Best Fixed Blade Knives of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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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

Mossy Oak 14-inch Bowie Knife Cover #TOP 1
Mossy Oak 14-inch Bowie 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
Cold Steel Fixed-Blade Knife with Sheath Cover #TOP 3
Cold Steel Fixed-Blade Knife with Sheath
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Fixed Blade Knives

Mossy Oak 14-inch Bowie Knife

MO16005
14-inch Bowie Knife
Mossy Oak 14-inch Bowie Knife Cover
Mossy Oak 14-inch Bowie Knife, Full-tang Fixed Blade, Wood Handle Hunting Knife with Leather Sheath for Camping, Hiking, Survival

The Mossy Oak 14-inch Bowie Knife is a full-tang fixed blade hunting knife with a wood handle and leather sheath. The blade is made of 3CR13 steel, ensuring strength, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. The rosewood handle with brass pommel/guard provides a comfortable grip and balance. The knife comes with a genuine leather sheath with snap fastener that can be easily attached to your belt. This knife is suitable for various outdoor situations but not recommended for chopping or batoning.

What We Like
Excellent value for price
Sharp out of the box
Durable full tang construction
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Versatile outdoor use
What We Don't Like
Sheath fit could improve
Minor handle material concerns
#TOP 2

Smith & Wesson SWHRT9B Fixed Blade Knife

SWHRT9B
Black
4.7"
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
Durable leather sheath
Comfortable, non-slip grip
Sharp, holds edge well
Lightweight, easy to carry
Excellent value for price
What We Don't Like
Belt clip could be improved
Handle a bit small for large hands
#TOP 3

Cold Steel Fixed-Blade Knife with Sheath

49LCK
Black
6 inch Boxed
Cold Steel Fixed-Blade Knife with Sheath Cover
Cold Steel 49LCK Srk SK-5, Boxed, One Size, Black

This Cold Steel fixed-blade knife comes with a sheath and is perfect for fishing. With the SK-5 steel, the blade is strong and durable. This knife should be hand washed for proper care.

What We Like
Razor-sharp out of box
Excellent fit and finish
Comfortable, grippy handle
Sturdy, versatile sheath
Outstanding value for price
What We Don't Like
Sheath slightly tight
Handle texture mildly uncomfortable

Gerber Gear Ultimate Knife with Fire Starter and Sharpener

31-003941
Grey
4.8"
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 box
Solid, comfortable grip
Excellent value for price
Useful survival features included
Durable, well-built sheath
What We Don't Like
Ferro rod holder could be better
Sheath tab may break
#TOP 5

GERBER StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife

30-001058
Coyote Brown
4.8"
GERBER StrongArm Fixed Blade Knife Cover
Gerber Gear StrongArm Knife - Fixed Blade - Tactical Knife for Survival Gear - Full Tang, 420HC Steel Blade - Camping Survival Knife - Made in USA - Plain edge, Coyote Brown

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
High quality build
Excellent edge retention
Versatile and secure sheath
Comfortable handle grip
Reasonable price point
What We Don't Like
Spine won't spark ferro rod
Minor grind/tip imperfections
#TOP 6

Spyderco Bow River Fixed Blade Utility Knife

FB46GP
Black
4.4"
Spyderco Bow River Fixed Blade Utility Knife Cover
Spyderco Bow River Fixed Blade Outdoor Hunting Knife with 4.40" 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Blade and Handcrafted Leather Sheath - PlainEdge - 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
Outstanding sharpness out of box
Excellent price-to-quality ratio
Comfortable ergonomic handle
High-quality leather sheath
Good edge retention
What We Don't Like
Handle grip could be improved
Occasional inconsistent factory sharpness

DRGSKL Japanese Tanto Fixed Blade Knife

Brown
DRGSKL Japanese Tanto Fixed Blade Knife Cover
DRGSKL Japanese Fixed Blade Knife - Tanto Knives with Wooden Sheath - Survival Knives with Full Tang Handle - Bushcraft knives for Camping Outdoor, Gifts for Men

The DRGSKL Tanto Knife is crafted with durable D2 steel, giving you a blade that stays sharp and strong through tough tasks. Its walnut wood handle is shaped for comfort and grip, so you can hold it securely during precise cuts. The elegant design, featuring a silver handguard that blends smoothly with the blade, makes it not just useful but also a stylish piece to own or gift. The knife’s sharp, sturdy tip is perfect for piercing and handling heavy-duty outdoor jobs, making it a reliable companion for camping, hiking, or survival situations.

What We Like
Razor-sharp D2 steel blade
Solid, full tang construction
Attractive walnut wood handle
Excellent value for price
Great gift or collector's item
What We Don't Like
Boxy handle and sheath design
Limited sheath carry options

Cold Steel SRK-C Survival Rescue Knife

CS49LCKD
Black – Black
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
Robust and durable build
Excellent grip handle
Very sharp out of box
Versatile everyday utility
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Sheath retention could improve
Not premium blade steel
#TOP 9

REAT Fixed Blade Knife with Kydex Sheath

REAT
RT-500
Black
REAT Fixed Blade Knife with Kydex Sheath Cover
REAT Fixed Blade Knife with Kydex Sheath, 4" D2 Steel Blade,Ergonomic G10 Handle, EDC Sharp Hunting Knife, Small Tool for Camping Survival Tactical Hiking,Gifts for Men,Women

The REAT Fixed Blade Knife features a sharp 4-inch D2 steel blade that holds its edge well and resists rust, making it perfect for precise cutting and piercing tasks. Its full tang construction means the blade and handle are one solid piece, giving you a strong and dependable tool that won’t let you down during tough outdoor activities like camping or hunting. The black G10 handle is designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in slippery conditions, so you stay safe and in control. Plus, the included Kydex sheath lets you attach the knife to your belt for easy access whenever you need it on your adventures.

What We Like
Excellent value for price
High-quality D2 steel blade
Secure, well-made Kydex sheath
Sharp out of the box
Comfortable ergonomic handle
What We Don't Like
Handle slightly short for large hands
Blade length shorter than expected
#TOP 10

Kizer Cabox Fixed Blade Hunting Knife

1048A3
Kizer Cabox Fixed Blade Hunting Knife Cover
Kizer Cabox Fixed Blade Knife, 3.36" D2 Steel Fixed Blade Hunting Knife G10 Handle with Sheath, Survival Camping Knives 1048A3

The Kizer Cabox Hunting Knife offers a comfortable grip thanks to its G10 handle, which feels natural in your hand and makes tasks like peeling and cutting easier. Its blade is made from durable D2 steel, known for holding a sharp edge and resisting rust, so it stays reliable over time. The knife comes with a sturdy sheath that keeps it safe and easy to carry, and the lanyard hole adds extra convenience for outdoor use. The drop point blade design gives you great control and versatility, perfect for various cutting jobs whether you're camping or handling everyday tasks.

What We Like
Sharp D2 steel blade
Comfortable G10 handle grip
Secure, versatile sheath
Great value for price
Perfect for EDC and outdoors
What We Don't Like
Belt loops a bit short
Sheath rides slightly high
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 165,426 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 $30.85.

The fixed blade knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fixed blade knives, including Mossy Oak, Smith & Wesson, Cold Steel, Gerber, Spyderco. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 7,101 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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
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#TOP3
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#TOP5
#TOP6
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#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Mossy Oak Smith & Wesson Cold Steel Gerber Gerber Spyderco DRGSKL Cold Steel REAT Kizer
Recommended Uses For Product Survival, Hunting, Outdoor, Camping Hunting Military Bushcrafting, Camping, Carving, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Mincing, Peeling, Skinning, Whittling Camping Knife Camping Outdoor Hunting Camping, Hunting, Skinning, Survival, Tactical Camping
Model Name 14-inch Bowie Knife, Wood Handle SWHRT9B 49LCK Ultimate Survival Knife StrongArm FB46GP Tanto SRK-C RT-500 Cabox
Special Feature Durability,Non-slip,Full-tang Stainless Steel Manual Full Tang Versatile Fixed Blade, Full Tang Full Tang SECURE X SHEATH Fixed Blade, Full Tang Comfortable
Age Range (Description) Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult Adult
Blade Material Alloy Steel Leather, Steel, Stainless Steel Alloy Steel Stainless Steel Alloy Steel Stainless Steel Alloy Steel Carbon Steel Alloy Steel Alloy Steel
Style 14-inch Bowie Knife, Wood Handle Dual Edge (Box) SRK Knife Ultimate Pro Plain Edge- Coyote Brown Bow River Fixed Blade Knife SRK-C Modern Modern
Handle Material Rosewood Rubber Kray-Ex - Rubber Fiberglass Walnut Wood Kray-Ex Fiberglass Fiberglass
Color 14-inch Bowie Knife Black Black Grey Coyote Brown Black Brown - Black D2 Blade+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 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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