Top 20 Best Hard Use Full Tang Fixed Blade Survival Knives

These “so-called” survival knives pose a serious risk to your safety. You will understand why down below.

Our goal is to make sure you are fully informed before you come to a final decision. There are excellent survival knives out there, but you have to know what to look for.

The hard use full tang fixed blade survival knives below have reputations to uphold. For example, Fallkniven is a well-renowned supplier of military and outdoor survival knives supplying the Swedish military. Gerber has been manufacturing survival knives for those who serve since 1966. ESEE knives see service worldwide and are used by Columbian Special Operations Forces.

Due to their elite status, these survival knives are highly sought-after by military operators, law enforcement, survivalists and hardcore outdoorsmen and women.

In any survival situation, “quality is critical”. Your survival knife must withstand extreme abuse and be ready for anything, “expected and unexpected”.

A quality survival knife is a hard-working tool meant for real-world treatment. It must prove itself every step of the way and indifferent to being treated as such. There are no exceptions!

Lucky for you, we’ve found the top 20 best hard use full tang fixed blade survival knives. 

In this ProSurvivalStrategies.com Guide, you will learn:

• What is a “hard use” survival knife?
• Why do hard use survival knives have fixed blades?
• Why is a hard use fixed blade survival knife the best choice?
• And much more!

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Check out our Top 20 Hard Use Full Tang Fixed Blade Survival Knives in the quick comparison chart below. 

All of the above-mentioned hard use full tang fixed blade survival knives are excellent choices. Any one of them would be a more than suitable choice in any survival situation. However after painstaking deliberation, we had to pick the best one. 

Top 20 Best Hard Use Full Tang Fixed Blade Survival Knives!

In a hurry? Check out our Top 20 picks below.  Keep reading to learn more about each one.

1. Fallkniven A1 Pro
2. Fallkniven A1
3. Fallkniven S1
4. Gerber StrongArm
5. KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion
6. ESEE-6P
7. TOPS Knives B.O.B (Brothers of Bushcraft)
8. Benchmade Bushcrafter 162
9. ESEE-5
10. Ontario Knife Company RAT-5 
11. TOPS Knives Brakimo
12. ESEE-4P
13. JEO-TEC No 39 CELTIBERO
14. ESEE Junglas II
15. TOPS Knives Fieldcraft
16. Spartan Blades Damysus
17. LionSteel T5
18. Cold Steel SRK in San Mai Steel
19. Morakniv Garberg
20. Buck Knives 104 Compadre Camp Knife 

What Is A Hard Use Survival Knife?

A “hard use” survival knife is used for fire building, shelter building, chopping, batoning, prying, hammering and a multitude of other demanding survival tasks. The best “hard use” survival knife will be a rugged, full tang fixed blade designed to take abuse and extreme punishment.

For example, batoning is a bushcraft and survival technique where a strong survival knife is lodged in a piece of wood, then struck repeatedly by a baton-like object like a heavy piece of wood for instance in order to split the wood. This is an extremely important technique if you forgot your ax at home.

Batoning can be accomplished with any fixed blade knife as long as the blade is strong enough and capable of withstanding repeated strikes. Survival knives with full tangs (where the metal from the knife extends past the blade and through the entire handle) are exceptionally stronger, less likely to sustain damage or break during use. The last thing you need is to sustain a severe injury when help is miles away.

A hard use survival knife will have a comfortable yet durable handle and a tough blade made of either carbon or stainless steel that is easy to control. Not too large like a machete and not too small like a folding knife.

A quality “hard use” survival knife will accomplish all of the above-mentioned tasks with the reliability and consistency that the vagaries of survival demand. 

Why Do Hard Use Survival Knives Have Fixed Blades?

Unlike folding knives that consist of two or more separate pieces that are mated into a reliable whole, a survival knife has a fixed blade that runs through the entire handle. Hence the term "fixed".

Fixed blades are highly valued and used by hunters, outdoorsmen, soldiers and survivalists throughout the world. A fixed blade’s strength, blade length and durability makes it reliable and dependable in the field.

For example, batoning with a survival knife is an extremely brutal test. A high-quality folding knife may stand up to this task. However, there is always the risk that the internal springs and pivot joint will break under the extreme stress.

Only a fixed blade with a full tang will always perform the most rugged survival tasks. Clearly, it does not rely on “moving parts” and is ready to use in any situation. Its very design makes it ideal for combat, outdoor and survival situations. 

Why Is A Hard Use Fixed Blade Survival Knife The Best Choice?

Let’s start by discussing what is not an ideal choice for survival purposes. Pocket knives and multitools are definitely less than ideal. There is always the possibility that their blades can fold onto your fingers.

Folder proponents will point to steady improvements in the reliability of folding knife mechanisms such as (Axis Locks, Compression Locks and Tri-Ad Locks). Yes, these are the strongest folding knife locks, but no matter how ingenious and well-constructed the lock may be, by design, a folding knife will always be considered a broken knife.

There is always the risk that a folding knife can break at the joint during hard use such as batoning.

For example, the primary weakness of a liner lock is it relies on friction between the lock bar end and the blade tang to keep it in place.

Wear and tear, dirt and other variables can reduce that friction where even a sharp impact on the blade spine or even hand closing pressure can cause it to release.

Folding knives have come a long way, and manufacturers have developed impressive and secure locking systems. There is no doubt that today’s folding knives perform tasks today that were unheard of 50 years ago.

However, a hard use full tang fixed blade survival knife will always outperform any folding knife by its very design. They possess attributes that make them invaluable to anyone who finds themselves in the wilderness.

Why Should A Hard Use Fixed Blade Survival Knife Always Have A Full Tang?

Before we get into the details, it’s important that you first understand what a tang is and the various types knife manufacturers use. Trust me, it makes all the difference. Read below and you will understand why.

A tang refers to the bottom portion of the blade that will either barely be inserted into the handle, partially fit into the handle or actually run the full length of the handle. Let’s examine each separately, so you get a better understanding of the 3 types.

Barely inserted literally means little or no tang. Why purchase a knife with little or no tang whatsoever? This clearly seems like an accident waiting to happen. If you try to use a survival knife with a “barely inserted” tang through material that doesn’t give easily, the blade will break resulting in severe injury.

These knives are definitely less expensive, but budget shouldn’t mean a trip to the hospital.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Always avoid hollow handles because it means the knife is not full tang construction.

Partially fit means it’s better than a barely inserted tang. A portion of the tang does run through the handle but not all the way down. The other problem here is the tang may not match the full width of the handle.

Although some tang is better than none, durability is reduced to reduce the weight of the knife. Is it worth the trade off? Of course, a partial tang is for moderate-use applications. The chances of the blade breaking are “slimmer” because your “powerful grip” keeps all stress points evenly dispensed. If the handle breaks off, it is very dangerous to use

Full Tang! Now we’re talking. An extended tang runs past the handle and is shaped into various configurations such as a rounded pummel, a window breaking butt, or a lanyard hole at the end.

This is definitely what you want, a solid piece of metal running down the full length of the handle, with one end being the sharpened blade and the opposite end acting as a handle.

An intelligent choice when choosing your first or next survival knife is one with a full tang that can withstand abuse and punishment. Remember the more metal in the handle the better! A full tang should always be your first choice.

SURVIVAL TIP:
If the handle breaks off, it is very difficult and extremely dangerous to use a partial tang knife. A full tang knife can be wrapped with 550 paracord and still perform nearly as well.

A full tang survival knife is always the best and safest choice. 

Why Should A Hard Use Survival Knife Always Have A Synthetic Handle?

The handle should never be overlooked because it is the point of contact between you and the knife. It also determines the following:

• Cut performance.
• Level of hand control.
• Amount of grip.
• Durability.
• Your level of fatigue based on each task.
• Humidity, water and temperature resistance.
• Handle material affects the overall performance of a survival knife.

Rigid knife handles will create uncomfortable vibrations when put to hard use. On the other hand, handles encased in a synthetic material will absorb shocks reasonably well. For example, a synthetic handle is ideal when batoning because it reduces vibrations that ultimately causes fatigue and not to mention sore hands. 

Look for handles constructed from G-10, Micarta, Kraton, Zytel, FRN, GFN, Thermorun. Not only are they shock absorbent, they are durable, lightweight, provide a non-slip grip and are corrosion- resistant. 

For example, a G-10 handle is an intelligent choice because of the following:

• It does not oxidize or become brittle or soften over time.
• It is one of the strongest synthetic materials available.
• It is resilient, rugged and moisture-resistant.
• It is lightweight and provides a non-slip grip when you are sweaty or the knife is wet. 

Another wise decision is Thermorun, because:

• It has excellent chemical and water resistance and thermal stability.
• It is insensitive to heat.
• It feels warm when gripped.
• It is durable and has excellent low temperature impact resistance. 

No matter your choice of synthetic handle, you don’t want the knife slipping from your hand when you need it most. 

A quality handle also has a lanyard hole so you can fasten a lanyard and wrap it around your wrist when batoning or chopping wood. It prevents the knife from flying out of your hand. 

What Type Of Metal Blade Should A Hard Use Survival Knife Have?

Survival knives come in two types of steel: carbon and stainless. Which one is better is a never-ending debate amongst knife enthusiasts. Due to this ongoing clash, I will provide you the information and you decide which type is better.

Carbon steel, as the name implies, is steel with additional carbon. It may contain other alloys, but it is the carbon which determines the important characteristics. Numerous experts prefer carbon steel for survival knives because it's easy to sharpen and the blade will hold a sharp edge for a prolonged period of time.

The disadvantage is you have to maintain the blade because it is more prone to rust and corrosion. However, when the blade is properly maintained, it’s hard to beat.

Stainless Steel - don’t be fooled by the term “stainless”. It can still stain and corrode, but much more slowly than carbon steel. Stainless steel alloys are more complex and have a higher level of chromium. They have a majority of the characteristics of carbon steel (i.e. tough, rugged and reliable) but the blade may lose an edge faster than carbon. Also, it is harder to sharpen in the field.

Of course this depends on the quality of stainless steel. For example, the laminated Cobalt stainless steel blade on the Fallkniven A1 Pro has proven itself to be corrosive-resistant, extremely tough, takes a razor sharp edge and is easy to sharpen.

The best advantage is that stainless steel lasts longer when exposed to the elements (i.e. rain, humidity and other corrosive environments). 

How Long Should The Blade Be?

Although smaller knives are easier to carry, they are not capable of performing heavy-duty tasks such as batoning or chopping at which larger fixed blade knives easily perform. Larger knives can also replace the need for a hatchet. Remember, you want to be comfortable and not carry a sword attached to your hip.

The majority or survival knives have blade lengths ranging from 5 to approximately 10 inches. For example, the ESEE Junglas II has a blade length of approximately 8.38 inches. With an overall length of 14.5 inches, it may not be the most suitable for some users.

Although the golden rule is above 5 inches, rules are meant to be broken. For example, the Gerber StrongArm has a 4.8 inch blade that is tough, durable and more than capable of withstanding serious abuse. Thus, we simply can’t exclude blades that fall just under the mark of 5 inches. Some of these durable and smaller hard use blades are more than capable of batoning wood within reason.

Remember, there is a delicate balance when it comes to blade length because you have to be able to efficiently carry and handle the knife. If you opt for a bigger blade, it may become an impediment and interfere with more precise cutting tasks. A blade length of 4.3 to 9 inches may be more ideal. 

How Thick Should The Blade Be?

Clearly, the thicker the better because a thicker blade will withstand the demands of repeated punishment. You don’t want a survival knife that has a great deal of flex in the blade. Simply put, you are not looking for a blade that will snap or bend when put through hard use.

For example, the TOPS B.O.B (Brother of Bushcraft) has a solid blade thickness of 3/16ths of an inch. It’s capable of performing the most punishing tasks such as batoning, chopping and prying. The KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion is another beast well-equipped with a ¼ inch thick blade capable of withstanding abuse and then asking for more.

Of course the thicker the blade, the heavier the knife. However, weight should never be a factor when it comes to overall performance and safety. 

Why Is A Plain Edge Blade The Best Choice For A Hard Use Survival Knife?

There are three types of blade edges: plain (or straight edge), serrated and partially-serrated. When it comes to a hard use full tang fixed blade survival knife, the blade should always be a straight edge because it is the most versatile.

A straight edge has one continuous sharp edge and gives you the best strong steady cutting pressure. Unlike serrated and partially-serrated blades, it allows you to perform cuts with minimal resistance. Only a straight edge will baton and chop wood because serrations just get bound up. When it comes to survival, don’t waste your time with serrated blades. 

Plain edge blades are perfect because of the following:

• More versatile and useful for outdoor demands.
• Easier to sharpen and maintain.
• Provide increased accuracy when cutting.
• It doesn’t snag or fray when cutting through ropes of cables. 
• Doesn’t get caught in wood when batoning or used for finer tasks. 

Serrated and partially-serrated blades are difficult to sharpen in the field. They don’t perform clean cuts and are not designed for batoning wood. Simply put, they are not versatile when compared to a plain edge. 

A straight edge is always the best choice! 

What Types of Blade Profiles Do Hard Use Survival Knives Have?

Blade profile refers to the shape of the blade. There are numerous profiles such as sheepsfoot, needle, spear point and tanto. However, three types of blade profiles are ideal for a hard use full tang fixed blade survival knife - the straight back, drop point and clip point / modified clip point.

The straight back “as the name suggests” is designed to be utilitarian and versatile. The blade has a curved edge, dull straight spine, strong tip and a long belly.

Its spine is not sharp which allows you to apply your finger for added pressure to increase cutting force. The point or tip of the blade is along a strong back which makes it ideal for stabbing or piercing. The curved edge is excellent for slicing because the blade is easy to control when maintaining a line cut.

Extremely versatile, this design is a favorite for survival knives. It performs all cutting tasks such as chopping, piercing, skinning, batoning, slicing and stabbing. Aside from its versatility, it's easy to sharpen because it has a long belly and a single curve along the tip.

A drop point is another excellent blade profile for a hard use full tang fixed blade survival knife. Similar to a straight back, it has an unsharpened spine that slopes from the handle to the tip of the blade (i.e. a convex curve), hence the name “drop point”. You can extend your index finger on the spine of the blade for a “scalpel style grip” and a “depth stop”.

The lowered point provides more control, strength and thickness at the tip. Due to the tip’s thickness, you don’t have to worry about it snapping off. The advantage a drop point has over a straight back is its ability to perform thrust cuts into an object. 

Keep in mind, there are modified drop points that mimic a spear point. A portion of the spine towards the tip is sharper which increases piercing capability.

A clip point / modified clip point is another profile found on hard use survival knives. However, a true clip point has a weak tip and is prone to breaking during hard use. Despite its drawback, manufacturers recognized this weakness and forged modified clip points to strengthen the tip. A design that looks like a modified drop point.

For example, the Cold Steel SRK (listed below) has a traditional clip point blade unlike the Fallkniven S1 which has a modified clip point. Regardless, both survival knives give you excellent piercing capabilities. 

In-Depth Reviews Of Our Top 20 Best Hard Use Full Tang Fixed Blade Survival Knives.

The Fallkniven A1 Pro may have brought your quest for a perfect survival knife to an end. It is a complete and excellent upgrade of the already proven high performance A1 (listed below). Everything about this knife demonstrates excellence. The A1 Pro will not have to be a very serious contender in the world of survival knives for a very, very long time. This is the king of survival knives and it’s amazing.

As if the A1 wasn’t enough, the upgraded A1 Pro is outstanding. The thickness and intense sharpness makes it a beast to be reckoned with. Think of the A1 Pro as a survival knife on steroids.

This is an extremely powerful fixed blade full tang survival knife with an overall length of 11.2 inches (.2 inches longer than the A1), with a just over a ¼ inch thick blade (.2 inches thicker than the A1). The blade is made of Laminated Cobalt steel that is a serious upgrade from the excellent VG-10 laminated stainless steel on its predecessor the A1.

This amazing survival knife with its wedge-like geometric blade handles any heavy use you can throw at it. From batoning to chopping wood, the A1 Pro performs like a hot knife going through butter. You will also be amazed by its versatility. For such a large heavy-duty survival knife, it handles finer cutting tasks with ease.

Fallkniven pushed the limits on the A1 Pro and equipped this powerhouse with a premium Laminated Cobalt Steel. Don’t think that the A1 with VG-10 steel isn’t awesome or somehow inferior. VG-10 steel is spectacular and used in many of the most expensive knives on the market. It has proven itself to be corrosive-resistant, extremely tough and takes a razor sharp edge. These are difficult qualities to improve upon.

The A1 Pro still retains the same 420J2 (a standard low carbon durable stainless steel) outer cladding which boasts excellent corrosion resistance, durability and ability to hold a wicked sharp edge. However, instead of VG-10, the core of the Pro’s blade consists of Cobalt which proves itself as one of the best overall premium steels on the market for a survival knife because it’s more resistant to corrosion, tolerates extreme abuse, holds a razor sharp edge, and is easy to sharpen.

420J2 + CoS + 420J2 blade steel = Fallkniven’s king of survival knives.

The handle is made of Thermorun which covers the tang, leaving a bit exposed at the end for hammering. It is a high performance thermoplastic polymer that Fallkniven has used for over 30 years in their high performance knives. It is durable, impervious to heat aging, water, weather, and chemicals / solvents.

The design and construction of the handle is simple. There is a large single forward guard to protect your hand during heavy use. A lanyard tube inset near the pummel. In use, the handle is extremely comfortable, there are no issues with slipping or hot spots.

Your grip is further enhanced by the fine diamond-pattern texturing. Overall, the handle is very ergonomic, provides excellent traction and you will not have to worry about the knife sliding around in your hand.

The Fallkniven A1 Pro comes with an upgrade MOLLE compatible Zytel or leather sheath to accommodate your preference. Zytel is a type of FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon), a thermoplastic material that is incredibly strong, resistant to bending, abrasion and practically indestructible.

The A1 Pro gives up nothing because Fallkniven infused Swedish magic in this king. If you need a survival knife you can stake your life on, the A1 Pro reigns supreme. 

Pros:

• The Fallkniven A1 Pro is the king of survival knives.
• Extremely versatile for such a large survival knife.
• Premium laminated Cobalt stainless steel provides increased resistance to corrosion, tolerates extreme abuse, holds a razor sharp edge, and is easy to sharpen.
• Strong versatile drop point blade profile.
• Ergonomic diamond-textured Thermorun handle is durable, impervious to heat aging, water, weather, and chemicals / solvents.
• The premium A1 Pro comes with a waterproof box, DC4 sharpener, upgrade sheath and Lifetime Warranty. 

Cons:

• The A1 Pro is expensive, however, considering the unparalleled quality a professional survival knife should be relied upon in any condition. 
• The textured thermorun pattern may be aggressive for some users. 

When you need to choose the right hard use survival knife, the Fallkniven A1 is your answer. This is definitely not a beginners survival knife and it means business in every sense of the word. Its technical design is a well-balanced concept and sets a new-world standard when it comes to blade geometry, ergonomics, overall technical design and personal security.

The A1 is a powerful full tang survival knife with an overall length of 11 inches, with a 6.3 inch laminated VG-10 blade that is ¼ inch thick and excels at heavy-duty use such as batoning and chopping wood like a champ. The wedge-like geometry of the blade easily pounds through wood. You will be amazed by its unsurpassed performance and versatility. Finer cutting tasks are performed with ease which is impressive for a knife of this size.

The powerful ¼ inch thick modified drop point fixed blade is made of premium laminated VG-10 steel. Fallkniven uses 420J2 outer cladding alloy steel known for its strength and almost corrosive-free properties. The core is made of tough high grade VG-10 steel that is 20% stronger than solid stainless steel. VG-10 has high levels of Chromium and Molybdenum that gives you excellent strength, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, edge retention and a blade that is easy to sharpen.

So, laminated 420J2 + VG-10 + 420J2 = a superb “hard use” stainless steel blade.

The overall geometry and durable convex edge is rounded and comes to a point that is extremely strong and sharp. It phenomenally and effortlessly pushes through all material while holding up phenomenally under any use.

You have an option of a Satin or Cerakote blade finish. The Cerakote finish is favorable among military operatives who want to avoid shiny blades. It also adds additional corrosion resistance to a perfect blade.

The A1 is a full tang survival knife and the thick laminated stainless steel is exposed at the end for hammering. Its handle is made of Kraton which covers the tang. It is a synthetic replacement to rubber that is very durable, has high resistance to wearing and most important gives you a comfortable non-slip grip.

The design and construction of the handle is simple. There is a large single forward guard to protect your hand during heavy use. A lanyard tube inset near the pummel. In use, the handle is extremely comfortable, there are no issues with slipping and has a gratifying tackiness that is extremely important for batoning and chopping.

Your grip is further enhanced by the fine diamond-pattern texturing. Overall, the handle is very ergonomic, provides excellent traction and just feels fantastic in your hand.

The Fallkniven A1 comes with a Zytel or leather sheath to accommodate your preference. Zytel is a type of FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon), a thermoplastic material that is incredibly strong, resistant to bending, abrasion and practically indestructible. However, the very design of this sheath covers the lanyard hole and you will hear a slight rattle.

On the other hand, the leather sheath (i.e. which increases the overall price) firmly holds the knife in place and is made of quality leather. The choice is yours.

The mighty Fallkniven A1 is a large and durable survival knife that performs even in the most extreme conditions. 

Pros:

• Technical design, well-balanced, excellent blade geometry and overall design sets a new-world standard.
• ¼ inch thick blade stands up to any hard use thrown at it.
• Superb laminated VG-10 laminated stainless steel blade has great edge retention, wear resistance, corrosion resistance and toughness.
• Perfect and durable convex edge is rounded and comes to an extremely sharp point.
• Kraton handle is extremely durable and provides a comfortable non-slip grip.
• Choice of durable Kydex or leather handle. 

Cons: 

• Zytel sheath is not the best option because it covers the lanyard hole and there is slight rattling.
• Over time, the Cerakote coating can wear off. 

The Fallkniven S1 is a great all-around survival knife because of its overall durability, high-quality and versatility. The S1 was approved for the U.S. Navy and Marine air crews when it met the requirements for design, function, reliability and strength by the Naval Air Warfare Center.

The S1 has a full tang construction, is 9.7 inches long, a 5 millimeter thick blade and weighs 6.7 ounces. This survival knife means business and is more than capable to baton, carve and chop wood with ease. It will surprise you by being much more versatile than expected.

It’s impressive 5 millimeter thick black is made of an extremely strong high grade laminated VG-10 stainless steel. Fallkniven uses a laminated steel because it is at least 20% stronger than a solid stainless steel.

The outer layers are made of low carbon high chromium 420J alloy steel known for its strength and almost corrosive-free properties. The center consists of VG-10 which has high levels of Chromium and Molybdenum. The end result is a high-end blade that gives you great edge retention, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, toughness and is easy to sharpen.

The convex grind gives you extra strong cutting power without the risk of breakage. The strong reinforced modified clip point is excellent for penetrating purposes.

The handle is made of Thermorun which covers the tang, leaving a bit exposed at the end for hammering. It is a high performance thermoplastic polymer that Fallkniven has used for over 30 years in their high performance knives. It is durable, impervious to heat aging, water, weather, and chemicals / solvents.

No matter what type of grip you use (i.e. regular, reversed, upside-down, etc.), it sits securely in your hand. There are no “hot-spots”. The diamond pattern on the sides of the handle further enhance control even when wet.

The Fallkniven S1 comes with a Zytel or leather to accommodate your preference. Zytel is a type of FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon), a thermoplastic material that is incredibly strong, resistant to bending, abrasion and practically indestructible. However, the very design of this sheath covers the lanyard hole and you will hear a slight rattle.

On the other hand, the leather sheath (i.e. which increases the overall price) firmly holds the knife in place and is made of quality leather. The choice is yours.

Although the S1 is slightly smaller than the A1 Pro and A1, you will find no teething problems if you are looking for a high performance survival knife. 

Pros:

• Fallkniven is best known as a supplier of hard use military and outdoor knives.
• Approved for U.S. Navy and Marine pilots by Naval Air Warfare Center.
• Premier quality VG-10 laminated stainless steel has great edge retention, wear resistance, corrosion resistance and toughness.
• Available in Satin and Cerakote finish for military application.
• Strong reinforced modified clip point.
• Excellent diamond pattern Thermorun handle is comfortable, durable and provides good control even when wet. 

Cons: 

• Zytel sheath is not the best option because it covers the lanyard hole and there is slight rattling.
• Physical abrasions scratch through the Cerakote coating and over time may separate from the blade. 

Partnering with raw power, the Gerber StrongArm flexes its military might. The ever-evolving battlefield demands gear that keeps up, is versatile and reliable. Gerber has proudly been making survival knives for those who serve since 1966, rising to the challenge of honoring decades of experience.

The Gerber StrongArm is ready to enter the battlezone or when needed as an outdoor companion. This is the civilian’s answer to a military man’s blade that provides exceptional versatility.

The StrongArm has an overall length of 9.8 inches with a 4.8 inch drop point blade profile. The blade is 0.19 inches thick with full tang construction. The versatile design makes this an excellent choice for batoning, chopping and wood shaving. The StrongArm is a well-balanced survival knife that merges precision with unmatched raw power.

The ultra-sharp blade is made from 420-HC stainless steel whose chemical composition is 0.46% Carbon, 13% Chromium, 0.4% Manganese, 0.3% Vanadium and 0.4% Silicon. So what does this mean to you?

The high amount of Carbon improves hardness and wear and corrosion resistance. Chromium adds tensile strength, edge retention and enhances corrosion and wear resistance. Manganese increases hardness. Vanadium further improves wear resistance and Silicon improves strength. 420-HC is a tough steel that withstands hard use. This is a high-quality blade with added coating that maximizes protection from corrosion.

The handle has a no-nonsense feel in your hand. A rubberized diamond texture on the handle locks the StrongArm within the palm of your hand with an adhesive-like grip. The design is intended to ensure your hand will not slip off or require a grip to the point of uncomfortableness.

Dual guards on the handle are meant to prevent your hand from slipping forward onto the blade. The natural handle construction is ergonomically phenomenal.

Like the StrongArm itself, the accompanying sheath provides versatility no matter how and where you like to carry your blade. With a traditional drop-leg position, horizontal belt carry at your waist or vertical MOLLE adaption, the StrongArm will always be a hand’s length away.

The sheath’s material is created from durable hard plastic with an equally tough strap attachment. This sheath adds versatility to an already powerful companion.

From steamy rainforests to the urban jungle, this overall intriguing knife offers all-around use for a plethora of bushcraft, self-defense and survival applications. This is the best bang for your buck. 

Pros:

• Since 1966, Gerber has proudly been producing survival knives for those who serve.
• Solid overall construction.
• Full tang fixed blade with a 0.19 inch thick blade with a strong tip. 
• 420-HC stainless steel is tough and withstands hard use.
• Strong diamond-textured handle with dual guards ensures a secure and safe grip.
• Gerber Lifetime Warranty. 

Cons:

• The handle can be a bit small for some users.
• Horizontal carry is possible, but it is not an easy everyday carry. 

The famous KA-BAR BECKER BK2 Campanion may seem like a mid-range belt knife but when you pick it up, you will immediately realize that this tank of steel is tough as nails. Made in the U.S.A., this survival knife will not leave you disappointed.

The BK2 has a full tang that extends through the entire length of the knife. This is the best type of blade for handling harsh tasks such as batoning, chopping and prying. This knife is meant to be used and abused.

Its overall length is slightly over 10 ½ inches with a 5 ¼ inch blade that is a quarter inch thick. The blade steel is a black powder-coated 1095 Cro-Van which has a distinct advantage over regular 1095 because of the introduction of Chromium, Nickel, Molybdenum and Vanadium. This makes it a hard steel with great edge retention, hardness and wear resistance. The powder coating protects the blade from rust and corrosion.

This steel is one of the easiest to sharpen and even absolute beginners will have a smooth time achieving a razor sharp edge.

The tough impact-resistant handle is made of Zytel. This material is a type of Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon (FRN) which is super strong, impact-resistant and almost indestructible.

The BK2 is well-equipped with a multifunctional polymer sheath. It’s easy to convert it to horizontal hip or behind the back scout carry. The knife fits securely without the need of a safety loop. Sheath retention is nice and firm.

There is no mistake about it, the BK2 is a statement piece that’s here to stay. 

Pros:

• Great popular super rugged knife.
• Massive ¼ inch thick blade down to the tip.
• Well-suited for batoning, chopping and prying.
• Black powder-coated 1095 Cro-Van Steel has great edge retention, hardness and wear resistance.
• Super strong Zytel handle.
• Durable polymer sheath. 

Cons:

• Not designed for more finer woodworking such as detailed notching tasks.
• Black powder coating wears off the edge of the blade.

The ESEE-6P was designed as a “stand alone knife”. In other words, if you had to take one knife into the wilderness, the ESEE-6P would be a very wise decision. This is one of ESEE’s larger knives and a favorite because it handles a wide variety of survival tasks.

This full tang survival knife has an overall length of 11.75 inches, a 6.5 inch blade and weighs 4 ounces shy of a pound. Not a Junglas II (which is another one of our top picks) but definitely a big survival knife. The blade is just shy of 5 mm thick and designed to baton, carve and chop wood with ease. It is a large all-around utility and combat knife.

The 6.5 inch blade is made of 1095 Carbon Steel with a black powder-coated finish. The overall design is simple, it’s full flat ground and there are no swedges. Keep in mind, 1095 is extremely durable but susceptible to rust. The blade has a black finish coating that protects the steel from corrosion.  When the blade gets wet, dry it off quickly and thoroughly as possible.

On the positive side, the high carbon content hardens the steel and reduces the amount of wear on the blade. Yes, 1095 is durable and strong, exactly what you need when a knife is put to hard use. It retains a wicked razor sharp edge and is easy to sharpen in the field. 1095 has excellent resistance to chipping and holds a fine edge for a long time.

The ESEE-6P comes with Micarta handle scales. Micarta is a synthetic material found on quality survival knives. Its strong, durable, withstands heavy impacts, resists moisture and doesn’t become brittle with age.

The handle gives you plenty of room and equipped with a forward finger choil if you need to choke up on the blade. However, the aggressive jimping on the spine may be better suited for gloved hands.

The sheath is a high density thermoplastic. It’s riveted and designed similar to a Kydex sheath. It’s nicely finished and holds the knife securely in place. There is a small amount of rattle and it takes a small amount of force to draw the knife using your thumb. It has multiple rivets for mounting options and belt mount is included.

If you are looking for a “stand alone” heavy-duty and versatile survival knife, it’s hard to pass the ESEE-6P up. 

Pros: 

• The ESEE-6P is a favorite due to its versatility.
• Excellent heavy-duty blade that easily chops and batons wood.
• Thick 1095 workhorse carbon steel with full tang construction.
• Durable and ergonomic Micarta handle.
• Forward finger choil allows you to choke up on the blade.
• ESEE offers an unconditional no questions asked warranty that covers replacement of any knives that get damaged except for rust and normal wear and tear. Warranty is lifetime and transferable. 

Cons: 

• The sheath is not great, so consider upgrading.
• 1095 high carbon steel is prone to corrosion. (Keep it clean, dry and oiled). 

TOPS Knives are designed and built using the extensive knowledge and real life experiences of numerous professionals with military, law enforcement and martial arts backgrounds.

This TOPS Knives B.O.B. (Brothers of Bushcraft) series has prompted multiple versions of this very popular model, however most of them are made of 1095 carbon steel. On the other hand, the Hunter is a magnificent upgrade with the introduction of high-quality 154-CM Stainless Steel.

With an overall length of 10.00 inches, a 4.75 inch blade length and .19 inch blade thickness with full tang construction, the Hunter is a compact and extremely durable knife. From carving tent stakes and trap triggers to splitting logs in two for your campfire, this knife will overcome any task you throw at it in a survival scenario.

Tested in the wilderness of Canada by survival experts Mors Kochanski and Dr. Gino Ferri, the Hunter, withstood abuse and deemed a “serviceable field knife”.

The blade is made of 154-CM Stainless Steel, a departure from the commonly 1095 carbon steel. For decades, 154-CM is extremely famous for being a high-end stainless steel and used in hard use survival knives.

The combination of Chromium, Carbon and Manganese makes the alloys very hard and offers excellent edge retention. The high level of Chromium offers amazing corrosion resistance. Even being a hard steel, it’s easy to sharpen, has great wear resistance, and most importantly it’s tough. This is a very well-balanced steel for such a heavy-duty knife.

A great 154-CM stainless steel blade deserves an equally amazing handle. The handle is made of G-10 and is one of the most ergonomic one on the market. This material is strong, durable, withstands heavy impacts, tolerates extreme temperatures, resists moisture and doesn’t become brittle with age.

It features a bow drill divot and an exposed pommel to allow impact from a baton that doesn’t affect the handle (though G-10 can withstand the abuse).

The sheath is a strong, durable Kydex with a steel belt clip. The design allows for a safe secure carry whether on your belt or pouch strap. It also features a built in Ferro-rod attachment. Kydex is a thermoplastic that is extremely strong, waterproof and can survive in any environment.

The Hunter is a well-balanced hard use survival knife that endures any outdoor environment. 

Pros:

• Built using extensive knowledge and real life experiences by numerous military, law enforcement and martial arts professionals.
• Full tang and thick blade withstands hard use.
• Field tested by well-renowned survivalists in Canada.
• Excellent 154-CM stainless steel.
• Durable G-10 handle designed to withstand abuse.
• Kydex sheath is strong, waterproof and survives in any environment.

Cons: 

• Bow drill divot in the handle is not necessary (but can come in handy).
• The handle may feel too thin for some users, it’s a matter of preference. 

In the world of american-made knives, Benchmade is a mark of excellence. From the makers of highly sought-after folding knives, it’s time to introduce the Benchmade Bushcrafter 162. Although the blade length is 4.40 inches and considered more a bushcraft knife, it still offers unsurpassed reliability for planned adventures or unexpected survival situations.

The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 has an overall length of 9.15 inches with a 4.40 inch drop point blade profile. The blade is 0.164 inches thick with a full tang construction. The versatility of this knife is unquestionable, from batoning to wood shaving, this knife combines precision with raw power.

The blade is constructed from CPM-S30V Martensitic Stainless Steel. Is this a good knife steel? Absolutely! Its chemical composition of Carbon, Manganese, Tungsten and Vanadium offers great hardness along with excellent edge retention. 14% Chromium composition offers excellent corrosion resistance. A high content of Vanadium and Chromium gives it great wear resistance. This is a premium stainless steel which is used in higher-end production knives.

The handle is made from a contoured and textured G-10. It is a tough, water and deformation-resistant material that tends to be grippy even when wet. It has rounded front and rear scales and prevents your hand from sliding into the blade. If you have large hands, don’t worry, this handle is long enough to accommodate your needs.

The sheath is designed from buckskin leather. However, it is not offered in left-handed carry. Also, the snap gets in the way when drawing and placing the knife back into the sheath.

The Benchmade 162 is a solid all-purpose full tang field knife suitable for hard use. 

Pros: 

• The Benchmade 162 handles realistic outdoor tasks with minimal effort.
• A substantial slab of premium CPM-S30V stainless steel is forged into this 9.15 inch knife.
• Full tang construction with a 4.1 millimeter durable and thick blade.
• Quality Micarta handle with rounded front and rear scales that will prevent your hand from sliding into the blade.
• Quality sheath and has a spot for a firesteel.
• Benchmade Lifetime LifeSharp Services. (For free, Benchmade will adjust, clean, oil and re-sharpen your knife to a factory razor sharp edge). 

Cons: 

• The steepness of the spine may be aggressive on your thumb when you are choking up on the spine of the blade.
• The contour and shape of the handle really comes down to personal preference. 

The ESEE-5 was designed by military SERE (Survival Evasion, Resistance and Escape) as a hard use downed pilot survival knife. This beast is manufactured in the USA by Rowan Manufacturing and specifically designed to withstand abuse. In any critical situation, having the right tool can make all the difference.

The ESEE-5 has an overall length of 11 inches with a 5.25 inch drop point blade that is a .25 inches thick with an incredibly strong tip. It is the thickest blade of all ESEE knives.

Why is this knife so thick? For example if you’re a downed fighter or helicopter pilot, it may be the only survival tool you have. It has to cut, break into a can to eat, cut through sheet metal, chop, baton without worrying about the blade breaking, it needs to withstand stress, break glass and it just overall has to be an extremely rugged tool. The ESEE-5 does that without blinking an eye.

Despite the .25 inch thick blade, the ESEE-5 can also perform fine wood shaving (i.e. whittling and carving) to get a fire started.

This well-balanced brute has a blade made of 1095 Carbon Steel with a black powder coat. While some knife enthusiasts are very quick to dismiss this type of steel, others are extremely fond of it. Keep in mind, this steel will rust if you don’t properly take care of it (ie. keep it dry and oiled). The rust is quickly removed when you sharpen the blade. The black coating protects the blade from corrosion which enhances longevity in humid and wet climates.

On the other hand, 1095 Carbon Steel is extremely strong and shock-resistant, reduces the amount of wear on the blade, holds a wicked edge and is easy to sharpen. The 1095 on the ESEE-5 has survived heinous training and brutal conditions where other “custom made” knives have not. This isn’t to say that other types of steel are inferior, but rather 1095 makes for a solid steel that keeps costs down and performs well in any survival situation.

The heavy-duty Micarta handle gives you an excellent grip. It’ s durable, weather-resistant, and holds up to the elements extremely well. It gives you a strong and secure grip in cold and wet environments.

Keep in mind, due to the massive ¼ inch thick durable blade, the handle is thick. If you have small or medium-sized hands, fatigue when using this knife may be an issue.

Such a massive knife deserves a solid sheath. The ESEE-5 comes with a Kydex Sheath with Mounting Grommets, adjustable sheath tensioner, ambidextrous clip plate, sheath hole spacing that also fits optional MOLLE locks and a lanyard with a cord lock.

The ESEE-5 was meticulously designed for survival by survival specialists. 

Pros:

• Designed by Military SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape) instructors.
• The ESEE-5 is an extremely tough knife that handles batoning and chopping with ease.
• Extremely strong .25 inch thick blade.
• Tough 1095 Carbon steel with powder coating offers added protection against rust and corrosion.
• Thick robust Micarta handle.
• ESEE offers an unconditional no questions asked warranty that covers replacement of any knives that get damaged except for rust and normal wear and tear. Warranty is lifetime and transferable. 

Cons: 

• While 1095 Carbon steel is a top choice for professional field knives, it will rust and stain if not properly cared for. (Keep the blade clean and oiled).
• Coating on the blade will wear off after prolonged use. 

The Ontario Knife Company has been around for 125 years and has a long proud history of making knives and tools for the United States Military. They specialize in both fixed blade and folding knives. RAT knives have served in Afghanistan, Iraq and many non-publicized conflicts around the world.

History, quality and tradition makes this award-winning company one of the best-known American knife manufacturers. The RAT-5 is a distinguished hard use survival knife.

The RAT-5 has an overall length of 10.5 inches with a 5 inch drop point blade profile. The blade is 0.188 inches thick with full tang construction. It has a flat grind and a deep belly making it an intelligent choice for a survival knife. The RAT-5 has a very strong tip with great penetrating power. Its durable thick blade batons through wood, easily makes kindling and despite its weight, it slices through wood with ease.

1095 is a workhorse Carbon Steel, that is commonly used for knives because it is easy to shape and heat treat. As with all 1095 carbon steel blades, they are extremely durable but susceptible to rust. The blade has a black finish coating that protects the steel from corrosion. So, when the blade gets wet, dry it off as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Yes, you have to take care of it.

So what are the benefits of 1095 steel? The high carbon content hardens the steel and reduces the amount of wear on the blade. Yes, 1095 is durable and strong, exactly what you need when a knife is put to hard use. It retains a wicked razor sharp edge and is easy to sharpen in the field. In support, it has excellent resistance to chipping and holds a fine edge for a long time.

This hard use full tang brute is equipped with a Micarta handle. It’s a synthetic material commonly found on quality survival knives. It’s strong, durable, withstands heavy impacts, tolerates extreme temperatures, resists moisture and doesn’t become brittle with age.

The RAT-5 comes with a standard ambidextrous Nylon sheath. The two adjustable retention straps work well when snapped closed. On the back of the sheath is a full length MOLLE connection strap. Eyelets at the bottom allow you to tie paracord to the sheath. Although the blade liner is thick, the knife rattles a bit because it is not fitted.

Pros:

• Ontario Knife Company has a proud history of manufacturing knives for the men and women of our armed forces.
• One of the best known American knife manufacturers.
• Thick 1095 workhorse carbon steel with full tang construction.
•  1095 steel is durable, strong and easy to sharpen in the field.
• Durable Micarta handle used on heavy-duty survival knives.
• Ambidextrous nylon sheath. 

Cons: 

• 1095 steel is prone to corrosion if deliberately neglected. (Keep the knife dry and oiled)
• Knife rattles a bit in the sheath because it is not fitted. 

The TOPS Brakimo is designed by Joe Flowers, a well-renowned outdoorsman, survival field instructor and owner of Bushcraft Global. He needed a knife that would be the flagship of his survival courses and designed the Brakimo to fit that need.

The Brakimo has an overall length of 10 inches with a 5.25 inch drop point blade that is .190 inches thick. Its wide blade profile combined with TOPS modified Scandi grind gives it excellent chopping, cutting and splitting power. The purpose of the Brakimo is to be a back-up for a machete or an all purpose camp knife.

TOPS does a great job with their 1095 steel. The modified scandi grind on this blade will shock you. It is a great blade for bushcraft, carving and will hold its edge when chopping and splitting wood. This overbuilt blade retains a wicked fine edge after heavy duty use. The blade performance is phenomenal and will exceed your expectations. Since this blade is overbuilt, you are able to get a higher level of performance.

The handle is made of Micarta, which is perfectly contoured well and feels comfortable in the hand. Micarta is impervious to cracking, warping, and never feels cold. It’s a great hard use material that withstands hard use.

If you have large hands don’t worry, the handle accommodates your needs. The handle also has a bow drill hole on either side of the handle. The ergonomics are impressive. Just be aware of the thinness of the handle.

The Kydex sheath has an excellent design that holds the knife securely. It has a 360-degree rotatable belt clip with a great thumb ramp. The knife securely clicks into place. You will not be disappointed.

The classic, simple and rugged design makes the Brakimo a great survival knife. 

Pros:

• Designed by Joe Flowers, a professional survival field instructor.
• Well-rounded classic and simple design.
• Wide blade profile combined with TOPS Scandi grind is great for bushcraft, carving, chopping and splitting wood.
• 1095 steel holds a wicked edge even after heavy use.
• Micarta handle is designed to withstand hard use.
• Kydex sheath is durable and securely holds the knife in place. 

Cons:

• Sheath is not ambidextrous.
• Rotatable belt clip may rotate out of position no matter the screw tension. 

The ESEE-4P was designed by Jeff Randall and Mike Perrin as an all-around bushcraft, survival and tactical knife. They are also the founders of Randall's Adventure and Training School of Survival teaching survival skills in Central and South America. The ESEE-4P is the brainchild of years of combined experience and knowledge of what a survival knife should be in every sense of the word.

The ESEE-4P has an overall length of 9.0 inches with a 4.5 inch drop point blade profile. The blade is 0.188 inches thick with full tang construction. It is a durable thick blade capable of batoning, chopping and finer bushcraft tasks. Although it's not large like other ESEE models such as the ESEE-6, it is definitely a well-rounded workhouse.

1095 is a workhorse Carbon Steel that is commonly used for knives because it is easy to shape and heat treat. As with all 1095 carbon steel blades, they are extremely durable but susceptible to rust. The blade has a black finish coating that protects the steel from corrosion. So, when the blade gets wet, dry it off as quickly and thoroughly as possible. Yes, you have to take care of it.

So what are the benefits of 1095 steel? The high carbon content hardens the steel and reduces the amount of wear on the blade. Yes, 1095 is durable and strong, exactly what you need when a knife is put to hard use. It retains a wicked razor sharp edge and is easy to sharpen in the field. In support, it has excellent resistance to chipping and holds a fine edge for a long time.

The ESEE-4P has a very unique and intimidating sawtooth handle. More than just an intimidating handle, it provides a comfortable and finger groove grip when putting this bad boy to use.

It’s crafted from G-10, a synthetic thermoset plastic laminate. It doesn’t shrink or swell when exposed to high temperatures, it’s difficult to break, lightweight, has great traction in dry and wet climates and frequently found on hard use survival knives. The sawtooth design breaks the mode of other ESEE handle designs.

A high density thermoplastic polymer sheath is included. It’s riveted and similar to a Kydex sheath. Overall the sheath has a nice finish and holds the blade securely in place. It does take a fair amount of force to remove the knife with your thumb. A drain hole is located on the bottom and there are numerous rivets for mounting options.

Considering how good this model is, the ESEE-4P has been put to the test by military operatives, law enforcement and thrillseekers globally. It’s a no nonsense survival knife when it comes to performance and durability. 

Pros:

• Designed by Military SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape) instructors and meets the expectations of military operatives globally.
• Thick 1095 workhorse carbon steel with full tang construction.
  1095 steel is durable, strong and easy to sharpen in the field.
• Durable G-10 sawtooth handle is lightweight and extremely durable.
• Hefty well-rounded compact workhorse.
• ESEE offers an unconditional no questions asked warranty that covers replacement of any knives that get damaged except for rust and normal wear and tear. Warranty is lifetime and transferable. 

Cons:

• 1095 steel is prone to corrosion if deliberately neglected. (Keep the knife dry and oiled).
• Knife has a minimal rattling in the sheath. 

The Jeo-Tec No. 39 is a beast that found its way from Spain into the hands of very happy outdoorsmen and women globally. This is a brand that is dedicated to creating hard use knives with a high level of craftsmanship. The No. 39 is no exception and will tackle anything that nature brings your way.

The No. 39 has an overall length of 11 inches with a 5.7 inch drop point blade that is 5 millimeters thick. Its wide blade profile has a saber grind, a bevel, a partial flat grind and a bevel that forms the edge. That is extremely strong construction.

As with all strong overbuilt survival knives, the No. 39 is more than capable to chop and baton wood yet delicate enough to carve a tent stake, notches and tinder.

Nobody likes an unpleasant rusty blade that is better off in the trash. The No. 39 has a blade constructed from Molybdenum-Vanadium 58 (MOVA-58) stainless steel. Unlike carbon blades that are prone to corrosion in humid climates, MOVA-58 is both corrosion-resistant, extremely durable and maintains a very sharp edge. Considering the durability of this 5 mm thick blade, you will have it for the long hall.

The Micarta handle is extremely tough and well-built. It withstands splits, chips and cracks from repeated hard use. Oh yes, it’s tough as nails. The handle has excellent ergonomics and if you have large hands, it accommodates your needs. The handle facilitates a firm secure grip when the No. 39 is put to hard use.

You have a choice of either a Kydex or 100% genuine leather sheath. The leather sheath is irresistible due to its gorgeous handcrafted design. A sharpener stone and firesteel is only included with the leather sheath. Keep in mind that if you choose the Kydex sheath, you will only receive the firesteel.

You seldom find a hard use survival knife that comes with a sharpener and firesteel in one complete package. The Jeo-Tec No. 39 is a complete package that assists you in the great outdoors. 

Pros:

• The Jeo-Tec No. 39 is extremely well-built with quality materials.
• MOVA-58 stainless steel is corrosion-resistant and very durable.
• Blade sharpness retention is superb even after repeated hard use.
• Leather sheath is high quality and comes with a sharpener stone and firesteel. Kydex sheath only includes a firesteel.
• Micarta handle withstands: splits, chips and cracks from repeated handling and exposure to the outdoors.
• 100% money back guarantee if the knife doesn’t live up to your expectations. 

Cons:

• The button snap closure of the leather retention strap may be too tight.
• The included sharpening stone may be too small. 

Pronounced "Hoonglas", the original Junglas is named after the Columbian police “JUNGLA” Compania Jungla Antinarcoticos special operations forces and designed to be a cross between a fixed blade and a machete. With an overall length of 16.5 inches, who needs a machete. Now it’s time to need its little brother the Junglas II that is only 2 inches smaller. Both of these knives see service worldwide with adventurers and Columbian anti-narcotic task forces.

The Junglas II has an overall length of 14.5 inches, a 8.38 inch blade combined with a full tang construction. This is definitely not a compact knife and purposefully built for abuse. This tank’s .188 inch thick blade batons and chops wood with ease. It will overcome and breeze through any hard use tasks you throw at it. Taking into consideration that this knife sees a great deal of action in the steaming jungles of South America, it must perform!

Made from 1095 high carbon steel, it is extremely durable but susceptible to rust. The blade has a black finish coating that protects the steel from corrosion. So, when the blade gets wet, dry it off as quickly and thoroughly as possible. If you neglect it, the blade will rust.

So what are the benefits of 1095 steel? The high carbon content hardens the steel and reduces the amount of wear on the blade. Yes, 1095 is durable and strong, exactly what you need when a knife is put to hard use. It retains a wicked razor sharp edge and is easy to sharpen in the field. In support, it has excellent resistance to chipping and holds a fine edge for a long time.

This giant’s handle is made of Micarta, a synthetic material commonly found on quality survival knives. It’s strong, durable, withstands heavy impacts, tolerates extreme temperatures, resists moisture and doesn’t become brittle with age.

A durable Kydex sheath comes with complete MOLLE backing. It has multiple lashing points and is extremely durable. The blade locks into place, doesn’t slip out and also has a handle strap lock. 

Pros: 

• In use with Columbian Police Special Operations Forces.
• Excellent heavy-duty blade that easily chops and batons wood.
• Thick 1095 workhorse carbon steel with full tang construction.
• 1095 steel is durable, strong and easy to sharpen in the field.
• Solid Kydex sheath with complete MOLLE backing.
• ESEE offers an unconditional no questions asked warranty that covers replacement of any knives that get damaged except for rust and normal wear and tear. Warranty is lifetime and transferable. 

Cons:

• 1095 high carbon steel is prone to corrosion. (Keep it dry and clean).
• This is a large blade and may be cumbersome for some users. 

The TOPS / B.O.B. Fieldcraft was tested in the wilderness of Canada and survived serious abuse under brutal conditions. TOPS is no stranger when it comes to hard use tools and the Fieldcraft is the personification of a serviceable field knife.

The Fieldcraft has an overall length of 10.0 inches with a 4.5 inch blade that is 3/16ths of an inch thick. The Scandi grind allows you to easily carve, whittle, make tent pegs and stakes. The Fieldcraft’s thick blade is also effective at chopping and batoning wood. The drop point design is strong and excellent for piercing objects.

The blade is made from a well-known and well-used 1095 High Carbon Alloy. As a military choice, its success for hard use field knives has been recorded for over a half century. However, it’s worthy to note that 1095 may stain and oxidize if intelligent and proper care isn’t exercised. Just like any excellent tool, it needs to be properly maintained.

So why choose 1095 steel? The high carbon content hardens the steel and reduces the amount of wear on the blade. Yes, 1095 is durable and strong, exactly what you need when a knife is put to hard use. It retains a wicked razor sharp edge and is easy to sharpen in the field. The hardness and excellent edge geometry work beautifully together to give you a long lasting edge.

The handle is made of Micarta, a synthetic material commonly found on quality survival knives. It’s strong, durable, withstands heavy impacts, tolerates extreme temperatures, resists moisture and doesn’t become brittle with age. The handle is very ergonomic and well-designed for various uses.

It is equipped with a durable Kydex belt sheath with a metal clip. A really nice thumb ramp allows you to easily push off and pull the knife out. However, the sheath is not exactly designed for tactical use. A nice Kydex loop on the sheath allows you to carry a feral rod. The included rotating belt clip does fit on larger LBE and MOLLE loops.

The TOPS / B.O.B. Fieldcraft is designed to handle heavy abuse and another intelligent choice to consider. 

Pros: 

• Designed and built using extensive knowledge and real life experiences from military operators, law enforcement and outdoor professionals. 
• Thick blade with Scandi grind is versatile and strong for heavy use.
• 1095 High Carbon alloy steel is durable, strong, maintains a razor sharp edge and easily sharpened in the field. (It’s prone to corrosion only if intelligent and proper care isn’t exercised).
• The Micarta handle is ergonomic and durable.
• Durable Kydex sheath with rotating belt clip fits on larger LBE and MOLLE loops.
• Free sharpening service is offered by TOPS knives. 

Cons:

• Jimping on the spine may be a little aggressive if you are not wearing gloves.
• Horizontal carry may be uncomfortable, but the adjustable rotating belt clip allows you to carry it in a 45-degree angle. 

Spartan Blades get more than their fair share of real-world use. The Damysus is no exception and it was specifically designed as a rugged and durable general purpose field knife for military and civilian users. This 10.75 inch fixed blade is appropriately named after the fastest of all giants in Greek mythology. It reflects the speed and raw power of its namesake.

The Damysus has an overall length of 10.75 inches with a 5.5 inch drop point blade that is .1875 inches thick. Its straight edge and strong tip ensures it will perform the most demanding tasks.

Made in collaboration with KA-BAR knives, the blade is constructed from black-powdered 1095 Cro-Van steel. It is the same steel used in the KA-BAR BK2 Campanion discussed above. 1095 Cro-Van Steel is very tough indeed with a Rockwell hardness of 56-58. It is a type of carbon steel that contains a significant amount of carbon to increase its hardness. Chromium, Nickel, Molybdenum and Vanadium also makes this a significantly better steel than 1095. The black-powdered coating protects the blade from rust and corrosion.

1095 Cro-Van steel has reliable hardness and durability. It keeps a sharp edge for a long period of time and doesn’t dull quickly. The excellent hardness of the steel gives the Damysus a longer lifespan. The blade is not hard to sharpen which is a nice balance in a hard use knife.

The handle is designed from textured Micarta which is commonly referred to as the “steel of the plastic industry”. It is revered for its aggressive grip, durability and resistance to heat, cold, moisture and doesn’t become brittle with age. The groove for the index finger is comfortably fitted and works perfectly in tandem with the thumb rest on top.

The giant’s sheath is made of injection molded Polymer with an active retention thumb lever. A great deal of thought was put into this concept. The push button is an added security feature which you might know from certain gun holsters. The Damysus secures with two solid clicks. 

Pros:

• A great collaboration between Spartan Blades and KA-BAR.
• The blade’s strong edge and tip ensures it will withstand abuse.
• Drop Point blade is the most versatile for general purpose use.
• 1095 Cro-Van steel has reliable durability, hardness and ensures a longer lifespan.
• Textured Micarta handle is durable and resistant to outdoor elements.
• Secure Polymer Sheath with a push button for added security. 

Cons: 

• After some heavy use you will notice marks on the coating.
• Injection molded Polymer sheath has a cheap feel.

The LionSteel T5 is the brainchild of Michele Pensato, a well- renowned knifemaker who undoubtedly understands the mechanics of a great survival knife. This beast is extremely well put together and is something special. It has an aggressive profile with a hefty blade specifically designed to withstand severe abuse.

The T5 has an overall length of 9.92 inches with a 5.04 inch versatile and incredibly strong drop point blade. With a 5 millimeter (.20 inch) thick blade stock and full tang, it has a bit of weight to it. For a multipurpose blade, the extra weight is a very small trade off for the gain in strength and durability you need in a blade.

Instead of 1095 Carbon coated steel, the T5’s blade is forged from Niolox Stainless Steel. It is a high-quality stainless steel alloy made with Vanadium, Molybdenum and Niobium. This makes it tough and holds a great edge. Niobium is a powerful Carbide that increases wear resistance when the T5 is put to hard use. Niolox has high-quality edge stability and is easy to sharpen. It has excellent corrosion resistance which significantly extends the life of your knife.

The handle is sculpted from a single piece of Micarta that has a wide and comfortable finger guard. The grip texturing ensures a secure grip in wet environments. Micarta is durable and tough and impervious to weather conditions. It is a favorite handle material for tough durable survival knives such as the T5.

It’s not too often that you find a great full tang survival knife with an amazing sheath. The T5 comes with a beautiful and well-thought-out genuine leather sheath. The sheath wraps over the first part of the handle with the retaining strap fitting above the finger guard.

Keep in mind this over-wrap serves two purposes; the first is to hold the knife securely and the second is that the over-strap keeps the retaining strap away from the blade’s edge when sheathed and unsheathed.

The T5 is a well-balanced multipurpose beast built to withstand abuse. 

Pros:

• The T5 has premium materials and designed by a well-renowned Italian knifemaker, Michele Pensato.
• Well-balanced hard use design that is comfortable in your hand.
• Full extended tang that serves as a striker or glass breaker.
• High-quality Niolox Stainless Steel.
• Textured Micarta handle wraps around the full tang providing a comfortable grip.
• Excellent well-thought-out genuine leather sheath.

Cons: 

• Due to the thickness of the blade, the edge bevels are wide and will become more pronounced with further use. This is the case with blades of this thickness.
• Sheath is right-handed only and the MOLLE strap could have been designed better. 

Not only does Cold Steel make remarkable folding knives such as the Cold Steel SR1 and Recon 1, their full tang fixed blades are used by military, law enforcement special units and self-defense professionals alike.

The SRK (Survival Rescue Knife) is issued to U.S. Navy sailors undergoing BUDS (Basic Underwater Demolition/Seal) as they vie for a spot on elite Navy Seal teams. The SRK performs under the most demanding environments.

The SRK has an overall length of 10.75 inches with a 6.00 inch clip point blade profile. The blade is .20 inches thick with full tang construction. What you will like about this blade is the versatility it has to offer. It holds up to carving, chopping and batoning. Although the acronym suggests it's a “survival rescue knife”, make no mistake, it can also be used as a combat and camp / utility blade.

The San Mai Blade is a serious upgrade in blade steel as opposed to the previous SK5 Carbon Steel and CPM-3V steel. It’s definitely reflected in the price of this specific giant. Just forewarning you.

VG San Mai consists of three layers of expertly laminated stainless steel combined into one blade. The hard carbon steel is sandwiched between two layers of tough carbon spring steel which maximizes edge retention while still being able to withstand severe impacts and lateral stress. This is used in Cold Steel’s most collectable SRK high-end fixed blade.

The handle is made of Kraton, a man-made thermoplastic elastomer that closely mirrors rubber. It boasts a non-slip grip, is extremely durable, and requires minimal upkeep. This type of handle excels in difficult locations such as mountains and deserts.

The Secure-Ex Kydex sheath is ambidextrous and well-equipped with multiple mounting options. The sheath is durable, unbreakable and weather-resistant.

The SRK is a heavyweight and with multiple options in blade steel, it’s hard to pass this one up. 

Pros:

• The SRK is issued to U.S. Navy sailors undergoing BUDS (Basic Underwater Demolition/Seal).
• Full tang fixed blade.
• Clip point profile enhances penetrating power.
• Upgrade SRK with San Mai steel that withstands severe impacts and lateral stress.
• Kraton thermoplastic handle has a non-slip grip and is extremely durable.
• The Secure-Ex sheath secure holds the knife in place. 

Cons: 

• The SRK with San Mai is expensive due to the higher-quality materials used in its construction. The SRK is also available in SK5 Carbon Steel and CPM-S30V steel at a more affordable price. 
• Some users are concerned that the Secure-Ex Sheath dulls the blade. 

The Morakniv Garberg is a beast of a knife. It is by far the toughest Morakniv this Swedish knife manufacturer has ever made. It is a powerful, full tang, stainless steel knife that is razor sharp and designed for tough jobs.

The Garberg’s full tang extends the entire length of the knife, making it the best type of blade for handling harsh tasks without the risk of breaking. The extended butt can be used as a hammer, a blunt instrument to break glass or for striking sparks.

Its overall length is 9 inches, with a 4.3 inch blade that is 3.2 millimeters thick. The blade is manufactured from top grade Swedish Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. Not only is it going to take a very fine edge, it has excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.

The blade has a satin stonewash finish on the flats and a full satin finish on the grinds. It is a scandi grind with a slight micro bevel. The blade’s robust thickness is ideal for tasks such as batoning and the 90-degree square blade spine is perfect for creating powdered tinder and striking sparks from a ferro rod.

The tough impact resistant handle is made of polyamide (with textured inserts) that is molded around the full tang of the blade. Contoured and comfortable, it provides a very secure grip.

You need to be able to rely on a durable outdoor knife such as this. The Garberg’s construction is great because it consists of a top grade steel with a full tang surrounded by a strong durable handle.

The Garberg comes with two different sheath options. The premium leather sheath is a deep pouch style that holds the knife securely. It is well-equipped with a large leather flap that secures very tightly with a snap. The thick belt loop ensures the Garberg will always be by your side.

A multi-mount system is also available but sold separately. This kit includes a polymer knife sheath, multi-mount fastener, belt loop, secondary lock and hook and loop strap.

This new full tang model with top grade Swedish Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel is embraced by knife enthusiasts throughout the world. 

Pros:

• The most robust Morakniv ever made (solid, incredibly sharp and strong).
• Full tang which extends the entire length of the knife.
• Swedish Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel (razor sharp, excellent edge retention and corrosion-resistant).
• Robust blade thickness which is great for hard use.
• Two sheath options (i.e. premium grade leather and multi-mount).
• Limited Lifetime Warranty. 

Cons:

• Multi-mount system feels cheap.
• Pricey for a Mora, however the quality and finish excels when compared to “old” Mora knives. 

Since 1902, Buck knives have been a familiar sight worn by hunters, farmers and craftsmen throughout the United States. Buck is well-known for their fixed blades and rightfully so. The Buck 104 Compadre is destined to become an iconic legend just like the Buck 110 Slim Pro.

The Buck 104 Compadre is among the Compadre Series of outdoor tools boasting the latest in design and innovation. It is designed and engineered with the outdoor enthusiast in mind. Taking over a century’s worth of knife craftsmanship, the 104 is designed and crafted to withstand the most demanding situations.

The Compadre has an overall length of 9.5 inches with a 4.5 inch drop point blade profile. The blade is .15 inches thick with full tang construction. Its overall construction and versatility allows you to put this knife to heavy use such as batoning and chopping wood to more delicate woodworking.

Buck is well-known for their blades because of their heat treatment process and steel selections. The Compadre boasts a 5160 Spring Steel blade with Cerakote Cobalt Coating. The steel is made of Carbon, Chromium, Manganese, Silicon, Phosphorus and Sulphur.

So is it a good steel? Yes. The combined properties offer a great edge retention, low corrosion resistance, great wear resistance, high toughness and the blade is easy to sharpen. Combined with a full tang, the Compadre has excellent shock absorbing properties making it resilient to shattering.

Cerakote coating further enhances abrasion/wear resistance, corrosion resistance, chemical resistance, impact strength and hardness.

The handle is made of Micarta which is known for its durability, strength and suitability in wet weather environments. When it’s wet, it gives you a more grippy feel. It has a very unique texture that has a good grip but at the same time feels smooth. The overall feel is nice and comfortable.

Its sheath is made of genuine leather with a belt loop attachment. It doesn’t ride too low or too high and doesn’t bounce on your leg. The nylon strap and button across the handle helps it ride easy and hold the knife in place well. Thus, drawing the knife is smooth.

The Compadre is versatile, superbly constructed and an intelligent choice as a hard use survival knife. 

Pros:

• The Buck 104 Compadre boasts the latest design and innovation.
• The Compadre is tough, strong, retains a good edge and is resistant to corrosion.
• Full tang construction.
• 5160 Spring Steel has excellent shock absorbing properties.
• Micarta handle is durable and strong.
• Made in the USA and backed by "Buck” Forever Warranty. 

Cons: 

• Leather sheath is not made for vertical carry.
• Coating on the blade can wear off and there is no coating on the edge of the blade. (Keep the blade clean and dry in humid environments).

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Final Note.

There are survival knives and then there are survival knives for professionals. With so many inferior so-called “survival knives” it’s so easy to assume they are all intended for hard use. This is far from the truth.

Only survival knives with superior construction earn the right to enter an elite status. Yes, some of the above-mentioned hard use survival knives are expensive but there is an absolute connection between price and quality. A cheap survival knife will never provide unsurpassed quality.

A quality survival knife is a hard-working tool meant for real-world treatment. It must prove itself every step of the way and indifferent to being treated as such. There are no exceptions!

The very design of a knife should never pose a risk to your safety. Thus, it’s of the utmost importance a hard use fixed blade survival knife is well-equipped with a thick reliable blade and a full tang. Consider your needs and choose carefully.

A partial tang is clearly described by its characteristic, “only a portion of the tang runs through the handle”. Some may say some is better than none, but remember durability is reduced. This style is only for moderate use. Is there such a thing as “moderate use” when your life depends on it?

Little or no tang is an accident waiting to happen. I understand these knives are less expensive, but the term “you get what you pay for” should not mean sustaining a severe injury when rescue is miles away.

Take into consideration all the other attributes associated with a hard use full tang survival knife. From blade steel to handle, a quality knife will never let you down.

Make a well-informed decision, and opt for a hard use full tang fixed blade survival knife. Once you acquire a great survival knife, take care of it, keep it clean and most importantly, keep it razor sharp!

What’s your favorite hard use full tang fixed blade survival knife?

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