11 Best Knives for Off-Grid Living & Survival

Off-grid living and survival time is a period of adventure, and you need the right tools for a convenient experience.

Best knives for off-grid living will enable you to cut several items easily and quickly. 

A knife can be used for different purposes, and the most important things are sharpness and design. You should prioritize these options while selecting a survival knife. 

Besides, durability, safety, and efficiency are important issues. So, you cannot use a normal knife for survival and off-grid living. 

Sometimes, you can use a knife to protect thieves and wild animals. Considering all these issues, you can purchase the best knife. 

In this writing, we present the best knives for survival and off-grid living. Besides, we include a buyer’s guide to help you find the best product. Let’s explore. 

Why Do You Need Knife for Off-Grid Living & Survival?

A knife is a versatile cutting device. You need this multi-purpose sharp tool to do survival-related tasks.

It is used for shelter construction, wood chopping, fireplace building, prying, animal killing, meat cutting, and many more.

The purposes are so versatile that you can only understand its necessity when you need it. 

Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for In a Good Knife?

A buyer’s guide is the representation of features. It will help you to select the best knife for survival and off-grid living. 

We find some significant key features that will enable you to identify and purchase an efficient knife for everyday use. Let’s explore. 

A Strong And Sturdy Blade

A good knife contains a strong and efficient blade. The purpose might be different, but the blade should perform well. You have to consider this issue while selecting a knife. 

Full Tang

A full tang knife is the extended part of the blade through the handle. You can give more pressure with a full tang knife for easy and faster cutting. A good knife comes with this feature. 

Blade Material Is Carbon Or Stainless Steel

Blade material matters and you have to select a knife with stainless steel or carbon blade. It will allow you to cut material quickly and serve you for a long time. 

Handle Materials Are Durable And Easy To Grip

A knife is a manual cutting tool. The efficiency depends on the handle and the force that you will give during cutting.

So, the durability and easy-grip option are considered the most effective features of a knife.

Versatility: Do A Lot Of Different Things

A survival knife is different from the knife you use to cut vegetables. So, consider the features and versatility of the knife before finalizing your decision.

You will do a lot of cutting jobs with this survival knife.

Make sure that your knife can cut different types of material and survive for a long time. 

Best Knives for Off-Grid Living & Survival and Their Reviews

We review the best eleven survival and off-grid knives that come with excellent features and cutting capability. 

Our goal is to present the best knife at an affordable price. Besides, we consider the specifications and user reviews to find out the best knife for you. Let’s explore. 

Knife	Size & Weight	Material
Nooraki MK89 Handmade Machete Knife	18.11 x 0.16 x 6.3 inches and 1.88 pounds	Stainless steel
Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S	0.94 x 4.41 x 1.38 inches and 0.24 Pounds	Carbon steel
The Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion	18 x 5 x 5 inches and 453.6 grams	Stainless steel
The USMC KA-BAR	13.25 x 3.13 x 2.25 inches and 0.52 Kilograms	Carbon steel
The SOG SEAL Pup Elite	5 x 5 x 5 inches and 12.2 ounces ‎	Stainless steel

Large, Heavy Duty Chopper

First, we have the Nooraki MK89 Handmade Machete Knife. It comes with a razor-sharp blade and full-length tang. The knife will give you the best cutting experience in off-grid living.

Nooraki MK89 Handmade Machete Knife

Overview:

• 18-inch length
• 12 inch-blade
• 6-inch handle
• Razor sharp
• Corrosion resistant
• Non-slip
• Steel rivets
• 1.88 pounds
• 18.11 x 0.16 x 6.3 inches

This multipurpose knife is ideal for military, hunting, survival, industrial, tactical, and off-grid living. The knife is designed with maximum sharpness, and it is great for camping purposes too.

With the stainless steel material and corrosion-resistant surface, you will get quick performance and a reliable cutting experience.

The handle comes with a hand-gorged design that enables you to hold it comfortably and operate confidently. You will get extra strength during cutting.

It is easy and safe to carry. The manufacturer provides a leather sheath that ensures maximum safety. You can keep it in the survival bag or attach it to your body.

The knife is versatile and designed for indoor and outdoor use. You can rely on this survival tool no matter whether you are using it.

This beautiful and sharp tool will be your best survival partner with its balanced control and handling.

Nooraki MK89 Handmade Machete Knife Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Multipurpose  Easy access Secure carry	The tang is not conventional

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Fixed Blade & Survival/Utility Knives

Next, we include the best-fixed blade survival knife. We find the Gerber Gear 31-003941 Ultimate Knife comes with a comfortable rubber handle and Firestarter. This knife is perfect for survival in any condition. 

Gerber Gear 31-003941 Ultimate Knife

Overview:

• Stainless steel blade
• Rubber handle material
• Firestarter
• Manual power source
• 13 x 2.2 x 0.75 inches
• Drop point blade shade
• 4.8″ inch blade
• Emergency
• Whistle
• Integrated sharpening

If you are planning for an outdoor trip or off-grid living, this knife will be your smart survival tool. The high-quality material and easy access design offer the ultimate output for different tasks.

It has a drop point 4.8-inch sharp blade. The edge is ideally designed for cutting rope, wood, and other hard materials. 

Besides, the stainless-steel material keeps the blade safe in every situation.

The Rod Firestarter into the sheath will enable you to get fire in an emergency. You will get a small tool for cutting and firing.

This is a tool that will take control of your outdoor life. You will be more confident and secure with this small protector. 

Gerber Gear 31-003941 Ultimate Knife Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Simple and elegant design Lightweight and sharp Easy to carry and use	The firestarter is not good enough. But, the knife is extremely good.

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The USMC KA-BAR

If you are looking for a well built multi-functional hunting knife, the USMC KA-BAR will be the best option for your survival life. It has a carbon steel material blade with an edge-angle design.

KA-BAR Full Size US Marine Corps Fighting Knife

Overview:

• Carbon steel material
• 7-inch blade length 
• Dimension 13.25 x 3.13 x 2.25 inches 
• Leather sheath 
• Edge angle design 
• Fixed blade ‎
• 0.52 Kilograms 
• Comfortable handle 
• Hunting design 

This high-quality knife is designed to give you the best hunting experience. It requires less maintenance and lasts for a long time.

The 7-inch long stainless steel blade will enable you to cut most of the things conveniently. Besides, it will protect you from wild animals.

The durable and rod shape handle offers more confidence and accuracy during cutting. You can use it for all kinds of small cutting tasks in your survival life.

It has a protective leather sheath for strong protection. This durable cover will allow you to carry and store the knife comfortably. 

Similarly, you can carry it with other materials without having the cutting risk. One thing you should remember is that this knife is not suitable for cutting wood. 

KA-BAR Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Unique look Comfortable operation and excellent grip Durable material and long lifespan	It is not good for cutting wood.

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The SOG SEAL Pup Elite

The SOG SEAL Pup Elite comes with a straight edge blade design and cross-nylon handle material. This urban-style knife will be your lifesaver in an emergency. 

SOG Fixed Blade Knives with Sheath

Overview:

• Fixed blade
• 4.85-inch blade 
• 12.2 ounces ‎
• 5 x 5 x 5 inches dimension 
• Glass nylon handle material 
• Straight edge 
• 9.5 inch overall length 
• Black finished surface
• Cost: around $85

This balanced and durable knife is best for off-grid living, survival, camping, outdoor use, and urban houses. It is designed to give you a good feeling in the hand during cutting. 

The tight, compact, and lightweight design is ideal for every adult person. 

It comes with a black mobile compatible sheath to wear with your belt. 

With the 4.85-inch sharp blade, you can fight with heavy material and the enemy. The blade is colored with a super high impact black coating that makes it maintenance-free.

You can operate the knife more comfortably because of the beautiful handle grip. The grip will allow you to hold the knife even for a long time. 

You will have a small but efficient knife to ensure your safety in off-grid living. 

The SOG SEAL Pup Elite Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Elegant body design and looking  Perfect tactical shape Excellent hand grip	No issue found

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The Tom Brown Tracker Knife

Next, we have the Tom Brown Tracker Knife that comes with steel body material and a carbon blade. Besides, the knife has a dual side notch.

Tom Brown Tracker

Overview:

• Brown color
• Steel material
• Carbon blade
• 0.2 Kilograms
• 1 x 9 x 6 inches
• Dual side indentation

This is a high-quality knife with an extraordinary design. It is made with a maintained manufacturing process. You will get heavy force for cutting while using this knife.

The knife is ideal for personal use, survival, and off-grid living. You can use it for multiple cutting jobs. 

It has a durable steel body that will enable you to cut durable materials like wood, rope, wire, and more. 

The lightweight design of this knife makes it more comfortable to use. You can carry it easily for a long time. It will help you to do several tasks without hard labor. 

Besides, it is ideal for personal safety and home security. You can keep this knife with you as a weapon. 

The Tom Brown Tracker Knife Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Heavy duty material Extraordinary design Excellent performance	No sheath

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The Morakniv Companion

If you are looking for an entry-level knife, it will be your best companion for survival and off-grid living. The Morakniv Companion stainless steel knife comes with an extra grip handle and a high-quality blade. 

Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife with Sandvik Stainless Steel Blade

Overview:

• Fixed blade
• Manual cutting
• Black color
• Stainless steel blade material
• 2 x 1.5 x 10 inches
• 0.26 Pounds
• Performance grip
• Corrosion resistant
• Plastic sheath
• 8.6 inches overall length 
• 4.1 inch blade 
• Cost: around $19

This knife is ideal for multipurpose work, including woodcutting, food preparation, carving, and tinder. The high-quality Swedish stainless steel edge makes it sharper than you think.

With the corrosion-resistant feature, it will serve you for a long time in all weather conditions. 

The carbon steel material can perform in extreme conditions. You will keep it new always by using a few drops of oil.

The handle is patterned with a high-friction grip to perform in wet and cold conditions too. 

Besides, you will get greater control, safety, and performance. You will have a reliable companion with the best comfort. 

The plastic sheath of this knife keeps it secure and allows you to carry it confidently. You will have a reliable tool for off-grid living, survival, and camping. 

The manufacturer requested users to go for hand wash only. 

The Morakniv Companion Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Versatile use High friction grip Easy to carry and use	The plastic sheath is less comfortable than leather

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The Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion

Now, we include the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 knife. It comes with a compound bevel edge and full tang. You will get the best cutting experience and easy operation with this knife.

KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife

Overview:

• 5.25 Inches blade length 
• Black color 
• Weight 453.6 grams 
• Compound bevel 
• Overall length 18 x 5 x 5 inches 
• Full tang Fixed blade 
• Hard plastic sheath 

If you are looking for a versatile knife, it will be your black cutter for survival and off-grid living. It has an elegant design and shape.

With the 5.25-inch long blade, you can cut everything confidently. You can run the knife conveniently for a long time.

The handle is perfect for extra forces operation. It has an excellent grip and ergonomic design for comfort and performance. 

You will get the maximum efficiency from this knife. Similarly, the full tang will protect the handle and keep it safe for the hardest task. 

The sheath is made with nylon and plastic material. You can attach it to the body and carry it comfortably. 

The age restriction for this knife is twenty-one. So, it is recommended to keep the knife away from children and pets. 

The Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Masculine design Black coating for excellent looking Durable handle and protected sheath	No issue found

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Smith & Wesson SW3B 12.8in Fixed Blade Knife

The Smith & Wesson SW3B is a hunting knife that comes with a nylon fiber handle and handguard design. It has an extra sharp blade like a stone and wire cutter.

Smith & Wesson SW3B

Overview:

• Rubber handle
• Multiple color
• 15 x 4 x 3 inches overall length
• 1 Pounds weight
• Drop Point sharp blade
• 7.8 inches long blade 
• Non-slip handle
• Sheath included
• Cost: around $102

This knife is designed for special purposes, including tactical, self-defense, and all other survival activities.  The notched spine sharp blade comes with a black coating and can perform in all weather conditions.

The design is excellent. You can easily carry the knife with the belt clip sheath. It is lightweight, and there is no risk while running.

Besides, this knife is durable enough to perform in all locations. The stainless steel material nylon handle will serve you for a long time. 

It is a multi-purpose knife, and you can use it for urban areas too. It will help you to protect wild animals or secure your house. 

So, it is a weapon and cutting master with extra security and performance. But it is best for hunting and survival. 

Smith & Wesson SW3B Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Excellent grip Perfect for hunting Lightweight design	No issue found

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The ESEE 6 Fixed Blade Knife

Next, we have The ESEE 6 Fixed Blade Knife that contains a removable handle and high carbon material blade. It will perform with the best sharpness to cut different materials. 

ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife w

Overview:

• Fixed blade 
• Plastic handle material
• High carbon steel
• 1.03 Pounds
• Multiple colors
• Straight back blade 
• 5.75 inch blade 
• 11.75 inches overall length
• Removable handle
• ‎15.1 x 4.5 x 2.3 inches

This is a professional knife that will make you confident during survival. The black finished blade and fixed design will give you the best cutting experience.

The masculine design and balanced cutting edge make it the best tool for wildlife conditions. 

If you properly clean and go with regular maintenance the knife will serve you for a long time.

It has a removable handle that makes it easy to store and carry. You hang it on your body or in the tent instantly. 

The ESEE 6 Fixed Blade Knife Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy to use and carry Lightweight and durable design Extra grip handle	The removable handle might sleep during extreme pressure

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The 162 Bushcraft Knife

If you are looking for a lightweight survival knife, it will be an ideal tool for you. It comes with a drop-point blade style and versatile design.

Benchmade – Bushcrafter 162 Fixed Outdoor Survival Knife

Overview:

• Fixed blade
• Leather sheath
• Fiberglass material handle
• Stainless steel blade
• 7.72 Ounces
• 2 x 2 x 2 inches
• 4.40 inch blade length 

This knife is built for survival and outdoor living. The rugged style will give you comfort and sharpness together. 

The fixed blade of this knife provides excellent stability and makes you more confident outdoors. Besides, the knife has a stable handle. It is made with fiberglass material. 

With the de-ring design, you can easily hang it on the belt or the branch of trees while surviving.

It has a premium quality sheath for safety and protection. With the sheath, you can protect the knife from being misused.

So, you will have an ideal knife for versatile cutting performance. 

The 162 Bushcraft Knife Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Multi tasker Heavy duty blade Non-slip grip	The extra lightweight design might reduce the action force.

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The Ka-BAR Becker Tac Tool

This is a hunting-style knife that comes with two different patterns in the same blade. It contains a hock-style edge on the opposite part to disclose wire.

KA-BAR 200038 BK3 Becker Tac Tool

Overview:

• Glass reinforced nylon handle 
• 1.3 lbs weight 
• 15 degree angle 
• 7 inches blade length
• 12 inches overall length
• ‎14 x 3 x 3 inches
• Hunting style
• Unique style sheath 

This knife is made with the highest quality material, and Ka-Bar is one of the leading manufacturers in the world. You can use it for survival, off-grid living, and personal protection.

The blade is designed with a 15-degree angle, and it has a 7-inch length. You can cut most of the things with this knife confidently.

Besides, it has an alternative hock for easily accessing wire and other materials. 

You can confidently use this knife for a long time with a perfect grip. The flat handle is more convenient than other models. 

The Ka-BAR Becker Tac Tool Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy access Durable material Perfect for hunting and wire cutting	There are three bolts on the handle

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Folding Pocket & Tactical Knives

Finally, we have the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S. It comes with a folding design and enables you to carry it conveniently in different locations.

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S

Overview:

• Aluminum handle material
• Folding
• Carbon steel blade
• 0.94 x 4.41 x 1.38 inches
• Box style
• Convenient size
• Easy grip
• Cost: around $14 – $25

This is a modern knife with extreme cutting capability. You can use it for personal safety, hunting, survival, and off-grid living. 

The folding design of this knife makes it easy to use and convenient to carry. It requires less space in the tactical box. Similarly, the lightweight design will enable you to carry it for a long time. 

With the fast release button, you can instantly unfold the knife for every purpose. It will allow you to cut durable wire, wood, and animal body. 

Box-style carbon fiber blades will perform for a long time, and it doesn’t require regular maintenance.

It is a cost-effective knife with the best material and design. 

Folding Pocket & Tactical Knives Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Quick and easy access Easy to carry  Double pattern blade	No issue found

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Taking Care of a Survival Knife

A knife is like your brain. As much as you use it, you will keep it operational. If you can’t go for the right maintenance, a knife will lose its sharpness and efficiency.

Here are some tips to keep your knife perfect.

Keep It Sharp

Try to keep your knife sharp. After cutting, sharpen it with the proper tool. Besides, you have to test the knife’s sharpness if you don’t use it for a long time. 

Keep Your Knife Dry And Cleanliness

Water and dust can be the most harmful things for a knife. Your knife can be destroyed due to uncleanliness. So, keep and store it in a dry and clean place after every cutting mission. 

Oil The Blade

To increase the sharpness of a knife, you can use oil on the blade. It will clean germs and rust from the surface. Besides, the oil will enhance the sharpness and movement of the knife. 

Knife Safety

The knife is not an ordinary survival or off-grid living tool. It is a cutting device. The sharpness might be dangerous for the users if they don’t follow safety guidelines. 

It is better to wear gloves when using a knife. Besides, use a suitable knife holder to carry the knife conveniently on the body.

Always keep your knife away from children and pets. Don’t store in an open and easily accessible place. 

Conclusion

Finally, you got the best survival knife for off-grid living. You can select a particular model or more based on your necessity. 

If you don’t have any prior knowledge about a survival knife, you can follow our suggestions. 

The Nooraki MK89 Handmade Machete Knife is the best knife for regular use. You will get the maximum cutting output and stability from this tool. 

Besides, the Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S is the best folding pocket knife for off-grid life.

It comes with easy access and durability for the best outdoor experience. Now, it depends on you which model is perfect for you.