The main purpose of a survival knife is to help a person survive when they are in the wilderness or in extreme situations. They are commonly used as a survival tool when a person does not have any other type of equipment with them.

People from all walks of life carry these knives on their person in case they are ever in a survival scenario. Military pilots are often issued these types of knives for emergency purposes, and outdoor enthusiasts such as hunters and campers also carry knives for protection and survival.

Survival knives can either be large and bulky or they can be lightweight. Many knives of this type are designed to function as hunting knives as well.

The Hollow Handle Feature

One feature of the survival knife that makes it different than a typical kitchen knife is a hollow handle. The handle acts a mini storage unit that can hold small items such as matches. This feature became very popular among users of these knives in the 1980s.

There are three knife makers who are often credited with designing this feature in the knife. Among them are Chris Reeve and Jimmy Lile.

Early Forms Of Survival Knives

The survival knives that existed prior to the 20th century were similar in shape and design of the knives that were used in butcher shops. The blades were very thin and the handle was made of wooden slabs riveted together. There were serrations on the knives that allowed the knife to perform double duty to either saw wood or clean fish.

The modern hunting knife was developed in the 20th century and these knives were made with blades that were heavier than their predecessors. They were designed to look similar to the Bowie knife and they were used exclusively by military personnel and hunters until the early 1930s.

The Work Of Survival Knives Today

These days most survival knives are used to cut branches from trees, skin animals, and set animal traps. The blades on these knives are usually fixed and are between 4 and 8 inches long. Hollow handle knives are still popular, but because of the weakened handle, hollow knives are not recommended for use when performing tasks like chopping.

A survival knife is an important tool when you are taking part in certain outdoor activities and can help you if you are ever in a survival situation. These knives are efficient and can assist you with important tasks.