Find the Best Knife for Wilderness Survival, Bushcraft, and Emergency Preparedness
A survival knife is one of the most important tools you can carry in the outdoors. Whether you’re building a shelter, processing firewood, preparing food, or facing an emergency, a dependable knife can mean the difference between struggle and survival.
The best survival knives are built for durability, reliability, and versatility. In this guide, we’ll break down the top survival knives for 2025, covering everything from heavy-duty fixed blades to lightweight bushcraft tools.
Top Survival Knives for 2025
(Expert Reviews & Buyer’s Guide)
Best Overall Survival Knife
BPS Knives D2
✔️ Full tang construction for maximum strength
✔️ High-carbon steel for excellent edge retention
✔️ Versatile for chopping, batoning, and carving
➡️ Check on Amazon
Best Budget Survival Knife
Morakniv Safe Pro Carbon Steel Knife
✔️ Affordable but rugged design
✔️ Lightweight and easy to carry
✔️ Decent edge retention and corrosion resistance
➡️ Check on Amazon
Best Bushcraft Survival Knife
ESEE Knives Izula II Fixed Blade Knife
✔️ Scandinavian grind for superior woodcraft performance
✔️ Comfortable handle for extended use
✔️ Includes a high-quality sheath
➡️ Check on Amazon
Best Fixed Blade Survival Knife
ESEE-4 Fixed Blade Knife
✔️ Full tang with thick, durable blade
✔️ Ideal for batoning wood and heavy-duty tasks
✔️ Ergonomic grip for secure handling
➡️ Check on Amazon
Best Survival Knife with Fire Starter
BPS Knives Adventurer
✔️ Built-in ferrocerium rod for fire-starting
✔️ Serrated spine for striking and cutting tasks
✔️ Great for camping, hiking, and emergency kits
➡️ Check on Amazon
What to Look for in a Survival Knife
✔️ Blade Type: Fixed blades offer superior strength and reliability compared to folding knives.
✔️ Steel Material: High-carbon steel holds an edge longer but requires maintenance; stainless steel resists rust.
✔️ Blade Length: 4-6 inches is ideal for precision tasks, while 7+ inches is better for chopping.
✔️ Handle Design: Ergonomic, non-slip grips improve comfort and safety.
✔️ Sheath & Carry Options: A durable sheath with a secure belt loop is essential for accessibility.
Fixed Blade vs. Folding Survival Knives – Which is Better?
| Feature | Fixed Blade | Folding Knife |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | More robust | Less durable |
| Ease of Carry | Requires sheath | Compact and pocketable |
| Maintenance | Easier to clean | More moving parts to maintain |
| Best For | Heavy-duty survival | Emergency backup |
For serious survival situations, a fixed blade is the best choice. For a compact emergency backup, a folding knife can be useful.
Survival Knife Maintenance Tips
✔️ Clean and oil the blade after each use to prevent rust.
✔️ Use a sharpening stone or strop to maintain a sharp edge.
✔️ Store in a dry location and keep the sheath in good condition.
✔️ Avoid using the knife for prying or excessive lateral force to prevent breakage.
Which Survival Knife Should You Choose?
A great survival knife is a must-have for outdoor adventurers, bushcrafters, and emergency preparedness. Whether you need a rugged fixed blade for heavy-duty tasks or a versatile bushcraft knife, we’ve reviewed the top options to help you make the right choice.