When heading out into the wild for camping or hiking, having a reliable knife is crucial. A best knife for camping and hiking can help you prepare food, cut rope, make kindling, and handle countless other tasks.
But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best one?
In this guide, we’ve reviewed and ranked the best knives for camping and hiking in 2024 to help you make an informed decision.
5 Best Knives for Camping and Hiking
1. Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty
Specs:
- Blade Length: 4.1 inches
- Blade Material: High-carbon steel
- Handle Material: Rubber
- Weight: 4.8 ounces
Pros:
- Affordable
- Durable high-carbon steel blade
- Comfortable, ergonomic handle
- Excellent edge retention
Cons:
- Requires more maintenance to prevent rust
- Not suitable for heavy chopping tasks
The Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty stands out for its balance of quality, durability, and affordability.
This knife features a high-carbon steel blade that stays sharp for a long time, making it ideal for outdoor tasks.
Its ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable and secure grip, which is essential for safety and efficiency in outdoor settings.
Top Pick Reason:
Its robust build and user-friendly design make it a top pick for both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts.
The blade’s thickness and strength are perfect for heavy-duty tasks like batoning wood, while its sharpness is excellent for finer tasks like food preparation.
2. Benchmade Bugout 535
Specs:
- Blade Length: 3.24 inches
- Blade Material: CPM-S30V steel
- Handle Material: Grivory
- Weight: 1.85 ounces
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- High-quality steel blade with excellent edge retention
- Comfortable and durable handle
- Portable and easy to carry
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Smaller blades may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks
The Benchmade Bugout 535 is lightweight and compact, making it perfect for hikers who want to minimize their pack weight.
Despite its lightness, it doesn’t compromise on strength.
The high-quality steel blade holds an edge well and the handle, made from durable Grivory, provides a firm grip.
Top Pick Reason:
This knife excels in portability and reliability.
It’s designed for those who prioritize a balance between weight and performance, making it a favorite among minimalist hikers and campers who need a dependable tool that won’t weigh them down.
3. ESEE-6
Specs:
- Blade Length: 6.5 inches
- Blade Material: 1095 high-carbon steel
- Handle Material: Micarta
- Weight: 12 ounces
Pros:
- Extremely durable and tough
- Versatile for various tasks
- Comfortable handle for extended use
- Excellent edge retention
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier
- Requires regular maintenance to prevent rust
The ESEE-6 is known for its incredible durability and versatility. The full tang blade knife is made from high-carbon 1095 steel, offering excellent edge retention and toughness.
The knife’s size and shape make it suitable for a wide range of tasks, from chopping wood to detailed cutting.
Top Pick Reason:
Its versatility makes it a standout choice.
Whether you’re building a shelter, preparing a meal, or need to handle emergencies, the ESEE-6 is equipped to handle it all.
Its strong build ensures it can take a beating and still perform flawlessly.
4. Spyderco Paramilitary 2
Specs:
- Blade Length: 3.42 inches
- Blade Material: CPM-S30V steel
- Handle Material: G-10
- Weight: 3.75 ounces
Pros:
- High-quality steel blade with excellent edge retention
- Comfortable and ergonomic handle
- Reliable and secure locking mechanism
- Compact and portable
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- Not suitable for heavy-duty chopping
The Spyderco Paramilitary 2 is a well-balanced folding knife that combines practicality with high performance.
It features a high-quality CPM S30V steel blade, known for its edge retention and corrosion resistance. The ergonomic handle design ensures comfort during prolonged use.
Top Pick Reason:
This knife is perfect for those who prefer a folding option without compromising on blade quality. Its compact size and secure locking mechanism make it a safe and convenient choice for camping and hiking, offering a blend of utility and portability.
5. Gerber StrongArm
Specs:
- Blade Length: 4.8 inches
- Blade Material: 420HC steel
- Handle Material: Glass-filled nylon with rubber overmold
- Weight: 10.9 ounces
Pros:
- Durable and robust blade
- Excellent grip with rubberized handle
- Versatile sheath system
- Affordable
Cons:
- Heavier than other options
- Blade material is not as high-end as others
The Gerber StrongArm is designed for rugged use, featuring a full tang 420HC steel blade that provides excellent strength and durability.
The textured rubber handle offers a secure grip in all conditions, and the knife comes with a versatile sheath system for easy carry.
Top Pick Reason:
Its ruggedness and versatility make it a reliable companion for any outdoor adventure.
The Gerber StrongArm is particularly suited for heavy-duty tasks and survival situations, offering durability and performance at an affordable price.
In conclusion, choosing the right and best knife for camping and hiking depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize weight, durability, or versatility, there’s a top pick here for you.
The Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty stands out as our overall best pick for its blend of quality and affordability, while the Benchmade Bugout 535 and Spyderco Paramilitary 2 are excellent for those seeking lightweight and foldable options.
For those needing something more robust, the ESEE-6 and Gerber StrongArm are unbeatable choices.
Equip yourself with the right knife, and you’re set for a safe and successful outdoor adventure.