Best Fixed Blade Knives of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Fixed blade knives are an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists alike. Designed with a solid, non-folding blade, these knives offer superior strength and durability in various tasks. Whether you're camping, hunting, or simply need a reliable tool for everyday use, fixed blade knives are up to the challenge. With their robust construction and versatile designs, they are well-suited for cutting, prying, and even self-defense. From compact and lightweight options for backpackers to heavy-duty models for professional use, there is a fixed blade knife to meet every need.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Cold Steel SRK-C Survival Rescue Knife Cover #TOP 1
Cold Steel SRK-C Survival Rescue Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B Fixed Blade Knife Cover #TOP 2
Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B Fixed Blade Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SOG Instinct Boot Knife - EDC/Neck Knife with Sheath and Clip Cover #TOP 3
SOG Instinct Boot Knife - EDC/Neck Knife with Sheath and Clip
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Fixed Blade Knives

Cold Steel SRK-C Survival Rescue Knife

CS49LCKD
Black – Black
One Size
Cold Steel SRK-C Survival Rescue Knife Cover
COLD STEEL SRK Compact 5" SK-5 Clip Point Razor-Sharp Blade 4.5" Durable Kray-Ex Handle Tactical Fixed Blade Knife w/Secure-Ex Sheath

Looking for a tough and versatile knife you can trust with your life? Look no further than the Cold Steel SRK-C Survival Rescue Knife. Built with extreme toughness in mind, this knife is trusted by the Military and Special Forces community, and is the standard issue knife for Navy Seals B.U.D.S. training. Made with Japanese high-carbon SK-5 steel, it has excellent edge-holding capabilities and abrasion resistance. The deeply checkered Kray-Ex grip and single quillon finger guard provide a comfortable and secure hold in all conditions. Comes with a Secure-Ex sheath.

What We Like
Excellent value for money
Sharp out of the box
Lightweight and easy to carry
Comfortable rubberized grip
Durable high carbon steel
What We Don't Like
Nylon strap may hinder drawing
#TOP 2

Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B Fixed Blade Knife

SWHRT9B
Black
One Size
Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B Fixed Blade Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B 9in High Carbon S.S. Fixed Blade Knife with 4.7in Dual Edge Blade and TPE Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival,EDC, Multi

The Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B Fixed Blade Knife is a 9-inch high-carbon stainless steel knife with a 4.7-inch dual-edge blade and TPE handle. It is designed for outdoor, tactical, survival, EDC, and multi-purpose use. It features a convenient belt or boot sheath, a lanyard hole, and a hand guard for secure grip. Customers praise its durable construction, comfortable grip, and sharp blade.

What We Like
Very sharp out of the box
Comfortable rubber handle
Strong and secure sheath
Good for self-defense
Lightweight and easy to carry
What We Don't Like
Sheath quality could be better
Thin blade may not be durable

SOG Instinct Boot Knife - EDC/Neck Knife with Sheath and Clip

SOG
NB1012-CP
BLACK
SOG Instinct Boot Knife - EDC/Neck Knife with Sheath and Clip Cover
SOG Small Fixed Blade Knife - Instinct Boot Knife, EDC Knife, Neck Knife, 2.3 Inch Full Tang Blade w/ Knife Sheath and Clip, 4in. x 1in. x 8.5in. (NB1012-CP) , Black

The SOG Instinct is a small fixed blade knife perfect for everyday carry. The knife is lightweight, weighing only 2.3 oz, and can be worn as a necklace, belt, or boot knife. Its full-tang, satin-polished 5Cr15MoV stainless steel blade and textured G10 handle with finger grooves and jimping provide maximum control and durability. Additionally, the knife comes with a swivel sheath clip for quick access in emergencies. SOG fixed blade knives are built to last and come with repair and replacement requests.

What We Like
Sturdy and sharp blade
Compact and portable design
Secure sheath with good retention
Easy to conceal for EDC
Affordable for quality knife
What We Don't Like
Handle may not fit all hands
Sheath can slide on belt

SOG Survival Knife with Sheath - Field Knife Fixed Blade Knives

SOG
FK1001-CP
Black
4" Blade
SOG Survival Knife with Sheath - Field Knife Fixed Blade Knives Cover
SOG Survival Knife with Sheath - Field Knife Fixed Blade Knives 4 Inch Tactical Knife and Bushcraft Knife w/Full Tang Hunting Knife Blade (FK1001-CP)

The SOG Survival Knife is the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures. With a 4-inch stainless steel blade, full-tang clip-point design, and a grippy, thermoplastic rubber handle, this knife is great for camping, hunting, combat, and more. The notched GRN sheath makes it easy to carry and use, while the excellent edge retention and rust resistance ensure a long-lasting blade. SOG also offers repair and replacement requests for the life of the knife.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Comfortable grip
Lightweight and durable
Great value for price
Effective sheath design
What We Don't Like
Sheath design preference varies
Not extremely sharp out of box
#TOP 5

GERBER StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife

30-001058
Coyote Brown
4.8"
GERBER StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife Cover
Gerber Gear StrongArm - Fixed Blade, Full Tang Knife - Camping Knife with Multiple Carry Options - Coyote Brown, Plain Edge

The GERBER StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife is a durable survival knife that features a coyote brown handle and a fine edge, full tang 420HC steel blade. It comes with a ceramic blade coating and rubberized diamond texture grip, making it easy to use in emergency situations. The knife also has a striking pommel that can be used to break through hard surfaces. Additionally, the knife comes with four mounting pieces and a sheath that can be used for mounting on MOLLE, belt, or in drop-leg fashion. It is proudly made in the USA at Gerber's Portland, Oregon factory.

What We Like
Impeccable build quality
Outstanding value for purchase
Razor-sharp blade
Multiple mounting options
Comfortable ergonomic handle
What We Don't Like
Sheath may feel floppy
Horizontal mount may not fit well

Gerber Gear Ultimate Knife with Fire Starter and Sharpener

31-003941
Grey
Gerber Gear Ultimate Knife with Fire Starter and Sharpener Cover
Gerber Gear Ultimate Survival Knife, Fixed Blade Knife with Combo Edge, includes Fire Starter Edge and Ferro Rod, Whistle, Sheath with Integrated Sharpener - Bushcraft, Hunting and Camping Tool

The Gerber Gear Ultimate Knife is a professional-grade tactical knife, perfect for hunting, survival, tactical, and everyday carry. It features a half-serrated, drop point blade for edge retention and cutting rope, a stainless steel hammer pommel, an emergency whistle, sharpener, and firestarter. The durable nylon sheath includes a sharpener, fire starter, and striker notch incorporated on the back of the blade for emergency fire needs. The ergonomic textured rubber handle provides a precise non-slip grip, making it the ideal knife for exploring, working, defending, or surviving in the wild.

What We Like
Sharp blade out of the box
Comfortable, non-slip grip
Durable, high-quality construction
Versatile with built-in features
Good edge retention
What We Don't Like
Sheath could be improved
Glass breaker scratches
#TOP 7

Spyderco Bow River Fixed Blade Utility Knife

FB46GP
Black
FB46GP
Spyderco Bow River Fixed Blade Utility Knife Cover
Spyderco Bow River Fixed Blade Knife - Precision Cutting, 4.40" 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Blade, Ergonomic G-10 Handle, Premium Leather Sheath - FB46GP

The Spyderco Bow River Fixed Blade Utility Knife features an iconic design by custom knifemaker Phil Wilson that is budget-friendly and geared toward adventurers. It has a full-flat-ground, trailing-point blade made of 8Cr13MoV stainless steel and a contoured, ergonomic handle made of layered black and gray G-10 for a secure grip. This knife is ready for anything and comes with a high-quality leather sheath. Spyderco fixed blade knives provide the same reliable high performance and evolved ergonomics as their groundbreaking folding knives, making them ideal for survival, camping, and other demanding applications.

What We Like
Sharp out of the box
Great for food prep
Well-balanced and solid
High-quality materials
Good price for quality
What We Don't Like
Sheath quality could improve
Handle texture may not suit everyone

Cold Steel Kyoto I Mini Tanto Point

CS-17DA
Black
3.3"
Cold Steel Kyoto I Mini Tanto Point Cover
Cold Steel Kyoto 3.25" Durable Compact 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Fixed Blade Tanto Outdoor Hunting Utility Knife, 3 3/8" Textured Kray-Ex Handle, Sheath Included

Cold Steel Mini Tanto is designed for discreet carry, offering impressive cutting and thrusting abilities despite its small size. The robust blade with a full tang and stainless steel guard ensures durability. The Kray-Ex handle provides a secure grip mimicking traditional Japanese sword handles. The versatile sheath allows various carrying options. Weighing only 3.3oz, with an overall length of 6-5/8 inches, this mini tanto is perfect for everyday carry and self-defense.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight
Sharp out of the box
Good grip and balance
Versatile for utility tasks
Great price-to-value ratio
What We Don't Like
Limited sheath attachment options
Short handle for larger hands
#TOP 9

Canku C1140 Fixed Blade Knife

CCanku C1140
Black
Canku C1140 Fixed Blade Knife Cover
Ccanku C1140 Fixed Blade Knife,D2 Blade G10 Handle Knife EDC Knife,Utility Knife for Outdoor, Survival, Hiking, Camping(Black)

The Canku Fixed Blade Knife is a versatile tool for outdoor enthusiasts. With an overall length of 7.6 inches and a blade measuring 3.4 inches, it is compact yet effective for various tasks. The D2 steel blade ensures durability and sharpness, while the G10 handle provides a comfortable grip, making it ideal for camping, hiking, or fishing. The secure kydex sheath offers peace of mind when storing the knife, preventing any accidental slips. This knife makes a thoughtful gift for men on special occasions, ensuring they have a reliable tool for their adventures.

What We Like
Great sharpness and edge retention
Comfortable finger ring grip
Well-made kydex sheath
Affordable price for quality
Versatile for self-defense
What We Don't Like
Handle could be slightly longer
Loose fit in sheath
#TOP 10

Kizer Muskrat Fixed Blade Knife

1064A1
Green G10 Handle
Kizer Muskrat Fixed Blade Knife Cover
Kizer Muskrat Fixed Blade Knife, 3.15 In D2 Neck Knife Argyle Pattern G10 Handle Fixed Blade EDC Knife for Men Women, Outdoor Hunting Hiking Survival Camping Knives 1064A1

The Kizer Muskrat Knife is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate quality and functionality. Its D2 steel blade ensures exceptional sharpness and durability, making it ideal for various cutting tasks. The G10 handle, featuring an argyle pattern, is lightweight yet strong, providing a secure grip even in tough conditions. This knife is perfect for camping and survival uses, as it comes with a high-quality Kydex sheath that helps maintain the blade's sharpness. Whether you're hiking or hunting, this fixed blade knife is a reliable companion for all your outdoor adventures.

What We Like
Perfect size and weight
Sharp out of the box
Great build quality
Good value for money
Ergonomic handle design
What We Don't Like
Sheath requires adjustment
Original clip not effective
Buying Guide Image

All You Need to Know About Buying Fixed Blade Knives

Consider Your Needs

Before choosing a fixed-blade knife, it's important to consider what you will be using it for. Will you be using it for hunting, camping, self-defense, or everyday carry? Each of these activities may require a different type of knife. For example, a hunting knife may need to be larger and have a gut hook for field dressing game, while a knife for everyday carry may need to be smaller and more compact.

Consider the Blade Material

The material of the blade is also an important consideration. Common materials for knife blades include stainless steel, carbon steel, and high carbon stainless steel. Stainless steel blades are highly corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain, making them a popular choice for everyday carry knives. Carbon steel blades are known for their sharpness and ability to hold an edge, but they may require more maintenance to prevent rusting. High carbon stainless steel blades offer the best of both worlds, combining the sharpness of carbon steel with the corrosion resistance of stainless steel.

Consider the Blade Shape

The shape of the blade is also important. Common blade shapes include drop point, clip point, and spear point. Drop point blades are strong and versatile, making them a popular choice for hunting knives. Clip point blades have a concave curve near the tip, which makes them good for piercing and precision cuts. Spear point blades are symmetrical, with a point that is centered in the middle of the blade, making them good for throwing and self-defense.

Consider the Handle Material

The material of the handle is also an important consideration. Common materials for knife handles include wood, plastic, and metal. Wood handles are classic and provide a comfortable grip, but they may not be as durable as other materials. Plastic handles are lightweight and durable, but they may not provide as much grip as other materials. Metal handles are strong and durable, but they may be heavy and not as comfortable to hold.

Consider the Overall Quality

When choosing a fixed-blade knife, it's important to consider the overall quality of the knife. Look for a knife that is well-made, with a sturdy blade and handle that are securely attached. Avoid knives that feel flimsy or have loose blades or handles, as they may not hold up to regular use. It's also a good idea to read reviews of the knife to see what others have to say about its quality and performance.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fixed-blade knife is a personal decision that depends on your needs and preferences. By considering your needs, the blade and handle materials, the blade shape, and the overall quality of the knife, you can find a knife that will serve you well for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are fixed blade knives good for?

Fixed blade knives are versatile tools that serve various purposes. Some common types include hunting knives, which are used for skinning, cleaning, and cutting game. Survival knives are ideal for wilderness survival and outdoor activities. Tactical knives are designed for combat and self-defense.

2. Why do bikers carry fixed blade knives?

Bikers often carry fixed blade knives for multiple reasons. These knives come in handy for tasks like chopping up food at the campfire and can be invaluable on the road for quick repairs. Their versatility and durability make them a practical tool for bikers to have with them at all times.

3. Are fixed blade knives better for self defense?

Yes, fixed blade knives are generally considered better for self-defense purposes. They offer advantages such as strength and durability, as they are typically thicker and more robust than folding knives. Fixed blade knives can handle heavy-duty tasks and hard use without breaking, making them reliable tools for self-defense situations.

Editor's Notes

During our fixed blade knives research, we found 48 fixed blade knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 134,987 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fixed blade knives list. We found that most customers choose fixed blade knives with an average price of $30.37.

The fixed blade knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fixed blade knives, including Cold Steel, Smith & Wesson, SOG, GERBER, Spyderco. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.

Fixed Blade Knives Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Cold Steel Smith & Wesson SOG SOG GERBER GERBER Spyderco Cold Steel Canku Kizer
Recommended Uses For Product Hunting Hunting Hunting Hunting Military Hunting, Carving, Mincing, Bushcrafting, Peeling, Skinning, Fishing, Camping, Hiking, Whittling Camping Hunting Outdoor Hunting, EDC, Camping, Hiking
Model Name SRK-C SWHRT9B SOGNB1012CP Field Knife StrongArm Ultimate Survival Knife FB46GP CS-17DA Ccanku C1140 Muskrat
Special Feature SECURE X SHEATH Stainless Steel Adjustable Lightweight Full Tang Full Tang Full-Flat Grind Full Tang Fixed Blade Knifes Full Tang, Lightweight, Non Slip
Age Range (Description) TEENS AND ADULTS Adult Adult Adult 8+ Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult
Handle Material Kray-Ex Rubber Fiberglass Rubber Rubber Rubber Fiberglass Stainless Steel Fiberglass Fiberglass
Blade Material SK-5 Steel, Compact Leather, Steel, Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Alloy Steel Stainless Steel Stainless Steel Alloy Steel High Carbon Steel D2
Style SRK-C Fixed Blade Instinct - 5.9 Inches Modern Plain Edge- Coyote Brown Ultimate Pro Bow River Compact Modern D2 Blade+Green G10 Handle
Color - Black BLACK Black Coyote Brown Grey Black Black Black Green G10 Handle
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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