How to Choose a Survival Knife for Hiking, Backpacking or Camping

 Ka-Bar short survival knife

When you are out there in the wilderness, hiking, backpacking or on a long camping trip, one of the most useful tools you can have on hand is a trusty survival knife. But with all the many styles, sizes, brands, colors and in some cases, history behind all the knives you could obtain, getting one that can meet your needs or preferences can sometimes be too confusing. Knowing what some knives are designed for and the tools they might come with can be a time saver. So here are a few guidelines you can use when looking for a good survival knife.

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   Knowing is half the battle. When going in to the wild, you should know up front what you could come across. A knife that can meet these needs will make your experience more easy, and in some situations, save your life. (For example, an axe is considered a very useful tool in the California or Canadian woods. But a machete in a jungle environment is better suited to cut through the dense jungle foliage. Finding a knife that can meet both needs half way could come in handy)
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   Size matters. When choosing a knife to take with you you should keep in mind how easy it will be for you to carry. Some knives can be kept in your with a clip on bar. But some others will required for you to obtain a sheath to attach it to your belt, vest or pack. Remember, having the knife easy to access for you is ideal.
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   Don't break your wallet. Many knife manufacturers have a large variety and styles of knives that usually vary on price as well. Always beware of cheap priced knives as the quality of these can be so poor that they will fail you when you least expect it. But just because a knife is simple, it doesn't mean it is of poor quality (Such knives, like tanto blade knives are known for their simplicity but their reliability). But just as well, beware of overly priced knives that claim great quality and craftsmanship. Just because they claim to be used by survival experts, military groups or simply because of their brand name, you shouldn't spend hundreds of dollars on a knife that would meet the same requirements as a $50 knife with the same durability and reliability. (Ka-Bar knives are known for their strength and history, at a much affordable prices)
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   Research what they are made of. Different blades are made of different materials. Most small, pocket sized or tanto boot knives are made of 440 steel. These is a affordable, light and decently strong metal for knives, that is known for it's light weight, sharpness, and that it takes a long time to rust. Other, much larger and heavier knives are usually made of 1080 (or higher grade number) steel. These knives hold their blade much better and longer. They are good for heavier task, like wood cutting or small game hunting. Many large 7 inch Ka-Bar or SOG knives are made of this material and are historically known for their reliability. But beware. These material makes them much more prone to rust easy over time, because of the high amount of carbonation the metal is put through. So keep them away from moisture, preferably on nylon sheaths.
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   Think of comfort. Just because a knife looks like Rambo's knife doesn't mean is the best to carry on your back for weeks to come. A knives handle can make a huge difference. Clip knives are often used for small, quick activities, because the clip makes it uncomfortable to handle over time and can create blisters in your hands. (just imagine building shelter in the rain while using a clip pocket knife). Larger knives can come with rubber grips, which makes it more suitable for wet environments than leader grip knives. A knife has to feel good in your hand, even if it is for a minute or for hours. (weight can make a difference as well. Heavier knives can cut through wood better, but lighter knives might make it easier to carry on load trips). Gerber knives are known for their comfort.
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   Multitasking. Think of the many things you can or will do with the knife you choose. From opening cans to cutting through rope or vegetation, or even unscrewing things. All of these should be things you have to keep in mind when you decided what knife to carry. Many people prefer to carry a single multi-tool knife instead of a single blade knife, as this can be lighter, more compact and can be your one everything stop. But others, like hunters who expect to skin animals or kill small game, and some who will find themselves in more remote areas who expect to cut through wood for fires, or to make their own shelter, usually take much heavier knives that can take much heavier and tougher treatment.
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   Do your research. Just readying one or two articles or reviews on a couple of knives would not give you a good idea of what kind of knife makes the best match for you. read as many reviews as you can, form the goods to specially the bad ones, as these can give you a better understanding of the complications a certain knife can give you. Many web forums in which people discuss their experience with the knives they have purchased and used. Specially if they are written by known or respected knife experts. Also considered going to knife stores in your are. Look around, as a good quality knife can be found on almost any store even if you don't expect it. Stores dedicated to knives only tend to know a lot about knives and can give you advice on how to take care of it and what kind of sheath you could use, but beware, because they tend to overprice the knives tends of dollars than some other chain stores. (Target carries a good variety of Gerber knives for example)
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    Gerber, military style survival knife
   Experience is the best way to learn. Expect your knife to fail or not to meet your expectation on your first try. Be prepared to go through a couple of knives until you know what style, size and material is the best suited for you. Many experienced campers and hunter carry at least two knives, a large or main knife, and a smaller tanto or clip knife as a backup.