Best Survival Tactical Knives of 2026

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Paul Tilton
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2026

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Survival Tactical Knives are essential tools for any outdoor enthusiast or survivalist. These knives are designed to withstand harsh environments and provide maximum functionality in emergency situations. They are made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, titanium, and carbon fiber, ensuring durability and longevity. The blades are sharp and sturdy, with serrated edges for cutting through tough materials. Many Survival Tactical Knives also feature additional tools such as fire starters, compasses, and saws. Whether you're camping, hiking, or in a survival situation, having a reliable and versatile knife is crucial, and Survival Tactical Knives are the perfect choice.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife Cover #TOP 1
Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Smith & Wesson Benji Folding Keychain Knife Cover #TOP 2
Smith & Wesson Benji Folding Keychain Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Smith & Wesson SWFR2S Folding Knife Cover #TOP 3
Smith & Wesson SWFR2S Folding Knife
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Survival Tactical Knives

Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife

SWA24S
Black
3.1"
Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson Accessories Extreme Ops SWA24S 7.1in S.S. Folding Knife with 3.1in Serrated Clip Point Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson SWA24S 7.1in Folding Knife is a reliable and dependable EDC knife. It features a 7Cr17Mov Black Oxide High Carbon Stainless Steel blade and an aluminum handle, making it lightweight and durable. It has a convenient pocket clip, finger flipper, and ambidextrous thumb knobs for easy access. The knife also features jimping and serrations for added security. Customers have praised its sharp blade, sturdy build, and great value for the price.

What We Like
Solid build quality
Sharp and durable blade
Compact and pocket-friendly
Easy one-handed operation
Excellent value for price

Smith & Wesson Benji Folding Keychain Knife

1122566
Black/Red
1.8"
Smith & Wesson Benji Folding Keychain Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson Benji 2.5in High Carbon S.S. Folding Keychain Knife with 1.75in Modified Tanto Blade and G10 Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC,Black

The Smith & Wesson Benji Folding Keychain Knife is a reliable and durable option for everyday carry. With a 1.75 inch modified tanto blade made of 8Cr13MoV High Carbon Stainless Steel and a black G-10 handle, this knife is built to last. The Ultra-Glide technology, dual function money clip/pocket clip, and finger flipper make it easy to access and use. The frame lock ensures that the blade stays securely in place. Plus, it includes a bottle opener and is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

What We Like
Very sharp blade
Compact and portable size
Easy one-handed opening
Sturdy build quality
Bottle opener feature

Smith & Wesson SWFR2S Folding Knife

SWFR2S
Multi
3.3"
Smith & Wesson SWFR2S Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson SWFR2S 8in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife with 3.3in Tanto Point Serrated Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson SWFR2S Folding Knife is a reliable and durable option for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry use. With an overall length of 8 inches and a blade length of 3.3 inches, this knife is made of 7Cr17MoV High Carbon Black Oxide Stainless Steel and features a black, textured and grooved aluminum handle. The knife also includes a glass breaker and seatbelt cutter, making it a great tool to have in emergency situations. The convenient pocket clip and ambidextrous thumb knobs provide quick and easy access, while the liner lock ensures the blade stays secure. This product is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty from Smith & Wesson.

What We Like
Sharp blade out of the box
Seatbelt cutter and glass breaker
Durable and well-built
Comfortable ergonomic grip
Discreet pocket clip

ALBATROSS 6-in-1 Survival Tactical Military Folding Pocket Knife

FK001
Black
ALBATROSS 6-in-1 Survival Tactical Military Folding Pocket Knife Cover
ALBATROSS 6-in-1 Survival Tactical Military Folding Pocket Knives with LED Light,Seatbelt Cutter,Glass Breaker,Magnesium Fire Starter,Bottle Opener;Multi-Function Emergency Tool(Black)

The ALBATROSS 6-in-1 Survival Tactical Military Folding Pocket Knife is a multi-functional emergency tool that comes with a folding knife, LED light, seatbelt cutter, glass breaker, magnesium fire starter, and bottle opener. It is made of high-quality stainless steel and black-finished coated, making it sharp and durable. The handle is made of aluminium anodization, making it strong and durable. It is the perfect tool for camping, hunting, hiking, and home use, and makes a great gift for any outdoorsman.

What We Like
Very sharp blade
Multiple emergency tools
Great gift option
Solid build quality
Good price value

Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife

SWA25
Black
3.3"
Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA25 7.8in High Carbon S.S. Folding Knife with 3.3in Clip Point Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC

The Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA25 Folding Knife is a reliable tool for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry use. With a blade length of 3.3 inches and a weight of 3.2 ounces, this knife is made with 7Cr17MoV Black Oxide High Carbon Stainless Steel and features an aluminum handle for durability. The liner lock ensures a secure grip, while the ambidextrous thumb knobs and pocket clip provide easy access and multiple carrying options. This folding knife also comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

What We Like
Sharp blade out of box
Sturdy and durable build
Lightweight and practical size
Easy to sharpen
Affordable price
#TOP 6

Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS Tactical Folding Knife

SWMP4LS
Black
3.6"
Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS Tactical Folding Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS 8.6in S.S. Assisted Folding Knife with 3.6in Serrated Clip Point Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor Tactical Survival and EDC , Black

The Smith & Wesson SWMP4LS tactical folding knife is a reliable and dependable tool for outdoor tactical survival and EDC. It features a durable 4034 black oxide high carbon stainless steel blade, a black aluminum handle with rubber inlay, and a convenient pocket clip. It also has a liner lock and safety lock for added security, and a glass breaker and seatbelt cutter for emergency situations. Customers praise its toughness, safety, and usefulness, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry.

What We Like
Sturdy build quality
Comfortable grip
Sharp out of box
Reliable assisted opening
Effective glass breaker

GOOD WORKER Spring Assisted Karambit Knife

Х-42
1 Black
GOOD WORKER Spring Assisted Karambit Knife Cover
Tactical Spring Assisted Pocket Knife - Karambit Folding Knives for Men - Folding Sharp Tiger Claw Blade - Best Combat Tool for Hunting Military Camping Self Defense EDC - Birthday Mens Gifts X-42

The GOOD WORKER Tactical Karambit Knife is a compact, functional, and stylish pocket knife that is perfect for various outdoor activities. Its razor-sharp 440C stainless steel blade provides high durability and cutting performance, making it suitable for camping, hiking, hunting, and self-defense. The handle ring design allows for convenient forward and reverse grip, ensuring ease of use in any situation. With its sturdy construction and precision craftsmanship, this versatile knife is your ultimate tool for everyday carry or outdoor adventures. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to carry in a purse or backpack, making it a great gift idea for any man in your life.

What We Like
Quick, smooth opening
Comfortable ergonomic handle
Strong, sharp blade
Attractive design
Affordable price

Smith & Wesson M&P Special Ops Knife

1136216
Black
Smith & Wesson M&P Special Ops Knife Cover
Smith & Wesson M&P Special Ops 9.3in Stainless Steel Assisted Opening Knife with 4in Tanto Blade and G10 Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC,Black

The Smith & Wesson M&P Special Ops Knife is a reliable and durable tool for outdoor, tactical, survival, and everyday carry use. With a 4-inch Tanto blade made of 9Cr18MoV Stainless Steel and a black G10 handle with spine jimping and lanyard hole, this knife is both functional and secure. It also features a liner lock for added safety and a convenient tip-up pocket clip, finger flipper, and spring assisted opening for quick and easy access. Additionally, this knife is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

What We Like
Durable 9Cr18MoV Stainless Steel blade with Titanium Nitride coating
Secure liner lock for added safety
Convenient tip-up pocket clip, finger flipper, and spring assisted opening
Spine jimping and lanyard hole for additional functionality
Covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty
#TOP 9

Treszen Stainless Steel Tactical Knife 9.5 Inch

Treszen
silvery
Treszen Stainless Steel Tactical Knife 9.5 Inch Cover
Treszen Stainless Steel Blade, All Steel Solid Handle for Home Use, Outdoor Camping, Fishing Pocket Knife, Survival Tactical Knife, 9.5 Inch - Silver

The Treszen Tactical Knife offers a precise and sharp blade thanks to its CNC integrated cutting process and cold water grinding, making it easy for you to cut through tough materials. Its full stainless steel construction, including a high-strength carbon steel blade, ensures durability and long-lasting performance. Measuring 9.5 inches in total length, this knife is a versatile tool for camping, fishing, and everyday tasks like cutting rope or paper. The solid steel handle provides a sturdy grip, giving you better control and confidence when using the knife in various outdoor or home situations.

What We Like
Precision CNC cutting
Sharp cold water ground blade
Full stainless steel build
High-strength carbon steel blade
Versatile 9.5-inch size

KINGMAX Pocket Knife Multitool

PK02
Black
Pocket Size
KINGMAX Pocket Knife Multitool Cover
KINGMAX Pocket Knife,Multitool Tactical Knife with Blade,Saw, Plier, Screwdriver, Bottle Opener,Folding Knife Built with Full Stainless Steel,Perfect Tool for Men,Camping,Emergency,Outdoor,Daily Use.

The KINGMAX Pocket Knife Multitool is a compact and durable 5-in-1 tool that includes a knife, saw, pliers, can opener, and screwdriver with a 9-in-1 bit set. Made of 440C stainless steel, it is rust-resistant and sports a sleek black oxide finish. The blade is locked when open for safety, and the ergonomic handle design allows for easy grip. It comes with a nylon cloth bag for easy carrying and is a great gift for outdoor enthusiasts.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Sharp knife blade
Versatile tool selection
Convenient carrying case
Good value for price
Buying Guide Image

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Survival Tactical Knives

Introduction

Survival tactical knives are essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and military personnel. They are designed to handle harsh conditions and provide reliable performance in any situation. Choosing the right survival tactical knife can be a daunting task, especially with the vast array of options available on the market. In this article, we'll walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting a survival tactical knife.

Blade Material

The blade material is the most crucial factor to consider when choosing a survival tactical knife. It determines the knife's durability, sharpness, and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel is a popular choice for tactical knives because of its corrosion resistance and durability. However, high carbon steel is also an excellent choice for its sharpness and edge retention. You can also consider Damascus steel if you want a knife with a unique pattern and impressive sharpness.

Blade Design

The blade design is another essential factor to consider when selecting a survival tactical knife. The blade's shape and thickness can affect its performance in various situations. A drop-point blade is a popular choice for survival knives because of its versatility and strength. A tanto blade is also an excellent option for its piercing ability and durability. You can also consider a serrated blade if you're going to use your knife for cutting through tough materials like rope and wood.

Handle Material

The handle material is equally important as the blade material. It determines the knife's grip and comfort, which can affect its performance. G10 and Micarta are popular choices for tactical knives because of their durability and grip. However, you can also consider other materials like titanium, aluminum, and carbon fiber if you want a lightweight knife.

Blade Length

The blade length is another factor to consider when selecting a survival tactical knife. The ideal blade length depends on your intended use. A blade length of 4-6 inches is suitable for general outdoor activities, while a blade length of 6-10 inches is ideal for heavy-duty tasks like chopping and batoning.

Sheath

The sheath is an essential accessory for your survival tactical knife. It protects the blade and makes it easy to carry. A sheath made of Kydex or leather is an excellent choice for its durability and reliability. You can also consider a MOLLE-compatible sheath if you want to attach your knife to your backpack or vest.

Conclusion

Choosing the right survival tactical knife is essential for your safety and performance in the field. Consider the blade material, blade design, handle material, blade length, and sheath when selecting your knife. Remember that the best knife for you depends on your intended use and personal preference. With these factors in mind, you can confidently select a survival tactical knife that will serve you well for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What survival knife do the Navy SEALs use?

Navy SEALs (USA) The Ontario MK 3 Navy Knife is standard issue for the United States Navy SEALs. With a 6-inch stainless steel blade, it's a perfectly compact piece of equipment for this elite and efficient group.

2. Which is the best survival knife?

Here are the best survival knives:. Best overall: Esee 5.Best on a budget: Morakniv Kansbol.Best large size: Becker BK9.Best all-purpose: Buck 119 Special.Best high-end: Benchmade 162 Bushcrafter.

3. Are survival knives good for self defense?

Almost all the experts, from those in law enforcement to military trainers, agree that, in some cases, a knife is a much more effective weapon than a gun—which also makes it a very good weapon for self defense.

4. What knives do SEAL Team 6 use?

The Emerson Commander knife is a battle-tested blade and approved by the Navy SEAL Teams as an edged weapon. Originally this knife was developed with input from members of Navy SEAL Team 6 and later made available to the public beginning in 1998.

Editor's Notes

During our survival tactical knives research, we found 24 survival tactical knives products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 352,283 customer reviews through our big data system to write the survival tactical knives list. We found that most customers choose survival tactical knives with an average price of $19.80.

The survival tactical knives are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of survival tactical knives, including Smith & Wesson, ALBATROSS, GOOD WORKER, Treszen, KINGMAX. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Paul Tilton Avatar

Paul Tilton is a fitness enthusiast. He doesn't like to work in front of a computer screen so he quit his job and runs a gym in Washington. He spent a lot of time on the road and has been a contributing writer for a well-known travel guide website. He is now happy to share his travel experience and professional knowledge of travel gear and fitness here.