Why choose a fixed-blade knife for bushcraft?
Unlike folding knives, a fixed-blade knife has no joints. This one-piece construction gives it unparalleled robustness. No mechanism that could fail under strain, no blade play over time. A fixed-blade knife can handle heavy work without flinching.
In bushcraft, the knife is used for everything: preparing wood shavings to start a fire, carving tent stakes, making utensils, batoning wood, preparing meals... This versatility requires a tool capable of enduring various demands day after day. The fixed-blade knife perfectly meets these requirements.
The tang (the metal part extending the blade into the handle) usually runs through the entire handle on bushcraft models, creating a monolithic structure. This full tang design guarantees maximum strength even for the most demanding uses.
Buying Guide: How to choose your fixed-blade knife?
Essential selection criteria
- Blade length determines the knife's versatility. Blades from 9 to 11 cm are the bushcraft standard, offering a good compromise between precision and working capacity. Below this, the knife excels at fine work but lacks power. Above this, it gains cutting capacity but loses maneuverability.
- The steel directly influences performance. Carbon steels offer an exceptional edge and are easily sharpened in the field with a simple sharpening stone. However, they require regular maintenance against corrosion. Stainless steels resist moisture better but are harder to sharpen.
- The grind refers to the blade profile. The Scandinavian grind, very common in bushcraft, offers a robust and easy-to-sharpen blade. The flat grind provides a finer edge. The convex grind maximizes strength for heavy work.
- The handle ensures grip. Wood offers warmth and aesthetics but requires maintenance. Synthetic materials (micarta, G10) resist everything without flinching. Rubber guarantees maximum grip even when wet.
Different blade profiles
- The drop point blade has a spine that gradually curves down to the tip. Versatile and strong, it is the most common shape in bushcraft.
- The clip point blade offers a finer point, ideal for precision work but slightly more fragile.
- The puukko blade, of Scandinavian origin, combines a straight spine and a curved edge. Excellent for carving and woodworking.
Our selection of fixed-blade knives
- For versatile bushcraft, Scandinavian grind knives with a 10 cm blade are the ideal choice. Their profile allows them to prepare kindling for your fire steel as well as cook at camp.
- For wood carving, discover our specialized crooked knives and carving tools. These curved blades allow you to hollow out spoons, kuksa, and other wooden utensils.
- For heavy work, thick-bladed knives with a convex grind can handle intensive batoning. Combined with an axe, they form the essential cutting tool duo for the camp.
Complete your cutting equipment
The fixed-blade knife is part of a set of complementary tools. For firewood processing, a folding saw effectively complements the knife. Discover our entire range of bushcraft knives.
Regular maintenance guarantees your blade's performance. Our maintenance products (oils, waxes) protect the steel and handle. To start your fire, the spine of some knives can scrape a fire steel: discover our fire accessories.
FAQ - Fixed-blade knives
What blade length for beginners?
A blade from 9 to 11 cm offers the best versatility for discovering bushcraft. Long enough for common tasks, short enough to remain maneuverable and precise.
Carbon steel or stainless steel?
Carbon steel is easy to sharpen in the field and takes an excellent edge. It requires maintenance against rust. Stainless steel is more forgiving of neglected maintenance but is harder to sharpen.
How to maintain your knife?
Wipe the blade after use, especially for carbon steel. Regularly apply a thin layer of oil. Sharpen as soon as the edge dulls. Maintain the wooden handle with wax.