A good knife is one of the most important tools you can carry in the great outdoors. Whether you’re cutting rope, preparing food, or making kindling for a fire, you need something tough, reliable, and easy to carry. With so many options out there, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
This list breaks down 10 of the best all-purpose knives for campers and hikers—knives that can handle just about anything without weighing you down.
Morakniv Companion
The Morakniv Companion is a favorite among campers for a reason: it’s affordable, lightweight, and tough enough for most outdoor tasks. The 4.1-inch stainless steel blade holds an edge well and resists rust, making it perfect for wet conditions.
It’s a great choice for general camp use, from food prep to whittling wood for a fire. The rubberized handle gives you a solid grip, even if your hands are wet. For budget-conscious hikers looking for a reliable fixed blade, this one’s hard to beat.
Benchmade Bugout
If you’re looking for a folding knife that won’t weigh you down, the Benchmade Bugout is a solid pick. At just 1.85 ounces, it’s one of the lightest full-sized folders out there, making it ideal for backpackers.
The drop-point blade is made of S30V steel, known for its sharpness and durability. It also has Benchmade’s AXIS lock, which makes it easy to open and close with one hand. Whether you’re cutting food, trimming paracord, or handling small camp chores, this knife is up to the task.
ESEE 4
The ESEE 4 is built like a tank but still compact enough for hiking and camping. Its full-tang construction and 1095 carbon steel blade make it one of the toughest knives on this list. This thing can baton wood, carve tent stakes, and even handle light bushcraft tasks.
The trade-off? It needs regular oiling to prevent rust, but if you’re willing to take care of it, this knife will last a lifetime. It also comes with a durable sheath and multiple carry options, making it a great all-around survival tool.
Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight
Spyderco’s Para 3 is a great option for campers who want a high-quality folding knife without extra bulk. The CTS-BD1N steel blade is razor-sharp and holds an edge well, while the signature Spyder Hole allows for quick, one-handed opening.
At just 2.4 ounces, it’s easy to slip into a pocket or clip to your backpack. The textured handle ensures a solid grip, and the compression lock system makes it one of the safest folders to use. For those who prefer a compact knife without sacrificing performance, this one’s a winner.
KA-BAR Becker BK2
If you want a knife that can handle serious abuse, the KA-BAR Becker BK2 should be on your radar. This fixed-blade beast features a quarter-inch-thick 1095 Cro-Van steel blade, meaning it can split wood, chop through branches, and take on heavy-duty camp tasks without breaking a sweat.
It’s on the heavier side, but if you’re looking for a knife that can replace a hatchet in a pinch, this one is a top choice. The ergonomic handle is built for comfort, and the included sheath keeps it secure when not in use.
Victorinox Huntsman
For campers who want more than just a knife, the Victorinox Huntsman is a classic choice. It has 15 functions, including a saw, scissors, can opener, and screwdriver, making it one of the most versatile tools you can carry.
The stainless steel blade is sharp and functional, though not as tough as a dedicated fixed-blade knife. But if you like the idea of a lightweight, do-it-all tool that can handle everything from slicing food to repairing gear, this one is a great option.
Gerber StrongArm
The Gerber StrongArm is built for durability, featuring a 420HC stainless steel blade with a ceramic coating for extra corrosion resistance. It’s designed for tough use, whether that’s batoning wood, making feather sticks, or cutting through thick rope.
The rubberized handle offers a solid grip, even in wet conditions, and the included sheath allows for multiple carry options. If you need a fixed blade that can handle anything the trail throws at you, this one’s worth considering.
Opinel No. 8
If you’re looking for a simple, lightweight folding knife, the Opinel No. 8 is a classic. The carbon or stainless steel blade takes an edge easily and is great for food prep, carving, and general camp chores.
Its wooden handle gives it a timeless feel, and the Virobloc safety ring keeps the blade securely locked when in use. It’s not a heavy-duty survival knife, but for hikers who want a light, reliable, and affordable tool, the Opinel No. 8 is a great choice.
Cold Steel SRK
The Cold Steel SRK (Survival Rescue Knife) is a favorite among military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The SK-5 carbon steel blade is incredibly tough and designed for hard use, whether that’s skinning game, batoning wood, or general survival tasks.
The textured Kray-Ex handle provides a non-slip grip, and the included sheath makes it easy to carry on your belt or pack. If you’re looking for an all-purpose survival knife that won’t let you down, this one is a great choice.
Buck 110 Folding Hunter
The Buck 110 is a legend among folding knives. It’s been around for decades and still holds up as one of the best all-around knives for camping and hiking. The 420HC stainless steel blade is sharp and durable, and the classic lock-back design ensures it stays open when in use.
It’s a little heavier than modern folders, but the wood and brass design gives it a timeless feel. If you appreciate tradition and want a dependable knife that’s been trusted for generations, the Buck 110 is a great addition to your gear.
*This article was created with the assistance of AI.
