Rating of the best hunting knives for 2022

Going on a hunting trip, every self-respecting catcher should have a quality knife in his arsenal. Many hunters take pride in their gear, and some even collect it.

Today's review is devoted to the choice of a hunting knife and a selection of the best models, compiled on the basis of reviews from real customers.

Types of knives for hunting

In order not to make a mistake in the choice, especially for beginners, first you need to understand why this item is needed on the hunt.

Excluding self-defense, in most cases, hunting knives are used to finish off a wounded animal, skin prey, or for household needs.

The tool consists of a handle and a cutting part. When choosing, special attention is paid to the blade, since the service life and operational data depend on its wear resistance, strength and sharp sharpening.

Every hunter is familiar with the concept of "Rockwell hardness" - HRC. The higher this value, the stronger the product and, of course, the more expensive. The best option for catching game is from 55 HRC.

So that over time the sharp blade does not become dull under the influence of corrosive processes, the cutting part is chrome-plated.

There are many types of knives. To begin with, they are divided by area of ​​\u200b\u200bapplication:

• Single-function - for one specific task, for example, to dismember game or separate bones from meat;
• Universal - suitable to finish off a wounded animal or bird. The cutting part of such a product, as a rule, is smooth, without sawtooth sharpening. Handle with restrictive notch.

In natural sizes, the shape of fishing knives varies. The most popular blade types are:

• Rectangular;
• With a lowered upper side of the edge, to reduce the weight of the product. On the reverse side is either a false blade, or it is also sharpened;
• With an overestimated butt line - found on blades of great length;
• "Bowie" - the edge of a thin, awl-shaped blade is beveled at an angle so that the sharp part approaches the stop when piercing;
• With a straight edge and a curved cutting part - used for piercing;
• Dagger-shaped - with a double-edged cutting part.

By structure, the models are divided into the following types:

• Classic - weight 120-180 gr., blade length - 10-13 cm;
• Large - weight from 180 to 300 gr., Blade length - 13-17 cm;
• Folding is the safest option. They can be equipped with one or two blades and vary in size. Before purchasing a model, you need to check the mechanism by slightly shaking the blade. If it staggers, then it is better not to purchase such a knife.

How to choose the right tool?

In order for the knife to be really useful, and not just take up space in your luggage, you need to approach the choice with all seriousness.

Particular attention is paid to the following characteristics:

• Scope - for cutting carcasses, finishing off prey, economic purposes, etc .;
• Price-quality ratio;
• Blade type and quality of manufacturing materials;
• Comfortable handle.

The most suitable option is a model with a thin wedge-shaped blade: such a tool cuts well, but there is also a drawback that such a knife quickly loses its sharpness due to its small thickness.

The handle must also meet certain characteristics, because it guarantees maneuverability, and therefore ensures efficient work. The handles of hunting knives are connected to the cutting part in two ways - riveted or mounted.

The main requirements put forward to the handle:

• Strength;
• Balancing;
• Non-slip surface;
• Comfortable use.

Compliance with these characteristics is ensured by the material of manufacture: wood, bone, horn or metal.

The most commonly used antlers are elk, deer, roe deer or some types of livestock. Ivory or tusk will not work, as such material quickly dries out and deteriorates.

The handle made of hardwood has some advantages: it does not stick to the palm in the blood and does not freeze to it in the cold. In addition, this handle is durable and lightweight.

The metal part is reliable, but it can stick to hands when cutting game, cools quickly in the cold and can cause discomfort.

Rubber or polypropylene are easy to use, but in the cold season such material may crack.

Limiters located between the blade and the handle are needed for a general-purpose device to avoid slipping of the palm on the cutting part. For cutting prey and similar precision operations, it is advisable to choose a tool without them.

Tips for beginner hunters

If a beginner finds it difficult to choose a knife, then four basic rules can help him:

1. For catching large-hoofed animals, a small tool with a short but wide blade is suitable.
2. To finish off a wounded animal, you need a knife with a narrow cutting part.
3. Skinning game without a curved blade and ripping hook will be problematic.
4. A tool with a long blade will help cut the carcass.

Top 10 Best Hunting Knives

10th place: "Buck 110BRS"

Main characteristics
Country:	USA
Material:	stainless steel, wood
Blade:	9.5 cm.
Full length:	21.9 cm.
Type of:	folding
Sheath:	leather
Average price:	5 810 rubles

This knife, which has been produced since 1962, has received extremely positive feedback from hunters. During its existence, the tool has earned a positive reputation and despite the fact that it is folding, the strength of 110BRS is not inferior to a monolithic one.

The manufacturer gives a lifetime warranty on its product.

The tool is suitable for skinning prey and can be used for domestic tourist purposes. The handle is made of walnut wood and brass plates, fits comfortably in the hand and does not slip when used.The set with the device includes a leather case made in Mexico and a spectacular black box in which it can be presented to a collector or just a connoisseur of edged weapons.

• Quality and reliability;
• Leather case included;
• Universal application;
• Lifetime warranty;
• Not a melee weapon;
• Long lasting blade sharpness;
• Durability of operation.

• Short blade;
• High price.

9th place: Military Elastron Stonewash

Main characteristics
Country:	Russia
Material:	stainless steel, elaston
Blade:	16 cm
Full length:	28.7 cm.
Type of:	monolithic
Sheath:	leather
Average price:	2 500 rubles

Among the army weapons modified for civilian needs, the Military, produced by the Kizlyar plant, stands out. The cutting part of the blade is narrowed towards the tip. A solid blade covered with a black matte coating passes through the handle. The elaston handle does not slip or stick to the skin. The anti-reflective coating protects the blade from the effects of aggressive environmental conditions and is not erased even with active use.

This versatile knife is suitable for cutting and skinning large prey and for tourist needs.

• Brutal appearance;
• Multifunctionality;
• Solid construction providing additional load protection;
• Non-slip handle;
• Unlike most products, Kizlyar does not require permission to purchase;
• Affordable price.

• Not suitable for skinning small prey.

8th place: "Model 007"

Main characteristics
Country:	Russia
Material:	author's alloy, wood
Blade:	14.5 cm.
Full length:	26.3 cm.
Sheath:	leather
Average price:	from 10 500 rubles, depending on the alloy

Model 007 is a kind of visiting card of Igor Yuryevich Pampukha. The blacksmith has been making this knife for 20 years, and over the years the tool has proven itself in various situations. The blade is forged from stainless, alloyed or carbon damask steel, which is part of the craftsman's author's alloy and, depending on the material, the price varies. The knife withstands a long load and facilitates the laborious process of skinning the butchering of the animal.

The blade is designed in a special way, guaranteeing an accurate and deep cut. The famous gunsmith always tempers the material and forges the weapon with his own hands.

According to the reviews of the owners, the tool lies comfortably in the palm of your hand, the hand does not get tired even with prolonged loads, it does not slip and does not get cold in the cold.

• Handmade;
• Author's alloy and individual approach;
• Lifetime warranty on weapons and their maintenance;
• Long lasting blade sharpness;
• No purchase permit required.

• High price.

7th place: Shark SARO

Main characteristics
Country:	Russia
Material:	steel, oil and petrol resistant rubber
Blade:	13 cm.
Full length:	25.8 cm.
Sheath:	cordura (nylon)
Type of:	monolithic
Average price:	3 250 rubles

This model has an interesting design and is made of high-quality steel that holds sharpening well. "Shark" is not classified as a melee weapon, although it is one of the variants of combat knives among divers.

The butt of the blade is equipped with a skinning tooth, which can be used both for cutting slings and for sawing metal. The tool is all-metal, made of an alloy of alloyed steel and refractory metals. The handle is formed by gluing two carbon fiber overlays together.

The tool is suitable for both tourist and domestic needs, as well as for skinning and butchering large animals.

• Light weight;
• Interesting design;
• High-quality manufacturing materials;
• Multifunctionality;
• Does not require a license to purchase;
• Affordable price.

• Users complain that the handle slips.

6th place: "Spyderco Bill Moran"

Main characteristics
Country:	USA
Material:	Japanese stainless steel, thermoplastic
Blade:	9.9 cm
Full length:	20.3 cm.
Sheath:	kydex
Type of:	monolithic
Average price:	9 500 rubles

This hunting knife is the result of a collaboration between Spyderco Corporation and American designer Bill Moran. The model is in demand among tourists and hunters, as it is made of high-quality materials, which are lightweight and durable.

Suitable for household needs and will become an assistant when cutting even a large animal.

Due to its small dimensions, the tool does not take up much space and does not restrict movement. It can be used both as a main weapon and as a spare.

• Rugged construction;
• High-quality manufacturing materials;
• Long lasting blade sharpness;
• Little weight;
• Multifunctionality.

• Short canvas;
• Cast handle;
• High price.

5th place: "Eggen HE75"

 

Main characteristics
Country:	Norway
Material:	laminated stainless steel, Karelian birch
Blade:	10.1 cm.
Full length:	21.1 cm.
Sheath:	leather
Type of:	classical
Average price:	8 250 rubles

As planned by the manufacturers, this knife was supposed to become a multifunctional tool for hunters and tourists.The tool is created by hand from a special alloy using a unique technology that gives the blade a three-layer structure.

The cutting part is sharp and suitable for skinning an animal, and even for woodcarving.

The handle is angled towards the blade, which guarantees additional comfort during long work. There is also a finger rest on the handle, which prevents the hand from slipping onto the blade.

The set includes an embossed sheath made of genuine leather.

• Lifetime manufacturer's warranty;
• High-quality manufacturing materials;
• No license to purchase required;
• Multifunctionality;
• Handmade;
• Thoughtful design;
• Comfortable handle.

• For some types of hunting work, the blade is not suitable: too short;
• High price.

4th place: Berkut Kizlyar

 

Main characteristics
Country:	Russia
Material:	stainless steel, wood
Blade:	15 cm.
Full length:	28.7 cm.
Sheath:	leather, designer
Type of:	big
Average price:	1 250 rubles

Despite the low price, Berkut, produced at the Kizlyar plant, has been distinguished by its durability for almost 20 years and is in demand among tourists, hunters and weapon collectors. Bowie blade is sharpened on one and a half sides: the butt is sharp to the middle. The anatomical handle, made of Caucasian walnut, fits in the palm "like a native".

The blade is universal: it is suitable for skinning, cutting carcasses and does an excellent job of cutting young branches and small bones.

In the 90s of the last century, these knives were made of not the highest quality steel: the tip often broke, the blade became dull and scratched.Today, these shortcomings have been eliminated and the plant produces high-quality and beautiful guns.

• Price-quality ratio;
• Multifunctionality;
• Anatomical handle;
• Long lasting blade sharpness;
• Affordable price.

• It is a melee weapon, permission to purchase is required.

3rd place: "LAPPI PUUKKO 85"

Main characteristics
Country:	Finland
Material:	carbon steel, Karelian birch
Blade:	8.5 cm.
Full length:	11.5 cm.
Sheath:	leather
Type of:	classical
Average price:	4 590 r.

The legendary Finnish Puukko knives are popular all over the world and have a long history. This tool belongs to the traditional Scandinavian hunter's equipment. The classic straight blade is forged using triple stacking of temperature resistant materials.

The rounded handle is attached to the cutting part of the tool in a mounted manner. It is mainly made from Karelian birch, since products from this type of wood do not slip and do not cool the hand in the cold. The tool is ideal for fishing and is suitable for almost all types of work on hunting and in field conditions.

Puukko knives can vary in blade length and are made by many manufacturers around the world.

• Versatility;
• Reliability, proven over the years;
• High-quality manufacturing materials;
• No license to purchase required;
• Comfortable handle;
• Long lasting blade sharpness.

• Specifically, this model has a short canvas.

2nd place: "Bear" Rusich

Main characteristics
Country:	Russia
Material:	Damascus steel, Karelian birch
Blade:	16 cm
Full length:	28 cm
Sheath:	leather
Type of:	classical
Average price:	4 590 r.

The model is made of 400 layers of Damascus steel - hard and durable. This tool fully complies with the requirements of the state standard and belongs to the class of carving and skinning knives. Therefore, a purchase permit is not required.

It can also be used as a hiking tool for tourist purposes.

The handle, made of Karelian birch, is characterized by increased wear resistance and is not subject to corrosive processes.

• High-quality manufacturing materials;
• Long-term sharpness of the cutting part;
• Strength and durability;
• Multifunctionality;
• No purchase license required.

• Not found.

1st place: Russian Vityaz "Buran"

Main characteristics
Country:	Russia
Material:	damascus steel, wenge
Blade:	18.8 cm.
Full length:	31 cm.
Sheath:	leather
Type of:	monolithic
Average price:	4 200 rubles

The all-metal survival knife "Buran" becomes the leader of the rating. Made from the strongest Damascus steel (1200 layers). Differs in long sharpness and wear resistance. For the convenience of the owner, a sharp thread is provided on the butt of the blade, which makes the product almost universal.

The weapon is suitable both for finishing off the beast, and for cutting and skinning prey. The handle is made of wenge wood: it does not slip and lies comfortably in the palm of your hand.

Despite its impressive size, the knife does not belong to the class of edged weapons and does not require a permit to purchase.

• The strongest steel;
• Long-term sharpness of the cutting part;
• Multifunctionality;
• No license to purchase required;
• Durability and wear resistance;
• For products of this quality, the price is relatively low.

• Not found.

Attention! The article is informational. In order to avoid mistakes when choosing, before buying, you should check the characteristics and prices with a consultant in a hunting store or by phone with a customer support operator.