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We Know: How to Buy a Hunting Knife
About Hunting Knives
A hunting knife can serve several purposes. It can be used for cutting, gutting, skinning, filleting, and even
sawing. Some hunting knives are designed for general purposes, while others are specialized. While some hunting
knives fold, many of them do not. While some may wear their hunting knife on a belt, others carry hunting knives in their
gear bag.
Features to Look for in a Hunting Knife
When shopping for a hunting knife, keep these features in mind:
- Sharp edge: Quality high-tempered steel blades will hold a sharp edge longer than most cheaper knives. Any
knife edge will wear over time but when you hone the blade it should stay sharp for awhile.
- Leather sheath: Protect your knife and you from your knife with a sheath that you can wear on your belt or
store in your gear bag.
- Thumb hole: When skinning an animal, a thumb hole can give you a better grip on your knife when conditions
get slippery.
- Quality handle: Some hunting knives have hollow handles in which you can store survival items. Many of these
hollow handles are of poor construction. The other downside to hollow handles is that they can be especially light and
a heavier handle can help you make stronger cuts.
- Secure lock: Foldable knives should have a secure lock that keeps the knife blade extended while you work.
If the blade snaps closed while you're holding it, you're in danger of getting injured.
- Comfortable size: If you'll be wearing the knife on your belt, you don't want the hilt knocking into your arm
or otherwise getting in your way. Size is less of an issue if you'll be carrying the knife in a gear bag. Determine for
what purpose you'll be using the knife and how you'll be transporting it. That should help you decide on the right sized
knife.
Hunting Knives
There are many kinds of hunting knives available, including the following models:
- Hen & Rooster 5000 Stag Bowie: Nine inch Bowie blade with a crown stag handle and leather
sheath. Sells for around $110.
- Gerber Chameleon: Folding knife that's 4.25" when closed. Has a 2.75" partially serrated stainless blade.
Zytel handle with thumb hole, action lock, nylon sheath. Sells for around $35.
- Spyderco Swick Neck Knife: Stainless steel knife with a two inch cutting edge. Knife is 5.5" long and has a
skeletonized handle. Comes with a Kydex neck sheath. Sells for around $75.
- S.L.B Hunting Knife by Al Mar Knives: Skinning knife with a .75" steel blade. Full length is 4.60". Comes with
stainless steel clothing clip. Sells for around $77.
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