Hunting and most other outdoor activities are fun, but terms and conditions apply. If you do not have the right tools and gadgets for the activities, you might have to improvise. But how do you make do without a knife in the jungle?

This is why there are hunting knives of different types for different activities. Skinning is one of the most common tasks while one is hunting. There are hunting knives meant for skinning and others for cleaning. Self-protection is paramount when you are in a potentially dangerous environment such as in the jungle. A hunting knife can do that for you.

Tips To Select The Best Hunting Knife

Type of game you hunt

The knife used for big game hunters is very different from the one used by rabbit hunters. When it comes to hunting knives, bigger does not always translate into better. If you get a knife that is oversized, it will make the skinning process harder on top of increasing the chances of slicing through your flesh. A drop-point knife is perfect for those people who hunt big game, the likes of deer. If you prefer the smaller animals, a clip-point knife is what you will need.

Frequency of hunting

If you are an avid hunter, you should always go for the knives with a solid build. This way you will not have to repair frequently. Occasional hunters will find more value in a knife that can be used to carry out different tasks. A smaller folding knife is enough. The blade folds inward and locks making it safe. It may not be as strong as other bigger knives, but it is extremely portable. It is highly recommended for the small game away.

How do you want to carry the knife?

Do you want to keep the knife in a sheath or carry it in your pocket? A large blade will need a sheath to hang on your belt unless of course, you want to slice through your leg carrying it in your pocket. The folding knives can be carried in the pocket, or you can opt for the pocket knives. The only problem with pocket knives is that they are best used as spare tools and not for the action.

Location of your expedition

Are you going to hunt in the deep Amazonian jungles or the meadow-like area? Do you need to carry a tent for hunting multiple days? If you are hunting in a place with thick vegetation, you will need a machete or a bushcraft knife to go with. This will help you clear out the vegetation and create a path. It also comes highly recommended if you are dealing with large potentially dangerous animals.

Our Top 10 Hunting Knife Picks Go To…

Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Serrated Knife

The sheath is well constructed and retains the knife well in position so you can easily attach it to any gear. It has a ferro rod that strikes well on a section of the spine specifically designed for fire striking and a diamond sharpener on the back of the hard shell sheath.

Specifications:

• Weight: 0.70 pounds
• Blade length: 7 inches
• Overall length: 11 7/8 inches
• Shape: Clip
• Stamp: USMC
• Edge angle: 20 degrees
• Steel: 1095 Cro-Van
• Grind: Flat
• Handle material: Leather

KA-BAR Full Size Knife

Specifications

• Stamp: USA
• Edge angle: 20 degrees
• Blade: 1095 Cro-Van steel
• Pocket clip: N/A
• Lock style: N/A
• Grind: Flat
• Handle material: Kraton G
• Blade length: 7 inches
• Overall length: 11-3/4 inches
• Weight: 0.65 pounds

Buck 119BR Special Fixed Blade Knife

Comes with a brown leather sheath for carrying

Specifications

• Blade length: 6 inches
• Blade material: 420HC stainless steel
• Fixed blade: Yes
• Handle material: Cocobola
• Carrying system: Brown leather sheath
• Weight: 10.5 ounces

Ridge Runner Executive Wood Bowie Knife