10 Best Survival Knife Reviews in 2022 – Top Models Compared

A pocket knife is handy in certain situations yes, but when you are out there, you will need a knife that’s going to help you survive. And that is where you’re going to find a survival knife handy.

However, the question is which one should you buy? There are a lot of these products online, but how do you figure out the one that matches your requirements? We know how time consuming it can be to read survival knife reviews as there are literally thousands of them.

And that is why we came up with this guide. We compared several survival knives and narrowed the list down to the top 10. In each review, we cover all the essential features and the pros and cons.

10 Best Survival Knife Comparisons

The Campanion is aptly named as it makes for an ideal camping survival knife. Its blade is 5.25 inches long, and with an overall length of 10.5 inches is similar in size with other survival hunting knives. Its 1095 Cro—Van blade is very durable and is more than capable of handling heavy use.

Features 

The Campanion has Ultramid handle so it holds up to long term use, and they nylon sheath serves its function well. At 16 oz the Campanion is not as heavy as other survival knives, which tells you a lot about its quality.

its drop point blade is very effective for survival and camping activities, and its sharp tip will serve you well. Its blade is high carbon, non stainless, perfect for a lot of cutting and piercing. The knife also has a 56 to 58 hardness, and combined with the saber grind allows you to hone the edge.

The Campanion has ergonomic handle so it’s comfortable to hold. The handle is constructed from polyamide which has been customized for extra durability. This survival knife is also built to withstand moisture, ensuring it remains dry while you use it.

The Campanion is an average sized survival camping knife, and it is suitable as a utility knife and bush craft. Apart from the most common survival knife techniques, the Campanion is also suitable for camp meal preparation as well as skinning game. If you’re going on a camping or hunting trip, this knife makes for an ideal companion.

You can use the Campanion to chop onions for your grill, split kindling or tear holes in fabric and other materials. This knife is also suitable for carving wood tools, slice fruits and vegetables and meats.

The Campanion has a solid feel and should hold up well for long term use. Even with repeated use the blade doesn’t dull easily and performance is reliable. It’s worth pointing out that the blade angle serves its purpose of simplifying operations. The blade steel is also as durable as advertised.

As mentioned earlier, the Campanion makes for an excellent bush craft. The knife excels in shelter building and it is also effective to baton small logs. The durability of the blade also means it is ideal for those who don’t want to carry a lot of heavy knives while they’re camping. 

Verdict 

The Ka-Bar is a popular knife, and it should come as no surprise. It is well-crafted, versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications. For hunting, cutting and other survival needs, the Ka-Bar Campanion delivers on its promises. While K-Bar has made a lot of quality survival knives, but the Campanion is one of their finest releases yet.

The LMF II is built according to military specs, and we can say this is one product that lives up to the hype. The LMF II may be small, but don’t let that deceive you as this is a versatile knife that can do a bit of everything.

Features 

The LMF II is a utility knife with a drop point blade that is built for a variety of functions. Its blade is 4.84 inches long, sharp and serrated. The knife is 10.5 inches long overall, making this easy and convenient to store.

Its blade is 420 HC, ensuring it can handle extensive use. Whether you’re cutting or sawing, the nylon handle makes the knife comfortable to hold. It also comes with a nylon sheath for storage, and at 11 oz is very light. It is the compact design and weight that makes the LMF II a good choice if you’re camping.

The 420 HC stainless steel blade cutting edge is serrated and its saber grind is deep. Its pommel is great for breaking glass or grinding herbs for meal preparation. Because its edge is is serrated, this is not very well suited for carving or stake sharpening. However, the LMF II excels in sawing out of a canopy or a fuselage. The serrated edge is also useful for cutting off seat belts.

These specialties tell you that the LMF II is indeed a survival knife, one that you can depend if you’re in survival mode. Apart from its sharp blade, the LMF II handle has nylon rubber coating. This handle is extremely durable and doesn’t absorb moisture so your hands remain dry.

The LMF II also has double finger for your protection, and the inside edge design enhances your grip. It’s worth pointing out that the LMF II has a couple of lanyard holes. You can use the lanyard for a makeshift spear, a pole or staff. With this you’ve not got a hunting tool and a means of protecting yourself.

The LMF II serrated blade has a lot of functions, including building shelter, making firewood and cutting through all kinds of materials. While the blade is made for survival, it is also suitable for sport fishing, protecting yourself from predatory animals. Its heavy duty built means you can use the LMF II for years. The LMF II blade is sharp, and its durability means there is no need to sharpen this frequently.

Verdict

The Gerber LMF II is an all around knife that’s built for camping and survival. The fact that it is made of military grade material tells you how powerful and versatile this survival knife is. For hunting, cutting, survival and other tactical operations, the LMF II infantry will be right there with you. 

The Gerber Strong Arm is a versatile survival knife. This fixed blade is classified as a compact utility knife, but don’t let that deceive you as the Gerber is capable of handling a lot of stuff you throw at its, thanks in part to its 4.8 inch drop point.

Features 

The Gerber Strong Arm is 9.8 inches long, so at 4.8 inches the blade makes up about half the blade. The blade is 420 HC with the handle made of glass filled nylon. The sheath is nylon, and it’s very durable. At just 7.2 ounces, the Strong Arm is also one of the lightest out there.

If you’re looking for the best survival knife for the money, the Strong Arm is hard to beat in terms of features and capabilities. Its 420 HC stainless steel is well-made, great for cutting, carving, hunting, skinning and dressing game. It also has a black ceramic coat, making it ideal for tactical use.

The ceramic coating also provides the blade with extra resistance to corrosion, making this a good choice if you’re into hunting. Since the Strong Arm is available in serrated and straight versions, you’’ll be able to choose the one that matches your needs. Even though the Strong Arm is small, you’ll still be able to do a lot of common tasks.

The Strong Arm excels in chopping, cutting and slicing. It also makes for a good bush craft knife or any situation that requires you to exercise a lot of control over a knife. It also helps that the knife has a serrated edge, making it easy to hold and use. The handle has a nice rubber coating that really improves your handling.

Another nice thing about the Strong Arm is that it has MOLLE compatible modular sheath system. This means you can mount the sheath like a drop leg belt mount, on a 1.75 inch belt or on a MOLLE vest. This provides you with a good deal of versatility that is not present in other survival knives.

The knife pommel is well-designed and is powerful enough to be used to break glass and other objects, food etc. The blade is of decent thickness, and its saber grind goes far when it comes to enhancing cuts. The blade is also sharp enough to be used for to create feather sticks, and its grip is firm.

The blade’s is also perfect for piercing and combat, and for self-defense this knife works very well, underscoring its versatility. 

Verdict

The Gerber Strong may be compact, but this is still a very durable knife fit for hunting, cutting and as a survival tool. The knife has a solid feel, and from the blade to the pommel is

Also Read: Best Throwing Knife – Top Selections for Expert & Beginners

Anyone who knows anything about survival knives and hunting knives will be familiar with the USMC Fighting Knife. This is the knife that was issued to the US Marine Corps during World War II. This only goes to show how durable and dependable it is. Even today, the USMC fighting Knife still holds up well.

Features

The USMC drop point knife is 11.8 inches long, with the blade 7 inches long. This is longer than the average hunting knife, and this provides it with more power and strength to cut, carve and do other tasks.

The blade has a 56-58 HC hardness, and both sheath and handle are made of leather. The leather used on the knife handle and sheath are of the highest quality, allowing it to handle a lot of abuse. For all its power, the knife weighs only 0.7 pounds, so it is not heavy.

Adding to the knife’s quality is its 1095 Cro-Van saber grind. This consists of manganese, carbon, vanadium and chromium. Together they make the blade resistant to corrosion and harder than your typical survival knife.

Aside from being ideal for survival and hunting, the knife’s design is perfect for fighting and close combat. The handle and the blade’s design makes it appropriate for use in fighting off animals and skinning game. The blade is not only sharp, but the thick leather handle makes it even more comfortable to hold.

The USMC Fighting Knife also has a powerful pommel, keeping the knife balanced while doubling up as a glass breaker. A closer look at the handle shows that it is comprised of leather discs on a tang. The dual finger guard is well-designed, and the it also has anti-moisture properties.

The blade is easy to sharpen, and its 10995 Cro-Van is as durable as advertised. Its leather sheath is also well-designed and should keep the blade from rusting. The leather is oiled so it is also water resistant, adding another level of protection. The knife also feels comfortable to hold.

The knife is solidly made, and it is ideal for use in the fields and wilderness. It is also good for building shelter, skinning game and other hunting applications. The knife is sturdy and heavy, making it suitable for experienced survivalists who want nothing but the best. As a hunting and survival knife, the USMC fits the bill. It is sharp, versatile and provides a lot of flexibility.

Verdict

The USMC Fighting Knife is justifiably one of the most famous combat knives, owing to its design and capabilities. For hunting and survival you’re going to find the USMC Fighting Knife more than sufficient, and it is very dependable. 

The Fallkniven A1 is a high quality survival knife that is up to par with the many that the company has released over the years. The knife is 11 inches long, not too long or short, just the right size for a survival knife.

Features 

The A1 blade is 6.3 inches long, making up half up of the knife. The blade is VG 10 with a hardness of 59 HRC, ideal for survival, hunting and camping. With its Kraton rubber handle, the knife is very comfortable to hold and use.

The knife weighs 12 oz, heavier than other compact knives but still comfortable enough to carry. The 6 inch VG 10 is as solid as advertised, with the blade set between a couple of lighter stainless steel layers.

Its saber grind goes almost fully into the blade’s rear, enhancing its strength. The tang is well implemented and the handle is ergonomic as well. The Kraton rubber handle is equipped with a finger guard so the knife won’t slip from your grip.

The blade is suitable for assorted survival tasks: you can skin animals, slice food, cut rope and so on. The sheath is black leather and is going to last. One thing that can be said about the A1 is that it looks and solid. The smooth finish is nice and feels better in your hand. We also have to point out the balance is superb.

The blade’s design means it is suitable for heavy duty use. The knife, while a bit on the heavy side, is actually very effective and suitable for intensive camping and surviving in the wilderness. The grip feels strong and secure, just what you need to do whatever needs to be done.

The blade’s excellent design means it is suitable for regular use. The sheath does what it should, and the blade’s toughness is at par or even better than the others. Its handle is comfortable and can deal with water, animal fat, grease, blood or anything else that you may run into the woods.

As should be evident from this review, the A1 is ideal for the long time hunter or anyone who spends time outdoors. Compared to other knives, the A1 comes with a lot more useful, practical features that you will find useful. If you’re hunting, this knife can be used for going through hardwood, cutting and skinning animals and also for self defense. The blade is sharp, dependable and will assist you in a lot of situations.

Verdict

The A1 is a versatile survival knife, able to do a lot of the tasks you expect from it. Whether you re camping, hunting, or want to be prepared for any emergency, the A1 will get the job done. 

The 0119 is a great example of what an all-purpose hunting/camping/survival knife is suppose to be like. This particular line has been around since 1945, and this edition goes to show that it is still one of the best when it comes to making survival knives.

Features 

The 0119 is 10.5 inches long, with the blade at 6 inches. This is typical of most survival knives, making it easy to carry. With a 58 HRC hardness and made from durable materials, the 0119 is durable enough to handle majority of hunting and survival tasks. The knife weighs just 7.5 oz so it’s not going to be a problem.

The clip point blade is well made, and the 420 HC stainless steel and hollow grind gives it extra strength. This makes the knife well suited for all types of jobs like dressing game, carving notches and branch trimming.

The blade is lighter than the average knife, so it is more suited for light and medium duty chopping. The balance is around the hilt, but it’s balanced. We also have to point out that its hollow grind lets you hone it to a sharp edge. The blade does not need a lot of sharpening as its edge is suitable for slicing and cutting.

Its handle is 4 1/2 inches long and ergonomic. Made of black phenolic plastic, it is as comfortable as is durable. The double finger guard is a nice touch and the aluminum butt cap complements the rest of the handle’s design. What is clear is that a lot of attention has been placed on both handle and design.

Overall, the construction is well thought out. That it’s been around for a long time only goes to show how effective the design is. It is fully functional and its leather sheath is more than adequate. Pouch type and heavy duty, you can easily store the knife when you’re done using it.

As mentioned earlier, Buck knives don’t need a lot of sharpening, but if the time comes, sharpening is easy. The 0119 also holds its edge nicely and functions nicely as a hunting and camping knife. Its 420 HC full tang blade is exceptionally well done: the pommel and tang are joined by a rivet so it’s not going to snap in two.

The Buck knife is versatile, any way you look at it. It cuts, slices and pieces, underscoring the power and its capabilities. 

Verdict

The 0119 is an exceptional survival knife. The fact that it has a lifetime warranty is indicative of how good it is. For the hunter and the survivalist, the 0119 will not disappoint as it has all the features and qualities necessary to help you survive. 

The BK7 takes the concept of utility knives to another level. From the blade to the handle, the BK7 is intended for survivalists, hunters, campers, outdoor adventurers, soldiers and anyone who needs a lightweight but durable knife.

Features 

The BK7 has a 7 inch blade. Made from 1095 CroVan and has a 56-58 HRC hardness, the blade is built for extended use in different situations. The knife itself is 12.75 inches long, not too big or small.

The Ultramid handle is comfortable and ergonomic so extended use is not going to wear you out. The nylon sheath is just as good, providing the knife with convenient storage. The knife weighs 0.85 pounds so it’s light. With its straight cutting edge, the blade is idea for survival, self defense and hunting.

Its clip point, deep saber grind blade has elements of manganese, carbon, vanadium and chromium. The knife is also resistant to corrosion, and its special coat adds to the durability. One of the things that should be pointed is its blade is suitable for digging, splitting and light chopping.

The full tang BK7 increases durability, and the handle is very comfortable to hold. The polyamide adds to its toughness, plus it does not absorb any moisture. One of the most common problems with ordinary survival knives is they are limited in their ability to prevent moisture. That is not the case here as the BK7 has superior features.

The BK7 is not just a utility knife though, as it is also suited for combat. You can use this to prepare meals, create traps and makeshift shelters. The sheath is compatible with MOLLE, giving you extra flexibility for storage.

Its 1095 CroVan material is flat, long and straight, and it is usable out of the package. The straight metal means it is easy to maintain with minimal sharpening needed. Applying lubricant every now and then is going to make it last even longer. The blade also resists corrosion and rust, something you’ll appreciate.

The knife has substantial weight, and its balance only enhances its functionality. The thumb ramp is well-made and does what is should, give your thumb a place to rest. The design also means you will have an easier time slicing and cutting. If you’re pounding in stakes or creating shelter, the BK7 will do.

Its sheath is nothing fancy but it gets the job done. It is made from durable materials and an is well suited for long use in the wilderness. The fabric holds up fine as the stitching is well made. The same quality applies to the belt loop and the est of the knife. 

Verdict

The BK7 is billed as an all-purpose survival knife and it does what you expect it to. If you’re going to spend time in the woods, you will need a dependable knife, and the BK7 is more than up to the task. 

Also Read: Top 10 Picks for the Best Bowie Knife – Comparison

The Extreme Survival Blade Knife is a good choice if you’re looking for a non-stainless steel that is easy to use. The blade’s design also means it sharpens quickly and provides additional toughness.

Features 

The knife is 12.1 inches long with a 6.4 inch blade. It's got a plastic elastomer handle for durability, and like most survival knives has a nylon sheath. Because its blade is 1095 carbon it’s suited for heavy duty use. At 16 oz it is a bit heavier than other survival knives, but it is still fully functional.

The cutting edge’s straight area is what you’ll use to cut notches and sharpen stakes. The part that is deep on the other hand, is appropriate for chopping. Its steel is also suited for heavy duty use and will not break down easily the way other knives do. The same thing can be said about its handle, as it is ergonomic.

Part of the reason the handle is so comfortable is there are finger grooves so your grip is secure and sure. The plastic elastomer has been specially designed with rubber and plastic properties for durability.

What this means is the Extreme Survival knife has a comfortable grip. You will feel the difference when you hold it. Chopping, cutting, slicing and pounding it won’t loosen your grip and with cushion. As a versatile knife, the knife is capable of splitting wood and other camping tasks.

The blade is very sharp enough to cut and slice a variety of materials. The knife is small enough to fit nicely in your backpack. You can use this to sharpen weapons and carve wood, and you can also its butt end to hammer or grind objects. Its carry sheath is large yes, but it it is not a deal breaker.

The knife’s sharpness allows you to use this right away. Its toughness is also comparable to most others, including the more expensive ones. The bottom line is the knife feels good in your hand. You’ve got a steady grip. The blade’s construction also means it is not gong to break even when you’re using it for a long time. With it lanyard hole, you also use this as a makeshift spear to hunt food.

As a hunting knife, the Extreme Survival delivers the goods. As a full tang knife you should also feel confident that it can withstand extensive use. While it is designed for professional use, the knife is also flexible enough to be used for recreational purposes.

Verdict

The Extreme Survival Knife is one that you’ll want to bring when you’re camping. For most camping duties, cutting and slicing and so on, the Extreme Survival is strong enough to get things done right. 

The 6P-B Plain Edge is built for extensive use, and like other ESEE knives is known for its quality. It has a lot of the features you would expect from an ESEE, and it also has characteristics that sets it apart from the others.

Features

The knife is 11.7 inches long, with the blade at 6.5 inches. Its drop point tip is suitable for chopping, cutting and slicing a variety of materials.

With a 55-57 HRC and composed of manganese, vanadium, carbon and chromium, it is definitely built for the serious survivalist.

It has a Kydex sheath that, while nothing spectacular, works just fine in terms of providing security and storage. A close inspection shows that the handle is made of linen micarta, offering a nice combination of comfort and durability. The knife is also light, coming it at just 12 ounces.

What is also evident here is that the Plain Edge is built for jungle and wilderness use. The knife is also just the right size: it is not too large to be unwieldy, but it isn’t too small there’s no power.

The highlight here is clearly the drop point carbon steel blade. It is tougher than stainless steel and its coating is corrosion resistant too. Its HRC hardness is complemented by the flat grind, so quality wise it is up there with other high quality survival knives.

Design wise, the Plain Edge does not look anything like a fighting knife and more like a hunting knife. Do not let that deceive you because the Plain Edge can be an effective combat weapon as well.

The blade’s drop point sets the tip near the middle line, giving you extra control. We also have to take note of the flat grind. This design serves as the appropriate compromise between a saber grind’s edge and a hollow grind’s razor sharpness. It also has a shallow finger groove on its choil.

What this feature does is let you move your hand along the grip. It also allows you to position your index finger along the groove. What his means is you’ll be able to exercise more control when you carve.

We also have to add that this is a full tang knife, so no need to worry about the blade suddenly falling off while you’re using it. Its handle is also among the most comfortable the brand has released, and yet it is durable. The Plain Edge also shines in the versatility department. Unlike other knives that can only cut or chop, the Plain Edge puts emphasis on flexibility. 

Verdict

The 6P-B Plain Edge is a well-rounded knife. It works well for survival, hunting and camping, and it doesn’t need frequent maintenance either. For the serious hunter and outdoor enthusiast, this is the type of knife that you will want to have. 

The Laser Strike is a unique survival knife as indicated by its spear tip. This makes it stand out from the traditional drop point used in these models.

However that doesn’t make the knife any less effective and in fact this is one of the more versatile types available today. 

Features

The Laser Strike is 10 inches long, with the blade at 4.75 inches. It has a classified hardness of 55 to 57 HRC, and it is comprised of 1095 high carbon. What this means is that the Laser Strike can be used as a utility or bush craft knife. You can do that with other survival knives yes, but this is more effective as the tip is set directly on the blade’s center line.

What that means is the blade is more effective at piercing than the average knife. At the same time, you also get enough strength and balance so it’s suited for skinning game. It helps that the handle is linen micarta as the handle is more comfortable to hold. As for the weight, the knife is 9.5 oz.

The blade has a corrosion resistant black coating, and this is complemented by its flat grind. Both blade and handle are durable and it manages to keep its edge even with extensive use The bade is not that hard to sharpen either, something that a lot of hunters and survivalists will appreciate. The grip could be more rounded, but overall it is still comfortable and won’t slip from your hands while holding.

A close inspection reveals that the handle is comprised of a couple of linen micarta scales. These are kept in position by screws, ensuring the blade wont come off. While the handle is nothing fancy, it is nonslip and does an excellent job of absorbing moisture. We also have to point out its Kydex sheath for convenient storage.

The knife is as durable like the other ESEE knives, and it fits your hand nicely. When you’re working with a survival knife, you want to make sure that it is not going to slip from your grasp and that it can handle the pressure. The Laser Strike matches that description, so it is the ideal companion when you’re out in the wilderness.

As mentioned earlier, the knife does an excellent job of cutting, chopping and slicing. However it also functions well for grinding and crushing herbs, spices, glass and so on. It batons well and works as a combat spear too. 

Verdict

The Laser Strike is a well made survival knife, suitable for extensive use and can handle most of the stuff you throw at it. The comfortable handle and the sharpness of the blade makes this an excellent choice if you’re a survivalist. 

Benefits of a Survival Knife

If you have never used a survival knife before, it is easy to mistake it for just another knife. But nothing is further from the truth. The fact is, these knives provide a lot of benefits, and if you are in the woods or facing an emergency, a survival knife could make the difference between life and death. Let’s take a look at some of the things that you do with it.

A Weapon

A survival knife, whether it is straight or serrated, makes for an effective weapon. You can use the knife to ward off predators. If you’re in the woods, a survival knife is going to come in handy for warding off animals. You will also find this knife essential to keep off human attackers. The nice thing about these knives is it is easy to conceal. Whether you’re in the streets or in the woods, having a survival knife is going to put your mind at ease.

Food Preparation

If you are camping, your access to cooking utensils will be limited. That is where a survival knife will make a difference. You can use the knife to cut and slice meats, fruits and veggies. You can also use the butt of the knife to smash or grind spices and herbs. If you are going to spend any time camping or skinning animals, a  survival knife will be necessary.

A Cutting Tool

A survival knife is above all a cutting tool. Maybe you’re preparing food, need to cut some cloth or other materials to make shelter. No matter what you need to cut, a survival knife will allow you to do it quickly and efficiency.

Digging Tool

While a knife is best suited for cutting, it can also be used for digging. It’s ideal for digging or carving dirt for waste disposal, create distress signs on sand or dirt. You can also use it to collect edible tubers and preparing fire pits.

First Aid

A survival knife can be used for basic first aid. If you sterilize the tip, it can be used to drain blisters. A survival knife is also for appropriate for applying bandages.

Cut Saplings and Split Wood

A survival knife is also ideal for firewood splitting. For this to work, make sure the knife is durable and can handle the amount of work you intend for it.

Hammer

As we have mentioned earlier, you can use the pommel of a survival knife to break glass and driving stakes to the ground. You will definitely find find this feature useful if you’re building a shelter.

Adjusting Gears

You will also find a survival knife handy for tweaking gears and other equipment.

Sharpening and Making Tools

A knife is a tool yes, but it is also effective for sharpening other tools. You can use it for making a fire bow and drill, and it can also be used as a makeshift spear.

Tips for Choosing The Best Survival Knife

Buying a survival knife these days involves nothing more than point and click. But make sure that you have a knife that is actually capable of meeting your needs. Here are some suggestions.

The best blade design choices are spear point, drop point and the clip point. They’re the best because the design has the blade tip close to the center. This gives you better control. It also lightens the blade without sacrificing performance or durability.

If you’re going to use the blade mostly for chopping, get one that is at least 10 inches long. You may opt for one that is shorter, but it will likely be for light to medium duty chopping only.

Most high quality blades are made from 1095, but others are made of 440C or 5160.

Make sure the handle is nonslip so you don’t lose control.

Conclusion

A survival knife is an essential tool for the camper, hunter and the survivalist. From skinning game, building shelter to preparing food, a survival knife is indispensable. But even if you are not a survivalist, it’s still a goo idea to have one of these in case of an emergency.  And if you get stranded in the woods, having a utility knife will help a lot.

Hopefully these reviews will give you an idea of which one to buy. And if you are wondering which one of these is the best survival knife, well we didn’t pick out a winner.  All ten survival knives here are high quality, and you really cannot go wrong with any.

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