Here’s a rundown of several bushcraft-worthy knives that won’t break the bank. I gathered this list during my own exploration for a few high-value bushcraft and survival knives. Take a look and let me know if I missed any meritable budget bushcraft blades.
If you have experiences with any of the knives on the list I’d enjoy some honest reviews too. Please share down below.
Neck Knives (sub 3.5″) | Belt Knives (3.5-5″) | Large Knives (beyond 5″)
Neck Knives (sub 3.5″)
Mora Eldris
Admittedly, I’m not the biggest fan of neck knives, but I’ve found my Eldris to be handy around camp. I find myself using the Eldris when I’m not dawning my full kit. A great companion when you’re just hanging out in camp.
- Overall Length: 5.6″
- Blade Length: 2.2″
- Blade Thickness: 2mm (0.08″)
- Steel: Sandvik 12C27 stainless
- Grind: Modified Scandi
- Weight: 2.8oz
- Sheath: Molded Plastic
Ka-Bar BK14 Becker Eskabar
I have a couple of these slim little Eskabar knives. I keep them on my pack straps for quick accessibility while on the move. Something I can grab for slicing fruit, carving a stick or whatever might come my way while hiking or backpacking.
- Overall Length: 7″
- Blade Length: 3 1/4″
- Blade Thickness: 5/32″
- Steel: 1095
- Grind: Full-flat
- Weight: 2.6 oz.
- Sheath: Molded Plastic
- Made in the USA
Belt Knives (3.5-5″)
Morakniv Companion
I believe everyone should have at least one of these knives because they are so handy and affordable. I keep a few Mora Companion knives in my collection, they are great for crafting projects and around the house too.
- Overall Length: 8.6″
- Blade Length: 4.1″
- Blade Thickness: 2.5mm
- Steel: Sandvik 12C27 stainless
- Grind: Scandi
- Weight: 4.1oz w/sheath
- Sheath: Molded Plastic
Morakniv Bushcraft Black
âTOP RECOMMENDATIONâ
The Bushcraft Black is a popular knife designed to be more rugged than the basic Moras. They feature a comfortable grip, a 90-degree spine and are more robust than the majority of their line.
- Overall Length: 9.1″
- Blade Length: 4.3″
- Blade Thickness: 3.2mm (0.125″)
- Steel: Sandvik 12C27 stainless
- Grind: Scandi
- Weight: 5.7oz w/sheath
- Sheath: Molded Plastic
Bushmaster Survival
The Bushmaster Survival reminds me of a traditional knife of a bygone era. The elegant wood handle scales and brass pins have the look of a handcrafted knife. This one looks to be an exceptional value in my opinion.
- Blade Length: 4 3/8″”
- Blade Thickness: 1/4″
- Steel: 1095
- Grind: Scandi
- Sheath: Leather
Steel Will Druid Mini
Steel Will has a wide variety of knives for the outdoorsman. Most fall into mid-range pricing, but the Druid Mini is one offering that just falls into the budget category. The scales have an interesting pattern offering traction and a unique look.
- Overall Length: 8 11/16″
- Blade Length: 4″
- Blade Thickness: 0.14″
- Steel: 9Cr18MoV
- Grind: Saber
- Weight: 5oz
- Sheath: Leather
Condor Bushlore Blade Blank
If you’re looking for a project perhaps a blade blank will suit your needs? A few companies offer blanks at a fraction of the price of a completed knife. If you’re willing to put in a little time you can have a one of a kind knife for about 20 or so dollars. Check out the complete Condor Bushlore.
- Overall Length: 9 5/16″
- Blade Length: 4 5/16″
- Blade Thickness: 3/32″
- Steel: 1075
- Grind: Scandi
- Weight: 1.6oz
- Sheath: None
Large Knives (beyond 5″)
Old Hickory 7-7 Butcher Knife
The Old Hickory butcher knife is an iconic blade that pre-dates “bushcraft” to when folks called it “woodcraft” or just plan “camping”. If you want to own a “piece of history”, so to speak, these inexpensive knives are steller. These are a popular choice for anyone who likes to customize or modify their gear too. Take a look around google and you’ll see many modified Old Hickory butcher knives.
- Overall Length: 11 3/4″
- Blade Length: 7″
- Blade Thickness: 3/32″
- Steel: 1095
- Grind: Flat Bevel
- Weight: 5oz
- Sheath: None
Schrade SCHF42D Frontier
I’ve seen quite a few Schrade knives making their appearance at bushcraft gatherings and all over youtube. With there good looks and nice lines, there’s definitely a market for these knives in the bushcraft community.
- Overall Length: 10″
- Blade Length: 5.1″
- Blade Thickness: 3/16″
- Steel: 1095
- Grind: Full-flat
- Weight: 9.5oz
- Sheath: Leather
Elk Ridge Bushcraft
If you’re looking for a lot of steel for vary little this looks to be a great option. I’d compare this knife to something in the Ka-bar Becker line.
- Overall Length: 10.5″
- Blade Length: 5.3″
- Blade Thickness: 3/16″
- Steel: 440c Stainless
- Grind: Saber
- Sheath: Nylon
In Conclusion
All of these knives have characteristics and capably to perform a wide array of bushcraft tasks, but your personal preferences have a lot to do with tool selection as well. This article is just to highlight a few options for someone looking to add a new budget bushcraft blade to their arsenal.
Thank you. A very useful guide.