Survival knives: in what situation can they be used?

When we talk about survival knives, we tend to picture a soldier on a mission in the wild. This term indeed appeared in the military field and designated an imposing knife with a suede handle. Today, thanks to its design, solidity and performance, it has become the favorite knife of hikers and survivalists. The enthusiasm is such that models have multiplied in recent years. Now, the market offers survival knives of different blades, sizes and shapes. But the question is: what uses are they really intended for?

Survival knives, an outdoor knife with sophisticated features

The survival knife is part of the large family of outdoor knives. And of the entire range, it is certainly the heaviest category. It also comes in different forms, but what sets it apart are especially its outstanding features. Already in terms of design, it features a refined and measured aesthetic side that represents the unstable balance between a simple pocket tool and a formidable weapon. This is the reason why it is now an essential ally for Trekking enthusiasts, hikers and explorers in hostile environments.

Still regarding the design, a survival knife can feature a fixed blade or a flexible blade. And while switchblade variants prove to be compact and manageable, fixed blade models demonstrate greater performance. As for the composition of the blade in question, it can be made of stainless steel or carbon steel with a high chromium content. The second option is often the most appreciated by collectors given that carbon steel shows resistance to rust and wear. The blade of a survival knife can also be smooth or serrated. As for the handle, generally it is made of plastic, wood, metal or covered with paracord.

In terms of practicality, some models come with a survival whistle, a compass and a fire starter. These are the most favored by forest camping enthusiasts.

The survival knife: a versatile use

While hunting knives prove to be versatile by adapting to different uses, the survival knife is no exception. Everything depends on the blade design. Models that feature a smooth blade, for example, prove more efficient in all that concerns woodworking. They are able to cut wood shavings, scrape antlers or cut hard branches. They can also prove efficient when it comes to digging small holes in the ground to collect worms for fishing.

The serrated blade survival knives, on the other hand, have impressive efficiency when it comes to cutting fabric. They can also be used to cut branches since they retain their sharpness better than smooth blade models.

It is important to note that the handle of survival knives, especially models designed in wood and metal, can serve as a mallet. As sturdy as a hammer, it can be of great help for pitching a tent. On some survival knives, the handle may have a hollow design, which allows for storing objects. Sometimes they even come equipped with a glass breaker.