“In 2017, a hiker in Washington was stranded for five days after injuring himself in a fall. With just a lighter, a small knife, and the clothes on his back, he survived freezing cold temperatures and heavy snowfall until rescuers could reach him. It’s stories like these that make us realize how necessity is the mother of invention; however, having the right survival strategies and gear could potentially mean the difference between life and death situations. Do you have the right survival gear at your fingertips? More specifically, when it comes to survival knives, do you have the correct one that fits your budget and needs?
In this post, we will delve into the best survival knives for every budget– from low-end options that do not skimp on efficacy to luxury blades used by survival experts around the globe. Ever thought about how much you should be spending on a survival knife, or which ones are worthwhile in 2025? Let’s navigate these turbulent waters together.
Understandably, surviving a natural disaster is more than just having the right knife, but when out in the wild or facing disaster circumstances, a reliable knife can be critical for tasks like building a fire, preparing food, building a makeshift shelter or for self-defense.
Let’s begin with budget-friendly options for those trying to equip themselves without breaking the bank. The Morakniv Companion Heavy Duty, costing under $30, is a fantastic option for campers. It possesses a 4.1-inch carbon steel blade, giving it excellent edge retention and easy maintenance. While it may not be perfect for heavy-duty survival scenarios, it’s undoubtedly the ideal tool for preparing meals, cutting rope, and creating modest shelters.
Stepping up a notch, our mid-range option is the KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife. This survival tool, around $120, is a premium blade stretching to seven inches and has been entrusted by military personnel and veteran survivalists for everything from constructing shelters to self-defense practices. It is absolutely worth the price tag.
Comparing survival tools and techniques is something that we cannot miss when discussing survival strategies. In terms of multi-tools, it is crucial to consider functionality, materials used, and durability. For instance, the Leatherman Wave+ is an excellent choice for heavy-duty usage with 18 different tools and higher-grade stainless steel, but if you’re looking for a cheaper, compact option, the Gerber Suspension NXT provides satisfactory service.
Every product has its real-world applications, and survival tools aren’t different. For urban survival situations, the Leatherman Skeletool, worth $70, is an ideal choice due to its multi-purpose tools and lightweight design. However, for wilderness survival scenarios, Victorinox SwissTool boasts heavy-duty options, and for $120, it includes a saw, scissors, and a file, all essential in a wilderness survival scenario.
One common myth surrounding survival gear is that higher price equals better quality. While this may be true in some instances, often, a well-made budget knife, such as the Morakniv Companion, can perform just as well for essential tasks. The elevated price is often linked to brand reputation and added advanced features, such as blade coatings.
In conclusion, the importance of a well-suited survival knife cannot be underestimated. Your investment could range from a modest $30 option to a pricier $120+ alternative. Regardless of your priority, whether it’s weight, multipurpose functionality, or comfort, each tool has its standout features, and your personal budget and preferences should guide your decision. Equip yourself with proper survival tooling, and don’t let unexpected challenges catch you off guard. Your survival knife could be your lifesaver in times of distress.”