Different Types Of Hunting Knives

A good quality hunting knife is a must have tool for all hunters. When it comes to hunting, this tool is something that is really useful as it can be used not only for hunting the animal and preparing the game but also for other purposes like chopping or cutting branches of trees. To make your hunting experience all the more interesting, it is important that the hunting knife you choose is sharp and uses the right blade type. As far as selecting the right knife is concerned, several factors have to be taken into account. In addition you will come across different types of hunting knives which makes the selection process even more confusing. Let's try to understand the various types of hunting knives and the purpose served by each type.

Types of hunting knives

As mentioned above, an outdoors man has the option to choose from several types of hunting knives, each designed for a particular task. The most commonly used knives include:

• Fixed blade knives - These are one of the most popular types of hunting knives that are simple and sturdy. The blades of this knife extend all the way to its handle and are much stronger and durable than the folding knives. They are also much easier to clean. Although they can be used for hunting any kind of game, they are much suited for hunting larger animals. Fixed blade hunting knives have no moving parts and cannot be folded. They are usually carried safely inside a sheath that can be attached to the belt.

• Folding knives - These knives are very compact and can be folded when not in use. The folding feature provides an element of safety that you normally don't get while using a fixed blade knife. Although not so strong and durable as the fixed blade knives, the folding knives are light weight and are easier to be carried around. Some folding knives come with different types of blades that can each be used according to a specific task.

• Pocket knives - These are compact knives that can be folded and used for a range of tasks related to hunting such as skinning and gutting the game and also for cutting ropes and branches of trees. Some of the pocket knives come equipped with other tools like corkscrews, scissors and bottle openers.

• Lockback folding knives - These are small and versatile pocket knives with a locking action that holds the blades in position while open. This feature prevents the knife from closing and injuring the user's hand while skinning and gutting the game.

Summary

Before choosing a hunting knife, you need to first figure out how you are going to use it and if the knife actually serves your purpose. Based on how you hunt, you might sometimes need more than one hunting knife. Choosing between a fixed blade knife and a folding knife largely depends on what type of a hunter you are. If you only hunt occasionally, then the folding knife will probably do your job. For people who are serious hunters, the more strong and durable fixed blade knife will be the ideal choice.