How Big of a Knife Do I Need for Backpacking?

By Anna Duncan

When it comes to backpacking, a knife is an essential tool. No matter how prepared you are for your hike, you will find yourself always in need of a knife.

The type of knife you choose to bring with you will depend on the type of job you need it for. Some may want to go with a small pocket knife, while others may want something more robust like a machete or tomahawk. When choosing the right knife for backpacking, there are two main factors to consider: blade size and blade material.

Blade Size

The size of the blade is important when selecting a knife for backpacking. A larger blade will be able to handle larger tasks like cutting through thick brush and cutting down small trees.

On the other hand, a smaller blade might be easier to manage and can still handle smaller tasks like making feather sticks and preparing food. The size of your blade should depend on the type of tasks that you plan on doing while backpacking.

Blade Material

The material of the blade is also important when selecting a knife for backpacking. Steel blades are usually the most durable and long lasting option, but they can also be quite heavy and difficult to sharpen in the field.

Carbon steel blades tend to be lighter than their steel counterparts but may not hold an edge as well or last as long as steel blades do. Ceramic blades are lightweight and extremely sharp, but they can be brittle and prone to breakage if not used properly.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right knife for backpacking depends on two main factors: blade size and material. The size should depend on what sort of tasks you plan on doing while out in the wilderness while material should depend on weight vs durability considerations. Ultimately, it’s up to each individual backpacker to make their own decision as far as what type of knife they need for their specific journey.