Never hit the trails without a knife by your side. It doesn’t matter if you’re out just to catch the sunrise over the peaks on a day hike or setting up camp in the wilderness for a week. A good knife is as essential as your hiking boots.
But choosing the right hiking knife can be tricky. The last thing you want is to end up with a cheaply made knife that looks cool but does little more than weigh you down. I’ve seen my share of knives that promised the moon but couldn’t even handle opening a stubborn package.
In this guide, I’m going to walk you through 7 key factors to consider when picking a knife for your hiking adventures. It’s not rocket science, but there’s a bit more to it than grabbing the first shiny blade you see.
#1 – Blade Material
You need your knife to cut through some tough brush or prepare a quick meal. The last thing you want is a dull blade that can’t handle the job.
The two most popular blade materials for hiking knives are stainless steel and high carbon steel.
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel is a real crowd-pleaser. It won’t rust on you, which is super handy if you’re hiking in damp conditions or near the coast.
That said, stainless steel has its quirks. It might not hold an edge as long as carbon steel for example, but it strikes a fantastic balance between toughness and maintenance ease.
You won’t spend ages keeping it sharp or oiling it to prevent rust. A quick sharpen after your adventure, and it’s good as new.
How do you pick the right stainless steel blade?
When you’re picking your stainless steel knife, pay attention to the details. Brands like to throw around terms like “440C” or “VG10” – these refer to different types of stainless steel, each with its blend of durability, sharpness, and rust resistance.
Personally, I lean towards VG10 or S30V that you can find in the Benchmade 15085-2 Mini Crooked River (one of the best hiking knives in my experience). They’re a good balance of rust resistance and edge retention – ideal for the demands of a multi-day hike.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel holds an edge like nobody’s business, meaning less sharpening for you.
However, one thing you need to know is that carbon steel loves attention. Leave it alone for too long without proper care, and it’ll start to rust.
But don’t let this put you off! Wipe it down after use, keep it dry, and every now and then, show it some extra love with a bit of oil. It’s a small price to pay for a blade that stays sharp and reliable.
When shopping around, you’ll come across terms like “high carbon” and “1075” or “1095.” These numbers are actually telling you about the carbon content in the blade. Higher numbers mean more carbon, which equals a harder blade that stays sharp longer but requires a bit more care.
For hiking knives, 1095 is a good option as it has a superior edge retention, which makes sharpening very easy.
#2 – Blade Length
The blade length is almost as important as the blade material itself. Whether you’re slicing through a tough piece of rope or preparing a snack, you want a blade that’s just the right size for the job. Too big, and it’s awkward to handle. Too small, and you might as well be using scissors.
The perfect blade length depends on what you need it for, how big your hands are, and even where you’re hiking.
Finding Your Perfect Match
Most hiking knives fall between 3 to 5 inches. This range offers a sweet spot of usability without being too cumbersome.
If you like to pack light, a smaller blade might be a better choice. It’s easy to handle and perfect for those quick, precise tasks.
On the flip side, if you’re venturing into tougher terrain or need your knife to do some heavy lifting, a longer blade can be just what you’re looking for. Just remember, the bigger the blade, the trickier it can be to maneuver in tight spots.
#3 – Handle Material
If the handle feels like it could slip out of your hand, you’re not going to have a good time. What you need is a material that feels just right in your hand, rain or shine.
The most popular options are wood, plastic, rubber, and metal, each with its own fan club and haters (the outdoor knives community is very passionate about handle materials).
However, my choice has to be G10, also known as G-10 or Garolite, a high-pressure fiberglass laminate that is both lightweight and incredibly durable. Drop it, bang it, use it as a makeshift hammer (though I wouldn’t recommend making a habit of that) – G10 can take it.
What I especially love about G10 is its textured surface that helps you keep a firm grip, no matter if it’s raining or you’re sweating.
G10 also tends to hit a sweet spot of balance and comfort. It makes the knife feel like an extension of your hand, which is exactly what you want when you’re in the wild.
A great example of a knife that sports a G10 handle is the Gerber Swagger Drop Point Knife. This knife is not only a looker but also gives you a taste of what a G10 handle can really do.
I’m not saying G10 is the be-all and end-all of handle materials. Like everything in life, it’s about finding what works best for you. Your perfect handle might be wood, metal, or even rubber. But if you’re after something that’s tough, grippy, and feels great, you owe it to yourself to give G10 a try!
#4 – Weight
You don’t need to get out there with a scale and weigh every knife in sight. But having a ballpark figure of what works for you can save a lot of guesswork.
Most hiking knives hit the scales at somewhere between 1 to 6 ounces. Lighter isn’t always better, and heavier isn’t always more useful. It’s what feels right in your hand and suits your needs on the trail.
For example, I’m the type of a hiker who loves packing light and I’m always mindful of the weight of my gear. So, a knife that weighs around 4 ounces is a dream come true for me.
However, when I bought the Gerber StrongArm, which weighs almost 11 ounces, I realized that its weight actually adds to its durability and strength, making it an ideal choice for heavy-duty tasks. It also feels well-balanced in my hand, providing me with better control and accuracy when using it.
So, unless you’re an ultralight hiker or have specific weight restrictions, don’t be afraid to try out different weights and see what works best for you.
Finding Your Match
Start by thinking about what you’ll mainly use your knife for. If you’re into preparing gourmet meals at your campsite, a sturdier (maybe slightly heavier) knife could be ideal. On the other hand, if you care about speed and efficiency, a lighter model might be a better choice.
Remember, the weight of a knife often ties back to its material. Heavier knives might boast materials that stand up to more abuse, while lighter ones might use advanced composites that are tough yet featherlight.
#5 – Sharpness & Edge Retention
Whether you’re making kindling for a fire, prepping food, or cutting through some underbrush, you want a knife that’s ready for action, not one that’s going to give up on you after a couple of uses.
Sharpness
This one’s a no-brainer. A sharp knife is a happy knife (and a happy hiker) and it requires less effort to chop, slice, or dice anything you need.
But not all knives come out of the box with the perfect edge, and not all of them are easy to get that way.
Some materials, like carbon steel, can get wicked sharp with a little work from a whetstone or sharpener.
Others, like some stainless steels, might not get quite as sharp but still do a mighty fine job for most tasks. You want a knife that you can easily get sharp and that feels right when you use it.
Edge Retention
Edge retention refers to the duration your knife remains effective before it begins to function more like a butter knife instead of a hiking tool.
Materials play a big role here again. High-carbon steels can hold an edge beautifully but might need more TLC to keep them from rusting. Some of the newer, fancier alloys offer great edge retention with less fuss, but they can be tougher to sharpen when the time comes.
Tips Before You Buy
Read up on reviews, ask around in hiking forums, or chat with the folks at your local outdoor store. The truth is, only real-world experiences can tell you how long a knife will hold its edge, how sharp it is out of the box and how easy it is to get it sharp.
#6 – Safety Features
A good hiking knife isn’t just about how sharp it is or how fancy it looks. It’s also about keeping you safe while you use it.
Locking Mechanism
A locking mechanism keeps the blade securely in place when it’s open. No unexpected closures on your fingers when you’re cutting something tough.
If you’re looking at folding knives, make sure they have a solid lock. There are a few types of locks: liner locks, frame locks, and lock backs are common and each has its quirks.
My favorite one is the liner lock. This is a tiny piece of metal that, when you open the knife, falls into place just behind the blade to stop it from closing on your fingers. To close it, you simply press down the liner with your thumb and fold the knife back up.
Try them out, see which one you like best, and always double-check that lock before you put all your weight behind a cut.
Grip
Materials like rubber or textured handles like G10 that we’ve discussed earlier can help keep your knife in your hand, where it belongs.
Additionally, finger indentations and jimping (small notches on the spine of the blade) can provide extra grip for your fingers.
Sheath
A good sheath is essential for safely carrying your hiking knife. Make sure it’s durable, secure, and easy to access.
Look for a sheath that can be attached to your belt or backpack for easy access while hiking.
Some sheaths also come with additional features like fire starter rods, sharpeners, or storage compartments for small items like fishing hooks or flint.
#7 – Portability
Let’s say you need to quickly cut a piece of rope or open a snack. You don’t want to be rummaging through your pack. That’s where having a portable, easy-to-access knife comes in handy.
Belt Clips
A knife with a belt clip lets you attach it securely to your belt or the outside of your pack so it’s always within easy reach, but also safely out of the way when you don’t need it. Plus, it gives you that cool outdoor adventurer look (bonus points!).
Lanyard Holes
Ever thought about wearing your knife? A lanyard hole allows you to thread a strap through the handle of your knife, making it wearable around your neck or attached to gear. It’s not for everyone, but in the right situation, it’s super practical.
Lightweight Sheaths
The sheath is like your knife’s home, and choosing one that’s lightweight but durable is important. Some sheaths also come with clips or straps, adding to your carrying options. Think of it as your knife’s mobile residence – you want it to be snug, secure, and easy to move around.
What Kind of Knife Should I Take Hiking?
Lightweight pocket knives, especially folding knives, made from stainless steel or carbon steel are great for hiking thanks to their compactness and durability. They slip easily into your pocket or clip onto your belt, staying out of the way until you need them.
However, if you’re someone who appreciates reliability and doesn’t mind a bit extra weight, a fixed-blade knife might be more your style. They’re sturdy, no-fuss, and ready for anything. Plus, they’re easy to clean. Just remember, a fixed blade needs a good sheath to carry it safely.
Do I Need a Knife for a Day Hike?
In my experience, even on a short day hike, you need a lightweight pocket knife because there’s always something that needs slicing, cutting, or snipping. Whether it’s opening packages of snacks or repairing gear, having a knife handy can make your life easier.
Not to mention that in case of emergency situations like getting caught in tangled vegetation or needing to start a fire, a knife can be an invaluable tool.
It’s not just about the “what ifs.” A knife can be pretty handy for the fun stuff too! Opening a tightly sealed snack, cutting a piece of rope to tie up a hammock, or whittling a stick into the perfect marshmallow roasting tool – it’s all part of the outdoor experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right knife for your hikes does need a bit of focus and research.
However, investing in a good hiking knife is always a smart move. I always say that it’s like buying a little peace of mind.
With the right knife in your pocket or clipped to your belt, you instantly feel more equipped to enjoy the beauty of nature, knowing well that you have a versatile tool that can handle a multitude of tasks and keep you safer.
So, take your time, weigh your options based on what we talked about, and choose a knife that feels right for you.
Lukas Heller
Hey there! I’m Lukas, co-founder of BigfootHiking.com, alongside my adventurous wife Martha. Originally from Germany, I landed in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2015, where I’ve been scouting out new trails ever since (though they’re getting scarce!). By day, I’m a software developer, but my heart belongs to hiking – I’m always plotting our next trip. When I’m not coding or on the trails, you’ll find me hanging out with our Pit Bull, Zeus.
