The Best Fixed Blade Survival Knives

Many factors go into picking the best fixed blade survival knife for your needs. Different features of each kind of knife will offer certain advantages for specific uses. In a camping situation, you need a knife to do several small tasks, while you may look for other features in a hunting knife. Steel quality, blade shape and tang all contribute to the purpose of the knife and its efficacy for performing the survival tasks you need.

Steel Quality

Steel quality can make a drastic difference in the type of knife you buy. Hardness, edge retention, wear resistance and corrosion resistance are all factors that determine the quality of the stainless steel.

Hardness evaluates the knife's ability to withstand deformation. Knife hardness is tested on the Rockwell scale, and most fall between 58-62 HRC (Hardness Rockwell C). Edge retention assesses whether the knife's edge or tip will break, crack or chip when stressed. Wear resistance measures how well the knife will stand up to erosion due to dirt, bone and other materials. Corrosion resistance measures how well the knife withstands humidity, salt or water.

Blade Shape and Uses

There are several blade styles and shapes, each providing advantages for different uses. By understanding the differences in shape, you can pick out the best tactical survival knife for your needs.

Spearpoint knives are symmetrically pointed blades that rise and fall equally. It has a slight belly, making this kind of knife good for piercing and slicing. Tanto point knives have a sharp tip used for puncturing or stabbing. Thicker and heavier than spearpoint knives, they are great for self-defense and survival but not recommended for skinning game.

Clip point knives are popular choices for self-defense and skinning animals but may not be the best for multipurpose use.

In contrast, the drop point is suited for cutting and carving. The blade has a less exaggerated drop-off than the clip point, giving the knife more stability and a stronger feel. This type of knife is a versatile companion for hunting or even chopping wood.

Straight-back knives are also strong, allowing you to put your weight into it. Characterized by their straight back, these knives are great for working with wood, game or other material.

Tang

A knife's tang is blade length which extends into the handle. A knife with partial tang means that the blade only extends partway into the handle. Since the cost of the blade is usually the biggest expense of the knife, these blades can be cheaper. However, these knives won't stand up to as much pressure, and over time you may notice the blade starts to come loose and wiggle slightly.

A full tang knife has a blade which extends into the handle. Since there is more blade, these knives are more costly but can last much longer. They are well-balanced due to the extra weight in the handle and can manage large amounts of pressure.

Here are some of the best fixed blade knives with sheaths, depending on what your most important considerations are for use and cost.

Best Quality Knife

The Marfione Socom Alpha Mini Carbon Fiber Black DLC is a high-quality, drop point knife built from carbon fiber and bronze hardware, making it a durable option for any survival situation. It measures 8.125" long, with a 3.75" blade and is a full tang knife with a slight extension for a lanyard. The knife comes with a Kydex sheath.

Most Versatile Knife

TheMicrotech Socom Alpha Mini Carbon Fiber DLC S/E Signature Series is another great full tang, drop point blade in the popular Socom range. It is also 8.125" long, with a 3.75" blade and comes with a Kydex sheath. This is a great survival knife ready to handle a variety of tasks at a more affordable cost.

Best Knife for Hunting and Camping

TheMicrotech Currahee Black Fixed Blade 4.5" Tanto Serrated knife is named after the Cherokee term for "stand alone." This excellent hunting companion is a tanto point measuring 9.8" long with a 4.5" serrated blade. It is also an extended, full tang blade with a hole for a lanyard, making it reliable in extreme uses and able to withstand wood, bone and other hard materials.

Most Budget-Friendly Knife

The Signal Mountain Knives (Roy Reed) Fixed Blade G10is a great low-cost option for those who want a great all-around tool. This highly durable, spearpoint knife is meant to be used hard. It is 7" long with a 3.5" blade. For its attractive price, it is an excellent blade for hunting, camping and general use.

Final Thoughts

No matter what purpose you need your knife for, make sure you choose one that is reliable, well-built and long-lasting. Quality, blade style and construction significantly affect how your knife is used and how long it will last. Browse eKnives' selection to get more information on these fantastic fixed blade survival knives.