4 tips for choosing your survival knife

A survival knife is an essential tool for any outdoor adventure, whether hiking, camping or emergency situations. It must meet specific criteria to guarantee safety and efficiency in hostile environments. Here are four essential tips for choosing the right survival knife for every situation.

1. Prioritise blade strength

The choice of blade material is essential to ensure the robustness and durability of the survival knife. Stainless steel blades offer greater resistance to corrosion, which is crucial in wet or marine environments. However, carbon steel, while requiring regular maintenance to prevent rust, offers better cutting performance. It's also easier to sharpen, which can be vital in the great outdoors. A sturdy blade will withstand the most demanding tasks without breaking, guaranteeing the tool's reliability.

2. Opt for an ergonomic handle

The ergonomics of the handle play a crucial role in the long-term use of a survival knife. A well-designed handle should provide a firm, comfortable grip, even when hands are wet or cold. Materials such as rubber and G10 are often preferred for their non-slip properties and resistance to wear. An ergonomic handle minimises hand fatigue and ensures greater precision in delicate tasks.

The design of the handle should also incorporate a guard to prevent the hand from slipping over the blade during intense use. Some knives have a hole for a lanyard, allowing the knife to be attached to the wrist to prevent it being lost in the event of a fall. Finally, the handle must be strong enough to withstand knocks, but also give the knife good balance. This guarantees easy, efficient handling in all conditions.

3. Consider the ideal length of the blade

The length of the blade is another essential criterion when choosing a survival knife. A blade that is too short can limit the knife's ability to perform certain tasks, such as cutting branches or preparing food. On the other hand, a blade that is too long can make the knife difficult to handle, particularly for tasks requiring precision. The ideal length is generally between 10 and 15 centimetres, offering a good compromise between strength and manoeuvrability.

A blade of this size can be used for a wide range of tasks while remaining compact enough to be easily transported. What's more, a medium-length blade is easier to control, which is crucial for precision work. It's also more suitable for everyday use.

4. Choosing a knife with a fixed or folding blade

The type of blade is an important decision that will depend on personal preferences and specific needs. Fixed-blade knives are generally stronger and more reliable than folding knives, as they have no mechanism to wear out or jam. They are ideal for heavy-duty tasks and offer greater durability in extreme conditions. Their simplicity is a major advantage in survival situations.

However, folding knives have the advantage of being more compact and easier to carry. They can be slipped into a pocket or bag without the need for a sheath, making them more practical for everyday use. Although they are less robust than fixed blades, some high-quality models offer sufficient strength for most survival tasks. The choice between a fixed blade and a folding blade will therefore depend on the context of use and your preferences in terms of portability.