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Any hunter who has participated in trophy hunting tours through the Putorana Plateau taiga knows that a knife is an essential accessory not only for hunting and fishing, but also for simple hiking. However, not everyone knows how and what criteria to use to choose a genuine hunting knife.
In stores, salespeople use marketing to try to sell products that don't even meet customer demand. Often, ordinary, multi-functional folding knives are presented as hunting knives, even though they are not.
Types of hunting accessories:
It's worth noting that on a hunting trip, the arsenal often includes not one, but three items:
- A skinner is a knife designed for skinning animals. It has a wide blade with a special skinning hook and a blunt tip. This allows for neatly separating the skin from the meat, significantly simplifying the process.
- A finishing weapon, similar to a dagger, is designed to finish off a wounded animal, especially when shooting is not possible.
- The "Hunter" knife is versatile. It can be used for both finishing and other tasks. It has a blade of sufficient length and a standard, straight profile. It's easy to start a fire in the taiga, cook food, and use as a weapon when needed.
The last option is considered the most common. A hunting knife can replace all of the above models.
What characteristics and criteria should you use to choose a hunting knife?
Many hunting stores tout painted, decorative knives as indispensable for hunting. However, true hunters often choose simpler products. In the taiga, painting and attractive design won't enhance personal safety. A hunting knife should have the following characteristics:
Steel
As we know, any knife depends on the blade material. It should be rust-resistant and have a high chromium content. The most common steels are Sandvik 12C27, Kh12MF, 95Kh18, D2, and AUS8. These are manufactured in various countries and have proven their high performance in hunting. There are also so-called super steels: CPM3V and S30V. These are made in the style of the well-known Damascus steel, capable of withstanding various loads.
Knife profile and sharpening
A hunting knife's profile is characterized by a smooth, straight blade. It lacks all the embellishments of a Rambo knife in the movies. The knife should feel comfortable in the hand for both striking and cutting. Profiles are divided into the following types:
- Drop-point;
- Clip-point;
- Normal.
Sharpening may vary:
- Hollow, a knife sharpened like a razor.
- Flat, has straight descents at the butt.
- Scandi, sharpening starting from the middle, with straight descents.
- The compound belongs to the universal type of sharpening and is considered one of the best for hunting.
- Convex, a sharpening that allows you to easily chop wood for starting a fire.
Handle
The knife handle should be made of durable, non-slip materials. When choosing a knife, experienced hunters place the handle in their palm and try to make several swings. If the knife feels secure and doesn't slip, it's safe to take into the taiga.
Conclusion
As we've seen, choosing a hunting knife isn't particularly difficult, but there are some characteristics and criteria worth considering. When heading to the Putorana Plateau, it's best to invest in a reliable accessory.
It can facilitate many outdoor activities (starting a fire, preparing delicacies, butchering fish, game, and animals). And, if necessary, it can significantly increase safety and confidence while in the wild.
