Hunting knives are helpful tools for outdoor activities. Their main uses in hunting include killing, skinning, and processing game to prepare it for later use. Whether you aim to cook a rabbit pie or process raw game for future meals, your hunting knife will come in handy....For More CONTINUE THE FULL READING▶▶
Although named as ‘hunting’ knives, their uses extend far beyond hunting wild animals. You can use this type of knife for a range of tasks in the wilderness, including shelter building and camping.
To ensure you get the most out of your outdoor activities, it’s important to choose the right hunting knife. Below, we have covered some of the most important things to consider before searching through the available American knives for hunting and settling on the perfect one.
Blade Type
Hunting knives are available with multiple blade types. Two common blade types include the drop point and clip point blades, and each one offers unique benefits.
Drop point blades have a curved edge and a strong, sharp point, making them best suited for cutting and field dressing. Clip point blades have a sharp yet delicate point, providing the perfect option for precise cutting. Due to its delicate nature, a clip point blade may not be suitable for heavy-duty activities.
Blade Material and Length
Most hunting knives are manufactured with either stainless steel or carbon steel. Either material is suitable for endless wilderness practice and outdoor exercise with your dog or solo hunting sessions, but there are slight differences to be aware of.
Stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and highly durable, allowing for years of daily outdoor fun. Carbon steel is also durable and maintains a sharp edge, even with extensive use. However, when comparing stainless steel with carbon steel, the latter is more prone to rust.
The ideal blade length for hunting-related activities is between three and five inches. However, you might want to purchase a knife with a slightly longer blade if you enjoy hunting larger animals.
Handle Material
Although it’s the knife blade that does all the cutting and slicing when you’re undergoing wilderness activities, the handle of the knife is just as important. It’s the part of the knife that you grip, so it needs to be comfortable, durable, and grippy.
Usually, hunting knife handles are made from G10, wood, rubber, or polymer. G10 is a moisture-resistant, lightweight material. Wooden handles are more traditional in appearance but tend to wear down more easily and are more prone to moisture damage than handles made out of G10.
Rubber or polymer materials are comfortable, flexible, and often non-slip, making them suitable for a wide range of hunting and camping activities.
Knife Sheath
The sheath of a hunting knife plays a vital role in your safety. It provides a protective layer over the sharp edge of the knife’s blade to prevent cuts and scrapes when you’re carrying your knife around on your person during outdoor activities.
Choose a hunting knife that has a strong and durable sheath that won’t wear away and risk you from getting an injury. Ideally, your chosen knife should have a secure retention mechanism to keep the sheath in place, even when you’re running, jumping, and crawling.
