Pocket-sized Survival! Best Folding Survival Knives for Camping and Bushcraft

[@johnboyd7158]

After 9 years in the military and one tour of Vietnam, definitely agree with the adage: that the best survival knife is the one that you have when it hits the fan. I ALWAYS have a good, big folder on hand, along with any other knives. (Today it's a ProTech TR-4). Good video, DCA!

[@andreasplosky8516]

I do not know what it is about the Ontario RAT 1. It is such a simple knife, but I am totally in love with it. I love the blade shape, the handle design, and the affordability of the RAT.

[@natek1993]

Cant go wrong with a Cold Steel SR-1. That thing is a robust tank. That is a sharpened prybar with how thick that blade is. I would rather the AD-10 but would be satisfied with the SR-1 if that was all I had. Awesome Video David and Knife Center. Have a great day everyone.

[@barrybogart5436]

I wish there was a sk-5 or 1095 version, though.

[@just-dl]

I think the image of a sharpened crow bar is going to make grin for the rest of the day. Thank you! 🤗

[@mofumyon]

Timestamps: - Start: 00:00 - Ontario RAT-1: 00:57 - Ka-Bar Mule: 03:20 - Buck Selkirk: 05:32 - CRKT Parascale: 07:46 - Spyderco Shaman: 10:28 - Benchmade Freek: 12:38 - Cold Steel SR1 Lite: 15:30 - TOPS Fieldcraft: 18:10 - DPx Gear Hest: 20:47 - Leatherman Signal: 22:52 - Conclusion: 25:30

[@CatsHaveCamerasInTheirEyes]

The hero we needed

[@lavanice]

Thanks

[@ravendon]

For a survival folder it needs to be lock back, tip down carry and close to 4 inches. Lock back is the strongest design. Tip down prevents stabbing yourself like tip up. 4 inch is minimal, but large for edc, so it traverses both worlds.

[@9mmmike642]

I just got my foliage green Ontario Rat 1 a few weeks ago. It is an incredible value at $23! It feels as good as some of my $60+ knives.

[@rustyknifelover4463]

Check out Snaggletoothmf it adds a pocket deployment to the RAT 1

[@aaroncarapace8054]

The rat 1 has been my edc for like four or five years. I just cry in Canadian because it costed me like $60.

[@BrewCityRider]

Good vid...lots of choices. I'd go Rat1 and SR1. The others are too pricey. I'd go with a 1095 fixed blade instead, which you can buy for a fraction of those others on the table. Much more capable too.

[@vict4451]

Got the Rat 1 as a gift a few years back and has been my main EDC knife since. Workhorse blade.

[@fletcherbrown728]

Hey David C Anderson - you have one hell of a great voice. Speak with confidence, provides details, convey great knowledge. Dave for President.

[@knifecenter]

No thanks, I've got a great job already :D -DCA

[@AbbaKovner-gg9zp]

Just got that SR1 Lite and I think it will make a great combo carry with my Buck 375.

[@damienbachman3576]

I love my ka-bar mule. It’s my go to work knife. 2 years and still takes a beating.

[@marklorenfahey4942]

Thanks David for all the great and informative stuff! I have gotten a real education about all things steel from you. I will continue to support your company with all my blade addict needs!

[@knifecenter]

Thank you for the kind words and support Mark! -DCA

[@Steveo30xyz]

Thanks for honest knife reviews, it is a relief to have a gentleman that has no plugs or agreements, give the lowdown for knife junkies. Thx!

[@CNYKnifeNerd]

No plugs... LOL. This entire channel is literally an advertisement. It's like complimenting the walmart website for being ad-free. You're not the sharpest knife, are you? Not to mention there's zero knife reviewing going on here.

[@q4762]

@@CNYKnifeNerd what would constitute a review for you...Mr. sharp knife

[@adkmtns5726]

Great video! SR1 Lite and DPx are absolutely bomb proof!

[@yeshuayahushua4338]

That Buck survival knife is an awesome idea. Love your videos David! Nice stuff right here.

[@charlescollier7217]

At this point, if I had to survive with a folder, it would be the Cold Steel Rajah II. It's as much blade as your average field knife - 6" and because of the long handle, can also function like a short machete. And it does woodwork surprisingly well, in part because you can choke right up on the blade. Of course, Tri-Ad lock and general Cold Steeel overbuilt toughness. I'd feel pretty safe with it as my only tool.

[@03_austindrake88]

That Topps Fieldcraft is a great looking knife. I've never seen one before this video. The most impressive looking one in the video. The DPX would definitely be my second choice. Both great looking knives.

[@shannonreeder1237]

Ontario xm-1 is great only knife. Feels like a beefy fixed blade. And has titanium liners. In n690 also. Can be pricey. I found mine for around $100. Great knife

[@stevenkelby2169]

Love these type-specific videos, thanks, big hands! 👐

[@fergusonto-2032]

I just discovered your channel, excellent reviews, it’s a tough choice but my pick out of these folders is the tops knives field craft , Thankyou for sharing , I am a new subscriber

[@raymondwilliams2609]

I always look forward to seeing you David, another great and informative video. Bless you Sir, love to all from the UK. 😷🤗❤️👍🖖🤘👋😷 Stay safe, stay well everybody. 😷❤️

[@smilemore1997]

It’s not very informative.. like at all.. this is just an advertisement pretty much..

[@DSWL_]

i feel like I'm watching someone trying to sell me a mega pack of garbage knives at 3:45 am

[@madmania9446]

Buck Selkirk is a great knife. It’s my EDC currently

[@GolfRemoEchoGolf2]

Can't wait to see these videos ! It's the highlight of my day !

[@tass8495]

DPX bottle opener can also be an impromptu pot hook and the rotolock really puts this close to a fixed blade. I add the Gil-tek bit bead. Hardcore knife.

[@K1To749]

Cold steel bush ranger in S35VN steel is a great folder , i highly recommend.

[@fumastertoo]

I already have the SR1, and it is a beast. Love it, and have the SR1 Lite on the way. Sooooo, out of the rest of this list I would say I'm leaning toward the Buck folder. I like the look, the overall package at a budget price.

[@nicholsliwilson]

That cutout in the lock bar is called a “Boye Dent” because it was designed by David Boye.

[@nicholsliwilson]

@Isaac Wilde odd place for some scummy BS spam like this?

[@ollieoshoe2799]

the recasso thanks im learning !!!!....the fieldcraft also has a awesome leather sheath I saw , i liked that buck sheath and ferro rod ..thanks for your great work ! i now know what a recasso is !

[@martinjcamp]

Very Nice Presentation. Thank You!

[@ordnazhq1212]

Fixed blade are good as a primary knife for survival,Bugout,and Camping but Folding Pocket knife with clip is also great companion and back up knife A.K.A Knife of Last resort/Line line of defense.

[@markfcoble]

Cold steel pocket bushman for me. Wrapped in leather, cheap and tough. Thanks!

[@melissajohnson5324]

Could you link that

[@ibanez7412]

How do you open or close the wrapped handle?

[@ernestwalden3894]

The field craft would be my choice over all. If I could afford it. Very sweet blade.

[@mspears51able]

Great idea to carry a folder as a backup to your main fixed blade knife in the wilderness. My choice (not on your table) is the Cold Steel Ultimate Hunter for that role. CPM S35VN steel, good egos, very sharp 90 degree spine for ferro sparks. Super strong tri-ad lock and as the name suggests, good for hunting purposes, food prep also. Leatherman Signal fills a niche but ferro rod is way too small and should be a backup to a backup. Out in the field the Leatherman Rebar works best for me. It has a full tool set and is one of the lighter and thinner Leathermans.

[@sinisterdeer7601]

I have a Buck small Selkirk fixed blade, i use it as my hard use/outdoors knife. I really enjoy using it, i wish there was a more premium steel version. The steel performs pretty good for outdoors use, it doesn’t dull as fast as you would expect from 420hc. Pretty solid knife. I plan on buying a Cold Steel SR1 clip point for hard use where i work, as my fixed blade is illegal and i dont like carrying it illegally. A lot of these recommendations are really good! Thanks for the information

[@edwardschofield6692]

Great job on ur vids.Just ordered a pair of C.S. S R 1 lite tantos,forgot how heavy they are lol.Didn't know when drop pt. would b available.Blessed with some great folders. Have fun out there!

[@leealtmansr.3811]

Thanks you just cost me money 💰 🙂. Ordered a Tops. I like the larger blades.

[@stellasknifeobsession]

I very much enjoy your way of describing knives. It's thorough, and friendly. You also handle each knife in such a way that you physically exude the strength of that knife. Thanks for your ever welcomed descriptions! I moved to Utah from Ohio, and I collect knives. Unfortunately, I can mostly only afford the cheaper ones or knock off brands, and it breaks my heart. However, I still have a lot of pride in my collection and one day hope to stop by with enough money for a beautiful Kershaw or Benchmade! Since I've lost my job because of COVID19 I have really calmed down on any purchases. Let me know if you have an opening for a woman who is just in love with knives and is an enthusiast!😁 lol just kidding. Thanks again!

[@GolfRemoEchoGolf2]

I almost bought the tops several times..I keep getting ZTs and gun stuff..I'm going to order one tonight !

[@GolfRemoEchoGolf2]

@jeff S I have several it's one of my favorite too

[@anstef1485]

I believe the fire rod striking portion on the Selkirk is actually the round choil behind the blade.

[@alecseekins7916]

The best knife is the one you have when you really need it. I always carry my benchmade mini adamas and my esse izula

[@WhstlblwrBlastingEpsteinsILK]

"We did some absolutely STUPID stuff with it and it held up!" 🤣🤣🤣🔪🔪 I may rethink buying the Parascale.

[@donkeyblue3094]

The Cold Steel Recon 1 is the most indestructible folder.

[@The_Koolman]

I have black shaman and LOVE IT.

[@rico_cavalierie]

Washer diameters are important for lateral stability of the blade (side to side). Like many Manufacturers they skimp in inexpensive details. The Ontario RAT1 could use a larger washer on the side opposite to the liner lock. I have two RAT1s. For one of them I made a PB washer and lapped it down. The Blade stability is equal to a Chris Reeves Umnumzaan at a "Beater" price... How Boss is that!

[@mthayer35]

Great review! Another knife worth checking out is the Tops Mini Scandi Folder. Very tough, smooth manual flipper that rocks outdoors but also makes a great EDC pocket knife.

[@randyscj429]

Hello D.C.A., Hope that all's well with everyone/thing. There's several there I'd like but for me TOPS takes the cake for sure. Have fun and be safe, take care, "God Bless", sincerely, Randy. 👍👍😇👊

[@rickybritton7212]

Great picks Brother , I loved everyone of them , I hope to purchase from Knife center this year, Thank you.Sincerely your freind from Mo Rick and God bless you and your family and are Great Country

[@barrybogart5436]

I've got the fullsize fixed Buck Selkirk which I like a lot. Also the fixed Cold Steel SRK. And a Leatherman Signal. For Canadian Tire Buck made the Evergreen series of knives - one fixed and two folders, all very solid. But I am not convinced that any folder is up to the task. But this was a very informative video.

[@bena3341]

I was very excited when I saw leatherman were making a survival themed multi tool. I just wish they had executed it better. A fine edge blade in 154cm like my Skeletool CX and some scissors would have greatly improved it.

[@chriswolvaardt1899]

Awesome video all your knifes are so cool

[@Crazy_Hedgehogs]

Your channel is always fun to watch. I think everyone wants their knife to be special and stand out in some way. And I had a question - which knife has more customization options, or which company offers the widest range of accessories in order to turn a standard product into something special. I do not mean a deep rework, which requires machine tools and serious equipment.

[@wingmanjim6]

Another excellent and informative presentation - thanks !

[@TheakaStanley]

The Rat is my go to.

[@darksi226]

SOG Vulcan is another really good option, in my opinion. Loves me a flipper.

[@darksi226]

@jeff S I've used it as a fixed blade when hiking before. Admittedly I did have to reprofile the vg10 blade after hitting stones. Easy to sharpen and no rust concern in my neck of the woods (Ohio).

[@TheShamanOfShank]

How in the world did the Emerson Appalachian not make this list?!?

[@kiandelacour2641]

I’d be happy taking my RAT 1 out. Would be even happier with the TOPS! Spyderco also do a bushcraft model, the WolfSpyder sold exclusively on Ray Mears’ site.

[@luisarellanorn3309]

Coldsteel Spartan. ....Field and Combat Ready!!!

[@tumbllweed]

The Spartan is a great knife. I have put one through some serious abuse.

[@kylec166]

I love the voyager xl edc every tanto

[@chrisdolin1859]

SR1..!! But not the lite version.. I’ll take mine with the G10 handles and s35vn.. !! It’s a beast and heavy for the pocket , so I carry mine in a 511 tactical mag pouch and wear on my belt..!! 👍perfection!!!

[@pomat320]

The rat 1 is amazing. I lost my 2nd one sadly. Highly recommended

[@cassanoa]

the cold steel sr1 is the one - it is unbreakable - its even stronger than its more expensive version - the sr1 is a tank

[@just-dl]

I think to adequately cover this topic would require a 4-hour video. I’m okay with that. You make it…we will watch it. 😎

[@aceofaugusta1952]

The Victorinox trekker should definitely make this list

[@aceofaugusta1952]

Great video tho

[@johnfuller6338]

You didn't mention the cold steel pocket bushman or the finn wolf, I have both n carry them daily when I go out to the woods n river.

[@CNYKnifeNerd]

Because they sell plenty of those. This is an ad.

[@steezydoge684]

I have abused that cold steel sr1 lite and the abuse was to a point where any knife can brake and that cold steel knife if the best of my knife collection

[@bluegrasssurvival919]

Cold Steel Recon 1 in S35vn with the triad lock needs to be on here.

[@wellingtonblackwell3118]

I bought a Cold Steel SR1 Lite Tanto. It is a very likeable beast of a knife. I carry it in my work pants. It handles all of my cutting jobs that need to be done. I hear that 8CR13MOV has a bad rep. I guess people get a bad knife with this steel and the declare that any and all knives with 8CR13MOV is bad. But Cold Steel does wonders with their heat treatment of various steels.

[@tbostrowski6136]

Hey David, I am in awe of your knife knowledge and expertise. Really enjoy your channel and learn so much. Question to you. Is there a book on knives that you could recommend to learn about the knife types and grinds etc, history of the knife is also something in the evolution of these great tools. Just asking….

[@clgmafnas]

Interesting options. Good list. Personally, I carry either the SOG Seal XR or Benchmade Contego as backup to my Lionsteel M4.

[@joshuaford9003]

One of the issues I have run into is my pocket clip gets snagged or just simply wears out. Do you have any recommendations?

[@MrFomhor]

If you have large pockets: CS 4-max Scout!

[@skillmaster2255]

IMO, that's the best folding survival knife there is. Good call.

[@keats27]

what a great knife...

[@project86xero]

It's basically a folding bk2. Of course it's badass.

[@MikeUman]

TOPS has lost their everloving minds if they think $200.00 is a fair price for a folder with a 1095 blade. At that price, that blade steel better begin with the letters "CPM."

[@mikes1172]

Its too bad as I really like the looks of that knife..

[@ashmerch2558]

I totally understand that, Hinderer's XM 18 & 24 vintage series use O-1 steel, with beautiful walnut scales... but 465 for 3.5" of ingot steel is alot

[@MrSmith336]

1095 is hard and sharpens easily. It also throws a great spark when you're using the spine to start a fire. CPM is not good for fire starting and not used much for bushcraft. These are tools not play-prettys.

[@luckybassturd7260]

I almost bought that tops but after lots of research I decided not to. You can get a lot of cold steel Fin Wolfs for the price of one Tops!

[@JackG79]

@@MrSmith336 tools? Throwing sparks? Anyone who isn't lost in the woods and on the brink of hypothermia.... that is playing with a ferro rod and not carrying a lighter or matches.... is a play pretty of the utmost kind.

[@omermindivanli2981]

Great video!

[@robertmansell2398]

I really like the fieldcraft by Tops Knives. Blade could be a bit longer, maybe up to 5 or 6 inches.

[@SmithWesson90]

The SR1 lite Triad lock holds 380-400lbs I trust the triad with my life. I never leave the house without one of my cold steels.

[@Echowhiskeyone]

Always prefer fixed blade, but always carry a folder as a backup/light use blade. And sometimes you can't always carry a fixed blade with you.

[@barrybogart5436]

A Signal or one of the large SAKs would be a good choice.

[@brucesims3228]

Coming to really like the content of your videos. For me utility is everything. I don't mind paying more for quality steel, but is really important is the ability to deploy the blade with one hand. I mention this because it seems as though these two qualities seem to be mutually exclusive. Just a thought.

[@freeman888]

The Buck's mini choil is what's used to scrape the fire steel

[@KurticeYZreacts]

Great line up. I want more suggestions more survival folding knifes to contemplate purchasing

[@ReeferNoob23]

Shaman reminds me of my Manix 2xl with that balde shape although the manix uses the ball bearing lock

[@scootertribe]

love your content! PLEASE just make your website as easy (or easier) to navigate and choose from than your competitors...please! This is honestly why I usually buy from them, instead of you guys. That and shipping costs. Just a heads up.

[@baddoopey]

scootertribe, you're so right.

[@stevenkelby2169]

Yep, you don't have to reinvent the wheel, just copy what the other blade stores are doing 👍

[@tumbllweed]

You can never please everybody. If you are going to scrutinize their website then give some examples. Blanket statements won't help them change anything.

[@JackG79]

I cant even imagine how this is an issue?!?! Blade HQ, Knife Center, and Grindworx look like they are under the same corporate umbrella. A person could be mistaken into thinking they are owned by the same parent company.

[@surge3518]

I have to agree. I do my browsing on bladehq then search by name on KnifeCenter when I’ve got it narrowed down.

[@rotflol6666]

What about the Finnwolf?

[@frankwoods135]

I'm with you there bud I beat the hell out of mine and it still kids like a mule

[@barrybogart5436]

Yes, that one looks interesting. I like Scandi and a back lock.

[@zerohero6602]

He's good in stranger things

[@jonnebbeling8000]

No CS AD-10 - that knife is just so nice

[@OldBadger1]

Probably Vic Hunter/Trecker. Most practical.

[@JoseCruz-qm5cl]

For the Ontario Rat, do you guys recommend it in Aus8 or D2 steel for the outdoors? Pretty much for camping, hiking, etc. I live in a place that is really hot and dry but can get really humid.

[@knifecenter]

I personally prefer AUS-8 for the easier maintenance. -DCA

[@JoseCruz-qm5cl]

KnifeCenter Thank you for the recommendation Dave! Now for edc do you recommend the same? I mostly cut boxes, string, simple everyday tasks. Great video like always Dave, keep up the great work!

[@knifecenter]

Either would be a fine choice, so it really just depends on your preference here. AUS-8 will be stainless and easier to sharpen when it gets dull. D2 edge will last longer, but be harder to sharpen, and is only a semi-stainless steel and can patina if not taken care of. There is an argument to be made that D2, with its larger carbides on a molecular level, will take a toothier edge better than AUS-8, which could be an advantage on fibrous material like rope/string, but we are really getting into the weeds of knife-knerddom here. Keep your knife sharp and both will make a reliable EDC companion! -DCA

[@JoseCruz-qm5cl]

KnifeCenter Thank you so much Dave! And I appreciate you taking the time and liberty to respond to my concerns/questions. Personally what’s your fav steel blade as a companion?

[@knifecenter]

Faves... AEB-L, 3V, and O1, each for different reasons/applications.

[@gyffesme]

I love my Freek -- this vid doesn't do the astonishing size and shape of the blade justice. Having said that, though, I take my RAT-1 into the woods*. At $23, it's an incredible bargain and the blade shape and length and handle feel are spectacular. *as folding backup to various fixed blades

[@ireng714]

Any of that will do... 😅 I really want one of those, but the price is a bit heavy for my pocket 😢

[@thui7889]

That SR1 needs to be upgraded to Aus10, then it’d be perfect budget beater

[@kylec166]

Yeah Finn wolf or sr1 lite pocket Bushman all good price tough as anything

[@FARACI1]

I’m thinking the Buck 110 😊

[@USCavalry1]

Great video brother

[@leonardpeel6315]

How good is carbonitride titanium none blade. D2 steel, ?can help knife Centre please .

[@surge3518]

2:36 thanks Dave. I was feeling a bit unsatisfied after the last vid ;)

[@erikmeres2357]

Great cast of some great folders. Thanks Dave for ur awesome display and educational on a large variety of knives. Great job. Keep it up. Thanks.

[@woodentulike2no]

David C! You da MAN!🤘

[@bodhisattvya]

No love for the original Buck 110? The O.G. of hard use survival folders.

[@victorortega2718]

Man im starting to like that rat 1

[@2371Anita]

How about the enzo Birk (brisa)

[@preppinainteasy9965]

That rat 1 with d2 i couldn't destroy it i beat it through 2x4s and just tried abusing it cause i have a few of em....and besides the liner lock being a little tougher to close but still str8,centered.for the money I havent found anything that can take a beating like it went through...lol

[@cardiacbob]

Love beating on my Gerber Sumo. $41.00 from Amazon!