Which knives are best for outdoor activities?
An outdoor knife is an essential tool for anyone who loves spending time in nature. Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a beginner, a good knife is a reliable companion for your adventures. Outdoor knives are designed to handle a variety of tasks, from whittling wood to preparing food or starting a fire with a fire starter.Morakniv’s outdoor knives are an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality knife that is ready for all your adventures.
What is the difference between an outdoor knife and an all-purpose knife?
An outdoor knife is specifically designed for activities in nature and has features that make it suitable for tasks such as cutting wood, whittling, and preparing food outdoors. It is usually more robust than an all-purpose knife, often featuring a fixed blade, known as full tang, and an ergonomic handle that provides a good grip even in wet conditions.An all-purpose knife, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used for a wider range of tasks both indoors and outdoors. It is often less specialized and may have a more generally designed blade, making it useful for everything from opening boxes or cutting smaller items to simpler outdoor tasks.
For example, Morakniv offers the Eldris and Eldris Light Duty, where Eldris is an outdoor knife with fire starter compatibility and Eldris Light Duty is more of an all-purpose knife.
How should you use the knife?
Hiking
When you’re out hiking, a light and versatile knife is an indispensable companion. It can be used for everything from cutting rope to opening packages. It’s also always good to have a knife on hand for handling unexpected situations, such as repairing gear or creating a makeshift shelter.Camping
Depending on the type of camping you do, we recommend one of our many outdoor knives, just like for hiking trips. It is beneficial to choose a knife that you can use to split wood and sticks to start a fire easily and also for preparing food, fixing equipment, and creating improvised solutions. Having a reliable knife can make the entire camping experience much smoother and safer, especially if you are far from amenities.Bushcraft
Bushcraft is a more advanced type of camping, where a really strong and durable knife is necessary to handle tough tasks such as chopping, cutting, and processing wood. It becomes your primary tool for building shelters, creating tools, and surviving in nature. With the right knife, you can perform all the tasks needed to live and thrive in the wilderness.
Whittling in nature
A good outdoor knife is perfect for whittling wood and creating objects, from simple tools to more complex artworks. It allows you to be creative and make something useful or beautiful from natural materials. Whether you’re making a hiking staff or a wood sculpture, a reliable knife is crucial for your whittling projects.Food preparation
With a sharp knife, you can easily cut meat, vegetables, and fruit, making cooking in nature much easier. A good knife allows you to prepare delicious meals even in the great outdoors. Additionally, it helps you quickly and efficiently handle all food-related tasks, from filleting fish to slicing bread.Making a fire
Many of Morakniv’s outdoor knives come with a fire starter or are compatible with one, featuring a specially ground spine in stainless steel. A fire starter makes it easy to create sparks and start a fire, which is particularly useful in emergencies and for staying warm or cooking food in the wild. Being able to start a fire quickly and efficiently can be crucial for your safety and comfort in nature.
Choosing materials and features
When choosing an outdoor knife, there are several features to consider to ensure you get a knife that suits your needs.Blade length
The blade length of your knife depends on the types of tasks you want to perform with it. A shorter knife blade, like the Morakniv Eldris, offers better control and precision, ideal for detailed work. Longer blades, found in knives like the Garberg or Kansbol, are better for heavier tasks and provide more power and reach.Handle
The handle should be ergonomic and provide a good grip, even when wet. Materials such as plastic, rubber, or wood are popular choices for a good grip. A well-designed handle reduces the risk of blisters and fatigue during prolonged use, making your knife more comfortable and safer to use.
Blades
Choose between stainless steel and carbon steel depending on your maintenance preferences and usage. Stainless steel is more resistant to rust and requires less maintenance, which is good for humid environments. Carbon steel offers better sharpness and is easier to sharpen, making it a good choice for those who prioritize sharpness and are willing to spend time on maintenance.Weight balance
A good outdoor knife should be light enough to carry but heavy enough to provide stability and power during use. A well-balanced knife is easier to handle and reduces fatigue during prolonged use, which is important for both comfort and efficiency in the field.Full tang or not?
A full tang knife has a fixed blade that extends through the entire handle, giving the knife extra strength and durability, making it reliable for heavy tasks like chopping or prying. A knife without full tang is often lighter and can be more comfortable to carry but lacks the same robustness and may be less suitable for demanding use. The choice between full tang and non-full tang depends on how you plan to use the knife and what type of durability you need.
