Last updated April 7th, 2025
Product Reviews
When embarking on a camping adventure, having a reliable knife can be of great help. From versatile multitools to robust fixed blades, the perfect knife can significantly enhance your RV camping experience. This listicle explores the best camping knives for RVers. Whether you prefer a portable, lightweight folding knife or a robust fixed blade for heavy-duty tasks, our expert recommendations are tailored for every camping style.
Camping Knives Comparison Table
Here’s a detailed comparison of our top picks for camping knives based on price, weight, material, blade length and thickness, and warranty.
| Brand | Benchmade Bushcrafter | Benchmade Bugout | Morakniv Kansbol | Uncharted Supply Co Empire Knife |
| Image | ||||
| Price | $155 to $180 | $155 – $275 | $42.99 – $49.99 | $59 |
| Overall Length | 230 mm | 190 mm | 250 mm | Approx 267 mm |
| Weight (in gms) | 215 | 55 | 143.8 | Not specified, but designed to be lightweight |
| Blade Material | CPM-S30V Steel | CPM-S30V Steel | Swedish Stainless Steel | CPM-S30V steel, rubber grip with finger guard |
| Blade Length | 105 mm | 82 mm | 109 mm | Approx 127 mm |
| Blade Thickness | 41 mm | 2.29 mm | 2.5 mm | Not specified |
| Warranty | Covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the knife.Benchmade provides a service called LifeSharp, which includes free re-sharpening to a factory edge for the life of the knife, along with cleaning, oiling, and adjustments. | Covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the knife.Benchmade provides a service called LifeSharp, which includes free re-sharpening to a factory edge for the life of the knife, along with cleaning, oiling, and adjustments. | Extends to the product’s original purchaser excluding misuse and certain damages. | Not specified (check manufacturer’s policy) |
| Usage | Ideal for travelers seeking a premium knife that performs well in various outdoor tasks. | Ideal for everyday tasks around the campsite, from food prep to gear maintenance. | Ideal for various camping tasks, from cooking to crafting. | Ideal for RV travelers wanting a budget-friendly knife for heavy-duty tasks. |
1. Benchmade Bushcrafter: Our Recommended Overall Pick
Image Source: Benchmade Bushcrafter
Price: $155 to $180
Features:
- Handle Material: Molded G-10 scales, providing a robust grip and stability during use.
- Sheath: Comes with a leather sheath that includes a sleeve for a Ferro rod, enhancing its utility in survival situations.
Pros:
- Durability: Suitable for heavy-duty tasks like batoning and shelter building.
- Edge Retention: Excellent edge retention and easy to sharpen, making it practical for extended outdoor use.
- Comfortable Grip: The handle design provides optimal control and comfort during prolonged tasks.
- Versatility: Effective for bushcraft, hunting, and general utility tasks.
Cons:
- Price: Some users may find the price higher compared to other bushcraft knives on the market.
- Sheath Limitations: The leather sheath has been criticized for being right-hand only and may not last as long as the knife itself.
- Weight: A concern for those looking for ultra-lightweight options.
2. Benchmade Bugout: Our Recommended Pick for Multitasking
Our Recommended Pick for Multitasking
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04/07/2025 07:49 am GMT
Price: $155 – $275
Features:
- Handle: Constructed from Grivory, a glass-filled nylon offering durability while remaining lightweight.
- Lock Mechanism: The knife uses Benchmade’s patented AXIS lock, allowing for easy one-handed operation and secure blade locking.
- Customization: Various models and customization options are available, including different handle materials and blade finishes.
Pros:
- Lightweight: Easy to carry
- Versatile Blade: The drop-point blade shape is suitable for a range of tasks, from food preparation to general cutting needs.
- Durability: High-quality materials ensure longevity and reliability under various conditions.
- User-Friendly: The AXIS lock mechanism enhances usability, making it accessible for right and left-handed users.
Cons:
- Price: Some users feel the price to be on the higher side when compared to alternatives from other brands.
- Handle Material Perception: While Grivory is durable, some users criticize it as being “plastic,” instead of traditional materials like G-10 or aluminum.
- Deployment Difficulty: A few users noted that the placement of the thumb studs can make blade deployment slightly challenging compared to other models in the market.
3. Morakniv Kansbol: Our Top Budget Choice
Image Source: Morakniv Kansbol
Price: $42.99 – $49.99
There is also an optional Survival Kit available for $24.99 or $26.99.
Features:
- Blade Dimensions: 109 mm in length and 2.5 mm in thickness, featuring a drop point design that allows for both detailed and heavy-duty tasks.
- Handle Design: The handle is constructed from a core of polypropylene, coated with TPE rubber for enhanced grip and comfort. Its ergonomic shape accommodates various hand sizes and provides a secure hold even when wet.
- Sheath Options: Comes with a plastic sheath that includes mounting options for easy attachment to belts or MOLLE systems.
Pros:
- Versatility: Suitable for a range of outdoor activities, including bushcraft, hunting, and food preparation.
- Comfortable Grip: Comfortable to use for extended periods.
- Durable Blade: The high-quality blade maintains sharpness well and handles demanding tasks effectively.
- Lightweight: Easy to carry during outdoor adventures.
Cons:
- Sharpening Difficulty: Some users report that the blade can be challenging to sharpen initially, requiring practice to maintain its edge effectively.
- Limited Heavy-Duty Use: Not as robust as other Morakniv models designed specifically for heavy-duty tasks.
- No Integrated Fire Starter: It does not come with an integrated fire starter, which may be a drawback for certain users.
4. Uncharted Supply Co Empire Knife: Our Top Pick for Quality
Our Top Pick for Quality
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04/07/2025 07:52 am GMT
Price: $59
Features:
- Construction: Full-tang design ensures strength and stability during use.
- Grip: Equipped with a rubber grip that includes a finger guard for enhanced safety and comfort.
- Included Accessories:
- Protective sheath for safe storage.
- Sharpening stone to maintain blade sharpness.
- Ferro rod for fire-starting capabilities.
- Weight: Lightweight design, suitable for carrying in various outdoor scenarios.
Pros:
- Versatile: Its multi-functional design makes it ideal for camping, hunting, fishing, and emergencies.
- Durability: Engineered for resilience in rugged environments, making it suitable for off-grid living.
- Safety Features: The rubber grip and finger guard enhance user safety during handling.
- Comprehensive Kit: Comes with essential tools (sharpening stone and ferro rod) that make it a complete survival knife package.
Cons:
- Price: Some users may find it relatively expensive compared to other survival knives in the market.
- Weight: While lightweight, it may still be heavier than some compact folding knives.
How We Compared Camping Knives to find the best for your RV adventure
When comparing camping knives, we considered several key parameters to ensure that the products meet the specific needs of outdoor activities.
- Blade Material: Considering the product’s durability and sharpness, wecarefully considered the blades’ material. While stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and suitable for wet environments, high carbon steel offers excellent edge retention but requires regular maintenance.
- Blade Shape and Design: We concluded that different blade shapes and designs serve different purposes, like slicing meat and vegetables, skinning, etc., while some blades are versatile for general use.
- Size and Weight: We found that a balance between portability and functionality is crucial. The camp knives that were 3 to 6 inches in length and had longer blades were better for chopping tasks. Lightweight knives are preferable to carry during hikes or when space is limited.
- Locking Mechanism: For folding knives, the locking mechanism (e.g., liner lock, crossbar lock) is vital for safety during use. We looked for reliable locks to prevent any accidents.
- Versatility: We emphasized the multi-functionality of these knives with any additional features such as a built-in fire starter or bottle opener. This can be beneficial for RVers who need multifunctional tools.
- Budget Considerations: We realized that prices can vary widely based on brand and materials. However, it is essential to find a knife that offers good value while meeting specific needs.
Gear Up With the Best Camping Knife for Your RV Adventures
The best camping knives for RV travelers ultimately depend on individual needs and the type of camping you plan to do. With the right camping knife, you’ll be equipped to handle any situation. As you read our recommendations and make your choice, consider your style of travel and the types of challenges you may encounter. Before you leave, don’t forget to check our guide on the best campsite knives for your cooking needs in an RV.
