By Jason Houser
Special to Outdoor Enthusiast Lifestyle Magazine
With so many styles of knives to choose from, the decision can be tough to make at times. Short of buying every style of knife there is, take the time to think what you want out of a knife and which knife can serve that purpose. It might mean you have to buy more than one knife, but there is nothing wrong with that.
Fixed Blade vs. Folding Knife
When it comes to fixed-blade knives and folding knives, they can perform much of the same tasks. Which one is better for you? That depends on what you are asking of the knife. They each have their own practical uses. The fixed blade knife is often seen on the sides of outdoor enthusiasts and under most circumstances, are stronger than a folding knife. Whereas a folding knife is used mostly in ordinary activities as you go about your day.
You will find most hunters, campers, trappers and other outdoor minded individuals carry a fixed blade knife on their side when in the field. This knife is strong enough to complete the tasks of skinning any animal from a small squirrel to a large elk, sharpening sticks, cutting rope and more. This is not to say a folding knife cannot do the same, but they are not always as durable as a fixed blade and the blade length is not always what you are needing.
Something else to consider when using a folding knife is if it locks or not. A folding knife that locks is much safer than one that does not. Although it is rare, folding knives can come closed when you are using one. This can lead to serious injury. Always know what you are buying and know how to safely use it. In other situations, a folding knife is more practical. It is easier to go about your day to day activities with a small knife folded in your pocket or even on your hip then a longer fixed blade on your side. Throughout the day many of us encounter the needs of knife or hear someone say, “Do you have a knife on you”? Most of the time you will see a folded knife of some sort being used.
There was a time that a folding knife required two hands to open and close. Now, many pocketknives can be opened and closed with just one hand by using a thumb stud, a thumb hole or a flipper style knife that requires the index finger to open the knife. This is a great feature when you do not have both hands free to open a knife.
Oversized vs. Pocketknife
What about maintaining an oversized fixed blade and a pocketknife? The fixed blade is easier of the two. There are no moving parts on a fixed blade that could break and cleaning them is a breeze. With the folding knife, there are more parts, which means there are more parts that could break. Under most circumstances cleaning is simple with a pocketknife, but there is room for gunk to get inside the knife handle.
A pocketknife is legal to carry under just about every circumstance. There are certain locations that prohibit the carry of any knife. Fixed blade knives are also legal to carry under most circumstances. The biggest difference is if a fixed blade knife is to be carried concealed or open, and the length of the blade is a factor too. Different states and even cities have their own laws regarding this and it’s up to everyone to know the laws.
Single Edge vs. Double Edge
Do you need a single edge knife, or would a double edge knife be better? It really depends on what you are wanting to get out of the knife.
A double edge knife does not have a lot of practical purposes as a tool. It is considered more of a weapon or for self-defense than something you would use on a regular basis. In most states it is legal to own a double edge knife, but not always allowed to be carried on your person because of their weapon-like characteristics. Another disadvantage of the double edge knife is there is no where to rest your thumb to apply pressure like you would on a single edge knife. There are a few double edge knives that have such a place for your thumb, but it would be too easy for your thumb to slip over the blade.
The single edge knife is better suited for everyday activities whether is it at home, work, hunting, fishing, camping or anywhere else a knife is needed. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit any need. They are much safer to use and the laws regarding them are much more relaxed.
Single Blade vs. Multi-Tool
Is a single blade knife enough or should you consider a multi-tool? That depends on the lifestyle you lead. If you are mainly a homebody, a single blade knife will suit most of your needs. If you are an adventurous person that never knows where life will lead you, a multi-tool might be better suited for you.
A multi-tool is a compact, portable, and sturdy device which has several tools and is an instrumental part of any survival kit. There are several companies that now offer multi-tools but probably the most popular is the Swiss Army Knife. A multi-tool keeps one from having to carry several tools, which may be overwhelming. You can also apply it to many different situations and is not as limiting as owning just a knife.
They usually come with the following options depending on what model or brand you decide to buy: tweezers, file, bottle opener, can opener, knife, needle nose pliers, flathead and Phillips head screwdriver, scissor, wire cutter, window punch, fish scaler and saw. If you will need only two or three of the components, then it makes no sense for you to carry a heavy device on a regular basis. When selecting a multi-tool, do your homework and only purchase what you need. Consider its size, design, durability, tools and ease of use. It is also important for you to consider safety options when going for a multi-tool. Some of them come with liner-lock features which prevent any component to close or fold accidentally during use.
When selecting a style of knife, the choice is up to each person, their individual needs and wants. Look over all possibilities and choose the one you want. Whether you want a fixed-blade, folding knife, multi-tool or a combination of the three, there is a knife out there for you. I have used dozens of different knives over the years and still have not been able to narrow it down to just one preferred style. Through trial and error, you might find a knife or knives better suited to your taste and needs.
All photos by Jason Houser.
