Survival knives are more than tools—they’re essential companions for outdoor enthusiasts. They help us navigate through thick jungles, chop firewood, or even prepare food in the wild.
But with countless options on shelves, how do we identify the best folding survival knife?
This article aims to bridge that knowledge gap, offering an unbiased evaluation of top products based on functionality, durability, and portability.
Read on to understand what makes a survival knife stand out. This is not a sales pitch, but a guide to making informed choices for your next outdoor adventure.
Sure, I’ve replaced the ‘Cons’ column with a ‘Materials’ column, where I’ve included details regarding the build materials of each knife.
Best folding survival knife 2023 (Unbiased Reviews)
Before heading for your next outdoor trip, choosing the right folding survival knife is important because it impacts the entire experience.
Firstly, consider the blade material and quality. A knife with robust, corrosion-resistant steel that remains sharp for extended duration is crucial.
Next, the locking mechanism also speaks volumes about a knife’s safety and convenience. A secure lock helps prevent accidental closing when the knife is in use.
Size and Weight are subjective, based on your requirements and comfort. Go with a size that promises easy transport, without compromising on functionality.
The handle is another critical element, providing control over the knife. It should be comfortable, sturdy, and offer a slip-resistant grip to handle all situations elegantly.
Lastly, additional features such as pocket clips, lanyards, or glass breakers could add to the overall appeal and versatility of the folding survival knife, making it a truly multi-purpose tool.
2,95” Serrated Blade Pocket Knife – Black Folding Knife with Glass Breaker and Seatbelt Cutter
As a survival enthusiast, having the right tools is crucial. One such indispensable tool I’ve been using for a significant amount of time is the 2.95” Serrated Blade Pocket Knife.
The standout feature is undoubtedly its serrated blade. Crafted for durability and sharpness, it has stood the test of time, performing exceptionally well in cutting and slicing tasks. It truly is a small knife with big capabilities.
Its black folding design exudes elegance while its compact size and built-in pocket clip make it incredibly portable.
As an EDC (everyday carry) tool, it nests comfortably in your pocket, ready to spring into action immediately. Unique added functionalities elevate this pocket knife to a multipurpose survival tool. The glass breaker and seatbelt cutter are life-saving features that could prove vital in emergencies.
However, every product comes with its small shortcomings. My main gripe is that the serrated blade, while excellent for sawing through materials, can be more challenging to sharpen than a straight-edged blade for novice users.
Regardless, when it comes to combining functionality, portability, and value in a folding survival knife, this 2.95″ serrated blade pocket knife certainly raises the bar. I’d recommend it to anyone who seeks reliability and performance in their survival gear.
Pros
✅ Durable serrated blade
✅ Added glass breaker and seatbelt cutter
✅ Compact design with pocket clip
Cons
❌ Serrated blade might be difficult to sharpen for beginners.
Smith & Wesson SWFR2S 8in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife
As a seasoned outdoorsman, I’ve had the chance to use the Smith & Wesson SWFR2S 8in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife extensively and it has been nothing short of impressive.
The design incorporates a 3.3 Tanto Point serrated blade, perfect for everyday tasks and in-the-wild survival scenarios. Crafted out of High Carbon Stainless Steel, the blade has stayed sharp and resilient, despite heavy usage.
What truly elevates this knife from the ordinary is its aluminum handle, adding stability, and reducing its overall weight, making it a convenient tool to carry on your person.
However, as with any gadget, it’s not without minor shortcomings. I found the serrated blade a tad challenging to sharpen, but it’s smooth sailing once you get a hang of it.
But where this folding knife shines is in its simple, functional design giving it a level of usability most conventional folding knives lack.
Pros
✅ High Carbon S.S blade for durability and sharpness
✅ Lightweight aluminum handle for balanced grip
Cons
❌ Serrated blade might require special attention for sharpening
Bear Grylls Survival Series, Folding Sheath Knife, Stainless Steel
As a fan of the great outdoors, the Bear Grylls Survival Series Folding Sheath Knife has been my go-to companion for quite some time.
Designed in collaboration with Bear Grylls, this folding knife doesn’t disappoint in form and functionality. The stainless steel construction ensures the knife stays sharp and durable even after prolonged use.
One of the key advantages of this knife is the half-serrated blade. It offers flexibility for handling various tasks, making it a versatile choice for any survivalist toolkit.
The knife’s ergonomic grip fits comfortably in my hand, and the slip-resistant rubber coating provides additional grip security. Combined with the included military-grade sheath, the knife is always right by my side, ready for action.
The only drawback I’ve noticed during my time with the knife is that the serrated half of the blade can sometimes be a challenge to sharpen. However, I’ve found it easier to hone my skills with some practice.
Pros
✅ Stainless steel construction for durability
✅ Half-serrated blade for versatility
✅ Military-grade sheath for secure storage
Cons
❌ Serrated portion may be difficult to sharpen
SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife- 3.4 Inch
Having spent significant time with the SOG Escape Tactical Folding Knife, I would like to share my experiences with this absolute powerhouse in the realm of survival knives.
The 3.4 Inch serrated edge blade is as versatile as it is robust, allowing quick and efficient cuts. Made of high-quality stainless steel, the blade offers long-lasting sharpness, a feature I found extremely useful during my years of use.
However, what sets this knife apart are its unexpected extras: the glass breaker, the wire stripper, and the line cutter.
These additional tools have proven immensely valuable in emergencies, converting a simple knife into a multi-faceted lifesaver. The ergonomic, hard-anodized 6061-T6 aluminum handle contributes to comfortable handling and use.
Despite the numerous functionalities, the knife’s compact and lightweight design ensures portability without the burden of added Heft.
However, the serrated edge can present sharpening challenges. This isn’t necessarily a deal-breaker, it simply requires extra attention and skill.
Pros
✅ High-quality serrated blade
✅ Emergency tools: glass breaker, wire stripper, line cutter
✅ Comfortable, lightweight design
Cons
❌ Serrated blade may be challenging to sharpen
CIVIVI Mini Praxis Folding Pocket Knife, 2.98″
If you’ve been exploring the EDC knife scene, it’s hard to miss the CIVIVI Mini Praxis Folding Pocket Knife. This pocket dynamo has been part of my outdoor excursions for a considerable time now, and it’s time I share the experiences.
The 2.98″ D2 steel blade first caught my attention – sharp, corrosion-resistant, and easy to sharpen. The compact design of this blade, combined with its sturdiness, gives it an unparalleled advantage in survival scenarios.
The G10 handle is durable, resistant to moisture and temperature changes, and lightweight, ensuring a comfortable grip with calculated heft.
The flipping mechanism, supported by the ceramic ball-bearing pivot construction, offers a smooth one-handed operation, swiftly transforming it from a compact form to a ready-to-use knife.
On the not-so-bright side, the compact size might require some getting used to, especially if you’re used to larger knives. But the versatility and portability of this knife somewhat offset this facet.
Pros
✅ Compact 2.98″ D2 steel blade
✅ Robust G10 handle
✅ Smooth flipping operation
Cons
❌ Might feel smaller than typical survival knives
Best folding survival knife Buying Guide
A folding survival knife should be considered an investment for its durability and functionality. It should rise to the occasion whether you’re navigating through dense forests, scaling mountains, or setting up camp in the wilderness.
Here’s a detailed buying guide to help you make your choice.
Blade Material and Quality
Regarding survival, the blade is the star of the show, and its material speaks volumes about its overall performance. Most quality survival knives will feature either stainless steel or high carbon steel blades.
Stainless steel is notable for its resistance to rust and corrosion, while high carbon steel knives are known for retaining sharp edges and being easily sharpened. Choose a knife with a blade quality suited to maintaining performance in your anticipated environments.
Locking Mechanism
A folding knife’s design and type of locking mechanism are crucial for user safety. A secure locking mechanism ensures the knife stays open while in use and prevents any accidental injuries.
Common types include lock back, liner, and frame lock, each with merits. A reliable locking system should be easy to operate one-handed, balancing reliability and ease of use.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the knife matter, especially when you’re outdoors and every ounce counts. A knife that’s too heavy could become a burden, while one that’s too lightweight may not perform heavier tasks efficiently.
Look for a knife that is compact, easy to carry, fits into your pocket or backpack, and yet robust enough to handle tasks typically required in survival scenarios.
Handle
A quality handle is vital since it determines your grip on the knife, impacting usage safety and effectiveness. Ideally, the handle should be made from a durable material capable of withstanding harsh environments.
It should provide a comfortable, slip-resistant grip, whether wet or dry. Some folding knives come with textured G-10 or Micarta handles, known for their durability and grip in adverse conditions.
Additional Features
While the basics are necessary, additional features can turn a knife from good to exceptional. These may include a pocket clip for secure carry, a lanyard hole to tie the knife to your gear, or a glass breaker for emergencies.
Some knives may also feature multiple blades or tools like a can opener, adapting to various survival scenarios.
Budget
Lastly, your budget plays a significant role in your decision. Expensive doesn’t always equate to better. Plenty of decently priced survival knives are robust, multipurpose, and reliable. While you shouldn’t compromise on quality, try balancing affordability and functionality.
Remember, the best folding survival knife satisfies your specific needs and preferences. This guide aims to give you the knowledge and criteria to make an informed decision that elevates your survival preparedness in the wild.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are folding knives good for survival?
Yes, folding knives are excellent companions for survival situations. They offer a compact, discreet, and portable solution without compromising functionality. Despite their small size, they can perform various tasks such as cutting, carving, crafting, and more. Many folding knives have added features like glass breakers or can openers, further enhancing their utility. Their locking mechanisms also provide safety in use. While they may not handle heavy-duty tasks like fixed-blade knives, folding knives are versatile in any survival gear.
Q2: What survival knife do the Navy Seals use?
The Navy Seals use several types of knives depending on the mission. However, the most notably recognized is the “KA-BAR,” traditionally used since World War II. The modern variant is the “OKC-3S Bayonet,” a heavy-duty knife that serves as a combat knife and a general utility tool. Another favorite is the “SEAL Pup,” a shorter version provided by SOG Specialty Knives. It’s important to note that the knife choice can vary based on personal preference and mission specifics.
Q3: What knife do Army Rangers carry?
Army Rangers carry a variety of knives, but the “Gerber LMF II Infantry Knife” is one of the popular choices. Lauded for its versatility and ruggedness, this knife is built to handle various outdoor survival tasks. It features a sturdy, corrosion-resistant blade, a comfortable glass-filled nylon handle, and a pointed stainless steel butt cap that can be used for emergency glass breaking. The choice may vary depending on the soldier’s preferences and mission requirements.
Q4: What knife does the CIA use?
The CIA doesn’t officially endorse a specific knife or brand. However, some sources suggest operatives often use small, discreet, functional knives like those in the “Spyderco” line. For instance, the “Spyderco Paramilitary 2” is a reliable folding knife with a solid lock, high-quality blade, and ergonomic handle. It’s important to note that agents will likely choose a knife based on their operational needs and personal preferences.
Conclusion:
A folding survival knife is a vital companion for any outdoor enthusiast, hunter, or survivalist. Its compactness, versatility, and utility make it an indispensable tool in many survival scenarios.
While selecting the right one requires careful consideration of various factors—from blade material and locking mechanism to handle comfort and additional features—the effort assures an investment that boosts preparedness for the unpredictable.
Each person’s choice may differ based on their unique requirements and experiences in the wilderness, making the journey to find the perfect folding survival knife a personal adventure.
