If you’re planning on hiking any time soon, you might be wondering if you need to bring a knife with you. The answer is, it yes, why not? Knives can be incredibly useful tools while hiking, and although not a 100% necessity, the size and ease of carrying a simple pocketknife makes it an easy gear choice.
Here are a other few things to consider when deciding whether or not to pack a knife on your next
Why Carrying A Knife Is An Easy Gear Choice For Hiking
A knife can be essential piece of gear for any hiker, whether you are going on a day hike or a longer backpacking trip. There are many different reasons why you might need a knife while hiking, from preparing food to self-defense.
Food Prep
One of the most important uses for a knife while hiking is food preparation. Cutting up chicken and prepping veggies. If you’re planning on cooking any meals while on your hike, you’ll likely need a knife.
Even if you’re just packing snacks or hiking without a stove, a knife can come in handy for slicing up apples, summer sausage or cheese.
Self-Defense
Another reason you might want to carry a knife while hiking, is for self-defense. While hopefully you will never find yourself in a situation where you need it. It can definitely come in handy.
My knife is generally within quick reach, whether in one of my pockets or in one of my hip pockets of my backpack.
Even though it might not be much help against a bear, it still gives me peace of mind. And that is reason enough alone for me to carry one.
Emergency & Misc Uses
Carry a knife hiking can also come in handy during emergency situations. Maybe you need to make shelter for an unexpected night out in the woods. You’ll be able to use it to cut rope, shape sticks or even help start a fire.
I’ve used mine to cut para cord for my bear food bag hang or to fashion a carry loop for my water bottle or camp shoes.
It can also work as a make-shift screwdriver if it doesn’t already have one built in.
Plus, I don’t know about you, but it also just looks kinda badass when you have a cool looking knife hanging out in your pocket.
What Kind Of Knife Is Best For Hiking?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best knife for hiking will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a knife for hiking.
First, consider the size of the knife – you don’t want something so large that it is cumbersome. Something as simple as a pocketknife or a multitool. Nice and simple.
Another thing to consider is the blade. You’ll want something that is durable and can stand up to the elements, but also sharp enough to handle whatever you may need it for while out on the trail.
Syderco makes a great knife, along with SOG, but there’s many different high quality brands out there. I also really like this Kershaw knife on Amazon; high quality, budget friendly, and pretty cool looking.