Best Camping Knives
A camping knife is an essential tool for camping trips. So essential that approximately 35 million US households own an outdoor or pocket knife. When you’re off the grid, a camping knife can prep wood and food as well as help in a pinch for campground projects and improvements. It’s also handy for self-defense if it comes to it. However, you don’t want to take just any knife on the trail.
The best camping knife is designed for outdoor use and rugged terrain and projects. Depending on the type of camping you enjoy will determine what type of camping knife is best suited for you. To help you find the best knife for your next camping trip, we list the ten best camping knives of this year.
How to Choose the Best Camping Knife
When buying a camping knife, you’ll need to determine how you want to use the camping knife. The most popular uses are the following:
- Cooking
- Setting up camp
- Self-defense
Different knives cater to different needs. Pay attention to how they’re constructed, what features they include, and what their main purpose.
Types of Camping Knives
Here’s a closer look at the major types of knives used for camping:
Folding Blade
The American Knife and Tool Institute states that 80% of new knife sales are easy to open, folding knives. A folding blade is where the blade folds into the handle for storage and safety. It is meant to be stored in a pocket, backpack, or on your belt for safe but accessible everyday use. These can be manual or spring-loaded.
Fixed Blade
A fixed blade permanently extends from the handle securely. You usually see a fixed blade come with a sheath for protective wear. Blades tend to be longer on fixed blade knives.
Multi-tool
The advantage of multi-tools is you get more than just a blade. Multi-tools often include:
- Firestarter
- Flint
- Whistle
- Compass
- Eating utensils
- Glass breaker
- Paracord
Multi-tools are very common camping knives because space is usually limited, so you need to combine features for extended backpacking trips.
When it comes to picking out the best camping knife, personal preference and utility will largely determine which knife will be your favorite. Obviously, we feel the Grand Way 6681 Spring Assisted Knife is the best overall pick because it’s a lightweight, tactical knife you can use for a variety of camping needs.
If you’re planning a camping trip, make sure you check out our best backpacking tents and best camping mattresses so you stay comfortably and dry when you spend the night in the great outdoors.