Gear Reviews, Survival, Bushcraft

Best Large Bushcraft Survival Knife | Becker ESEE & More

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Survival Knife

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When it comes to choosing a survival knife, the options can be overwhelming. With so many opinions and models available, it can be difficult to know where to start. However, if you’re looking for a larger knife for survival purposes, there are a few key features you’ll want to keep in mind.

First and foremost, a survival knife should be Full Tang and have a beefy spine to withstand tough tasks. It should also be versatile enough to handle a variety of chores and tasks, such as wood processing and fire making. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at four large bushcraft survival knives and discuss their features, pros, and cons.

Key Takeaways

  • A survival knife should be Full Tang and have a beefy spine.
  • A good survival knife is versatile and can handle a variety of tasks, such as wood processing and fire making.
  • In this article, we’ll review four large bushcraft survival knives and discuss their features, pros, and cons.

Defining a Survival Knife

A survival knife is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of tasks in outdoor situations, such as wood processing, building shelters, starting fires, and cleaning or processing game. To be considered a survival knife, it must have certain features that make it rugged and durable enough to withstand harsh conditions.

The first feature that a survival knife must have is a Full Tang construction, which means that the blade extends all the way through the handle. This makes the knife more durable and able to withstand heavy use. Additionally, the spine of the knife should be fairly thick to provide the necessary strength for chopping and other heavy-duty tasks.

The following are some of the best survival knives in the market:

Becker BK9

The Becker BK9 is a large survival knife with a 9-inch blade made of 1095 Cron steel. It has a flat saber grind and a drop point, with a thumb ramp and gimping for added grip. The BK9 has a Full Tang construction and a custom finish, making it a durable and reliable option for outdoor use.

Ontario S53 Bolo

The Ontario S53 Bolo is a hybrid machete-knife with a 10-inch blade made of 5160 carbon steel. It has a Full Tang construction and a rubber Tootsie Roll style handle for added grip. The S53 Bolo has a very pronounced bolo Swedge and a straight back, making it a heavy chopper and a great substitute for an axe or hatchet.

Camillus Carnivore Inject

The Camillus Carnivore Inject is a budget-friendly survival knife with a 12-inch blade made of 420 stainless steel. It has a Tanto-style blade with aggressive saw backs, a notch for cutting cord, and a contoured rubberized handle. The Carnivore Inject also has a hidden utility blade in the handle, making it a versatile option for outdoor use.

ESEE 6

The ESEE 6 is a versatile and heavy-duty survival knife with a 6.2-inch blade made of 1095 high-carbon steel. It has a Full Tang construction and a basic slab handle. The SE6 is a great all-purpose knife that can handle a variety of tasks, and it comes with an upgraded sheath for added convenience.

In addition to a larger survival knife, it’s always important to have a smaller, more versatile pocket knife on hand. This can be a Victorinox or a lock-back knife like the Buck 112. Having a smaller knife with you can be helpful for smaller tasks like feather sticking and cleaning small game.

Overall, selecting a survival knife is a personal process, and it’s important to choose a knife that fits your needs and preferences. However, a good survival knife should have a Full Tang construction, a thick spine, and be able to handle a variety of tasks in outdoor situations.

Features of a Survival Knife

When it comes to selecting a survival knife, there are a variety of options available in the market. However, there are certain features that a survival knife must have to make it useful in a survival situation. Here are some of the essential features that a good survival knife should have:

Full Tang

The first and foremost feature that a survival knife must have is a Full Tang. This means that the blade and the handle of the knife should be made from a single piece of metal. A Full Tang knife is more durable and can withstand more abuse than a knife with a partial Tang.

Beefy Spine

A survival knife should also have a beefy spine that can take some abuse. This is important because a survival knife is a multi-purpose tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as wood processing, starting a fire, building shelters, and processing game. A knife with a beefy spine is better equipped to handle these tasks.

Ruggedness

A survival knife should be rugged and able to take abuse. This is because a survival situation may require the use of a knife for extended periods of time, and the knife must be able to withstand the wear and tear of constant use.

Blade Size

The size of the blade is also an important consideration when selecting a survival knife. A larger blade is better equipped for chopping and processing wood, which is an important task in a survival situation. However, a smaller blade may be more maneuverable and better suited for tasks that require more precision.

Blade Material

The material of the blade is also an important consideration when selecting a survival knife. High carbon steel is a popular choice for survival knives because it is durable and holds an edge well. Stainless steel is also a good choice because it is corrosion-resistant.

Handle Material

The handle material is another important consideration when selecting a survival knife. The handle should be comfortable to hold and provide a good grip, even when wet. Common handle materials include rubber, micarta, and G10.

Sheath

Finally, a good survival knife should come with a durable sheath that can protect the blade and make it easy to carry. A sheath made from leather or Kydex is a good choice because it is durable and can protect the blade from damage.

Importance of Full Tang in Survival Knives

When it comes to selecting a survival knife, one of the most important features to consider is whether the knife has a Full Tang construction. A Full Tang knife means that the blade and handle are made from a single piece of metal, providing maximum strength and durability.

In survival situations, a knife is often used for a variety of tasks, including wood processing, fire making, and shelter building. A Full Tang knife with a beefy spine is essential to withstand the abuse that comes with these tasks.

When selecting a survival knife, it is important to find one that is rugged and capable of handling multiple tasks. A large knife can be a good substitute for an axe or hatchet, and can be used for tasks such as processing game and cleaning fish.

Out of the four survival knives presented in this article, all of them have Full Tang construction, making them suitable for survival situations. However, the Becker BK9 and Ontario S53 Bolo have particularly beefy spines, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks such as chopping wood.

In summary, a Full Tang construction is a non-negotiable feature for a survival knife. It provides maximum strength and durability, allowing the knife to handle a variety of tasks in survival situations.

Role of Survival Knives in Wood Processing

When it comes to survival knives, one of the most important roles they play is in wood processing. This is because, in a survival situation, you will need to start a fire, build shelter, and possibly even hunt for food. A good survival knife should be able to handle all of these tasks and more.

One of the most important features of a survival knife is that it needs to be Full Tang. This means that the blade and handle are made from a single piece of metal, which makes it much stronger and more durable. Additionally, the spine of the knife should be fairly beefy so that it can handle heavy use and abuse.

There are many different types of survival knives on the market, but some of the best options include the Becker BK9, the Ontario S53 Bolo, the Camillus Carnivore Inject, and the SE6. Each of these knives has its own unique features and benefits, but they are all capable of handling the tasks required for wood processing.

When it comes to chopping wood, a larger, heavier knife is generally better. This is because it requires less energy to chop through wood, which means you can conserve your energy for other tasks. The Bolo-style knives, such as the Ontario S53 Bolo, are particularly good for chopping because they have a wide blade that can be used as a hammer.

In addition to a survival knife, it’s always a good idea to carry a smaller, more versatile pocket knife as well. This can be used for smaller tasks like feather sticking and cleaning small game.

Overall, when it comes to survival knives and wood processing, it’s important to choose a knife that is Full Tang, has a beefy spine, and is capable of handling heavy use and abuse. With the right knife, you can be sure that you will be able to start a fire, build shelter, and perform other important tasks in a survival situation.

Becker Bk9 Knife Overview

When it comes to selecting a survival knife, there are a lot of options to choose from. However, the Becker Bk9 knife is a great option to consider due to its features. The knife has a Full Tang, which is essential for survival knives, and a beefy spine that can take some abuse. The blade is made of 10.95 cron and is 9 inches long with a flat saber grind. The knife has a straight back with a drop point and a thumb ramp with gimping on it.

Another knife to consider is the Ontario S53 Bolo, which is a machete-knife hybrid. It has a very pronounced bolo swedge, and the blade is made of 5160 carbon steel and is 10 inches long. The knife has a flat grind and a rubber Tootsie Roll-style handle. The Ontario S53 Bolo is a very heavy chopper compared to the Becker Bk9 knife and is perfect for wood processing.

If you’re on a budget, the Camillus Carnivore Inject is a great option. It is a 12-inch blade with a pronounced Tanto-style blade and aggressive saw backs. The knife has a contoured rubberized handle and a notch for cutting cord. It also has a hidden utility blade in the handle. The blade is made of 420 stainless steel and is budget-friendly at around $30-$40.

Lastly, the SE6 knife is a fantastic all-purpose heavy-duty survival knife. The blade is made of 1095 high carbon steel and is 6.25 inches long. The knife has a basic slab handle and is Full Tang. The SE6 knife is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including wood processing and game processing.

When selecting a survival knife, it’s important to remember that it’s a personal preference. You need to pick what’s best for you. However, a larger knife is a good substitute for an axe or a hatchet and can be used for multiple tasks. Always have a good solid utilitarian pocket knife with you for smaller tasks.

Ontario S53 Bolo Knife Overview

When it comes to selecting a survival knife, there are tons of opinions and options available in the market. However, selecting the right one can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to this game. As a collector of knives, you might have your own preferences, but if you are looking for a dedicated survival knife, then a larger knife could be a good option.

A survival knife should be Full Tang and have a beefy spine to take some abuse. It should be rugged and able to perform a variety of chores and tasks while you’re in the woods. Wood processing and fire-making skills are important components of a survival knife, along with building shelters and processing game.

There are many survival knives available in the market, but the Ontario S53 Bolo Knife is a great option to consider. This knife is a hybrid of a machete and a knife, with a very pronounced bolo swedge and a straight back. It has a rubber Tootsie Roll-style handle and a 10-inch 5160 carbon steel blade with a flat grind. The knife is very heavy and can be used as a substitute for an axe or a hatchet. It is a great option for chopping wood and can take on larger and denser pieces of wood with ease.

The Ontario S53 Bolo Knife is a budget-friendly option and runs at around $70. Unfortunately, Ontario has been sold, so it is uncertain if these knives will be made anymore. If you are interested in this knife, it might be a good idea to purchase one soon.

In conclusion, survival knives are a personal choice, and you need to pick what’s best for you. However, the Ontario S53 Bolo Knife is a great option to consider, with its heavy-duty construction, ruggedness, and ability to perform a variety of tasks.

Camis Carnivore Inject Knife Overview

When it comes to selecting a survival knife, there are many options available in the market. However, choosing the right one can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to this game. In this section, we will discuss four large bushcraft survival knives that are worth considering. These knives are the Becker BK9, the Ontario S53 Bolo, the Camis Carnivore Inject, and the SE6.

A good survival knife must be Full Tang and have a fairly beefy spine to withstand abuse. A survival knife is a Jack of all trades and is useful for a variety of chores and tasks while you’re in the woods. The primary tasks include wood processing, starting a fire, building shelters, and cleaning or processing game. A larger knife is a good substitute for an axe or a hatchet and can perform multiple tasks efficiently.

The Camis Carnivore Inject is a budget-friendly survival knife that is made overseas in China. It has a very nice Kydex sheath and is available at Walmart, Amazon, and other similar places. The blade is 12 inches long, and the knife features a pronounced Tanto-style blade with aggressive saw backs and a notch for cutting cord. The handle is contoured and rubberized, and the knife has a hidden utility blade in the handle. The blade is made of 420 stainless steel, and the knife is currently running around $30 or $40.

The Camis Carnivore Inject knife is very different from the other knives we will be looking at due to its blade shape. It is a great option if you are on a budget and want a knife that can perform multiple tasks efficiently.

ESEE 6 Knife Overview

When it comes to survival knives, there are tons of options available in the market. Choosing the right one can be quite a challenge, especially if you’re new to this game. However, if you’re a collector of knives, you probably have several that you prefer. Recently, larger knives have become more popular as dedicated survival knives, and we have four of them to show you.

A good survival knife must have certain features to make it useful in a survival situation. It needs to be full tang, which means the blade extends all the way through the handle. It should also be fairly beefy in the spine so it can take some abuse. A survival knife is a Jack of all trades and needs to be useful in doing a variety of chores and tasks while you’re in the woods. Primarily, you’re going to want to use it for wood processing, starting a fire, building shelters, and possibly cleaning or processing game.

Importance of a Pocket Knife

When it comes to survival situations, having a reliable and versatile knife is crucial. A pocket knife is an essential tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as cutting rope, opening cans, preparing food, and even defending yourself. In this section, we will discuss the importance of a pocket knife in survival situations. I recommend pairing a quality pocket knife with your large knife to handle tasks where a smaller knife will excel.

Features of a Good Survival Knife

A good survival knife should be Full Tang, meaning the blade extends all the way through the handle, making it more durable and reliable. It should also have a beefy spine to withstand heavy use. A survival knife should be able to handle a variety of tasks, such as wood processing, fire making, and game processing.

Four Favorite Large Bushcraft Survival Knives

Here are four large bushcraft survival knives that are worth considering:

  1. Becker BK9: This knife has a 9-inch blade made of 10.95 cron and a flat saber grind. It is a straight back knife with a drop point, and it has a thumb ramp with gimping. The BK9 is a heavy-duty knife that can take a lot of abuse.
  2. Ontario S53 Bolo: This knife is a machete/knife hybrid with a 10-inch 5160 carbon steel blade and a flat grind. It has a very pronounced bolo swedge and a rubber Tootsie Roll style handle. The S53 Bolo is a heavy chopper that is great for wood processing.
  3. Camillus Carnivore Inject: This budget-friendly knife has a 12-inch blade made of 420 stainless steel. It has a Tanto-style blade with aggressive saw backs and a notch for cutting cord. The handle is contoured and rubberized, and it even has a hidden utility blade in the handle.
  4. ESEE 6: This knife has a 6.2-inch 1095 high carbon steel blade and a basic slab handle. It is a heavy-duty knife that is great for survival situations. The SE6 is a versatile knife that can handle a variety of tasks.

Always Carry a Pocket Knife

In addition to a large bushcraft survival knife, it is important to always carry a pocket knife. A pocket knife is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, such as feather sticking, cleaning small game, and doing small projects around camp. Whether you prefer a multi-tool or a locking blade knife, always have a reliable pocket knife with you.

In conclusion, a good survival knife is an essential tool for any survival situation. It should be durable, versatile, and able to handle a variety of tasks. Consider the features of a good survival knife and choose one that fits your needs. And don’t forget to always carry a reliable pocket knife with you.

Efficiency of Chopping with Large Knives

When it comes to survival knives, a larger knife is often preferred as it can be used for a variety of tasks. One of the primary tasks that a survival knife must be able to perform is wood processing. This includes chopping wood, which is an essential component of starting a fire and building shelters.

To efficiently chop wood with a survival knife, it must have a Full Tang and a fairly beefy spine to withstand abuse. The following four knives are great options for survival purposes:

  1. Becker BK9: This knife has a 9-inch blade made of 10.95 cron. It is a flat saber grind, with a drop point and a thumb ramp with gimping. It is a very big knife, straight back, and runs about $140.
  2. Ontario S53 Bolo: This is a machete-knife hybrid that has a very pronounced bolo swedge to it. It has a 10-inch 5160 carbon steel blade with a flat grind. It is a very heavy chopper compared to the BK9, and it runs currently about $70.
  3. Camillus Carnivore Inject: This is a budget-friendly survival knife that is made overseas in China. It has a 12-inch blade made of 420 stainless steel, with a pronounced Tanto-style blade and aggressive saw backs. It is a great option for those on a budget, running around $30 to $40.
  4. ESEE 6: This knife is a 6.2-inch knife made of 1095 high-carbon steel. It has an excellent heat treatment and runs about $140 new. It is a fantastic all-purpose heavy-duty survival type knife.

To efficiently chop wood with a larger knife, you must be able to put some weight behind it. The larger and heavier the knife, the more efficient it will be. The bolo knife, in particular, is great for driving and hammering.

In summary, a larger, heavier knife is preferred for survival purposes, particularly for wood processing tasks such as chopping wood. The four knives mentioned above are great options to consider. Remember to always have some type of tool on hand, such as a good solid utilitarian pocket knife, to go along with your larger knife.

Comparison of Knife Use in Wood Processing

When it comes to selecting a survival knife for wood processing, there are many options available in the market. However, choosing the right one can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to this game. In this section, we will compare four different knives that are currently in the speaker’s collection and are considered to be decent options for survival knife use.

The Becker BK9

The Becker BK9 is a large survival knife that is made from 10.95 cron, and has a 9-inch blade. It is a flat saber grind knife with a straight back and a drop point. The knife has a thumb ramp with gimping on it, and the speaker has added custom scales to it. The BK9 has a Full Tang and a fairly beefy spine, making it a rugged and durable knife. It runs about $140.

The Ontario S53 Bolo

The Ontario S53 Bolo is a hybrid machete knife that is made from 5160 carbon steel. It has a 10-inch blade with a flat grind and a very pronounced bolo swedge. The knife has a rubber Tootsie Roll style handle and a basic nylon sheath with a plastic insert. The S53 Bolo is a heavy chopper compared to the BK9, and runs about $70.

The Camillus Carnivore Inject

The Camillus Carnivore Inject is a budget-friendly survival knife that is made from 420 stainless steel. It has a 12-inch blade with a pronounced Tanto style blade shape and aggressive saw backs. The knife has a contoured rubberized handle with a hidden utility blade in the handle. It comes with a very nice Kydex sheath and runs around $30-$40.

The ESEE 6

The ESEE 6 is a smaller survival knife that is made from 1095 high carbon steel. It has a 6.2-inch blade with a basic slab handle and an excellent heat treatment. The knife runs about $140 and comes with an upgraded leather sheath from Knife Connection with a backer dangler on it. The SE6 is a fantastic all-purpose heavy-duty survival knife.

When selecting a survival knife for wood processing, it is important to consider the features that make it a survival knife. A survival knife needs to have a Full Tang and a fairly beefy spine to be able to take some abuse. It should also be able to perform a variety of tasks, including wood processing, fire making, and game processing. The knives mentioned above are all excellent options, but selecting a knife is a very personal process, and you need to pick what’s best for you.

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