Hunting knives are useful for various jobs, the most essential of which are field dressing and game processing. A hunter requires a blade that can slice and bone the whole game without much effort.
They also want a knife that can do chores like processing firewood and cutting rope. We have presented the most outstanding new hunting knives for every hunter’s individual style and type.
Best Deer Hunting Knife Reviews
Best overall: Buck Knives 119 Special Fixed Blade Hunting Knife
Buck Knives 119’s blade has a razor-sharp clip point of 420HC steel, providing high strength, edge retention, and corrosion resistance.
The clip blade is helpful for piercing and fine precision work, while its traditional black phenolic handle incorporates palm swells for a secure grip. The knife’s design resists even the harshest environments while remaining sharp for an extended period.
The Buck Knives 119 is a classic hunting knife that hasn’t altered much in 40 years. The knife’s overall length stands near 10.5 inches while weighing 7.5 ounces, making it relatively light.
Its sturdy construction has withstood the test of time, and its balance is almost ideal. The Buck 119 special is available in two variations, each with different handle material. You may have a Buck 119 with a high-gloss polished Cocobolo handle or a black Phenolic handle, a high-density quality plastic.
The Buck Knives 119 has a standard plain edge clip-point blade measuring 6 inches in length. The blade has a 3/16-inch thickness and a shallow belly.
Its sharpness is worth admiring; therefore, the unit comes with an aluminum bolster/finger guard that prevents forward slippage.
However, one major disadvantage of hardwood handles is that you cannot use them as efficiently as desired in cold and wet conditions. Although it is not designed to be a heavy-duty survival knife, this knife will suffice for most outdoor jobs.
Pros
- Hunting, camping, bushcraft, fishing, hiking, and all possibilities.
- The snap clap attached to the leather sheath and the leather loop makes carrying convenient.
- It comes with a forever warranty.
- The blade is meant to penetrate deeper and with more precision and agility.
- The crescent tip thins the blade and sharpens the point while retaining its strength.
- The finger guard aids in grip and helps to reduce slippage-related accidents.
Cons
- The hardwood handle does not perform well in cold weather.
- It’s not ideal for cutting wood, but it’s perfect for more delicate carving.
- The blades are sharp, but you’ve to sharpen them every time you want to hunt a deer.
Runner-up: Buck Knives 110 Folding Hunter Lock-back Knife
The clip blade of this knife is made of 420HC stainless steel, which offers outstanding strength, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. The clip blade features a razor-sharp, controlled tip ideal for piercing and slicing.
With a nail notch on the blade, it’s simple to open. The blade is locked open by the lock back mechanism for dependable strength and safety as you operate. The product measures 4-7/8 in closed length and weighs 7.2 oz in weight.
This knife can survive the cruelest situations where it is capable of maintaining its sharpness for an extended period. Hunting, camping, bushcraft, fishing, and hiking are some outdoor activities one can perform with this knife.
The inbuilt belt loop makes it easy to carry on your belt safely and securely. However, the sheath is unbent in some cases, which is not favorable if you’re planning to hunt.
Pros
- It comes with a life-long guarantee.
- The belt loop lets you carry the knife quickly.
- The blade is perfect for piercing and slicing.
Cons
- It comes with a small chip in the blade’s upper end, making it hard to close.
Best Value for Money: Morakniv Companion Fixed Blade Outdoor Knife
The Companion features a 4″ blade with a 4.5″ handle, making it around 8.5″ when measured together. A plastic friction fit sheath is included with each product.
The Companion is handcrafted in Mora, Sweden, like all other Mora knives. The Companion is the ideal size for the kinds of ordinary outdoor jobs you’d expect it to perform.
The Companion’s handle is composed of plastic, and the center swell has an excellent TPE-like wrap around it. The palm swell is just as any hunter would want it, while its handle is not over-designed and thereby simple to carry.
Pros
- The simple handle on this hunting knife makes it easy to carry.
- The knife is equally suitable for other outdoor jobs.
- It comes with a corrosion-resistant stainless steel blade.
Cons
- The sheath is a standard Mora friction fit plastic sheath.
bEST BUDGET: Kershaw Clash Pocket Knife
Kershaw Clash Pocket Knife comes with a bead blasted finish that adds to the blade’s aesthetic appeal.
The firm blasts force the edges with microscopic glass pellets to give them a dimpled or satin finish. Instead of having a smooth and polished surface, the dotted surface area allows the user to enjoy exceptional grip.
The blade of the Kershaw Clash has a drop point design, which means the blade’s spine gradually dips towards the tip. The knife will be razor-sharp right out of the box, maintaining that edge over time.
The blade is composed of heat-treated 8CR13MoV steel for increased lifespan and durability. A bead blasted finish adds to the blade’s aesthetic appeal.
The spine of the Kershaw Clash includes a tiny concave dip just outside the handle, allowing you to lay your thumb there for increased force.
Pros
- The material makes it durable and long-lasting.
- The handle is designed for a practical grip.
- The blade is designed for smooth piercing and slicing.
- A secure locking system prevents unwanted injuries.
- A trusty torsion bar provides fast deployment.
Cons
- After some months of usage, the Torx screws holding the clip came loose.
- The scale edges are pretty sharp.
Alternative: KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife
The BK-2 has a length of 10-5/8′′, a blade length of 5-1/4′′, and a weight of 16 ounces. It is a substantial knife whose blade has a traditional drop point design with a high flat grind and a solid tip.
The manufacturer has applied a durable powder coating to the knife. Over its complete steel tang, the BK-2 has a large Zytel (high-density plastic) handle. It is a pretty simple handle design that works well for a working knife.
The BK2’s handle feels as simple as it seems from an ergonomic perspective. It is a substantial handle with a large palm swell. Larger hands have plenty of room and a lack of jumping and firm texture.
A plastic and nylon sleeve is included with the BK-2. The sheath is simple, light, and well-made. It retains its shape well and makes an excellent breaking sound when you push the knife into position.
The BK-2 is unique because it can perform a wide range of activities while maintaining a tiny footprint.
Pros
- The handle of this unit is designed to be ergonomic, which makes the knife easy to use.
- Users may use the knife to baton or split wood.
- Given its size, it’s also an excellent chopper.
Cons
- The plastic handle offers a poor slipper grip.
- Sometimes, it is hard to get the knife out of the sheath.
Alternative: Edge RazorPro – Double Blade Folding Hunting Knife
On one side, Edge RazorPro is a replacement blade knife. On the other hand, it includes a unique gutting blade that cuts beneath the skin without penetrating internal organs.
The 3.5-inch drop-point blades are carefully heat-treated to maintain outstanding edge retention and then hand-finished by sharpening the blade.
The knife comes with six blades and a nylon belt sheath; additional replacement blade packs are offered separately. The TPR handles are affixed to a robust 420J2 stainless steel frame for unrivaled strength and durability and a firm, non-slip grip even in wet conditions.
Most importantly, you can change the blades quickly and easily. When a knife becomes dull, press the lock release button in the handle to remove it and replace it with a new razor-sharp one. Lastly, the orange color reduces the chances of being lost in the field.
Pros
- You can easily replace the blade.
- The grip is not slippery in wet conditions.
- The blaze-orange handle is easy to locate on the ground.
Cons
- The skinner lock retainer breaks when a little bit of force is applied.
- In some cases, the knife doesn’t cut well.
Alternative: Havalon Piranta-Edge – Outdoor Knife
The Piranta-Edge knife has long been a favorite among backpack hunters. This knife has a thicker, stricter #60A interchangeable blade, making skinning and field dressing a breeze.
The Piranta-Edge is exceptionally light, and its folding design allows it to be carried in any kill kit. Each blade measures 2-3/4 inches in length.
A sturdy ABS blazing orange handle with a black rubber grip insert is included on the hold. The knife is 7-1/4 inches long, with ambidextrous thumb studs.
The open-back design makes cleaning a breeze. The Piranta-Edge comes with a holster clip that users can remove very quickly. Moreover, it has a nylon holster that can contain all of the additional blades.
Pros
- It is ideal for hunters who measure in ounces.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
- It is an excellent precision tool.
Cons
- Sometimes, the blade comes off.
- It is usually tailored for right-handed people.
Alternative: Buck Knives Buck Zipper Fixed Blade Knife
Buck’s proprietary gut hook design uses precise angles on the sharpened edge, as well as the Buck gut hook’s unique form and size are ideal for dressing the game on the field. The blade is composed of stainless steel 402HC, and it is a multipurpose knife capable of transporting a deer from the area to the freezer. The blade has been heat-treated to prevent corrosion and maintain an edge.
Pros
- The handle is available in blazing orange for increased visibility.
- Buck Knives Forever Lifetime Warranty is included along with the knife.
Cons
- The blade will need to be resharpened.
Alternative: Ontario Fixed Blade Hunting Knife
This series of knives comes from Ontario. It’s a fixed blade knife line geared towards military and first response people. These are the company’s tactical knives, frequently on the cheaper side. Like the others in the series, this knife has its personality and function, but it’s arguably the greatest. It boasts a Kraton grip and a large 9.8-inch black-coated 1095 carbon steel blade. When you’re whacking away at the bush, the grip is ergonomic, and there are various precautions to avoid the knife from flying out of your hand.
Pros
- The Carbon Steel Handle is very sharp and easy to use.
- It’s fit for daily usage.
Cons
- The size of this hunting knife is too small.
- You need to maintain this knife properly.
Alternative: Benchmade – Griptilian 551 Knife
Griptilian 551 is a full-size, high-quality folding pocket knife by Benchmade. This tool has a long blade with an overall mass smack in the middle of the selection, and it operates smoothly.
This model is designed for those who possess a lot of pocket space, many heavy jobs to do, a respect for quality craftsmanship, and excellent customer service.
The materials and form of the blade are flawless. The Griptilian’s full-size handle fits a loosely clenched grip, leaving smooth curves to press through even the most demanding cutting tasks.
The pocket clip allows the user to withdraw the knife from its clipped position and deploy the blade with a thumb flick. For this, one does not have to re-orient the knife.
Pros
- The Axis lock is solid.
- It can be opened and closed single-handedly.
- It is fit for everyday usage.
Cons
- The handle is not always comfortable, and it tends to rub hands raw.
- The grooves on the upper portion of the knife are abrasive.
Deer Hunting Knife FAQ
How Long Should a Hunting Knife Be?
A deer hunting knife should ideally be between 2.5 and 4 inches long since any blade longer than 4 inches can be difficult to wield.
Besides, chances of hunters cutting and injuring themselves are predominant, especially when reaching into the animal’s body cavity to carve the heart, lungs, diaphragm, or esophagus out.
The knife should be long and sturdy, and the extension or ‘tang’ must run through to the back of the handle.
Deer hunting knife blades, usually measuring 2.5 to 4-inches, are easy to handle since you will have a secure grip using at least three or four fingers. Moreover, they also shield your forefinger against accidental slipping and unwanted injury.
There are two types of essential hunting knives: folding and fixed blades. Each of these knives boasts distinct strengths and weaknesses.
One such example of an excellent folding knife is the classic Buck 110. Developed in 1963, it comes with a 3.75-inch clip-point blade for precision cuts.
Its sharpness and foldability enable users to use it for other purposes too. However, cleaning such folding knives can be tedious, especially when removing carcass, blood, and fat from the blade’s slot.
Contrarily, a fixed blade knife is much easier to clean than a folding blade one. So, as a hunter, if you are not comfortable wielding folding blade knives, you can always go for fixed blade ones, such as the Cold Steel Pendleton Hunter or Cold Steel Pendleton Mini-Hunter.
How Thick Should a Hunting Knife Be?
The thickness of a deer hunting knife depends on various factors, including the blade type. For instance, fixed blade knives, such as the Cold Steel Pendleton Hunter, have a 3.5-inch blade, while the Mini Hunter comes with a 3-inch blade.
The design and hardness of the steel also play an essential role here. For example, hunting knives such as the Buck 119 come in lengths of ten-and-a-half inches, and their blades are 0.175 inches thick.
Similarly, the Buck 110 is slightly thinner than the Buck 119, at 0.120 inches.
You also have way thinner knives than the Buck 110, such as the Outdoor Edge Razor Pro – II, at 0.02 inches. The Outdoor Edge Razor Pro – II is a folding knife with several multi-purpose replaceable blades, including gutting and bone-saw blades.
Besides these, you also have other deer hunting knives like the Spyderco Moran Hunting Knife, which comes with a 3.8-inch blade length and is about 0.125-inches thick.
Named after the renowned bladesmith of the 1940s, Bill Moran, the Spyderco was introduced in 2005, after his death. The knife offers a sense of precision and control, especially when ripping animals like deer apart.
In conclusion, since most hunting knives are used for boning and skinning, opt for a single bevel style, featuring a blade thickness between 3/16″ to 1/4″ and an edge of 1/64″.
Hunters who wish to find a suitable knife might need to undergo a series of multiple blade experiments before finding the one.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hunting knife is more about personal taste than anything else.
However, if you use the information above to guide your selection, you may be much more confident that the knife you choose is the most excellent hunting knife for you and your needs.
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