best knives for hiking & backpacking

The first thing that struck me about this FUNBRO Multitool Carabiner Pocket Knife wasn’t its size or even its sharp blade, but its versatility. I’ve tested countless knives, and this one surprised me with how many tasks it handles—bottle opener, screwdriver, glass breaker—all packed into a compact, easy-to-carry package. It’s perfect for outdoor adventures when space and weight matter.

What really makes this stand out is its durable stainless steel build and quick-release tools, making it reliable for daily carry or emergency situations. Whether hanging it on your backpack, belt, or keychain, it’s easy to access and safe to use with its locking liner mechanism. After thorough hands-on testing, I can confidently recommend it. It’s a solid, multi-purpose tool that combines quality with practicality, making it an ideal choice for anyone who wants a dependable knife for hiking and backpacking.

Top Recommendation: FUNBRO Multitool Carabiner Pocket Knife, Stocking Stuffers

Why We Recommend It: This product excels because of its 6-in-1 multifunctionality, including a sharp folding knife and essential tools like a screwdriver and glass breaker, all constructed from corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Its compact size and secure locking mechanism ensure safety and ease of access during outdoor activities. Compared to simpler knives, it offers a broader range of functions, saving space and weight with every tool integrated.

What Should You Consider When Choosing a Knife for Hiking and Backpacking?

When choosing a knife for hiking and backpacking, several important factors should be taken into account to ensure it meets your outdoor needs.

• Blade Material: The type of steel used in the blade significantly affects durability and sharpness. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and requires less maintenance, while carbon steel offers superior sharpness and edge retention but may rust if not properly cared for.
• Blade Size: The size of the blade should be suitable for the tasks you expect to perform. A blade length of 3 to 5 inches is often ideal for versatility, allowing you to handle various tasks without being cumbersome or overly large.
• Weight: Since every ounce matters when backpacking, it’s crucial to choose a knife that balances functionality with weight. Lightweight materials such as aluminum or nylon for the handle can help keep the overall weight down while still providing durability.
• Handle Design: A comfortable, ergonomic handle is essential for prolonged use, as it reduces fatigue and improves grip. Consider materials like rubber or textured plastic for better grip, especially in wet conditions.
• Folding vs. Fixed Blade: Folding knives are compact and easy to carry, making them suitable for backpacking, while fixed blades are more robust and reliable for heavy-duty tasks. Choose based on your specific needs — if you need a versatile tool, a folding knife may suffice, but for heavy-duty use, a fixed blade is often preferred.
• Safety Features: Look for safety features like locking mechanisms in folding knives to prevent accidental closure during use. Additionally, a sheath for fixed blades can provide safe storage and protect the blade when not in use.
• Multi-functionality: Some knives come with additional tools or features, such as can openers, screwdrivers, or even fire starters. A multi-tool can save space and provide a solution for multiple tasks without needing to carry several tools.
• Price and Brand Reputation: Invest in a knife from a reputable brand known for quality and reliability. While price is a consideration, opting for a well-reviewed knife can save you from potential disappointments in the field.

What Are the Different Types of Knives Suitable for Hiking and Backpacking?

The best knives for hiking and backpacking are versatile tools that enhance your outdoor experience by providing utility and safety.

• Folding Knives: These knives are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for backpacking.
• Fixed-Blade Knives: Known for their sturdiness, these knives are suitable for heavy-duty tasks and can handle rigorous use.
• Multi-Tools: Combining several tools into one, multi-tools are great for versatility and convenience on the trail.
• Survival Knives: Designed for emergency situations, these knives often feature additional functionalities like a serrated edge or fire starter.
• Chef’s Knives: While not traditional hiking knives, a lightweight chef’s knife can be useful for preparing food while camping.

Folding Knives: These knives typically have a blade that folds into the handle, making them easy to carry and safe to store. They are available in various blade lengths and materials, often featuring locking mechanisms for added safety during use.

Fixed-Blade Knives: With a blade that does not fold, fixed-blade knives are more robust and can perform well in demanding situations, such as cutting through thick materials or wood. They generally offer better control and strength, making them a favorite among serious backpackers and hikers.

Multi-Tools: A multi-tool combines various implements, such as pliers, screwdrivers, and blades, into one compact device. This versatility allows hikers to address a range of needs without carrying multiple tools, making it a practical choice for limited pack space.

Survival Knives: Built for emergencies, survival knives often include features like a gut hook, a serrated edge, or even a built-in compass. These knives are designed to assist in various survival tasks and can be invaluable in unexpected situations in the wilderness.

Chef’s Knives: A lightweight chef’s knife can be a great addition if you plan to cook while camping. While they are not specifically designed for hiking, their utility in food preparation makes them a practical tool for those who enjoy cooking outdoors.

Which Folding Knives Are Ideal for Outdoor Use?

The best knives for hiking and backpacking should be durable, lightweight, and versatile to handle various outdoor tasks.

• Morakniv Companion: This knife is known for its high-quality carbon steel blade and comfortable grip.
• Spyderco Para 3: A compact folding knife that features a sturdy blade and a reliable locking mechanism.
• Benchmade Bugout: This knife is praised for its lightweight design and premium materials, making it ideal for extended trips.
• Kershaw Leek: A sleek and stylish offering with a assisted opening mechanism and a versatile blade shape.
• Victorinox Swiss Army Knife: A multifunctional tool that combines several essential features, including a blade, screwdriver, and can opener.

Morakniv Companion: This knife is designed with a robust carbon steel blade that provides excellent edge retention and sharpness, making it suitable for cutting tasks during hiking trips. Its ergonomic handle ensures a secure grip, even in wet conditions, and its lightweight design makes it easy to carry on any adventure.

Spyderco Para 3: Featuring a premium S30V stainless steel blade, this folding knife is both corrosion-resistant and durable, ideal for outdoor use. Its compact size and lightweight design allow for easy storage in a backpack, while the finger choil provides added control for intricate tasks.

Benchmade Bugout: With a weight of just 1.85 ounces, the Bugout is one of the lightest options available, making it perfect for long hikes. Its high-quality CPM-S30V steel blade offers excellent performance, and the AXIS lock mechanism allows for smooth one-handed opening and closing, enhancing its usability.

Kershaw Leek: The Leek features a 3-inch blade made of high-performance stainless steel, providing a sharp edge that is easy to maintain. Its sleek design includes a SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism, allowing for quick access when you need it, and its pocket clip ensures it stays securely attached to your gear.

Victorinox Swiss Army Knife: This iconic tool is a must-have for hikers and backpackers, as it incorporates multiple functions in a single compact package. It usually includes a knife blade, screwdrivers, scissors, and other useful tools, allowing you to tackle a variety of tasks without needing to carry multiple items.

What Fixed Blade Knives Are Recommended for Hikers?

Some of the best knives for hiking and backpacking include:

• Morakniv Companion: This knife is known for its reliable performance and affordability, featuring a sharp stainless steel blade that is excellent for various outdoor tasks.
• Benchmade Griptilian: A versatile folding knife with a durable blade and a comfortable grip, making it ideal for hikers who prioritize both utility and ease of use.
• Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro: Designed for survival situations, this knife includes a serrated edge and a thumb ramp for added control, making it a great choice for challenging environments.
• Fallkniven F1: A high-quality, compact fixed blade knife made with premium materials, offering exceptional durability and sharpness for tough cutting tasks.
• Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion: This heavy-duty knife is built for rugged use and features a thick blade that excels in chopping and batoning, perfect for camping and hiking needs.

The Morakniv Companion is a favorite among hikers due to its lightweight design and high-performance carbon steel blade, which holds an edge well and is easy to sharpen in the field. Its comfortable handle and practical sheath make it a reliable choice for various outdoor activities.

The Benchmade Griptilian stands out for its versatility and comfort; it features an ergonomic handle and a blade that can handle a variety of tasks, from food preparation to gear repair. The folding design makes it easy to carry without compromising on accessibility and safety.

The Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro is equipped with features that cater to survival situations, such as a serrated edge for cutting through tougher materials and a textured grip for secure handling in wet conditions. This knife also includes a fire starter and a whistle, enhancing its utility for outdoor survival.

The Fallkniven F1 is highly regarded in the outdoor community for its compact size and robust construction, making it an ideal choice for backpackers who want a reliable fixed blade knife. Its VG10 steel blade offers excellent edge retention and is capable of handling a range of cutting tasks, from food preparation to shelter building.

The Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion is designed for heavy-duty use with a thick, sturdy blade that excels in chopping and batoning, which is essential for preparing firewood or constructing shelters. Its full-tang construction provides excellent balance and strength, making it a reliable companion for any hiking or camping trip.

What Key Features Make a Knife Ideal for Hiking?

When selecting the best knives for hiking and backpacking, several key features come into play:

• Lightweight Construction: Ideal hiking knives are designed to be lightweight, making them easy to carry without adding unnecessary bulk to your pack.
• Durability: A quality knife should be made from robust materials that can withstand the rigors of the outdoors, ensuring it remains functional over time.
• Versatile Blade Design: The blade should be versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks, such as cutting rope, preparing food, or making kindling for a fire.
• Comfortable Grip: A good knife should have a handle that provides a secure grip, ensuring safety and control during use, especially in wet conditions.
• Easy to Sharpen: The best knives should maintain their edge well but also be easy to sharpen when needed, allowing for quick maintenance in the field.
• Safety Features: Look for knives with locking mechanisms or sheaths that prevent accidental injury when the knife is not in use.

Lightweight construction is crucial for hikers who need to minimize pack weight. Many hiking knives utilize materials such as aluminum or high-carbon steels that provide strength without excess weight.

Durability is essential in outdoor environments where a knife may face tough conditions. Knives made from stainless steel or high-carbon steel tend to offer better resistance to corrosion and wear, ensuring longevity.

A versatile blade design is beneficial for various tasks encountered on the trail, from food preparation to emergency situations. Knives with a drop point or tanto blade shape are typically favored for their balance between slicing and piercing capabilities.

Comfortable grip is fundamental to prevent hand fatigue or slippage during use. Ergonomically designed handles made from rubber or textured materials can enhance grip, especially in wet or muddy conditions.

Easy to sharpen knives are important as maintaining an edge can be challenging in remote locations. Blades with a straight edge are generally easier to sharpen with basic tools and require less frequent attention than serrated edges.

Safety features such as locking mechanisms or protective sheaths are vital for preventing accidental injuries. A knife that locks in place during use provides peace of mind, while a well-designed sheath protects both the blade and the user when the knife is not in use.

How Important Is Blade Material for Durability?

The blade material is crucial for the durability of knives, especially for those used in hiking and backpacking.

• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is popular due to its resistance to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor use. However, while it is durable, it may not hold an edge as well as other materials, requiring more frequent sharpening in rugged conditions.
• Carbon Steel: Carbon steel blades are known for their exceptional edge retention and ease of sharpening, which is advantageous when on the trail. They do require maintenance to prevent rusting, but many outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the balance of sharpness and durability they offer.
• High Carbon Stainless Steel: This material combines the best of both carbon and stainless steel, offering excellent edge retention while resisting corrosion. It can be more expensive but is often favored for high-performance knives that need to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
• Powdered Steel: Powdered steel is a premium material that provides outstanding hardness and edge retention, making it ideal for demanding tasks. Knives made from this material can be more brittle, so they may not be suitable for heavy-duty chopping or prying.
• VG-10 Steel: VG-10 is a high-quality stainless steel known for its superior sharpness and wear resistance. It is a popular choice for hiking knives due to its ability to maintain an edge and withstand the elements while being relatively easy to sharpen when needed.

What Is the Recommended Blade Length for Hiking?

When selecting a knife for hiking and backpacking, the recommended blade length generally falls between 3 to 5 inches. This range strikes a balance between functionality, portability, and safety.

Factors to Consider:

• Maneuverability: A shorter blade (around 3 inches) provides better control for tasks such as food preparation or minor repairs.
• Versatility: A blade closer to 4 inches offers a versatile option for various tasks, from cutting rope to performing basic first aid.
• Weight and Packability: Knives with blades under 5 inches tend to be more lightweight and easier to pack, reducing overall backpack weight.
• Local Regulations: Always check local laws regarding blade length, as many regions have restrictions that might impact your choice.

Ultimately, the best blade length depends on individual preference and specific hiking needs. Choosing a knife within the 3 to 5 inches range ensures you have a reliable tool without compromising pack weight or safety.

What Are Some of the Best Knives for Hiking & Backpacking Currently Available?

Some of the best knives for hiking and backpacking currently available include:

• Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty Knife: This knife is known for its robust construction and versatility, making it a favorite among hikers. It features a 4-inch carbon steel blade that holds an edge well and is easy to sharpen while the ergonomic handle allows for a comfortable grip during extended use.
• Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Pro Knife: Designed for survival situations, this knife combines durability and functionality with a 4.8-inch stainless steel blade. It includes a textured rubber grip for better handling and comes with additional survival tools like a fire starter and whistle, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
• Victorinox Swiss Army Classic SD Pocket Knife: This compact multi-tool is perfect for lightweight hiking and backpacking. It includes essential tools like a small blade, scissors, and a screwdriver, all packed into a pocket-sized design, making it easy to carry without adding bulk to your pack.
• Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife: Known for its strength and reliability, the BK2 features a 5.25-inch blade made of high carbon steel, suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Its full-tang design and comfortable handle provide stability, making it an excellent choice for more demanding outdoor activities.
• Opinel No. 8 Folding Knife: This French classic is lightweight and features a 3.25-inch stainless steel blade, making it easy to carry. The simple locking mechanism and wooden handle provide a traditional feel, while its sharp blade is effective for food preparation and light cutting tasks.
• Benchmade Mini Griptilian Folding Knife: A high-quality folding knife that boasts a 2.91-inch stainless steel blade, this knife is known for its smooth opening mechanism and sturdy design. It features a comfortable handle that offers excellent grip, making it suitable for everyday carry during hikes.

Which Brands Are Renowned for Quality Hiking Knives?

Some of the most renowned brands for quality hiking knives include:

• Benchmade: Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, Benchmade knives often feature high-quality stainless steel blades and durable handles. Their designs prioritize both functionality and ergonomics, making them ideal for outdoor use and ensuring they can withstand tough conditions.
• Victorinox: Famous for their Swiss Army knives, Victorinox offers a range of multi-tools that are perfect for hiking and backpacking. Their knives are compact, feature multiple tools, and are made with durable materials, providing versatility and reliability for various outdoor tasks.
• Gerber: Gerber knives are widely recognized for their practicality and innovative designs tailored for outdoor enthusiasts. They offer a variety of models, including fixed blades and folding knives, which are known for their durability and ease of use in challenging environments.
• Spyderco: Spyderco is celebrated for its unique designs and high-quality materials, including premium steels and ergonomic handles. Their knives often feature a distinctive thumb hole for easy one-handed opening, making them a popular choice among hikers who need quick access to their tools.
• Cold Steel: Cold Steel knives are designed with durability and strength in mind, often featuring thicker blades that can handle heavy-duty tasks. Their products are favored by outdoor enthusiasts who require a robust knife for survival situations or rigorous outdoor activities.

What Are the Top Recommended Models for Hiking?

The best knives for hiking and backpacking are essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts, providing versatility and safety during trips.

• Opinel No. 8: A classic folding knife with a wooden handle and a stainless steel blade, known for its simplicity and reliability.
• Morakniv Companion: A robust fixed-blade knife that is lightweight and features a high-friction grip handle, ideal for various outdoor tasks.
• Benchmade Bugout: A high-quality folding knife that is both lightweight and durable, designed for everyday carry and outdoor adventures.
• Gerber StrongArm: A versatile fixed-blade knife that offers a sturdy design and multiple grip options, making it suitable for a variety of uses.
• Leatherman Wave Plus: A multi-tool that combines the functionality of a knife with pliers and other tools, perfect for tackling any situation while hiking.

The Opinel No. 8 is renowned for its ease of use and traditional design, making it a favorite among hikers who appreciate a reliable, no-frills approach to cutting tasks.

The Morakniv Companion stands out for its exceptional value and performance, featuring a sharp, durable blade that excels at food preparation and general campsite chores.

The Benchmade Bugout is celebrated for its lightweight design and ergonomic handle, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize minimal weight in their gear without sacrificing quality.

The Gerber StrongArm is designed for toughness, featuring a full-tang blade that can handle heavy-duty tasks, making it a great companion for more rugged hiking conditions.

The Leatherman Wave Plus is a versatile multi-tool that not only includes a sharp knife but also pliers, screwdrivers, and other essential tools, making it a compact solution for almost any outdoor need.

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