The 10 Best Tactical Knives (Camping Buying Guide)

1. Spyderco Endura 4 Signature Folder Knife

4.7/5

2. Schrade Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife

4.7/5

3. Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding

5/5
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Choosing the best tactical knife for camping can be tricky. This valuable piece of gear comes in different styles, sizes, and features. Regardless of these factors, you need a knife that is dependable, easy to carry, and portable. 

We’ve listed down 10 of the most reliable knives for outdoor use to help you with your search. Whether you prefer a folding knife, an assisted open knife, or one with switchblades, the following tactical knives are some of the best you will find.

How We Rated Best Tactical Knife?

  • Sharpness

    Is it sharp enough?

  • Grip

    Is it ergonomic?

  • Portability

    Is it easy to carry?

  • Sharpening

    Is it easy to sharpen?

  • Usability

    Is it easy to use?

  • Design

    Is it practical?

  • Lifespan

    Is it long-lasting?

  • Durability

    Is it sturdy enough?

How We Conducted Research?

  • 13

    Hours Researched

  • 21

    Products Evaluated

  • 9k

    Reviews Considered

  • 3

    Sources Researched

1. Spyderco Endura 4 Signature Folder Knife

4.7/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the Schrade Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife

There are several reasons why the Spyderco Endura is one of the best tactical knives out there. Apart from being durable and lightweight, this pocket knife is so easy to use. Once drawn, the integral hook on the spine of the blade snags the pocket, pivoting the blade open. It’s also made with a fiberglass reinforced nylon with patterns for a non-slip grip.

Furthermore, the Spyderco comes with a Saber Grind blade that offers superior thickness.

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2. Schrade Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife

4.7/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the Schrade Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife

This fixed blade knife from Schrade makes an ideal choice for fast hikers and backpackers because it comes with a multi-carry option thermoplastic belt sheath. Therefore, you can securely attach it to your belt for quick and easy access.

Note that this knife is constructed with a full tang design which means it’s less prone to bending. This makes the Schrade tactical knife useful against harder materials or heavy duty tasks.

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3. Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding

5/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding

Designed for the toughest jobs, this tactical folding knife is made of premium steel which is very sturdy and corrosion resistant. Unique to this knife is the TriAd lock that is designed for custom knife-maker Andrew Demko. 

More than increasing its durability and strength, this locking system ensures that your hands and fingers are always safe.

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4. Engraved Pocket Knife with Name

5/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the Engraved Pocket Knife with Name

If a personalized tactical knife appeals to you, this might be what you’re looking for. You can have your name or initials engraved on the wooden handle. It also comes in a beautiful box which makes it a great gifting choice for your outdoorsy folks.

The blade is made of high-quality stainless steel. Therefore, it’s durable and can last for many years. It’s super handy and makes a useful tool for camping and hiking.

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5. Smith & Wesson M&P SWMP1BS

4.7/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the Smith & Wesson M&P SWMP1BS

This knife is made with a durable steel blade and an aluminum handle with black rubber inlay. Several things we love about this product are the pocket clip, ambidextrous thumb knobs, flipper/finger actuator, and the M.A.G.I.C assisted opening. It also comes with a liner lock and safety lock.

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6. 9" Full Tang Tactical Knife

4.5/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the 9" Full Tang Tactical Knife

Need a bigger knife for camping? This 9-inch full-tang tactical knife fits the bill perfectly. It comes with a plastic sheath and a belt-in clip so it’s very handy. 

The S-TEC fixed blade used in this knife offers superior resistance to corrosion and the ABS plastic paddle holster lets you attach it to your camping gear in different ways.

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7. KA-BAR Full Size US Marine Corps Fighting Knife

5/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the KA-BAR Full Size US Marine Corps Fighting Knife

The KA-BAR is the remake of the world-famous fighting knife. Unlike many tactical knives with plastic sheaths, the KA-BAR uses a leather sheath which not only looks classy but is also undeniably sturdy. This rugged knife features a durable sharp blade, and gold-plated brass guard and pommel. 

Very noticeable in this knife is its stylish design which makes it a wonderful choice for gift giving too.

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8. Outdoor Edge RazorLite EDC

5/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the Outdoor Edge RazorLite EDC

Sharpening a knife takes a bit of time. If you’re always in a hurry, you might benefit from a dependable folding pocket knife with extra blades like the Edge RazorLite. This tactical knife comes with 6 spare blades so there’s no need to sharpen it.

That said, the Edge RazorLite makes an ideal tool for hunting, hiking or backpacking when you’re always on the move. We also like that it’s compact and lightweight for one-hand operation. Additionally, this knife comes with a pocket clip for easy access.

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9. XUANLAN Emergency Survival Kit

4.5/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked the XUANLAN Emergency Survival Kit

Sometimes, you need more than just a knife. This kit contains everything you need to survive in the outdoors. Fire starter, scraper, compass, Swiss card, flashlight – you name it. It even comes with thermal blankets!

Don’t worry about having so much. This compact survival kit measures just about 4 x 6 inches. Pretty small to fit in your backpack. The tactical knife included in the XUANLAN kit also comes with a glass breaker.

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10. Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding Knife

5/5

Technical Specs:

Why we picked

Designed for the toughest jobs, this tactical folding knife is made of premium steel which is very sturdy and corrosion resistant. 

Unique to this knife is the TriAd lock that is designed for custom knife-maker Andrew Demko. More than increasing its durability and strength, this locking system ensures that your hands and fingers are always safe.

What we like:

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FAQ

• What is the Best Tactical Knife?

The best tactical knife has several qualities, including durability and sharpness. It should be capable of being used for tactical purposes, from simple things like cutting to combating. More importantly, it should be equipped with protective features.

Note that tactical knives can have many different uses. Our best pick, the Spyderco Endura 4, is great for camping.

• Who Makes the Best Tactical Knife?

Many brands make quality tactical knives, including Cold Steel, Spyderco, Swiss & Warrens. These companies are known for their innovative designs and unparalleled durability.

• Which is the Best High-end Tactical Knife?

The Cold Steel Recon 1 Series Tactical Folding knife has a fairly high price tag but if you’re after something that does some of the toughest jobs, this one’s for you. It gets high marks for its excellent build and innovative features like the TriAd locking system.

• What is the Best Knife for Camping?

Several qualities make the best knife for camping. These are lightness, durability, and versatility.

The blade needs to be durable, so as the handle. Opt for a knife with a sharp, strong point like the Spyderco Endura 4 and the Smith & Wesson M&P SWMP1BS. It’s a handy feature when you’re trying to pry or spear. 

• What is the Best Survival Knife on the Market?

The Cold Steel Recon Tanto is a military-grade tactical knife that is widely used by special military units and SWAT teams. It’s our best pick for survival knife because it is thoroughly designed for durability, safety, and functionality.