Best Survival Knives Under $100: Tested in the Field
When it comes to survival situations, having a reliable knife can mean the difference between success and failure. However, not everyone wants to spend hundreds of dollars on survival gear. The good news is that there are plenty of high-quality survival knives available for under $100 that perform impressively in real-world conditions. After thorough field testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best survival knives under $100 that combine durability, versatility, and affordability.
What to Look for in a Survival Knife Under $100 Before diving into the best knives, it’s important to know what features matter most in a survival knife:
Blade Material: High-carbon steel or stainless steel are common choices. The blade should hold a sharp edge and resist rust.
Blade Design: A drop point or clip point blade offers versatility for cutting, carving, and slicing.
Handle Grip: A textured, ergonomic handle ensures a secure grip even in wet conditions.
Tang Construction: Full tang knives (where the blade extends through the handle) offer superior strength.
Sheath Quality: A durable sheath protects the blade and allows for easy carrying.
Top Survival Knives Under $100 Tested in the Field 1. Morakniv Bushcraft Carbon Steel Knife The Morakniv Bushcraft is a well-respected knife among outdoor enthusiasts. Its carbon steel blade holds a sharp edge and is easy to resharpen. The ergonomic handle provides excellent grip, and the included sheath is rugged and reliable.
Blade length: 4.3 inches
Weight: 7.4 oz
Material: High-carbon steel
- KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion Known for its toughness, the BK2 Campanion features a thick 5.25-inch blade made from 1095 Cro-Van steel. Though heavier than other options, its durability and strength are unmatched, making it suitable for heavy-duty survival tasks.
Blade length: 5.25 inches
Weight: 1.38 lbs
Material: 1095 Cro-Van steel
- Gerber StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife The Gerber StrongArm is a versatile survival knife with a 4.8-inch blade made from high-quality stainless steel. Its rubberized handle offers a comfortable grip, and the knife comes with a modular sheath system adaptable to various carry methods.
Blade length: 4.8 inches
Weight: 7.9 oz
Material: 420HC stainless steel
- Cold Steel SRK (Survival Rescue Knife) The Cold Steel SRK is designed for military and survival applications. It features a 6-inch blade made of AUS-8A stainless steel with a sturdy Kraton handle for a secure grip. Its full tang design ensures durability in tough conditions.
Blade length: 6 inches
Weight: 9 oz
Material: AUS-8A stainless steel
- ESEE 3P Fixed Blade Knife The ESEE 3P is a smaller, lighter knife perfect for precise survival tasks. With a 3.75-inch 1095 high-carbon steel blade and a comfortable Micarta handle, it strikes a balance between portability and functionality.
Blade length: 3.75 inches
Weight: 5.6 oz
Material: 1095 high-carbon steel
Field Testing Insights All the knives on this list were tested in diverse outdoor scenarios including wood processing, food preparation, and emergency tasks. Each proved reliable, with standout performances depending on the specific use:
For heavy chopping and batoning, the KA-BAR Becker BK2 excelled.
For precision cutting and carving, the ESEE 3P was ideal.
The Morakniv Bushcraft offered great versatility and excellent edge retention.
The Gerber StrongArm impressed with its comfortable grip and durable sheath system.
The Cold Steel SRK was tough and dependable in various survival situations.
Conclusion You don’t need to break the bank to own a survival knife that performs well in the field. These five knives under $100 are some of the best options for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and survivalists alike. When selecting a knife, consider your specific needs, and remember that proper maintenance is key to keeping any blade in peak condition.