The Best Tactical Military Knives for Survival 2024

Whether you're deep in the wilderness, preparing for the unexpected, or simply passionate about outdoor survival, having a reliable tactical military knife at your side is essential. It's more than just a tool; it's your lifeline in critical situations, your partner in the rugged outdoors, and a vital component of your survival kit. This year, we've scoured the market, testing, and analyzing to bring you the top tactical military knives for 2024, ensuring that you're equipped with nothing but the best.

Understanding Our Review Criteria

Before diving into our top picks, let's break down the criteria we used to select the best tactical military knives. These factors are crucial in determining a knife's effectiveness and suitability for survival situations:

• Blade Length and Material: The heart of any knife, its blade, must be of optimal length and crafted from high-quality material. We look for stainless steel blades known for their durability and martensitic chromium steel for its excellent edge-holding properties.

• Sheath Quality: A knife's sheath isn't just a carrying case; it's a protective layer that ensures your knife is ready at a moment's notice. We value sheaths made from durable materials like Kydex and full-grain leather, and we also consider the practicality of synthetic options.

• Handle Design: The handle must provide a stable and comfortable grip, crucial for precision tasks and extended use. Materials like super hard canvas Micarta are favored for their durability and comfort.

• Overall Design and Functionality: We assess the knife's overall length, weight, balance, and additional features (like full tang construction) that enhance its utility and performance in survival scenarios.

• Environmental Adaptability: A top-notch survival knife must perform under various conditions. We evaluate each knife's corrosion resistance and how well it holds up after months of hard use.

• Cost-Value Assessment: We consider the knife's price, but more importantly, its value over time. Quality often comes at a price, but it shouldn't be a false economy. The best choices are those that offer long-term reliability and effectiveness.

With these criteria in mind, let's explore the top tactical military knives for 2024 that have made the cut.

Top Tactical Military Knives for 2024

1. TBS Grizzly Bushcraft Survival Knife - Military Edition

The TBS Grizzly is not just a knife; it's a survival tool designed for the demands of the wilderness. Here's why it stands out:

Blade Specifications:

• Material and Hardness: Crafted from high-quality martensitic chromium steel, the TBS Grizzly's blade is notable for its excellent edge-holding properties and durability. The steel type ensures a balance between hardness and toughness, achieving very high hardness levels that make it capable of retaining a wickedly sharp edge over time.

• Length and Style: The blade features a 5mm thick drop point design, optimal for both precision tasks and robust cutting work. This versatile blade length is suitable for a variety of survival tasks, from processing wood to preparing food.

• Full Tang: Yes, this knife features a full tang construction, extending the blade material through the handle, significantly enhancing its overall strength and durability. A full tang is crucial for survival knives, providing the stability and reliability needed in demanding conditions.

Sheath Quality and Options:

• Comes with a robust, full-grain leather sheath. Though Kydex is a preferred material for its waterproof qualities and durability, the leather sheath designed for the TBS Grizzly is exceptionally durable, offering a classic aesthetic with practical functionality. The sheath's design ensures the knife is securely fastened, ready for quick deployment.

Handle Material and Design:

• The handle is crafted from super hard canvas Micarta, providing not only a stable and durable grip but also comfort during prolonged use. The material is known for its resistance to environmental factors, ensuring the handle remains reliable in various conditions.

Additional Features:

• It includes an integrated emergency whistle and fishing hooks, emphasizing its role as a versatile survival tool. These features, along with a fire starter, elevate the TBS Grizzly from a simple knife to an essential survival kit item.

Environmental Adaptability and Value:

• The blade's great corrosion resistance makes it suitable for wet conditions, ensuring it maintains its integrity even after extensive use. Given its durability, versatility, and additional survival features, the TBS Grizzly represents a significant investment in reliability and functionality for the survival enthusiast.

The TBS Grizzly Bushcraft Survival Knife - Military Edition exemplifies what to look for in a survival knife: durability, versatility, and reliability. Its full tang construction, high-quali3ty steel, and thoughtful design make it a top pick for 2024.

2. KA-BAR Knives - Navy SEALs Edition

A knife with a legacy, the KA-BAR Navy SEALs Edition, is designed to meet the demanding requirements of one of the most elite units in the military. This knife is not just a tool but a piece of reliable equipment for survival and tactical missions.

Blade Specifications:

• Material and Hardness: The KA-BAR Navy SEALs Edition is made from high-carbon stainless steel, known for its exceptional strength and durability. The steel ensures the knife can withstand the rigors of heavy use without losing its edge, boasting very high hardness levels for superior performance.

• Length and Style: It features an overall length that balances perfectly in the hand, with a blade designed for versatility. Its edge is fine-ground to a wickedly sharp finish, suitable for precision tasks while strong enough for more demanding survival activities.

• Full Tang: Yes, this edition features a full tang design, crucial for tactical and survival knives, providing unmatched strength and reliability when it matters most.

Sheath Quality and Options:

• The KA-BAR Navy SEALs Edition comes with a durable synthetic sheath, designed for fast deployment and secure storage. The sheath's versatility supports various carry options, catering to personal preferences and operational requirements.

Handle Material and Design:

• The handle is crafted from super hard canvas Micarta, offering a grip that is both comfortable and slip-resistant. The material's durability ensures the handle remains effective in diverse environmental conditions, from wet to dry and cold to hot.

Additional Features:

• This knife is built to be a reliable partner in any situation, featuring a design that emphasizes both utility and ease of use. The full tang construction is complemented by additional features that enhance its survival capabilities.

Environmental Adaptability and Value:

• With its great corrosion resistance and high durability, the KA-BAR Navy SEALs Edition is built to perform in any environment. The balance between quality, performance, and price makes it an excellent investment for those serious about their survival gear.

3. Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Knife - A Versatile Blade for Survival Purposes

The Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Knife is renowned not just for its association with survival expert Bear Grylls but for its comprehensive design that addresses a wide range of survival needs. This knife is a staple in the survival kits of many outdoor enthusiasts and military personnel, thanks to its robust construction and thoughtful features.

Blade Specifications:

• Material and Hardness: Featuring a 4.75 inch serrated stainless steel blade with excellent edge-holding properties, this knife is designed for durability and versatility. The high-carbon component ensures the blade can withstand the rigors of survival purposes, maintaining a wickedly sharp edge for all cutting tasks.

• Length and Style: The overall length and mm drop point blade make it a great knife for precision tasks and robust usage alike. Its blade length is ideally suited for a variety of tasks, from preparing kindling for a fire to processing game in the wild.

• Full Tang: Yes, the full tang design enhances the knife's durability and strength, making it an essential tool for bushcraft and survival scenarios. This construction ensures that the knife can endure months of hard work in various environments without fail.

Sheath Quality and Options:

• This knife includes a durable nylon sheath, complemented by a diamond sharpener and a fire starter, offering great corrosion resistance and versatility. The sheath's design incorporates features for multi-carry options, ensuring that the knife is always at the ready, whether attached to a tactical vest or nestled in a survival kit.

Handle Material and Design:

• The handle's stable hard handle, made from textured rubber, provides a secure grip in wet conditions, ensuring that the knife remains an extension of the hand during use. This design consideration is crucial for ensuring the knife can be effectively used in a wilderness environment.

Additional Features:

• Among the main features of this knife are an emergency whistle for signaling, an integrated fire starter for survival purposes, and a pommel for hammering, making it a versatile blade that's well-suited to the diverse needs of bushcrafting, survival training, and tactical operations.

Environmental Adaptability and Value:

• The Gerber Bear Grylls Ultimate Knife is built to excel in any environment, from wet conditions to the dry, harsh wilderness. Its durability, coupled with the added survival features and the Gerber and Bear Grylls branding, offers exceptional value, making it a highly recommended option for anyone seeking a reliable survival knife.

This knife not only meets the practical needs of those in survival situations but also offers an exceptional cutting ability, versatility, and a comprehensive set of features designed to assist in a wide range of outdoor activities and emergencies. Its inclusion in the gear of members of the British military survival training team and its popularity among survival enthusiasts are testaments to its capabilities and value in the world of knives and survival gear.

4. ESEE 6 - High Carbon Steel Survival Knife for Military and Outdoor Use

The ESEE 6 stands out in the world of knives, especially for those interested in military survival knives and cutting tools designed for survival purposes. Crafted with a focus on reliability, durability, and versatility, this knife is a preferred choice among military personnel, survivalists, and bushcraft enthusiasts.

Blade Specifications:

• Material and Hardness: Utilizing martensitic chromium steel, also known as 1095 high carbon steel, the ESEE 6 blade offers excellent edge-holding properties. This steel ensures the knife can endure the months of hard work often demanded in survival situations, maintaining a wickedly sharp edge. The material choice ensures the knife can withstand heavy use, from cutting and chopping to batoning wood, without losing its edge.

• Length and Style: The blade length is optimally designed for various tasks, from detailed precision work to robust cutting and chopping, making it a great knife for any survival kit. The full-flat grind and drop-point blade style contribute to its exceptional cutting ability. With a blade length that's perfectly balanced for both precision tasks and robust cutting work, the ESEE 6 offers a versatile 6.5-inch cutting surface.

• Full Tang: Yes, featuring a full tang construction, the ESEE 6 provides unmatched durability and strength, making it an essential tool in any survival kit or when attached to a tactical vest.

Sheath Quality and Options:

• The knife comes with a Kydex sheath, known for its durability and adaptability to different carrying options, including multi-carry setups. This sheath option aligns with our preference for synthetic sheath options over traditional nylon or leather sheaths, providing protection in wet conditions and offering great corrosion resistance.

Handle Material and Design:

• The handle's stable hard handle, made from high-quality Micarta, ensures a secure grip and comfort during extended use. This design is crucial for maintaining control in various environments, from the wilderness to tactical scenarios.

Environmental Adaptability and Value:

• Designed to excel across diverse environments, the ESEE 6's high carbon steel blade is remarkably versatile. Its durability and edge retention make it an excellent investment for those seeking a reliable knife that offers low prices without compromising on quality, aligning with the notion that quality gear is a necessity, not a luxury.

The ESEE 6 represents the pinnacle of military survival knives, offering everything one might need in a survival knife—durability, reliability, and versatility. Whether you're part of a military survival training team or simply someone who appreciates the great outdoors, this knife is designed to be your trusted companion, proving its worth through performance and resilience in any situation.

5. Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 - Precision Engineered for Survival Excellence

The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 is a fusion of traditional bushcrafting values with modern survival needs, making it a favoured choice among those who demand reliability, durability, and precision in their outdoor and tactical gear. This knife is designed to handle the demands of the wilderness, offering performance in bushcrafting, survival situations, and even in military applications.

Blade Specifications:

• Material and Hardness: The Bushcrafter 162 features a blade made from S30V stainless steel, a premium grade steel known for its exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. The hardness is rated at 58-60 HRC, ensuring the knife can withstand intensive use without losing its edge.
• Length and Style: With a blade length of 4.4 inches, the Bushcrafter 162 is perfectly sized for a variety of tasks, from precision cutting to robust chopping. The blade's high-ground drop point design offers a balance between strength at the tip and a sharp, efficient cutting edge.
• Blade Grind: The knife employs a flat grind, which is ideal for edge stability and ease of sharpening in the field. This grind type enhances the knife's versatility, allowing for precision tasks while still being robust enough for heavier bushcrafting and survival work.

Sheath Quality and Options:

• The Bushcrafter 162 comes with a durable, full-grain leather sheath that embodies both functionality and aesthetics. The sheath is designed for easy access and secure storage, with a loop for belt carry and an integrated D-ring for additional carry options, making it versatile for various survival purposes and compatible with a tactical vest.

Handle Material and Design:

• Crafted from stabilized wood, the handle is not only visually striking but provides a stable hard handle for a secure and comfortable grip. The ergonomics of the handle ensure that the knife can be used effectively in different sizes of hands, offering control and comfort during extended use in the wilderness environment.

Environmental Adaptability and Value:

• The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 is built to perform in any environment, from wet conditions to the dry, harsh wilderness. Its stainless steel blade offers great corrosion resistance, while the overall design and construction of the knife ensure it remains a dependable tool for survival purposes. The investment in a Benchmade knife reflects a balance of quality, performance, and value, underscoring the durability of our products.

The Benchmade Bushcrafter 162 is more than just a knife; it's a versatile blade that's been precision-engineered for survival excellence. Whether you're engaged in the meticulous tasks of bushcrafting, facing the demands of survival training, or involved in military operations, this knife stands as a beacon of reliability and functionality. Its thoughtful design, coupled with the exceptional materials used in its construction, ensures that it can handle the months of hard work often demanded in survival scenarios, making it an essential tool for anyone serious about their outdoor adventures.

Bonus Section:

Leather Sheath Treatments: Ensuring Longevity and Protection

Caring for your tactical and survival gear is just as important as selecting the right equipment for your outdoor adventures. This includes giving special attention to leather sheaths, the protectors of some of your most essential tools. Just as a reliable knife is critical for bushcrafting, survival scenarios, and tactical operations, so too is the sheath that houses it.

Ensuring your leather sheath is waterproofed and protected not only guards against the harshness of the elements but also extends its life, keeping it ready for whatever challenges lie ahead. In the spirit of meticulous gear maintenance, we'll dive into the traditional methods of leather treatment, covering the how-tos, when-tos, and what it might cost you to keep your sheath in top condition alongside your trusted blades.

Popular Leather Treatments (we like and use on our gear)

1. Dubbin

• Description: Dubbin is a wax product traditionally used to soften, condition, and waterproof leather. Comprised mainly of natural waxes, oils, and tallow, it does not contain solvents or drying agents, making it gentle on leather.

• Application Process: Clean the leather sheath with a soft brush or cloth to remove dirt. Apply a small amount of dubbin with a cloth or sponge, working it into the leather in circular motions. Allow it to absorb and wipe off any excess.

• Maintenance Schedule: Treat every 3 to 6 months, depending on exposure to elements.

• Price Point: Around $10-$15 USD ($14-$21 AUD) for a standard tin.

2. Beeswax

• Description: Beeswax provides a natural barrier against water and helps to condition leather. It's known for enhancing the durability of leather goods.

• Application Process: After cleaning the leather, apply melted beeswax sparingly with a cloth. Use a hairdryer or leave in a warm place so the wax absorbs into the leather. Buff with a clean cloth after.

• Maintenance Schedule: Apply every 4 to 6 months.

• Price Point: Approximately $5-$10 USD ($7-$14 AUD) for a block.

3. Mink Oil

• Description: Mink oil is a popular choice for softening, conditioning, and waterproofing leather. It can darken the leather slightly, so it’s wise to test on a small area first.

• Application Process: Clean the sheath thoroughly. With a soft cloth, rub a small amount of mink oil into the leather until fully absorbed. Buff off any excess.

• Maintenance Schedule: Every 3 to 6 months, or as needed.

• Price Point: Typically around $8-$12 USD ($11-$17 AUD) per container.

4. Huberd’s Shoe Grease

• Description: Known for its effectiveness in waterproofing and conditioning, Huberd’s Shoe Grease contains beeswax and pine tar, offering a more traditional approach without silicone or petroleum.

• Application Process: Ensure the sheath is clean and dry. Apply Huberd’s with a cloth, work it in well, and let it penetrate. Wipe off surplus material.

• Maintenance Schedule: Every 3 to 6 months.

• Price Point: About $10-$15 USD ($14-$21 AUD) for a standard can.

General Process for Treating Leather Sheaths

1. Cleaning: Begin by cleaning the leather to remove dirt and grime. A soft brush or damp cloth can be used for this purpose.

2. Application: Apply your chosen treatment sparingly. Use a cloth, sponge, or fingers to work the product into the leather evenly.

3. Absorption: Allow the leather to absorb the treatment. This could take a few hours to overnight, depending on the product.

4. Buffing: Once absorbed, buff the leather with a clean, dry cloth to remove any excess product and restore shine.

Preventative Maintenance

Regular treatment not only keeps the leather waterproof but also maintains its flexibility and durability. The frequency of treatment can vary based on the climate and how often the sheath is exposed to harsh conditions. A good rule of thumb is to reapply treatments every 3 to 6 months or more frequently if the leather begins to look dry or cracked.

Price Points

The cost of leather treatments can vary based on brand, quantity, and place of purchase. As of the latest information available, the indicative prices in USD and AUD are as mentioned for each product. Prices may fluctuate, so it's a good idea to check current rates and availability in your area or online.

Our Preferred Survival Knife Option

After careful consideration of the various models, the TBS Grizzly Bushcraft Survival Knife - Military Edition stands out as our top recommendation. This choice is based on several factors that align with our review criteria and the needs of bushcrafting, survival skills, and prepping enthusiasts.

• Unmatched Versatility and Durability: The TBS Grizzly's martensitic chromium steel blade offers an ideal balance between toughness and edge retention, ensuring it can handle a wide range of tasks from delicate carving to robust chopping.

• Superior Design and Comfort: Its full tang construction, coupled with a super hard canvas Micarta handle, provides exceptional strength and a secure grip, making it reliable for extended use in various conditions.

• Practical Survival Features: Equipped with an emergency whistle, fishing hooks, and a fire starter, this knife extends beyond a cutting tool to become a crucial survival kit item, embodying the essence of what a bushcrafting and survival knife should offer.

• Environmental Adaptability: With great corrosion resistance and a durable, full-grain leather sheath, the TBS Grizzly is prepared to face the challenges of any wilderness environment, maintaining its integrity and functionality over time. As much as we love kydex, there is nothing like the rich colour and smell of leather!

• Overall Value: Considering its durability, versatility, and additional survival features, along with excellent customer service and delivery times, the TBS Grizzly represents not just a purchase but a long-term investment in your survival gear.

This knife exemplifies the balance between quality, functionality, and value, making it our top pick for those seeking a reliable, versatile, and durable tactical military knife for survival purposes.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our look at the world of tactical military knives for 2024, it's clear that the right knife can make a significant difference in survival situations, tactical operations, or even in the routine tasks of bushcrafting and outdoor adventuring.

The detailed reviews, including our top pick, the TBS Grizzly Bushcraft Survival Knife - Military Edition, are designed to guide you in choosing a knife that not only meets your needs but exceeds your expectations in durability, functionality, and versatility.

The importance of a reliable, well-crafted knife cannot be overstated for anyone passionate about survival skills, military preparedness, or outdoor adventures. From the blade's material and design to the handle's comfort and grip, every aspect of your knife should be considered with your specific needs in mind.

Whether you're navigating the dense forests, on a military mission, or preparing for unforeseen challenges, the right knife stands by your side, ready to face the tasks at hand. The TBS Grizzly, with its exceptional durability, versatile design, and survival-oriented features, embodies the ideal balance between practicality and performance, making it our preferred choice.

As you consider your options, remember that investing in a high-quality tactical military knife is investing in your safety, preparedness, and ability to thrive in whatever environment you find yourself.

We hope this guide has provided you with the insights and information needed to make an informed choice, ensuring that your next knife is not just a tool, but a trusted ally in your survival toolkit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do I maintain the sharpness of my tactical military knife?

Q1-A: Regular sharpening with a fine-grit stone and routine honing can maintain the sharpness of your knife. Use a diamond sharpener for tougher steels, and always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for care and maintenance.

Q2: Can I carry a tactical military knife legally?

Q2-A: Laws vary by location, so it's crucial to check local regulations regarding the carrying and use of tactical knives. Always ensure you're compliant with local laws and regulations.

Q3: What makes a knife "full tang," and why is it important?

Q3-A: A full tang knife extends the blade material through the handle, providing added strength and durability. This construction is critical for survival knives, as it ensures the knife can withstand rigorous use without breaking.

Q4: How important is the material of the knife handle?

Q4-A: Handle material affects grip comfort, durability, and overall knife weight. Materials like Micarta offer a good balance of durability and grip security, especially in wet conditions, making them ideal for survival knives.

Q5: What should I consider when choosing a sheath?

Q5-A: The sheath should securely hold the knife, allow for easy access, and offer durability. Materials like Kydex are excellent for wet conditions, while leather offers a classic look and durability in a range of environments.

Q6: Are additional features on a knife necessary?

Q6-A: While not strictly necessary, additional features like an emergency whistle or fire starter can enhance a knife's utility as a survival tool, making it more valuable in emergency situations.

Q7: How do I choose the right blade length for a survival knife?

Q7-A: The right blade length depends on your intended use. A blade length of 4 to 6 inches is versatile enough for most survival tasks, offering a balance between precision and strength.

Q8: Why is blade material important?

Q8-A: The blade material determines the knife's durability, sharpness retention, and resistance to corrosion. High-quality steels like martensitic chromium steel offer a balance of these properties, making them ideal for survival knives.

Q9: What's the difference between a tactical knife and a regular knife?

Q9-A: Tactical knives are designed for military or survival use, featuring sturdy construction, durability, and features suited for rigorous or emergency situations. Regular knives may not offer the same level of durability or specialized features.

Q10: How can I ensure my knife stays corrosion-free?

Q10-A: Regular cleaning, drying after use, and applying a light coat of oil will help protect your knife from corrosion, especially if it's made from high-carbon steel.