Best Bushcraft Knives

Some might wonder, what exactly defines a bushcraft knife? From our experience, it's a knife that proves valuable in survival situations but, more crucially, offers utility in the actual craft of bushing (is that even a term?). The ability to carve and cut wood, assist in starting a fire, and perform various other tasks one might encounter while in the woods or on the trail is essential.

While most outdoor knives will likely do the trick, there are instances where one blade may outperform another. We've compiled a list of our top picks that we believe will guide you in the right direction when you're on the hunt for the best bushcraft knife to include in your pack or attach to your belt! We take pride in building all of our blades right here in the USA, and know you can rely on your knife when it’s needed most.

BEST OVERALL: Field 2.0

BEST FOLDER: Merchant 2.0 S

BEST FOR BUDGET: Field 3.0

BEST AXE: F13

HONORABLE MENTION: Mullet

What to consider when it comes to the best knives for bushcraft.

When it comes to choosing the best knives for bushcraft, several key factors come into play. Initially, consider the design and purpose of the knife. Is it crafted specifically for bushcraft tasks such as wood carving, fire starting, and shelter building, or is it a multi-purpose outdoor knife that balances various functions? The specific needs of your bushcraft needs to highlight where to start and look.

Next, the material and sharpness of the blade demand attention. A durable, razor-sharp blade is indispensable for the precise and efficient execution of bushcraft-ing. The knife's size and weight are also crucial; they should complement your ability to wield and carry it easily during long treks or intricate tasks, no one likes carrying extra unnecessary weight around.

A common underlooked piece of a knife is the handle. The handle's design and material contribute significantly to grip and comfort, affecting your control and fatigue levels over extended use. Ergonomics play an important role, especially in challenging conditions or when performing repetitive tasks.

Lastly, your personal comfort and familiarity with the knife are paramount. Confidence in your ability to handle the knife, especially under the pressures of survival or demanding bushcraft activities, can make a significant difference in your effectiveness and safety. Practice makes perfect, get comfortable with a blade and you’ll be able to master any project.

Best Overall: Field 2.0

For those looking for a high-quality camp knife purpose built for outdoor activities, the Field 2.0 is an excellent choice. It is especially suited for backpackers, campers, and anyone in need of a knife that can handle heavy tasks.. The knife's design, with a clear focus on functionality and durability, doesn't compromise on quality, despite its affordable price.

The Field 2.0 features a drop point tip, which is perfect for bushcraft activites. Additionally, the blade's substantial belly is designed for smooth and effective field dressing if needed. Its edge is divided into a 2.75-inch straight section for detailed work and a razor-sharp 1.75-inch curved section towards the tip for more traditional cutting tasks. This thoughtful design makes it versatile for a variety of camping needs.

Durability is a key feature of the Field 2.0, with its KG Gunkote finish providing excellent resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and impacts. The blade's shape is also designed to retain a significant amount of steel mass behind the cutting edge, which ensures a longer life for the blade's sharpness and better resistance to edge impacts. These features make the Field 2.0 a reliable tool that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

An added advantage of this knife is its angled 90-degree spine, extending from the tip to the thumb jimping. This design provides more surface area for tasks like hammering and sparking a ferro rod. These additional functionalities enhance its value as a multi-purpose tool, especially for camping.

Best Folder: Merchant 2.0 S

Folding knives don’t usually make a list for knives intended to be used in the wild, but the Merchant 2.0 S marks a significant advancement in design and functionality. This model, an evolution of its predecessor, introduces improvements that solidify its role as a top pick for campers who value both precision and style in their tools, all while keeping it folded up in your pocket or pack.

Designed with the needs of and time use, including outdoor adventurers in mind, the Merchant 2.0 S features a carefully crafted curved blade. This isn't just a stylistic choice; the curve enhances the knife's overall cutting efficiency, making it ideal for a variety of camping tasks, from preparing food to cutting small branches. Furthermore, the entire blade is manufactured at the Toor Knives facility right here in San Diego, California.

For campers who prioritize both function and form in their gear, the Merchant 2.0 S stands out. Its combination of expert craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and a design focused on practical use makes it a standout folding knife for camping. This knife isn't just a tool; it's a testament to our commitment to excellence, offering outdoorsmen and women a durable, efficient knife for their wilderness adventures.

Best for Budget: Field 3.0

With a focus on minimalism and portability, the Field 3.0 stands out as a premier choice for those seeking a smaller yet fully capable bushcraft knife for their wilderness activities. While modestly sized at just over 8.0 inches in length, this knife does not compromise on functionality or durability, making it a favorite for enthusiasts who prefer a more manageable and lightweight option.

The compact design of the Field 3.0 offers exceptional convenience for bushcrafters who are mindful of space and weight in their packs. Despite its smaller size compared to the heftier Field 2.0, the 3.0 delivers robust performance in a variety of outdoor tasks. The design is particularly notable for its pointed tip, expertly crafted for precision tasks like detailed cutting or piercing, giving it an edge in situations where finesse is crucial.

Durability is a hallmark of this blade, with its KG Gunkote coated blade. This coating provides the knife with excellent resilience against abrasion, chemical damage, and physical impacts, ensuring it stands up to the rigors of outdoor activities. The blade, while streamlined, retains a significant amount of steel near its edge, enhancing both the longevity of the blade's sharpness and its ability to resist edge wear and tear.

Best Axe: F13

The F13, is a tactical axe that pays homage to the renowned "Filthy Thirteen" of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. Inspired by traditional Native American Tomahawks, this axe has undergone a tactical transformation to meet the demands of modern tactical operations, but in our opinion is a great tool for bushcraft due to it’s lightweight.. The 90-degree point at the head of the axe sets the stage for an exceptional breaching tool, while the extended spike on the rear end provides ample striking surface and finger clearance. With a handle length of 7.0", the F13 Tommy allows for a powerful two-handed grip, enabling increased swinging power. The highly durable G10 handle features a geometric texture that enhances grip even in the most challenging conditions.

To ensure long-lasting performance, the F13 Tommy is coated with a corrosion-resistant Black Oxide finish. This protective coating not only adds to its durability but also gives it a sleek and tactical appearance. For convenient storage and quick access, the axe is accompanied by a precision molded KYDEX® sheath and retention cord. With its compact size, measuring 9.0" in overall length and weighing just 1.1 lbs, the F13 Tommy offers excellent portability, making it a practical addition to your gear. Whether you're mounting it to your jump rig like the valiant Filthy 13 or stowing it securely, you can trust its reliability in any situation.

This axe is purpose-built to endure the rigors of demanding missions and challenges, guaranteeing unwavering performance when it matters most.

Honorable Mention: Mullet

Crafted from CPM 154 steel, this outstanding fixed blade introduces an innovative approach tailored for bushcraft adventures. Its unique short swerve grind not only strengthens the tip but reduces resistance, making it incredibly efficient for tasks like carving, crafting, and handling tough materials found in the wild. With an overall length of 8.5 inches, a weight of 7.5 ounces, and a blade thickness of 0.1875 inches, the Mullet perfectly occupies the midsize category, offering a bit more heft and size than our Krypteia model for those needing a sturdy companion in the wilderness.

The Mullet is equipped with ergonomic G10 or ebony handles, featuring the distinct texture of Toor Knives. This design ensures a firm and comfortable grip, crucial for precision and safety during extensive bushcraft activities. Beyond its primary function, the Mullet brings an added utility for the outdoor adventurer. It includes the Breacher Ball™, a 0.1875-inch tungsten carbide ball embedded into the blade's hardened tang, adept at breaking through various materials when crafting or building becomes necessary in your outdoor endeavors.

Proudly handcrafted in sunny San Diego, CA, by our expert manufacturing team, each Mullet knife is a testament to quality and craftsmanship. Accompanied by a KYDEX® sheath for safe and convenient carry, the Mullet stands ready to meet the demands of bushcrafting, offering reliability, durability, and functionality for all who venture into the great outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned bushcrafter or an outdoor enthusiast, the Mullet is designed to enhance your connection with nature through its performance and style.