Whether you’re looking for a hunting knife or just a simple utility knife, thickness is an important factor. It is also dependent on the intended use of the knife.
A knife should be able to handle various tasks and be strong enough to withstand any kind of abuse. A thicker blade is usually better for these tasks.
Strength
If you’re going to be field dressing big game, you need a hunting knife that’s strong enough to skin and cut meat. Having a knife that is too thin or flimsy could cause you to lose control of the blade and possibly injure yourself.
To get the best strength in a hunting knife, look for one that has a full tang. This is the metal that extends from the blade into the handle and it provides extra strength when you need it most, such as cutting a big buck.
Stainless steel and carbon steel are also excellent choices for hunting knives, but they can be more expensive and hard to sharpen in the field.
If you’re not a hunter, you may not realize that a good fixed-blade knife is one of the best options for all-around performance and reliability. Dick Turpin and John Mulcair recommend these options for serious hunters because they are the most dependable and can be cleaned and maintained with minimal effort.
Durability
When hunting, you want a knife that can handle heavy use. You need a blade that can be used for skinning, field dressing, and breaking down animals.
For these tasks, you want a thicker blade. You’ll also need a blade that is resistant to wear and corrosion.
A popular choice for hunters is a drop point blade, which has a sturdy, thick point for strength. They’re also less likely to puncture hides or vital organs when skinning.
Another option is a clip point blade, which has a thin, narrow tip with a harpoon-like back. They’re ideal for piercing and snipping.
If you’re looking for a durable fixed-blade hunting knife, you’ll find some great options from brands like Buck and Ka-Bar. Both are made from 154CM steel, which offers excellent wear resistance and edge retention.
Sharpness
Sharpness is a big part of what makes a hunting knife effective. It should be able to cut hide and hair cleanly and easily without leaving a mark or ripping it.
A sharp blade will also be easier to control and less likely to slip or twist. Regardless of the type of hunting you’re doing, it is essential to sharpen your knife regularly to keep it working properly.
One of the best ways to test for sharpness is to hold your blade against a light. If you can capture any light from the edge, it is dull and should be resharpened.
The tongue test is another great way to test your knife for sharpness. This is a common test but can cause injury, so be very careful.
Weight
A hunting knife is designed and made with the intent of skinning and processing game animals. But knives are also useful for other tasks outside of the hunt as well, such as sharpening pencils and cutting open packages.
A good blade should be able to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. That’s why it should be forged from a high-quality steel that offers edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance.
If you’re a backcountry hunter, you’ll want to make sure your knife is lightweight enough for the task at hand. A knife that weighs less than one ounce per inch of blade is ideal, says Elliott.
Depending on the game and terrain you’re hunting, you may opt for a fixed-blade or folding-blade knife. Folding-blade knives are typically lighter and more compact, making them easier to carry and conceal in the field.