When you’re out in the wild, you don’t need a knife with 17 features and a Bluetooth connection; you need something that works.

Here are 10 survival knives that keep it simple, sturdy, and ready when it counts:

KA-BAR Becker BK2 – Built like a tank, thick blade, solid grip; can butcher an elk and chop chili with ease

Schrade Leroy Bowie – When you’re in need of a heavy-duty chopper that’ll get the job done.

Gerber StrongArm – Military-tested, with a comfortable handle; comes with a sheath that makes sense.

Byrd Cara Cara Rescue 2 – Effortlessly tackle any cutting task. Great for cutting belts and ropes, fabric and various other textured materials.

Cold Steel SRK – Used by Navy SEALs, tough steel; no-nonsense for serious situations.

Survivor Survival Fixed Blade – With a magnesium alloy fire starter, effortlessly ignite a fire. Perfect for camping, hunting, or any survival scenario.

MTech USA First Recon Tactical Survival Knife – Two super sharp edges: one semi-serrated, the other plain. Handy in pretty much any situation.

Bowie Survival Knife – What sets this knife apart is the full survival kit stored in the handle, complete with matches, needle and thread, and even a safety hook.

Ontario 499 Air Force Survival Knife – Not just a tough knife, the leather sheath also comes with a tie down cord and sharpening stone.

BnB Knives Tactical Cobra – Designed around the principles of military survival training with a full-tang D2 steel blade and ceramic coating.


Each of these knives has proven itself in the field. No knife does everything, but the right one can make a tough day outdoors a lot easier.

Pick the one that feels right in your hand and doesn’t make your pack heavier than necessary.

What’s your go-to survival knife?