Survival Knives vs. Bushcraft Knives: Which to Choose and Why?

In the exciting world of outdoor activities, two terms often cause confusion: bushcraft and survival. Although both are related to living in nature, their philosophies and, therefore, the tools we use, present key differences. In this article, we will unravel the characteristics of survival knives and bushcraft knives, help you understand which one is most suitable for your needs, and give you essential tips for their maintenance and safe use.

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1. Understanding Bushcraft: The Art of Living in Nature

Bushcraft is much more than an activity; it is a philosophy and a lifestyle that seeks connection and harmony with nature. It is about using and practicing skills, acquiring knowledge, and understanding the natural environment to live and thrive in it. Bushcraft enthusiasts consciously choose to spend time outdoors, freeing themselves from modern technology and putting their ingenuity and creativity to the test to work with available resources.

1.1. Origins and Promoters of Bushcraft

The term “bushcraft” was popularized in the Southern Hemisphere thanks to Les Hiddins (the Bush Tucker man) and in the Northern Hemisphere by Mors Kochanski, gaining considerable momentum in the United Kingdom due to the popularity of Ray Mears and his television programs. The phrase has its origin in the skills used in the “bush country” of Australia. Historically, the term has appeared in books since the mid-19th century, such as The Art of Travel by Francis Galton (1854) and various works by Ernest Favenc. Modern promoters like Cody Lundin, Les Stroud, and Dave Canterbury have also contributed to its dissemination.

The Oxford English Dictionary definition for bushcraft is “skill in matters pertaining to life in the bush.” “Bush” in this context derives from the Dutch ‘bosch’ (now ‘bos’), which originally referred to forests and fields covered with natural vegetation in the Dutch colonies, later extending in the British colonies to describe uncultivated districts.

1.2. Essential Tools for Bushcraft

For bushcraft, the most commonly used basic tools are the knife, the axe, and the saw. A bushcrafter uses these tools to create a wide variety of constructions, from canoes to shelters. In addition to the knife, a well-equipped bushcraft backpack includes a folding saw, a compass, mountain socks, a first-aid kit, a canteen, a flashlight or headlamp, and a fire kit.

The bushcraft knife, although this activity disregards modern technology, is an indispensable tool. It is used for a variety of tasks, which can be grouped into four main uses:

Woodcraft: For cutting thick branches, making feather sticks, or carving utensils and tools such as pot hangers or tent pegs.
Food preparation: Ideal for cutting meat, peeling fruits and vegetables, especially foraged foods.
Survival tasks: Suitable for cutting and chopping wood, or building a shelter, even withstanding the batoning technique.
Fire construction: Excellent for making tinder and using with a ferro rod.

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2. The Survival Knife: Your Companion in the Unforeseen

Survival knives are specifically designed to be robust and versatile tools that can be relied upon in emergency situations or wilderness environments. Their primary purpose is to help the user survive when most of their main equipment has been lost. A survival knife must be capable of cutting wood, digging holes, scraping branches, or even serving as a defensive weapon.

2.1. Historical Origins

Before the late 19th century, knives used by military personnel and outdoorsmen did not differ much from butcher knives. Webster L. Marble introduced the modern concept of the “hunting knife” with heavier blades and more elaborate handles, laying the groundwork for the modern survival knife.

During World War II, survival knives were issued to aircraft crew, given the possibility of being shot down in the wilderness or behind enemy lines. Lifeboats also included survival kits with knives. It was from the Vietnam era that purpose-designed survival knives were developed. A notable design was the Randall number 14 “Attack”, which incorporated features requested by a combat surgeon, such as saws on the spine for cutting aircraft fuselages and a hollow handle for storing survival gear, marking the beginning of modern survival knives. Even some current military bayonets have been redesigned to include survival knife features.

2.2. Key Features of a Survival Knife

A survival knife must be comfortable and, above all, provide security. They are designed for tasks such as setting traps, cutting branches, carving wood, and skinning animals.

Fixed blade and robustness: Most have fixed blades between 10 cm and 20 cm (3.9 to 7.9 inches) long with a thick tang. The goal is for them to be extremely rigid and difficult to break. A compact survival knife can work with a thinner blade, but for longer knives, greater thickness is needed for intense tasks like batoning.
Handle: The ideal handle is usually made of a soft but durable rubbery material. Common materials include hardened rubber, wood, bone (antler), aluminum, polymer, stainless steel, or tool steel. Some knives, such as those from Aitor, Lile, Parrish, Randall, or Reeve, have hollow handles that allow for storing additional gear (matches, thread, needle, compass). However, a hollow handle can reduce strength and make it easier to break when striking or batoning. Wood handles are discouraged unless it is stabilized wood, with G10, micarta, or fiber-reinforced plastics preferred for maximum reliability.
Blade spine: Some have a flat spine that allows striking with a stick to split wood (batoning). Others feature a spine or striking surface near the tip. A flat spine with sharp 90-degree edges can be used to create sparks with a ferrocerium rod for fire starting.
Tip: A strong tip allows the knife to be used as a personal defense weapon.
Holes in the handle: Some include holes to tie the blade to a stick and use it as a spear, facilitating hunting at a safe distance.
Serrations: Survival knives for aircraft crew often have serrations for cutting through crashed aircraft fuselages. Serrations appeared on knives in the 19th century for use as a wood saw or fish scaler.
Tang: It is crucial that the blade is fixed and a single piece that inserts into the handle (full-tang) for greater strength. If the handle breaks, a full-tang knife allows you to wrap the tang with cord for an improvised handle.

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3. The Big Difference: Bushcraft vs. Survival (Activities)

Although sometimes confused, bushcraft and survival are activities with different philosophies and are applied in distinct situations.

Survival: It’s about surviving in nature and getting out of a dangerous situation as quickly as possible. There is no room for comfort; the goal is autonomy in a natural environment and equipping oneself with only what is strictly necessary for the emergency. Resilience and mindset are put to the test. It is an unforeseen and extreme situation.
Bushcraft: It consists of intentionally living in nature, choosing to venture into the forest to create what is needed to feel comfortable. It is a matter of “escape” in an environment, without restrictions or emergency situations. It is based on a deep knowledge of nature and adaptation to resources, being a voluntary and prepared practice.

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4. Survival Knives vs. Bushcraft Knives: The Steel Duel

The choice between a survival knife and a bushcraft knife will largely depend on your personal preferences and the specific use you intend to give it. Although there are knives designed specifically for each purpose, many can be suitable for both practices.

4.1. Main Differences (Length and Design)

The main difference lies in the length and design of the blade.

Survival Knives: They usually have longer and wider blades, which makes them ideal for heavier tasks like batoning and gives them a more tactical look. Blade length varies, with popular models between 7 and 18 centimeters, allowing for anything from backup neck knives to tools for cutting thick branches and logs. The longer the blade, the easier it is to cut firewood, but the harder it is to make precise cuts on small objects.
Bushcraft Knives: Generally have slightly smaller blades and often feature a Scandi grind. This makes them perfect for woodworking and dressing small game, giving them a more classic and minimalist look. The most popular ones have blades between 9 and 13 centimeters, with 10-11 cm being the most common length, offering control and sufficient length for cuts.

4.2. Strength and Construction

Strength is a crucial criterion for a survival knife, as a failure could cost a life. Therefore, a full-tang construction (where the blade steel runs through the entire handle) is preferred for maximum robustness. Hollow handles, while useful for storage, can reduce strength.

For bushcraft, while robustness is important, a slightly thinner blade may be better for cutting fruits and vegetables, and a wooden handle may be sufficient under normal circumstances.

4.3. Woodcraft

Woodcraft is a key element of bushcraft. For this task, a thinner bushcraft knife is easier to use than a thicker survival knife. Bushcrafters usually prefer knives with a Scandi or convex grind, as they are very suitable for woodworking. A survival knife with a flat grind can also be used for woodcraft.

4.4. Ergonomics

Survival Knife: Grip is extremely important to prevent injuries, prioritizing infallible functionality.
Bushcraft Knife: Focuses more on ergonomics to allow for prolonged use without blisters, as tasks like carving gear take time. Ergonomic handles with comfortable curves are sought after.

4.5. Steel for the Knife

Both survival and bushcraft knives often use carbon steel.

Carbon Steel: Appreciated for its strength and ease of sharpening with minimal resources in the field. It is slightly stronger and more flexible than stainless steel, which is crucial in critical situations, as it is preferred that the knife bends rather than breaks. Examples include 1095, 1075, 5160, O1, Böhler K720. It requires more maintenance because it is not stainless.
Stainless Steel: Easier to maintain because it is stainless, although “stainless” does not mean completely rust-free under certain circumstances. Some modern types retain their edge better than certain carbon steels, but are usually harder to sharpen and, in most cases, less strong. Examples: Böhler M390, Böhler N690, Sandvik 12C27, Elmax, Mova 1.4116, Stainless 14C28N.
Tool Steel (Hybrid): Contains more chromium than carbon steel but not enough to be stainless. Offers good edge retention, strength, and ease of sharpening. Examples: CPM 3V, CPM CruWear, D2, Sleipner.

4.6. Blade Shapes

Blade shapes are quite similar in both types of knives. The drop point is the most popular in general for its versatility, with a sharp tip, a “belly” on the edge, and a straight section.

Clip points are also common, especially in the survival field, with a more tactical appearance. Other shapes like tanto, kukri, and sheepsfoot are less common in bushcraft knives but are seen in survival knives.

4.7. Sheaths

Bushcraft: The sheath material can be anything, but leather is often preferred for its natural look.
Survival: Good resistance to the elements and excellent retention are essential. Kydex or plastic are preferred for their durability and the firm hold they offer, which is vital to avoid losing the knife.

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5. Key Tips for Choosing Your Ideal Knife

When choosing your knife, consider the following aspects:

Intended Use: Do you want it for extreme survival tasks or for woodworking and food preparation? There are very versatile models, but field knives are designed for specific tasks like setting traps or skinning animals.
Size: A “large” survival knife is not necessarily “better.” The recommended blade length for a bushcraft knife for batoning is 10 to 15 cm. Consider the weight if you plan to walk long distances.
Blade Construction: Opt for a fixed blade with full-tang construction for maximum strength.
Handle Material: Prioritize a consistent grip and a material that allows you to hold it well, such as polymer with a rubber coating for better grip and precision.
Sharpening and Steel Type: A sharp knife is safer. Decide between the strength and ease of sharpening of carbon steel or the lower maintenance needs of stainless steel.

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6. Keeping Your Tool Sharp and Safe

A survival knife is your best friend in the field, so taking care of it is essential to prevent it from deteriorating and to avoid losing it.

6.1. Transport and Storage

Sheath: Get an adapted sheath that can be attached to your belt to keep it always within reach and prevent losing it. For survival environments, kydex or plastic sheaths are preferable for their resistance to the elements and retention.
Always Sheathed: Immediately after use, re-sheathe the knife. Never feel for a sharp knife, sit on it, or walk with it unsheathed.

6.2. Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning is essential before sharpening.

Basic Cleaning: Submerge only the blade in warm water and rub it with a cloth and dish soap. Rinse with warm water and wipe clean. Avoid wetting the mechanism on folding knives.
Drying: Dry the blade thoroughly with a dry cloth to prevent rust, even if the material is treated against corrosion.
Protection: Avoid chemicals that accelerate corrosion. You can use coconut oil to create a protective film.
Lubrication (for folders): Lubricate the locking mechanism and the blade pivot with coconut oil and activate the mechanism several times to allow it to penetrate.

6.3. Sharpening

Sharpening is crucial and should be done when the blade edge is damaged.

Tools: The sharpening stone or a diamond sharpener are recommended, as they are effective and easy to transport. The Morakniv Bushcraft Survival, for example, includes a diamond sharpener.
Technique: Place the blade flat on the stone, respecting the blade’s angle. Pull the knife towards you to the tip, without forcing, maintaining flexibility. Repeat the movement several times on both sides. Carbon steel can be sharpened with minimal resources.

6.4. Basic Knife Safety

Safety is paramount, especially where medical help is difficult to find.

Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is safer. It requires less effort, reducing the chance of slipping, and creates clean cuts.
Appropriate Knife: Use the right knife for the task. A thick knife may not be suitable for filleting, and a thin one may not be robust enough for demanding tasks.
Environmental Safety (Blood Bubble): Maintain a “blood bubble” of one or two arm lengths around you when using the knife. Ensure no one approaches this area.
Triangle of Death: Avoid working with the knife in the area between your knees and crotch, where there are important veins. Rest your elbows on your thighs to keep work in front of your knees and always move the blade away from your body.
Drawing from Sheath: Hold the base of the sheath when drawing the knife, not the top, to avoid cutting your fingers.
Sufficient Grip: Use a hammer grip (fist around the handle) as a starting point for outdoor activities, ensuring no fingers protrude and minimizing slips.
Move the Object, Not the Knife: Whenever possible, keep the knife still and move the object to be cut against the edge. This provides greater control and safety.
Suitable Base: Choose a suitable cutting base (e.g., wood), not your body or hard surfaces like concrete.
Cutting Techniques (Bushcraft): Remember that a knife is made for cutting with movement, not just pushing. Techniques like the “chest lever grip,” “knee lever grip,” and “scissor cut” allow for controlled and safe force application. “Notches” are made by working closely, with thumbs on the spine of the blade for controlled pushing.
Common Sense: If something doesn’t feel safe, don’t do it. Always carry a first-aid kit and know how to use it.

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Survival and bushcraft knives, while sharing similarities and often overlapping in their uses, are designed for slightly different purposes. The survival knife is a robust and reliable tool for critical situations, while the bushcraft knife is a versatile companion for intentional and creative life in nature.

The final choice between one or the other, or even a hybrid model, will depend on your preferred activities and your personal preferences regarding design, material, and ergonomics. We invite you to try different models and discover which one best fits your hand and your outdoor adventures.

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