Selecting a Good Hunting Knife

If you are a beginner when it comes to hunting, selecting the vast range of hunting knives available can be a daunting, confusing task.

Due to the arrival of new and varying selections of knives being offered on the market these days, it is crucial that you recognize your needs, know the game that you plan on looking for, and how to choose quality hunting knives that will suit your needs.

Purchasing the first knife you find may turn out to be a dud and a waste of effort and money on your part.

Kinds of Hunting Knives

Fixed blade

The fixed blade knife is one of the most popular among hunters, since this kind is uncomplicated and strong. It has a blade that extends all the way to the handle and is believed to be stronger and tougher compared to the foldable type. They are also a snap to clean and organize. Even though they are employed for hunting any type of game, they are usually more suitable for bigger game. The fixed blade type does not have moving components and it cannot be folded as well. They can be carried within a sheath which can then be connected to a belt.

Folding

The folding knife is a compact, convenient model, since it can be folded up when not in use. The folding feature of this knife means it is safer to use,setting it apart from fixed blade knives. Even though it is not as strong and hardwearing as the fixed blade kind, a folding knife type is lightweight and is more recommended for carrying around. Several folding knives also include a variety of blades that can be employed depending on a certain task.

Pocket

The pocket knife is the most convenient; they can be folded down and employed in various tasks, from dressing game down to cutting strings, rope, and twigs. Several of these pocket knives also include other kinds of tools like scissors, bottle openers, and corkscrews.

Lockback folding

The lockback folding knife is small and versatile. It includes a locking mechanism that fixes the blade in place while it is open. This particular feature hampers the knife from closing and causing accidents over the course of dressing game.

Buying Tips

When it comes to selecting a hunting knife, the user has to take into account a number of considerations. Initially, one has to settle on the kind of game they want to deal with and its size. Selecting bigger game means the hunter has to choose a more durable, stronger knife that includes a thick blade made from stainless steel. A drop point knife is recommended for big game since it has a curved blade that assists hunters in removing the skin by way of the blade’s edge. Separating the meat from the game will be much faster in this case, and there will be less damage done to the meat as well due to the nature of the knife’s blade.

As for skinning the game, a skinning knife is best for the job since this kind of knife is designed solely for this purpose. The knife includes thin, curved, and sharp blades that help in removing the skin faster.

For hunters who only hunt once in a while, they can settle for a versatile model that can be used for hunting and other common tasks. A clip point model is a nice recommendation. It has a flatter blade and it can be used for other purposes other than hunting. A folding knife is also recommended for casual hunters.

If you are a keen hunter, though, you can opt for a fixed blade model since they are stronger and hard wearing, and if you take care of it well, it will last for a long time.

It is also important to consider the handle design of the knife. Having a good, steady grip on the knife during the hunt is essential. Do not go for a model that is uncomfortable to grip, or something that will slip out of your hand. Test the knife out by holding the model in your hands to ensure that the handle is crafted well.

Selecting a proper hunting knife is always a personal thing, though. Every hunter has his or her own needs, thus it is crucial that you choose a model that best fits your own requirements and preferences.