5 Outdoor Knives Worth Considering Before Your Next Camping Trip

by Mark S.

Outdoor Gear Columnist | 25 Years of Bushcraft Experience

Last Updated 2 Days Ago • 5 MIN READ

Finding the right outdoor knife isn't always about buying the most expensive one. Some are cheap and practical. Others are tough but bulky. And a few offer a better balance of performance, looks, and price.

Here are five options worth considering before your next trip.

1. Morakniv Companion
(Best Budget Starter)

Estimated Price: $18–30

The Upside: A popular entry-level choice for campers who want a sharp, lightweight knife without spending much. It's practical, easy to handle, and gets basic outdoor jobs done.
The Downside: Its plastic handle and sheath give it a distinctly mass-produced, utilitarian look. Great for the price, but not exactly the kind of knife you'd buy for its craftsmanship or classic outdoor styling.

2. Cold Steel SRK Compact
(Best Rugged Utility)

Estimated Price: $30–55

The Upside: The SRK Compact is built around strength and straightforward utility. Its fixed blade, secure grip, and rugged construction make it a solid choice for tougher outdoor tasks.
The Downside: The all-black synthetic handle and tactical-inspired design may feel a little too industrial for someone who prefers a traditional camping knife with a more natural look.

3. Benchmade Bushcrafter (Best Premium Bushcraft Knife)

3. Benchmade Bushcrafter
(Best Premium Bushcraft Knife)

Estimated Price: $180–260

The Upside: A serious bushcraft knife with premium S30V steel, a comfortable contoured handle, and solid construction. It's an appealing choice for enthusiasts who appreciate specialized outdoor gear. The Downside: The trade-off is the price and the harder-to-sharpen steel. For occasional camping, it's more knife, and more investment, than many people really need.

4. Gerber StrongArm
(Best Tactical-Style Knife)

Estimated Price: $60–100

The Upside: Known for its rugged build, textured grip, and versatile sheath system, the StrongArm is a practical option for people who prioritize durability and carry flexibility. Its main drawback is the tactical styling.
The Downside: The rubberized handle and utilitarian appearance make it less appealing to campers looking for a more traditional, wood-handled outdoor knife.

5. Bravus Apollo
(Best Balance of Value &
Classic Design)

5. Bravus Apollo™
(Best Balance of Value &
Classic Design)

Estimated Price: $49.90

The Upside: The Bravus Apollo™ offers an appealing middle ground: a sharp, compact fixed blade, a classic wooden handle, and a proper leather sheath. It's practical for food prep, kindling, and everyday camp tasks, with the rugged, traditional appearance many outdoorsmen appreciate (without breaking the bank).
The Downside: Unlike the big names on this list, Apollo Blades is still building its reputation in the outdoor gear market.

Editor's Note: At the time of writing, Apollo Blades is running a Buy 1 Get 1 Free offer on the Bravus Apollo™. If this one caught your eye, it might be a good time to check it out.

👉 See Bravus Apollo™ Details & Current Offer