick. In addition to being thick, the blade is designed in VG10 stainless steel, with a hardness of 59 HRC, and will remain sharp for a very long time. Whatever the environment you are in, no material (wood, bone or game) will withstand the Fallkniven A1K.

Moreover, despite its size, you can easily use it for carving or precision work thanks to its sharpness. Moreover, the blade is very simple to sharpen.

The handle is a Kraton, a rubber that ensures an excellent grip while absorbing the vibrations. However, since the absence of hard material makes it more fragile, violent shocks and extreme temperatures should be avoided.

The hole at the close of the handle will allow you to attach your knife to a wrist strap to avoid losing it or causing it to fall. The Zytel plastic case is not very bulky but a little cheap. It is however convenient since it is fixed even upside down.

In conclusion: the Fallkniven A1K knife is a versatile, high-performance and reliable camping survival knife that is currently one of the best survival knives on the market. Due to its high price, this full-bladed silk knife is intended for experienced professionals or survivalists.

7. Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Knife

Made popular by Edward of the show Man VS Wild, the Gerber Bear Grylls is a compact but effective pocket knife that has the advantage of being sold at a very common price. This knife is perfect for camping, hiking, and fishing.

Closed, this folding blade knife measures only 12.4 cm. Small and light (90 gr), it is effortless to transport everywhere. Open, it measures only 21.6 cm since its blade measures 9.2 cm. The blade is semi-toothed and is made of high carbon steel. The hole at the close of the handle will allow you to attach a wrist strap to your knife to avoid losing it or making it fall.

Its blade is small but powerful; this knife will make the fishermen happy or reasonable hikers and campers.

Thanks to the Lockback safety system, the blade cannot be closed unintentionally, so you are protected against clumsiness. Moreover, the opening is quite easy: once you become familiar with your knife, you can open it with one hand.

A folding knife is necessarily less resistant than a solid knife with a fixed blade. To avoid damaging your knife prematurely, avoid using it on hard materials such as trunks or logs. Good to know: this knife also exists in a version with “fixed blade.”

The nylon handle is ergonomic and covered with hard rubber ultra strong and ensuring a good grip even when there is a lot of moisture surrounding. The two-tone rubber (gray and orange) will allow you to find it more easily if you drop it in the forest or the grass. The upper edge of the handle is slightly ribbed so that your thumb can not slip.

Since the handle is made of nylon and the tip is not reinforced, it is imperative to avoid using this knife as a hammer. The well-finished braided nylon case fastened to the belt ensures a good hold of the knife.

The Gerber Bear Grylls is a compact but efficient folding blade knife that has the advantage of being sold at a common price. The short, semi-toothed blade is ideal for hiking and fishing, but not for heavy use on hard materials.

8. Spyderco Tenacious Plain Edge Folding Knife

The Spyderco Tenacious is a high-performance pocket folding knife that will be useful for outdoor activities (hiking, trekking) as well as for domestic tasks. The value for money of this camping survival knife is remarkable.

Although presented with a simple design, no frills, the effectiveness of the knife is not affected by its sharp blade and sharp. This knife is ideal as a first purchase for lovers of hiking and trekking.

This folding knife measures 19.7 cm when closed and only 11.4 cm when it is open. Its total weight (115 g) is mainly concentrated in the blade, which gives an impression of lightness when taking this model in hand.

The 8.15 cm multi-purpose blade is made of 8Cr13Mov steel, a steel that is both sharp and easy to sharpen and maintain. The blade is smooth and drop point shape and has a thickness of 3.1 mm. The back of the blade is ribbed near the handle to lock the thumb and prevent the hand from slipping on the knife.

The blade opens and closes quickly with one hand. However, a safety system ensures that the blade does not close unintentionally to avoid accidents.

The handle is laminated in stainless steel and covered with a thin layer of black G10 which allows the handle to withstand moisture. The handle is ergonomic and has been designed to give a sense of security when holding the knife whatever the task performed. Space separates the two sides of the handle.

The Spyderco Tenacious is equipped with a pocket clip that allows fixing the knife in 4 different ways, so you can choose the one that suits you best. Moreover, a hole in the blade will allow you to attach it to a strap or cord. It does not come with a case.

The Spyderco Tenacious is a pocket knife with a folding blade and high performance and excellent value for money. Ideal for a first purchase, for outdoor activities (hiking, trekking) as well as for domestic tasks, it can be attached to a pocket in 4 different ways.

9. Fox Parang Bushcraft Knife

The Fox Parang knife is a model of survival knife and bushcraft of reference because of its resistance and its robustness. Its thick blade will make it an ally of choice during a bivouac adventure since it will withstand heavy work and can serve as a machete.

It is a rather expensive knife, so it is aimed rather at experienced professionals or survivalists.

This knife was inspired by the traditional Parang, a machete originally from Malaysia. Just like the original model, the Fox Parang does not have a pointed but a rounded tip. It is therefore very well suited for brushing and cutting of wood (can come to overcome wood of more than 10 cm thickness) but not for precision work.

This fixed blade knife is 30 cm long and weighs 350 gr. Even though it is rather heavy, the weight is intelligently distributed.

The smooth, black blade, 17 cm long and 6 mm thick, is very durable and reinforced with cobalt vanadium steel, the hardness of which is 58/60 HRC. The upper edge of the blade is semi-toothed. The handle in forprene ensures a very good grip in whatever the task carried out.

The Cordura case has many attachment points and several straps on which you can attach other useful accessories such as a small flashlight. There is still a small design problem to underline: by removing the knife, it happens to cut the thin straps accidentally.

This best camping survival knife comes with a survival kit that can be attached to the case. This kit is very complete: firelight, matches, compass, mini Swiss knife, string, pencil, mini flashlight. Naturally, nothing stops you customizing your kit by adding what you need.

The Fox Parang knife is a very expensive but ultra-powerful knife of survival and bushcraft which acts as a small machete. It is equipped with a very thick fixed and straight blade and is sold with a complete survival kit. Damage to the small design flaw of the case.

10. EMT EMS Rescue Knife

The Tac-Force Urgentiste is a pocket-knife in bright colors and original design that does not go unnoticed. If some improvements deserve to be made, it’s very advantageous price, and the quality of its blade make a knife of excellent value for money.

The manufacturer Tac Force is world-renowned for the quality of these accessories designed to help survival in extreme conditions. By choosing the Tac-Force Folding Blade, you are sure to buy a quality accessory.

Since it weighs only 135 grams and is not very long when unfolded (just under 20 cm), this knife is very easy to handle and will prove useful in many situations.

Since a folding blade knife is inherently less resistant than solid blade knives, avoid using it on hard materials such as trunks or logs so as not to damage or break it prematurely.

The 7.5 cm smooth blade is large enough to be effective. It is made of stainless steel 440, a material that guarantees your blade resistance, efficiency and durability. Thanks to its high concentration of chrome, you will have to sharpen it very rarely. With the power-assisted opening system, the blade is very easy and quick to open with one hand.

The handle is made of a semi-rigid plastic material which gives it lightness and solidity. If the shape of the handle is original, the grip is unfortunately not optimal. As the handle is two-tone (black and orange), your knife will be easier to find if you drop it in herbs or the forest.

The end of the handle is reinforced and can serve as a glass breeze, which is why this knife is often advised to rescuers. However, the glass break function is not 100% efficient. At the end of the handle, you will find a hole to attach a wrist strap or cord to your knife.

This knife is equipped with a belt clip which allows you to attach it very easily to your belt to have it always at hand. There is no case included.

The Tac-Force Urgentist EMT is a pocket knife with the foldable blade in bright colors and original design. If some improvements deserve to be made, it’s very advantageous price, and the quality of its blade make a knife of excellent value for money.

Bonus: The Best Little Knife

You have discovered the 10 best survival knives of the moment. These knives are full of advantages: they are solid (at this stage one can even say unbreakable) and functional.

Unfortunately, these two advantages indispensable to a camping survival knife also have a disadvantage for these knives: they are bulky. Difficult indeed to carry them always on oneself in the life of every day.

However, it is always practical to have a small knife at all times. Some examples of situations where a small knife can be very practical: you just have an accident, and you need to cut your belt; you want to open a package; you want to cut food.

The topic that arises is: what is the best little knife to buy, in addition to my camping survival knife? We have tested many models, and we can only recommend the Leatherman Crater C33X. Small and light, it is nevertheless ultra-sharp. It is also guaranteed for life.

Buying Guide With FAQs

What is a Camping Survival Knife?

Originally, the term “survival knife” refers to the knives that were used by soldiers to help them survive in hostile environments when they were sent on a mission. In the 1980s, survival knives became widely popular following the success of the cult film “Rambo.”

Today, survival knives are indispensable accessories for survivalists, hikers, campers, and trekkers, who often find themselves confronted with the difficulties of living outside or in survival situations.

Solid, resistant to falls and shocks, multifunctional (they are almost all capable of cutting wood as well as meat and can even be used as hammers), the survival knives will always have utility.

If they can be of different sizes, foldable or fixed blade, they are all designed to be convenient to carry and handle.

Why Buy a Camping Survival Knife?

If you are a survivor, a follower of camping or any outdoor activity, you may end up in stressful situations, as we know, nature is unpredictable.

In a hostile environment where your mobile phone may not be able to save you in the absence of a network this time, your best ally will undoubtedly be your survival knife. More than just a knife, this tool will significantly increase your chances of survival thanks to its multi-functionality.

Whether for cutting wood and branches, for making fire or building a shelter, for cutting ropes, for hunting, opening tins or for cutting food, your survival knife will be useful to you in multiple ways circumstances.

How to Choose a Camping Survival Knife?

Today, survival knives exist in an infinity of models. The use to which your camping survival knife is intended will often determine which is the most suitable model for your purchase. Here are some criteria to consider in making the right choice.

Folding Blade or Fixed Blade

Fixed Blade: Fixed blade knives are more resistant and very easy to use. They can easily tackle hard materials. However, make sure that the knife case is solid and protective to avoid the risk of unintentional injuries.

Folding Blade: Folding blade knives are easy to carry because they usually fit in a pocket. However, they present a weakness in the area of ??articulation between the handle and the blade and are therefore less resistant.
Forged or cut blade

The choice will depend on your preferences. The forged blades are stronger but less flexible than the cutter blades.

The Material That Makes Up the Blade

The blade of a best camping survival knife can be made of alloy, steel or ceramic. The type of blade determines the flexibility and stiffness of the blade.

Alloy blade or steel blade: If you choose an alloy blade or a steel blade, you will want to consider the hardness and stainless steel blade. You will examine the carbon content (the higher the hardness of the blade) and the chromium content (the chromium content determines the corrosion resistance; steel is stainless chromium content of 13%).

Stainless steel or carbon steel: Stainless steel has the advantage of resting less quickly than carbon steel. Carbon steel has a longer lifespan and is easier to sharpen. To get an idea of ??the hardness of the blade, check that the HRC index (Rockwell index) is between (ranging from) 52 to 66.

Ceramic Blade: If you prefer a ceramic knife, you should check blade purity (minimum 95% for optimal strength). Moreover, buy your knife only from a specialized manufacturer. Some precautions will be necessary to ensure a longer life for your knife; for example, avoid cutting too hard materials or products, such as bones or frozen foods, and avoid exposing your knife to flames and strong shocks.

Blade With Straight or Toothed Cutting Edge

The blades with a straight edge have the advantage of being very simple to sharpen and are very sharp. Toothed blades should be sharpened by a professional but are more efficient in sawing wood or ropes, and they will be damaged less quickly.

The Type of Handle

Before buying a knife, it may be worthwhile to take it in hand (if possible) to make sure the material and grip of the handle are suitable. On some models, the end of the handle (the pommel) is reinforced to be able to act as a hammer. Some sleeves also have one or more holes for cords or a wrist strap.

The Silk Used

Silk is the extension of the blade under the sleeve. Logically, the longer and thicker the silk, the sharper the knife is. The best knives are full silk, that is to say, that the silk has the same length as the knife.

Size

The choice of the size of the knife depends on the use you want to make it. The longer the blade, the more versatile your knife will be, but the more it will take up space.

The Weight

The more resistant the knives, the heavier they are. It is up to you to find the compromise resistance/weight that suits the use that you will make your knife.

The Case

As explained above, the case of a fixed blade knife must be waterproof and strong to prevent accidents. Besides, the cases that can contain a lighter, a lighter or a sharpener are very practical; you will be sure to always have with you these necessary accessories. Also, make sure the case fits easily into your belt.

What Are the Best Camping Survival Knives?

We have done in-depth research on camping survival knifes available in the market and concluded a 10-best camping survival knife list for you. After taking a closure look and reviewing all these 10- camping survival knife, we have found the following 3- camping survival knife to be the best. So, you can give a try to any of these camping knives without any doubt. They are-

• ESEE 6P-B Plain Edge Fixed Blade Survival Knife
• Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife
• Cold Steel SRK Kraton Handle

Why Campers Need Survival Knives?

In camping, a survival knife has hundreds of functions. Some of the significant usages of survival knife are-

• Self-defense
• Cutting
• Hammering
• Digging
• Make-shift Screwdriver
• Fire making
• Splitting
• First Aid tool
• Signaling
• Hunting Weapon
• Prying tool
• Shelter building
• Food prep

How Many Types of the Tang Are Available in Camping Survival Knives?

The back part of a camping survival knife’s blade connected to the handle is known as tang. There are several types of tang, such as-

• Half tang
• Full tang
• Push tang
• Encapsulated tang
• Rat-tail tang

Which Steels Are Being Used in Camping Survival Knives?

In camping survival knives, manufacturers use varieties of steel for different practical purposes. Even in some blades, manufacturers use carbon coating to improve corrosion resistance and provide extra strength to the knife.

Moreover, in most survival knives, manufacturers use stainless steel and carbon steel yet. Among all the steels, carbon steel is the most robust and reliable option among campers and hunters. Camping survival knives usually made of 2- types of steel, they are-

• Stainless Steel
• High Carbon Steel

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Campbell John

Hi, I am John Campbell, an outdoor enthusiast. Just like you, I value the habitat, heritage and tradition of great outdoors. I do my best to make sure the correct research, writing, and photo are shown on Tacticalgearslab.com. Indeed, I am committed to preserving a great online experience for you.