Hunting is a thrilling activity that requires a lot of preparation and the right gear. One of the essential tools for any hunter is a hunting knife. A high-quality hunting knife can make all the difference when it comes to skinning, gutting, and butchering game.
When shopping for the best hunting knife, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the blade material. A high-quality blade should be made of durable steel that can hold a sharp edge and withstand heavy use. The blade size and shape are also important, as they can affect the knife’s overall performance and versatility.
Another critical factor to consider is the handle material. A good hunting knife should have a comfortable and secure grip to ensure safe and efficient use. The handle should also be made of durable materials that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
At our publication, we spent countless hours researching and testing ten hunting knives to identify the ones that offer the best performance, durability, and value. We evaluated each knife based on its blade material, size, shape, handle material, and overall design. After rigorous testing, we narrowed down the list to the top five best hunting knives that we believe offer the best performance and value for hunters of all skill levels.
Products Reviewed:
- BG knives Damascus Steel Handmade Knife
- Brillirare Pocket Knife
- FLISSA Hunting Knife
- KNINE OUTDOORS Hunting Deer Knife Set
- DAMASK HUT Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife
- Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Survival Camping Knife
- Ottoza Handmade Damascus Tracker Knife
- OUTDOOR EDGE WildGuide 4-Piece Hunting Knife Set
- BIGCAT ROAR Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife
- Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Knife
- FH KNIVES Damascus Steel Hunting Knife
Best Hunting Knives
We know that finding the right hunting knife can be a daunting task, especially with so many options available on the market. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best hunting knives to help you make an informed decision. Our team has selected these knives based on their durability, versatility, and overall performance. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, our list has something for everyone. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best hunting knives available today.
BG knives Damascus Steel Handmade Knife
If you are looking for a high-quality hunting knife that is versatile and durable, then the BG knives Damascus Steel Handmade Knife is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The blade is made of hand-forged Damascus steel, which is known for its strength and durability.
- The Micarta handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even after prolonged use.
- The knife comes with a genuine leather sheath that allows you to carry it safely and securely on your belt.
Cons
- The knife is relatively heavy, which may make it less suitable for some users.
- The blade may require more maintenance than other knives due to its high carbon content.
- The knife is relatively expensive compared to other hunting knives on the market.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the BG knives Damascus Steel Handmade Knife, and we were impressed with its performance. The blade is exceptionally sharp and retains its edge well, even after heavy use. The Micarta handle is comfortable to grip and minimizes wrist tension, making it ideal for extended use.
One thing to note is that the knife is relatively heavy compared to other hunting knives, which may make it less suitable for some users. Additionally, the blade requires more maintenance than other knives due to its high carbon content, so it’s essential to wipe and dry the blade immediately after use and apply oil or wax after every use.
Overall, the BG knives Damascus Steel Handmade Knife is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality hunting knife that is versatile and durable. While it is relatively expensive compared to other hunting knives on the market, we believe that the knife’s exceptional workmanship and ability make it well worth the investment.
Brillirare Pocket Knife
We highly recommend the Brillirare Pocket Knife for those looking for an affordable, high-quality hunting knife.
Pros
- The blade is made of Japanese High Carbon AUS10 stainless steel, ensuring rust- and corrosion-resistance and long-lasting sharpness.
- The aluminum handle is non-slip and comfortable to use, making it easy to grip for both right- and left-handed users.
- The knife is multifunctional and compact, making it perfect for everyday carry and outdoor activities.
Cons
- The knife is dishwasher safe, but hand washing is recommended to ensure longevity.
- The blade is only 2.6 inches long, which may not be suitable for some hunting tasks.
- Some users may find the knife to be too lightweight for their liking.
We were impressed with the quality of the Brillirare Pocket Knife. The blade is incredibly sharp and precise, making it easy to cut through even tough materials. The aluminum handle is comfortable to hold and provides a good grip, even when wet. We also appreciate the glass breaker on the handle, which could come in handy in emergency situations.
Overall, we think the Brillirare Pocket Knife is an excellent choice for those in need of a reliable hunting knife. Its compact size and affordable price make it a great option for both experienced hunters and those just starting out.
FLISSA Hunting Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable hunting knife, the FLISSA Hunting Knife is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The knife is incredibly sharp and durable, making it perfect for hunting, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- The rubber handle provides a comfortable and non-slip grip, even in wet conditions.
- The knife comes with a sheath, knife sharpener, and fire starter, making it a great all-in-one package for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cons
- The knife is on the heavier side, which may not be ideal for those who prefer lighter knives.
- The blade is quite thick, which may make it difficult to perform more intricate tasks.
- The sawback feature on the blade may not be useful for everyone.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the FLISSA Hunting Knife during a weekend camping trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The knife is incredibly sharp, and we were able to easily cut through thick branches and rope. The rubber handle provided a comfortable and secure grip, even when our hands were wet.
One thing to note is that the knife is on the heavier side, which may not be ideal for those who prefer lighter knives. However, we found that the weight actually made the knife feel more sturdy and durable.
The blade is quite thick, which may make it difficult to perform more intricate tasks. However, for general outdoor activities like hunting and camping, the thickness of the blade is actually an advantage.
The sawback feature on the blade may not be useful for everyone, but we found it to be a nice added bonus. We were able to use it to saw through a fallen branch, which saved us the trouble of having to find a separate saw.
Overall, we highly recommend the FLISSA Hunting Knife for anyone in need of a reliable and durable outdoor knife. With its sharp blade, comfortable handle, and all-in-one package, it’s a great choice for hunters, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
KNINE OUTDOORS Hunting Deer Knife Set
If you’re looking for a complete hunting knife set with everything you need to process game, the KNINE OUTDOORS Hunting Deer Knife Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes 12 pieces, including a variety of knives, a bone saw, a ribcage spreader, and a cutting board, so you’ll have everything you need to process game in the field.
- The handles are designed for non-slip use and are ergonomically designed for comfort and concealment.
- The blades are made of 7cr17mov steel and have been heat-treated seven times for maximum hardness and durability.
Cons
- Some reviewers have noted that the knives are not very sharp out of the box and require sharpening before use.
- The gut/skin knife may dull quickly after processing a few animals.
- The included sharpener may not be effective at sharpening the knives.
We recently used the KNINE OUTDOORS Hunting Deer Knife Set to process a deer, and we were impressed with the variety of knives included in the set. The ergonomic handles were comfortable to use, and the non-slip design made it easy to maintain a grip, even when working with wet or slippery materials.
However, we did find that some of the knives were not as sharp as we would have liked out of the box, and we had to spend some time sharpening them before use. Additionally, the gut/skin knife did dull fairly quickly after processing a few animals, and we found that the included sharpener was not very effective at restoring the blade’s edge.
Overall, we think the KNINE OUTDOORS Hunting Deer Knife Set is a good option for hunters who want a complete set of knives for processing game in the field. However, be prepared to spend some time sharpening the knives before use, and consider investing in a separate sharpener if you want to maintain the blades’ sharpness over time.
DAMASK HUT Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife
If you’re looking for a high-quality hunting knife that is both durable and stylish, the DAMASK HUT Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The blade is composed of 1080 and 15N20, folded 5 times, starting from 9-layers into a ladder pattern of 288 layers of Damascus steel, making it solid, sharp, and appealing.
- The ergonomic walnut wood handle provides better grip and comfort, and the strong metal safety guard adds durability and style.
- This survival knife is versatile and can be used for hunting, skinning, fishing, camping, wood cutting, hiking, and more.
Cons
- The knife requires hand washing, which may not be as convenient as machine washing.
- Some users may find the knife’s size to be too large for their needs.
- The price may be higher than some other hunting knives on the market.
We recently had the opportunity to use the DAMASK HUT Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife on a hunting trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The blade is razor sharp and held up well against heavy use, making it ideal for a variety of hunting tasks. The walnut wood handle is comfortable to grip, even for extended periods of time, and the metal safety guard adds an extra layer of protection.
One of the standout features of this knife is its versatility. We were able to use it for a variety of tasks, from skinning and cleaning game to cutting through thick branches and rope. It’s also a great option for camping and other outdoor activities.
Overall, we highly recommend the DAMASK HUT Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife to anyone in the market for a high-quality hunting knife that is both stylish and functional. It’s a great investment that will last for years to come.
Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Survival Camping Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable hunting knife that can handle all your outdoor needs, the Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Survival Camping Knife is a great choice.
Pros
- The razor-sharp 1095 high carbon steel blade easily cuts through wood, paper, plastic, and aluminum without going blunt.
- The black G10 handle is designed for functionality, making it easy to grip and control the knife during use.
- The K-Sheath with upgraded Tek Lok and Lanyard hole makes it easy to carry the knife safely everywhere you go.
Cons
- The knife is quite heavy, weighing 2.4 pounds, which may be uncomfortable for some users.
- The blade length of 6.92 inches may be too long for some hunting tasks.
- The knife requires hand washing, which may be inconvenient for some users.
We’ve been using the Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Survival Camping Knife for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The blade is incredibly sharp and can easily cut through various materials, making it an excellent tool for hunting, camping, and other outdoor activities.
The handle is designed for functionality, providing a comfortable grip and maximum control during use. We also appreciate the K-Sheath with upgraded Tek Lok and Lanyard hole, which makes it easy to carry the knife safely everywhere you go.
However, the knife is quite heavy, weighing 2.4 pounds, which may be uncomfortable for some users. Additionally, the blade length of 6.92 inches may be too long for some hunting tasks. Lastly, the knife requires hand washing, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality hunting knife that can handle all your outdoor needs, the Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Survival Camping Knife is an excellent choice.
Ottoza Handmade Damascus Tracker Knife
If you’re looking for a durable hunting knife, the Ottoza Handmade Damascus Tracker Knife is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Damascus steel blade is sharp and durable, making it ideal for hunting, camping, and survival situations.
- The ram horn handle is comfortable to grip and designed with attention to detail, making it a beautiful piece of art as well.
- The top grain leather sheath is handmade using premium, hard cow-hide leather, and is designed for right-hand draw horizontal tracker knife sheath to be worn to the back of the belt as a scout carry.
Cons
- The handle color may slightly vary because it is a natural material.
- The knife doesn’t come with a sharpening stone or fire starter, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.
- The knife may not be as strong along the blade as some other hunting knives.
We recently had the opportunity to use the Ottoza Handmade Damascus Tracker Knife on a hunting trip, and we were impressed by its performance. The blade was sharp and durable, making it easy to skin and gut our game. The ram horn handle was also comfortable to grip, even after several hours of use.
One thing to keep in mind is that the handle color may slightly vary because it is a natural material. Additionally, the knife doesn’t come with a sharpening stone or fire starter, so you’ll need to purchase those separately.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality hunting knife that’s both functional and beautiful, the Ottoza Handmade Damascus Tracker Knife is definitely worth considering.
OUTDOOR EDGE WildGuide 4-Piece Hunting Knife Set
If you’re looking for a reliable, all-in-one hunting knife set, the OUTDOOR EDGE WildGuide 4-Piece Hunting Knife Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The knives are razor-sharp and well-balanced, making them easy to use for field dressing and game processing.
- The T-handle bone saw is made from durable 65Mn spring steel and has been triple ground for maximum cutting power.
- The rubberized, nonslip TPR handles provide a comfortable and secure grip, even in slippery conditions.
Cons
- The blades may not stay sharp for as long as some other hunting knives on the market.
- The sheath may be a bit tight for some users, making it difficult to remove the knives quickly.
- The set may be a bit heavy for some users who prefer a more lightweight option.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the OUTDOOR EDGE WildGuide 4-Piece Hunting Knife Set, and we were impressed with its overall performance. The knives are incredibly sharp and well-balanced, which made field dressing and game processing a breeze. We especially appreciated the T-handle bone saw, which was incredibly effective at quartering game.
The rubberized, nonslip TPR handles were also a nice touch, as they provided a comfortable and secure grip, even when our hands were wet or slippery. The bright orange color of the handles also made them highly visible, which was helpful when we were working in low-light conditions.
While the blades may not stay sharp for as long as some other hunting knives on the market, we found that they were easy to sharpen when needed. The sheath was a bit tight for our liking, but we appreciated that it kept the knives securely in place.
Overall, we would recommend the OUTDOOR EDGE WildGuide 4-Piece Hunting Knife Set to anyone in need of a reliable, all-in-one hunting knife set. It’s a bit heavier than some other options on the market, but the quality of the knives and the T-handle bone saw make it worth considering.
BIGCAT ROAR Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife
If you’re looking for a hunting knife that’s built to last, then the BIGCAT ROAR Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 288 layers of Damascus steel make this knife incredibly durable and long-lasting.
- The knife is designed for multipurpose use, making it perfect for hunting, camping, hiking, and more.
- The walnut wood handle is ergonomic and comfortable to grip, even during extended use.
Cons
- The knife is relatively heavy, weighing in at 8.2 oz.
- The blade length of 5” may be too short for some users.
- The handmade leather sheath may not be as durable as some users would like.
We’ve been using this knife for a while now, and we’ve been really impressed with its overall performance. The blade is incredibly sharp and has excellent edge retention, even after extended use. The walnut wood handle is also very comfortable to grip, making it easy to use for extended periods of time.
One of the things we really like about this knife is its versatility. It’s designed for multipurpose use, so it’s perfect for hunting, camping, hiking, and more. Whether you’re skinning a deer or chopping firewood, this knife can handle it all.
That being said, there are a few downsides to this knife. It’s relatively heavy, weighing in at 8.2 oz, which may be too heavy for some users. Additionally, the blade length of 5” may be too short for some users who prefer longer blades. Finally, the handmade leather sheath may not be as durable as some users would like.
Overall, we think the BIGCAT ROAR Handmade Damascus Hunting Knife is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile hunting knife. It’s built to last, and it performs exceptionally well in a variety of situations. If you’re in the market for a new hunting knife, we highly recommend giving this one a try.
Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Knife
If you’re looking for a reliable hunting knife, the Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Knife is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The D2 steel blade is razor-sharp and can easily cut through wood, paper, plastic, and aluminum without going blunt.
- The G10 handle is designed for functionality and offers maximum control in use due to its smart design.
- The K-Sheath of your full tang knife features an upgraded Tek Lok + Lanyard hole, making it easy to attach to your belt and carry everywhere.
Cons
- The blade may require some maintenance as D2 steel does take a bit of maintenance.
- The knife may be a bit heavy for some people.
- The price point may be a bit high for some buyers.
Our team has used this knife and found it to be a great addition to our hunting gear. The blade is sharp and durable, and the handle is comfortable to hold, offering maximum control in use. The K-Sheath is also a great addition, making it easy to carry the knife around.
One thing to keep in mind is that the blade may require some maintenance, as D2 steel does take a bit of maintenance. Additionally, the knife may be a bit heavy for some people, so it may not be the best option for those who prefer a lighter knife. However, if you’re looking for a reliable and durable hunting knife that can easily cut through various materials, the Holtzman’s Gorilla Survival Bushcraft Knife is definitely worth considering.
FH KNIVES Damascus Steel Hunting Knife
If you’re looking for a high-quality hunting knife that is both functional and visually appealing, the FH KNIVES Damascus Steel Hunting Knife is a great option. We highly recommend this knife for any outdoor enthusiast who needs a reliable tool for hunting, camping, or other outdoor activities.
Pros
- The FH KNIVES Damascus Steel Hunting Knife is made from high-quality damascus steel that is both solid and sharp, making it perfect for any cutting task.
- The knife is designed and made by knife experts, ensuring that it is a masterpiece gift that will impress and serve your loved one for years to come.
- The ergonomic handle is made of walnut wood and is designed with detail attention to offer comfortable grip and control of hand, making it easy to use for extended periods of time.
Cons
- The knife is quite heavy, which may make it difficult to carry for some users.
- The sheath that comes with the knife is not of the highest quality, which may be a concern for some users.
- The knife is quite expensive, which may be a barrier for some users who are on a tight budget.
Overall, we think that the FH KNIVES Damascus Steel Hunting Knife is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and high-quality hunting knife. The knife is solid, sharp, and visually appealing, making it a great addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s collection. Whether you’re hunting, camping, or just need a reliable cutting tool for everyday use, this knife is sure to impress.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best hunting knife, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together this buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
Blade Material
The blade material is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a hunting knife. A good hunting knife should have a blade made from high-quality steel that is durable and corrosion-resistant. Look for blades made from stainless steel or high-carbon steel, as they are both excellent choices.
Blade Shape
The blade shape is another important factor to consider. There are many different blade shapes to choose from, each with its own unique advantages. Some popular blade shapes include drop point, clip point, and tanto. Consider what type of hunting you will be doing and choose a blade shape that is best suited for the task.
Blade Length
The blade length is also an important consideration. A longer blade may be better for larger game, while a shorter blade may be more suitable for smaller game. Consider your hunting style and the type of game you will be hunting when choosing a blade length.
Handle Material
The handle material is another important factor to consider. Look for a handle that is comfortable to hold and provides a good grip, even when wet. Some popular handle materials include wood, bone, and synthetic materials like G10 and Micarta.
Other Features
There are a few other features to consider when choosing a hunting knife, including the blade grind, blade thickness, and overall weight of the knife. Look for a knife that is well-balanced and easy to handle, with a blade that is sharp and easy to maintain.
By considering these factors when choosing a hunting knife, you can find a product that is well-suited to your needs and will provide years of reliable service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best blade style for a hunting knife?
When it comes to blade styles for hunting knives, there are a few options to choose from. The most popular blade styles are drop point, clip point, and skinning blades.
A drop point blade is a versatile option that can be used for a variety of tasks, including skinning and field dressing. A clip point blade is a good choice for precision cutting and piercing, making it a great option for hunting small game. Skinning blades are specifically designed for skinning animals, and they have a curved shape that makes it easier to remove the hide.
Ultimately, the best blade style for a hunting knife depends on personal preference and the type of hunting you plan to do.
Which is the safest type of knife hunting?
When it comes to safety, fixed blade knives are generally considered to be the safest option for hunting. They are more durable and reliable than folding knives, and they don’t have any moving parts that could potentially fail or cause injury.
However, it’s important to remember that any knife can be dangerous if not used properly. Always handle your hunting knife with care, and make sure to keep it sharp and well-maintained to prevent accidents.
What is the best blade length for hunting?
The ideal blade length for a hunting knife depends on the type of hunting you plan to do. For general-purpose hunting, a blade length of 3-5 inches is usually sufficient.
However, if you plan to hunt larger game or need to make longer cuts, a longer blade may be necessary. Just keep in mind that a longer blade can be more difficult to control, so it’s important to choose a blade length that you feel comfortable handling.
Overall, the best blade length for a hunting knife is one that feels comfortable in your hand and meets your specific hunting needs.
