In the realm of outdoor pursuits, a fixed blade knife stands out as an indispensable multi-tool. Whether you’re embarking on a hunting expedition, reeling in a prized catch, or venturing into the depths of a dense jungle, this stalwart companion is essential for navigating the great outdoors.
The 10 Best Fixed Blade Knives
When it comes to selecting a fixed-blade knife for outdoor adventures, there are countless options available on the market. However, some knives stand out from the rest due to their exceptional quality and performance. Among the most popular choices are the Schrade SCHF9, Ka-Bar BK-22 Becker Companion, SOG Seal Strike, ESEE 4HM, Benchmade Bushcrafter 162, Gerber Bear Grylls Paracord, and Gerber LMF II Infantry (our top pick).
These knives are renowned for their durability, precision, and versatility. The Fallkniven A1 and Mossy Oak 14-inch fixed-blade knives also deserve mention, while the Morakniv Companion 4.1-inch heavy-duty knife is a great option for those looking for a more compact companion.
Our Top Pick for the Best Fixed Blade Knife
Our top recommendation for a fixed blade knife is the Gerber LMF II Infantry Fixed Blade Knife. This rugged and dependable tool was built for military use, specifically designed to tackle demanding bushcraft and survival tasks. Whether you’re navigating dense jungle terrain or urban landscapes, having this versatile survival companion by your side instills confidence in your ability to face the unknown. Check out the current price on Amazon.
Be Prepared For Any Survival Cutting Task with a Tough Fixed Blade Knife
In contrast to foldable designs found in Swiss Army Knives or Multi-Tools, fixed blade knives boast a permanent, non-folding construction that imbues them with exceptional durability.
When incorporated into your camping or tactical arsenal, a fixed blade knife empowers you to tackle an array of survival tasks with confidence: from piercing animal hide and carving thick meat, to descaling fish, cutting through twine or rope, batoning tree branches, feathering wood for fire-lighting, and even serving as a self-defense stabbing tool.
How to Choose the Best Fixed Blade Knife
When searching for a fixed blade knife that meets your specific needs for hunting, fishing, or tactical purposes, it’s crucial to evaluate certain key characteristics. The following essential features will help you make an informed decision and find the perfect blade for your next adventure.
Blade Types
There are four primary types of fixed knife blades, each serving a unique purpose. The clip point blade, like the Mossy Oak 14-inch Fixed Blade Knife, excels at piercing through thick meat and skinning game due to its fine narrow tip. However, this fragility means it may not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting tasks. On the other hand, straight-edged blades, such as the SOG Seal Strike Fixed Blade Knife, are versatile all-purpose knives offering a balance of control and cutting performance.
Their straight top edge and curved bottom make them ideal for applying pressure on thick rope, kindling, or meat. Drop-point knives, like the Ka-Bar BK-22 Becker Companion Fixed Blade Knife or Gerber LMF II Infantry, boast a weighted pointed tip that’s stronger than the clip-point blade. This design excels at slicing and cutting meat, as well as batoning wood, but may not be sharp enough for piercing thick animal hide.
Fine edge blades, such as the Gerber Bear Grylls Paracord Fixed Blade Knife, effortlessly glide through thick meat, making them perfect for delicate tasks like filleting a fish. However, their fine edge can chip on hard surfaces. Finally, different blade grind profiles affect the knife’s performance and maintenance requirements. A hollow grind and flat grind produce an extremely sharp edge but may require more frequent sharpening.
The saber grind, meanwhile, offers a long-lasting edge well-suited for bushcrafting, field-dressing game, and splitting wood, albeit at the cost of cutting ability. The classic Scandi grind is a favorite among many knife enthusiasts due to its multifunctionality and ease of resharpening.
Construction
Blades are crafted from a range of materials, including stainless steel, high carbon steel, and specialized variants like Cro-Van Steel. Stainless steel boasts exceptional strength, durability, and corrosion resistance, making it an ideal choice for many applications. High carbon steel, on the other hand, is renowned for its remarkable hardness and resilience, although it does require careful maintenance to prevent rust from forming in humid environments.
Full Tang Design
The full tang design has gained widespread acclaim among knife connoisseurs for its impressive performance. By extending the blade’s tang into the handle, this configuration imbues the knife with enhanced stability and robustness, making it a favored choice among many enthusiasts.
Handle
When it comes to the feel and appearance of wood, polished surfaces can be quite appealing – smooth to the touch and visually striking. However, this sleekness can be compromised in wet conditions, making the material slippery to handle. On the other hand, thermoplastic materials boast a lightweight and grippy texture, allowing for a secure grasp even when wet. While they may lack the durability of other options, their ease of use is undeniable.
For those seeking a more substantial feel, glass-reinforced nylon or Kraton – a high-density polymer with a semi-rubbery consistency – can provide a highly durable and textured surface that offers a firm grip. Although some individuals might find the scaled-textured style of handle less appealing, its functionality cannot be denied.
Bolster
By incorporating a handguard or bolster into the design, the risk of accidental hand contact with the blade is significantly reduced. This feature acts as a physical barrier between your skin and the sharp edge of the knife, safeguarding you from potential harm.
Carrying Sheath
When venturing into the great outdoors, having your hunting knife easily accessible can be a game-changer. A carrying sheath plays a crucial role in keeping your blade at the ready while minimizing bulk and maximizing convenience. Some models may feature drainage holes to help keep your knife clean and dry, as well as integrated sharpeners for quick touch-ups on-the-go.
Additional features like accessory pouches or MOLLE backings can further enhance the sheath’s functionality, allowing you to carry other essential items like the Schrade SCHF9 Fixed Blade Knife or similar gear.
Lanyard Hole
The inclusion of a lanyard hole on the handle offers versatility and functionality. Not only can you secure the knife to your tactical gear, such as a backpack or belt, but it also allows for creative uses like attaching the blade to a sturdy tree branch to create an impromptu fishing spear. This feature opens up new possibilities for outdoor enthusiasts, making it an attractive aspect of this knife’s design.
10 Best Fixed Blade Knives – Reviews
Schrade SCHF9 Fixed Blade Knife
The Schrade SCHF9 Fixed Blade Knife is an exceptional tool for outdoor enthusiasts, suitable for various activities such as hiking, camping, hunting, and fishing. Its professional-style bushcrafting features make it a reliable companion for hardcore survivalists. The 6.4-inch blade, crafted from high-quality 1095 high carbon stainless steel, boasts a hollow grind that ensures an extremely sharp edge.
This knife excels in tasks like batoning wood, chopping, and slicing meat, as well as serving as a tactical-style self-protection weapon. The full-tang design and well-balanced 15.7-ounce construction provide confidence when handling the tool in wet or dry conditions. The black ring textured TPE handle offers excellent grip and comfort, thanks to features like front quillon, thumb jimping, and finger choil that enhance safety.
A ballistic belt sheath with a removable pouch allows for convenient storage of the knife and other small tools. Additionally, users can attach the knife to their backpack via the lanyard hole or create a makeshift spear by lashing it to a branch. Schrade backs its exceptional product with a limited lifetime warranty. While some may find fault in the lack of drainage holes on the sheath and the pouch not having a snug fit, the pros undoubtedly outweigh the cons.
For many users, the benefits of this knife far surpass any minor drawbacks.
Ka-Bar BK-22 Becker Companion Fixed Blade Knife
The Ka-Bar BK-22 Becker Companion Fixed Blade Knife is an exceptional survival tool designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. Its robust construction, featuring a 5.25-inch straight-edged blade crafted from high-quality 1095 Cro-Van steel, makes it well-suited for tasks such as splitting firewood, skinning game, and chopping food.
The full tang glass-reinforced nylon handle provides a comfortable grip, while the flat grind ensures the blade remains incredibly sharp with excellent edge retention. The knife’s design also features an extended pommel strong enough to shatter glass or drive tent pegs, adding to its versatility.
To enhance functionality, the fixed blade comes with an ambidextrous polyester sheath boasting a blade insert sleeve, front cargo pocket with Velcro closure, handle retaining straps, riveted leg lashing holes, and drainage hole. Additionally, users can secure the knife to their backpack via the lanyard hole. Ka-Bar’s commitment to quality is evident in its limited lifetime warranty, offering customers peace of mind when using this outstanding fixed blade knife.
While it may not be ideal for intricate work or small hands due to its bulkiness, the Ka-Bar BK-22’s pros far outweigh its cons. With a great value proposition and exceptional build quality, this knife is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable companion for their outdoor adventures.
SOG Seal Strike Fixed Blade Knife
The SOG Seal Strike Fixed Blade Knife boasts a robust design, perfectly suited for tactical urban operations. Its 4.9-inch straight/partially serrated stainless steel blade has been heat-treated for enhanced strength and features a black titanium nitride coating that prevents corrosion. The partially serrated edge enables swift cuts, while the sharp clip point tip can efficiently pierce through tough materials.
This Bowie-style knife excels in outdoor scenarios due to its full tang, well-balanced design, and ergonomic high-impact glass-reinforced nylon handle featuring stainless steel banding. This combination results in a strong, lightweight, and comfortable tool that’s easy to wield. The knife comes with a deluxe black hard-molded nylon sheath, complete with a built-in cord cutter and ferrochromium fire starter and sharpener.
Users can either store the knife in the sheath or utilize the lanyard hole to attach it to their backpack. Notably, the SOG Seal Strike Fixed Blade Knife is backed by a limited lifetime warranty, providing peace of mind for its users. While some may find the price point steep, many will appreciate the quality and performance this rugged knife delivers.
ESEE 4HM Fixed Blade Knife
The ESEE 4HM Fixed Blade Knife is an exceptional everyday-carry survival knife for backpackers and explorers. Weighing in at just 7.76 ounces, this US-made fixed blade knife features a sturdy 1095 carbon steel blade with a 4.375-inch plain edge and drop point design. The non-reflective black powder coating helps prevent corrosion, but it’s crucial to maintain the blade properly to ensure longevity.
The rugged Micarta handle boasts an anti-slip texture that provides a comfortable grip, while the well-balanced design makes it easy to wield. For added security, the sturdy Kydex sheath features a removable belt clip plate that can be adjusted for right- or left-handed users. Alternatively, you can attach the knife to your backpack using the lanyard hole. ESEE stands behind their product with a lifetime warranty.
With its excellent quality and great value for money, this fixed blade knife is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a reliable companion on their outdoor adventures.
Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 Fixed Outdoor Survival Knife
The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 is an exceptional tool for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and tactical professionals alike. Its rugged design and construction make it well-suited for a variety of applications, from food preparation to batoning wood, creating fire starter sticks, and even cutting explosives. The knife’s blade, crafted from CPM-S30V stainless steel, boasts impressive edge retention and rust resistance. Measuring 4.40 inches in length with a thickness of 0.
164 inches, the drop-point design provides a sturdy foundation for the full-tang construction. The G10 handle is both durable and impervious to moisture, ensuring stability even under extreme outdoor conditions. The knife’s versatility extends beyond its cutting capabilities, as the reversible belt loop and D-ring on the full-grain leather sheath allow for easy attachment to a backpack or tree branch. Choose from two handle color options: green and red; or sand.
Benchmade backs their product with a limited lifetime warranty, further solidifying its value proposition. While some may find the G10 handle lacking in texture, many will appreciate the Bushcrafter’s numerous strengths, including its excellent quality, great value for money, and suitability for outdoor activities, survival use, and tactical applications.
A lanyard hole adds an extra layer of versatility, allowing users to attach the knife to their gear or lash it to a tree branch for a makeshift fishing trip. With its long-lasting durability, easy cleaning, and robust construction, the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 is an investment worth considering.
Gerber Bear Grylls Paracord Fixed Blade Knife
Gerber LMF II Infantry Fixed Blade Knife
The Gerber LMF II Infantry Fixed Blade Knife is an indispensable tool for any outdoor enthusiast, whether you’re conducting tactical operations or exploring the wilderness. This military-style knife boasts a 5-inch partially serrated drop-point blade crafted from high-carbon stainless steel, providing exceptional strength and edge retention.
The blade’s rugged design allows it to withstand even the most extreme survival tasks, such as cutting firewood, building a shelter, chopping meat, or slicing through a seatbelt. The LMF II’s unique feature is its purposeful break between the tang and the butt cap, which provides insulated protection against stray wires and absorbs shock from hammering tasks.
The comfortable nylon over-mold Coyote Brown handle limits blistering and features strategically placed grooves and lashing holes that enable you to transform the knife into a makeshift spear. The low-profile sheath boasts a fire-retardant coating, allowing for seamless movement while minimizing noise. This feature makes it an excellent choice for parachuting or attaching to a belt or MOLLE vest. Additionally, the integrated sharpener ensures your blade remains razor-sharp in the field.
Gerber’s commitment to quality is evident in their limited lifetime warranty on this exceptional fixed-blade knife. With its impressive list of features and capabilities, the LMF II Infantry Fixed Blade Knife is an investment worth considering for any outdoor enthusiast.
Fallkniven A1 Fixed Blade Knife
The Fallkniven A1 Fixed Blade Knife, crafted in Sweden, sets a new standard for all-purpose survival knives. Its exceptional performance stems from its 6.3-inch fine-edged laminated VG10 steel blade, boasting an incredible balance of chopping, batoning, and cutting capabilities. The convex grind ensures long-lasting edge retention, while the razor-sharp edge makes quick work of any task.
The full-tang design provides a virtually unbreakable handle that’s highly resistant to water, heat, and cold conditions. The ergonomic Kraton handle is designed for comfort, with an exposed bolster that can be used as a hammer or glass breaker. The knife’s balance is exceptional, making it ideal for heavy-duty bushcrafting tasks.
For added convenience, the sturdy black unidirectional Zytel (polymer) sheath features a lanyard hole, allowing you to attach the knife to your backpack or lash it to a tree branch for use as a spear. Fallkniven stands behind its exceptional craftsmanship with a 10-year warranty. While the knife may have some drawbacks, including a higher price point and potential chip damage on extra-hard surfaces, the benefits far outweigh the cons.
With proper care, this survival knife can become a trusted companion in the wilderness.
Mossy Oak 14-inch Fixed Blade Knife
The Mossy Oak 14-inch Fixed Blade Knife is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Its robust design features a thick 8½-inch stainless steel clip point blade with exceptional corrosion resistance, good edge retention, and razor-sharpness. The blade also boasts easy sharpenability with a whetstone. This versatile knife is perfect for tasks such as piercing animal hide and meat, detailed cutting, creating kindling, and working in tight spaces.
The beautiful rosewood handle features ergonomic finger grooves that provide a comfortable grip, while the brass pommel/guard adds balance and elegance. A genuine brown leather sheath with snap fastener and integrated belt loop enables easy carry. Mossy Oak’s commitment to quality is reflected in its lifetime warranty on this fixed blade knife.
While it may not be ideal for heavy-duty chopping or batoning, this knife offers excellent value for money, making it a great addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s kit.
Morakniv Companion 4.1-Inch Heavy Duty Knife
The Morakniv Companion 4.1-Inch Heavy Duty Knife, crafted in Sweden, offers an exceptional cutting performance for demanding bushcrafting tasks. Its razor-sharp, 0.125-inch thick high carbon steel blade is robust enough to tackle arduous activities like batoning, creating feather sticks or making spears. The fixed blade knife boasts good long-lasting edge retention and a classic Sandi grind that’s easy to re-sharpen.
The extra-large ergonomic handle features a comfortable black and orange design, while the patterned high-friction grip excels in wet and cold conditions. A bright orange hard plastic sheath keeps the knife safe and secure, with a belt clip and drain hole for added convenience. The Morakniv Companion also comes in a military green variant. This exceptional fixed blade knife is backed by a limited lifetime warranty from Morakniv.
Its pros include high quality, great value for money, fantastic price, multifunctionality, suitability for most bushcrafting activities, robust design, and solid construction. However, some users have noted that the blade can rust if not properly maintained, and the knife may fall out of the sheath if not secured correctly. Nonetheless, the Morakniv Companion remains a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts due to its impressive performance and durability.
Our Top Pick for the Best Fixed Blade Knife
Our go-to choice for a reliable fixed blade knife is the Gerber LMF II Infantry Fixed Blade Knife. Originally designed for military use, its rugged design and exceptional build quality make it an excellent companion for tackling demanding wilderness tasks, such as bush crafting and survival scenarios.
Whether you’re venturing into dense jungle, navigating treacherous urban landscapes or exploring uncharted terrain, having this resilient tool by your side instills a sense of confidence and preparedness. Check out the current price on Amazon.