How Thick Should A Survival Knife Be?

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Last Updated on June 12, 2023 by Umar

A survival knife is an essential tool for various outdoor activities, including camping, backpacking, and emergency situations.

The ideal thickness of a survival knife depends on its intended use and the tasks it needs to perform.

In general, a survival knife should have a blade thickness between 3/16 and 1/4 of an inch (4.76 to 6.35 mm) 

This range provides a solid and durable blade that can withstand the abuse of wood chopping, batoning, and prying while maintaining its cutting and slicing capabilities.

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Factors to Consider When Choosing a Survival Knife

  1. Blade Length: Most survival knives have a blade length between 6 to 12 inchesA shorter blade may not be suitable for tasks like chopping wood, while a blade longer than 9 to 10 inches may become too big to handle and carry effectively.
  2. Blade Material: The main materials used in survival knives are carbon steel and stainless steel. Carbon steel knives have a sharper edge and are easier to sharpen, while stainless steel knives are resistant to corrosion but are heavier.
  3. Blade Shape: The blade shape determines the knife’s suitability for specific tasks, such as splitting wood, skinning game, slicing food, piercing, clearing brush, cutting netting, and carvingSome common blade shapes for survival knives include drop point, clip point, and tanto.
  4. Handle: The handle of a survival knife should be comfortable, grippy, and durable. Materials like hard rubber and polymer are commonly used for survival knife handlesAvoid hollow handles, as they indicate that the knife is not full-tang construction, which is less durable.
  5. Tang Construction: A full-tang construction means that the blade extends through the entire handle, providing better durability and balanceThis is an essential feature for a survival knife, as it ensures the knife can withstand heavy use and abuse.
  6. Sheath: A good sheath is essential for safely carrying and storing your survival knife. The sheath should securely hold the knife and provide easy access when needed.

In conclusion, the ideal thickness for a survival knife is between 3/16 and 1/4 of an inch.

This thickness ensures that the knife is strong and durable while maintaining its cutting and slicing capabilities.

When choosing a survival knife, consider factors such as blade length, blade material, blade shape, handle, tang construction, and sheath to ensure you have a reliable and versatile tool for various survival situations.

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