Types of Outdoor Knives

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Whether you're a hunter, fisherman or camper, an outdoor knife is a must have.  Outdoor knives serve a wide range of purposes, from skinning animals to chopping wood. They also come in an array of styles and models, some of which are designed for a singular purpose and others that can fulfill many different needs.  Here are a few of the most popular kinds of outdoor knives.

hunting knife
Hunting Knife

Hunting Knives

Hunting knives are primarily used to skin medium-sized and large game.  They usually feature a slightly curved or clipped blade and many have a gut-hook point, which is good for stripping and slicing.  Hunting knives often have serrated blade edges.  They are also usually accompanied by a sheath for carrying purposes.

Survival Knives

Survival knives are the ultimate blade used by hardcore outdoorsman.  These knives usually feature large blades made of either stainless steel or carbon steel.  The knives can be used for a number of tasks, such as: cutting back brush, slicing rope, starting a fire and, in a worst case scenario, defending oneself from a wild animal.

stockmans knife
Stockman's Knife

Survival knives often have hollow handles, which can be filled with equipment, such as: mono-filament line, needles, first-aid kits, safety whistles, matches, water-purifying tables, etc.

Utility Knives

Utility knives, also known as multi-tools, can contain several blades in addition to other tools like: pliers, bottle opener, scissors, nail file, etc.  Prime examples of utility knives are Swiss Army knives and the ever popular Leatherman. Utility knives are great for fishing and camping trips, because they are multi-functional.

Stockman's Knife

A stockman's knife, or three-blade knife, is a versatile folding knife that has three blades: clip, spey and standard.  These blades are popular multi-purpose folding blades that have excellent versatility.

machete
Machete

Machete

Despite its unwarranted reputation as a violent weapon, a machete is an incredibly functional tool for the outdoorsman. Machetes have an extra wide blade that allows them to easily chop through brush.  They're also well-engineered to cut fire wood and chop up food and vegetables.

Neck Knives

Neck knives come in number of styles and designs, although they're always lightweight.  Neck knives are a great alternative to traditional folding knives and pocket knives, because they come with a case or sheath that hangs around the neck, allowing your pockets and hands to be free.