Choosing knives and cutting tools
Blade style, steel, and sheath should follow the cutting job you actually need done — skinning, caping, general camp use — not just how the knife looks.
Blade style, steel, and sheath should follow the cutting job you actually need done — skinning, caping, general camp use — not just how the knife looks.
The short answer
A knife’s job determines its blade, not the other way around
Blade style and cut
Blade style follows the cut; a drop-point built for general use handles differently than a skinner shaped specifically for that one job.
Steel type and edge retention
Steel type affects edge retention and how often you’ll need to sharpen it in the field versus at home.
Sheath and blade fit
A sheath protects both the edge and the user during carry. Check that it fits the specific blade, since a loose sheath doesn’t secure the edge reliably.
Replaceable-blade systems and convenience
Replaceable-blade systems trade edge retention for convenience; know which system you’re buying before you’re relying on spare blades in the field.
What the listings actually show
The current catalog includes 330 knives and cutting tools from 14 brands. Nearly every listing states blade style, steel, and sheath details.
Before you buy
Carry blades sheathed and always cut away from your body.
What blade style and cut do I need?
Blade style follows the cut; a drop-point built for general use handles differently than a skinner shaped specifically for that one job.
How do I choose steel type and edge retention?
Steel type affects edge retention and how often you'll need to sharpen it in the field versus at home.
What should I look at for sheath and blade fit?
A sheath protects both the edge and the user during carry.
Do replaceable-blade systems and convenience matter?
Replaceable-blade systems trade edge retention for convenience; know which system you're buying before you're relying on spare blades in the field.