Knives Out

Our Picks for the 5 Best Hunting Knives of 2024

by Richard Baimbridge

Much like guns, good hunting knives often have a story to tell. There’s something about the feel of a well-made knife in your hands that gives you a special feeling in the same way that well-designed guns do – a combination of beauty, ergonomics, precision, and, well, the allure of danger.

I vividly recall the first Buck 110 I got as a kid, and the great care with which I treated it. It’s a classic knife I’d still gladly carry in the field to this day and even pass on to my kids. But to be honest, I like the more lightweight modern designs that are common today in terms of utility, as knife technology has come a long way since I was young.

These days, you can go to Walmart or Cabela’s and buy a pretty decent cheap Chinese-made knife that’ll get the job done (I have a few of those myself), but there’s something about a quality fixed-blade knife in a leather sheath that gives you a very different feeling.

Our list of the Top 5 Big Game Hunting Knives considers everything from look and feel, to durability and performance – all designed for skinning and field dressing big game animals in the field, while still providing a good amount of versatility.    

1.   Benchmade Pardue Hunter

The Benchmade Pardue Hunter is a premium fixed-blade knife designed for precision and durability in the field. With its drop-point design and full-tang construction, it excels at field dressing, skinning, as well as camp chores. The blade is crafted from CPM-S30V steel, providing exceptional edge retention and resistance to corrosion.

Blade Material: CPM-S30V Stainless Steel
Blade Length: 3.48 inches
Handle Material: Richlite or Santoprene
Price: $190

2.   Montana Knife Company Blackfoot 2.0

The Blackfoot 2.0 is a lightweight, American-made fixed-blade knife built for hunters who demand precision and strength. With a blade made from 52100 high-carbon ball-bearing steel, it delivers incredible toughness and sharpness. Its ergonomic G10 handle provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. Ideal for hunters looking for a lightweight, versatile knife for backcountry hunting.

Blade Material: 52100 High-Carbon Steel
Blade Length: 3.5 inches
Handle Material: G10
Price: $300

3.   GiantMouse ACE Jutland Liner Lock Knife

The GiantMouse ACE Jutland is a folding knife that draws inspiration from the popular limited edition GM8. Built with high-performance Elmax steel, the blade offers excellent edge retention and resistance to wear. The vibrant orange G10 handle provides superior grip and enhanced visibility, ensuring you won't misplace it in the field. Its liner lock mechanism allows for easy one-handed operation, making it a versatile and portable option for hunters. Perfect for those who want a compact folding knife for field dressing and general outdoor use.

Blade Material: Elmax Steel
Blade Length: 3.4 inches
Handle Material: Orange G10
Price: $195

4.   Helle “Fjellkniven” 

The Helle Fjellkniven is a traditional hunting knife handmade in Norway, combining beauty and functionality. Its triple-laminated stainless-steel blade is razor-sharp and built to hold an edge through extended use. The curly birch handle is ergonomically shaped and polished, offering a comfortable and natural grip. This is a great knife for those who appreciate a handcrafted, traditional design with exceptional performance. And it’s something you’ll want to keep for a lifetime.

Blade Material: Triple-Laminated Stainless Steel
Blade Length: 3.9 inches
Handle Material: Curly Birch
Price: $135

5.   Buck 662 Alpha Scout Pro

Definitely not the Buck knives of old, The Alpha Scout Pro is a modern classic — the perfect knife for detailed work on big-game or to process whitetail or small-game. The S35VN steel will hold an edge throughout the process without needing to resharpen. A high-panel flat grind adds strength to the blade that allows you to cut with confidence. Jimping on the top of the blade gives you the ultimate control when using different grips on the knife for detailed work. There are larger versions available, but this smaller one is easy to carry and just right for the job.

Blade Material: S35VN stainless steel, satin finish, drop point blade with jimping
Blade Length: 2.87 inches
Handle Material: Textured Walnut Dymalux
Price: $190

So, whether you’re looking for a modern, lightweight backcountry blade or a beautiful hand-crafted knife worthy of passing down to the next generation, these are all solid options. Invest in quality, and your hunting knife will serve you well for years to come – bringing you many more stories to tell.

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