Three types of knives for outdoor use
Folding knives, fixed blades, and multitools serve different purposes. Choose a tool for the jobs you expect to do outdoors.
Updated
A knife can be a useful tool outdoors, but the right choice depends on the job. On a walk or fishing trip, you want something practical to carry and comfortable to use. A larger blade is not necessarily a better one.
Three common options are folding knives, fixed-blade knives, and multitools. Each has strengths, and you may not need all three.
Folding knives
A folding knife packs away with the blade protected inside its handle. Its compact size can make it convenient for small tasks on day trips, such as preparing food or cutting cord.
Look for a comfortable grip and a dependable mechanism. If the knife has a locking blade, understand how the lock operates before using it. Keep your fingers clear when opening and closing the knife, and choose a tool suited to the work rather than forcing it through a heavy task.
Fixed-blade knives
A fixed blade avoids the folding joint and can suit more demanding camp chores. The trade-off is that it needs a secure sheath and takes more space to carry. Think about the tasks you actually expect to do: preparing food and making small wood shavings call for control, not the largest blade available.
Construction matters as much as size. A handle that remains comfortable and secure when damp, a sheath that holds the knife safely, and a blade that you can maintain are useful things to compare. Retailers such as Lamnia carry different designs, but handle a knife before buying if you have the opportunity.
Do not assume that carrying a knife gives permission to cut branches or damage vegetation. Check the rules for the place you are visiting.
Multitools
A multitool combines several small tools in one package. Pliers, screwdrivers, and scissors can be useful for equipment repairs, while the knife blade covers lighter cutting tasks. It can complement a dedicated knife, although carrying both is only worthwhile if you need both.
Compare the individual tools rather than their total number. Are they accessible, comfortable to use, and appropriate for your equipment? Leatherman, Victorinox, and Gerber are examples mentioned in the original article; its linked knife comparison is from 2018 and should be read as an archive reference.
Before travelling, check the knife-carrying rules and transport restrictions that apply to your destination. Pack securely and keep blades away from children.
