Latest from Advnture in Camping-tools

Need a helping hand at camp? The "sleek" Leatherman Wingman is your go-to multitool for jobs and fixes, and it's only $55 at Amazon right now

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 10:05:26 +0000

There's always something around the campsite that needs tightened, tweaked, opened or secured and for those jobs, nothing beats a Leatherman multi-tool. These high quality tools aren't cheap, but we've spotted some rare deals on them recently.

Right now, you can pick up the sleek Leatherman Wingman multi-tool for just $55.96 at Amazon. That's a rare savings of 20% off the list price for this superb piece of kit that campers say has a "perfect design."

This lightweight, stainless steel tool is easy to keep in your backpack for those last-minute jobs and durable against rusting.

In addition to an outside-accessible, one-hand opening blade, it boasts pliers, wire cutters, scissors, screwdrivers, a can opener and a bottle opener. Basically, it can do anything you need it to, whenever you need it to.

We suggest you act fast as these discounts don't usually last long, but if you're still shopping, we've spotted good deals in recent days on both the Leatherman Wave+ and the Leatherman Rebar.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on the Leatherman Wingman multi-tool mear you.

Leatherman Wingman multi-tool: ~~$69.95~~ $55.96 at Amazon
Save $15 classic, designed and assembled with premium materials; The Wingman is your go-to tool for projects around the house, on the job or at the campsite.View Deal

Open all the tools with one hand, even the ones that aren't accessible from the outside. With a locking blade, you can cut with confidence.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on the Leatherman Wingman multi-tool where you are:

Hurry! The pocket-sized Leatherman Rev multi-tool is "the best one yet" and it's a rare 20% off at Amazon right now

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 11:25:52 +0000

Leatherman invented the multi-tool and needless to say, the Portland-based brand knows its tools are the best, which is why you seldom see them at a discount. Right now, however, you can snag the pocket-sized Leatherman Rev for just $39.96 at Amazon.

That's a healthy 20% off the regular list price for this indispensable multi-tool, which reviewers say is the "best one yet" from the brand and keeps a toolbox full of functionality at your fingertips.

Whether you're cracking open a cold one at the campsite or tinkering under the hood of your truck, the Rev has you covered, with 14 tools including an outside accessible 420HC blade.

Weighing just 5.8oz and less than four inches long when closed, the handy Rev boasts multiple pliers and screwdrivers, a file, bottle opener, can opener and more.

Not in the US? Scroll to the bottom of this article to find the best deals on the Leatherman Rev near you.

Leatherman Rev: ~~$49.82~~ $39.96 at Amazon
Save $10 A small but versatile and high-functional multitool with the essentials and more; Put it to the test under the hood, at the campground or around the house.View Deal

This slim and ultra-portable tool is perfect for those new to multi-tools and makes a great gift for anyone outdoorsy in your life. Not sure if it's the right tool for you? Check out Leatherman's guide to the best multi-tools for hikers, campers, trail runners and climbers.

If you're not in the US, you can look below for today's best deals on the Leatherman Rev where you are:

The "perfect EDC" Leatherman Skeletool can be clipped right onto your climbing harness, and it's under $90 right now on Amazon

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Fri, 09 May 2025 09:28:29 +0000

Leatherman is the LeBron James of multi-tools, and the Portland brand knows its tools are the best, which is why you don't often see them at a discount. Right now, however, you can snag the minimalist Leatherman Skeletool CX for just $89.95 at Amazon.

That's a respectable 17% off the regular list price for this multi-tool, which reviewers call the "perfect EDC" tool.

When we asked Leatherman which of its tools is best for different outdoor activities, this was the one recommended for climbers, who have to contend with a lot of gear, often in perilous situations. From trimming webbing and prying open stubborn carabiners to tightening bolts, you’ll find all sorts of uses for the Skeletool, which fittingly looks a little bit like a carabiner and the brand is popular with both climbers and cyclists.

The Skeletool is lightweight at just five ounces and has just seven tools, but its design means you can clip it to your harness, and most importantly, you can operate it with one hand if you need it halfway through a pitch.

This deal applies to the Black/Silver colorway and we recommend you don't hang around as this discount is unlikely to linger.

Not in the US? Scroll to the bottom of this article to find the best deals on the Leatherman Skeletool near you.

Leatherman Skeletool CX: ~~$108.97~~ $89.95 at Amazon
Save $19 A great pick for anyone new to multi-tools, the Skeletool CX is a pocketknife with extra capabilities; Includes a sharp straight-edged blade, pliers, bit driver, wire cutters and a bottle opener.View Deal

This slim and ultra-portable tool is perfect for those new to multi-tools and built for everyday carry, boasting needlenose pliers, regular pliers, wire cutters, hard-wire cutters, a straight-edge blade, bottle opener and a large bit driver.

If you're not in the US, you can look below for today's best deals on the Leatherman Skeletool where you are:

We asked Leatherman for their top multitool recommendations for hikers, trail runners, climbers and campers – here’s what they said

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Sun, 23 Mar 2025 09:00:00 +0000

There’s outdoor kit that you can buy from lots of different brands without a clear winner on the performance or quality front. And then there are multitools, where one brand reigns supreme: Leatherman.

The Portland-based brand did, after all, invent the very first pliers-based multitool back in the 1970s. The story goes that founder Tim Leatherman started to dream up the idea of a portable pair of pliers that could do multiple jobs during a road trip across Europe in 1975 where he kept facing odd jobs from dodgy plumping to engine troubles.

It took another eight years for Leatherman’s first prototype to get approved, but since Cabela’s placed its first order for 500 Leatherman PSTs in 1983, the brand has never looked back.

These days, outdoor enthusiasts, myself included, wouldn’t consider heading out into the backcountry – or anywhere else for that matter – without a multitool. Don't believe me? Check out all of these great uses for a multitool. They weigh just a few ounces, fit in any pocket and are super handy for fixing zippers, hammering pegs, trimming straps, opening cans, removing pots, the list goes on and on.

These days, outdoor enthusiasts wouldn’t consider heading out into the backcountry – or anywhere else for that matter – without a multitool. (Image credit: Getty)

Whether your adventures involve multi-day treks, days on belay or trail running shoes, it’s hardly a case of whether you need a Leatherman so much as which Leatherman you need. Today, Leatherman has dozens of models and styles ranging from under $50 to over $200, all still made in Portland, and it’s hard to know which one is best. So we reached out to the brand for some suggestions on the best Leatherman multitools for each of the adventures we love. Here’s what they said:

For hiking: Leatherman Bond

For those of you whose outdoor pursuits look like loading up your daypack for a few hours – or even a full day – on the trail, you most likely want a good all-rounder that’s light but can get most jobs done. Though with just 14 functions, the Leatherman Bond is more minimalist than many other models, it’s still got more uses than you’d probably ever need on a day hike, and can handle those basic tasks like trimming straps and bandages, removing splinters and opening packages.

If you’re just planning on a day hike, you may not be prepared for a night on the trail, but if things go wrong, with the Bond you have a small blade to make some kindling so long as you’ve carried a firestarter. My Bond lives in my daypack so it’s with me on every hike and at just four inches long it can easily fit in your pocket, too.

The Bond is simple, but mighty (Image credit: Future)

For backpacking: Leatherman Signal

If your hiking adventures often take place over several days, with nights spent in the wild, you might want a more comprehensively featured multitool that still won’t weigh you down, and for you, the brand suggests the Leatherman Signal.

The Signal packs all the features of the Bond like pliers and a bottle opener, but some really key tools for setting up camp and staying safe overnight, namely a firestarter, a hammer to help you anchor tent pegs, a one-handed blade and even an emergency whistle.

This tool is better equipped than the Bond for longer adventures with 19 functions but barely weighs an ounce more.

For car camping: Leatherman ARC

If camping for you involves an air mattress and a Yeti cooler, you probably want a deluxe Leatherman like the beefy Leatherman ARC. This top-of-the-range model is the very first multitool to use a MagnaCut steel blade which is stronger, more corrosion-resistant, sharper, and boasts all the premium features like large and small bit drivers for tinkering with all your toys at camp.

Best of all, most of the tools on the ARC can be released with one hand while you flip the burgers with the other. They’ll lock into place with a satisfying click and all your friends will be suitably impressed.

At $250 and weighing about the same as a can of soda, this is one of the brand’s weightiest tool, but the obvious choice for gear lovers who get to camp via 4WD.

For trail running: Leatherman Micra

If you prefer trail running shoes to hiking boots and hydration packs to day packs, every ounce matters and carrying a multitool might not even have occurred to you. But what if you get wet feet and have a blister emergency hours from anywhere in the backcountry?

Just for you champions of the ultralight, there’s the Leatherman Micra which weighs less than two ounces and is the size of a keychain. Despite its diminutive appearance, the Micra still packs scissors, a knife, tweezers and multiple screwdrivers, plus it can be attached to the outside of your running vest via a split ring loop.

Leatherman launched the first multitool back in 1983 (Image credit: Leatherman)

For climbing: Leatherman Skeletool

Besides camping, no other activity on this list requires as much gear as rock climbing and the more gear you have, the more opportunities there are for things to go wrong. From trimming webbing and prying open stubborn carabiners to tightening bolts, you’ll find all sorts of uses for the awesome Leatherman Skeletool, which fittingly looks a little bit like a carabiner and the brand tells us is popular with both climbers and cyclists.

The Skeletool is lightweight at just five ounces and minimalist with just seven tools including a knife, pliers and wire cutters, but its design means you can clip it to your harness, and most importantly, you can operate it with one hand if you need it halfway through a pitch.

If the traditional pliers design of a Leatherman isn't what you're after, check out our recent review of the Tactica M.020, a this credit-card sized multitool that we think is the single most useful bit of camping kit you can fit in your pocket

Gerber just upgraded its iconic LST pocket knife – it's now made in the US and still under $40

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 11:15:20 +0000

From prepping camping meals to preparing kindling for your campfire, every good overnight in the wild needs a solid blade, and US brand Gerber has just dopped an upgrade on one of its most iconic pocket knives.

The LST Ultra is the next evolution in a knife series that has its roots all the way back in 1981. When the original LST (standing for Light, Smooth, Tough) was released 44 years ago, its light and easy-to-use design quickly reshaped the pocket knife industry. That original design is credited as the father of the Everyday Carry movement thanks to its molded glass-filled nylon handle, light weight and strong blade.

But that was then. Now, the Portland-based brand has given the LST a makeover with the LST Ultra. At 1.4 ounces, it's more or less the same weight as the original, which is still available albeit with some modernizations over the years. That makes it lighter than almost every camping knife we've tested, barring the Fällkniven LTC, which is important if you're looking for something that comes along on every hike.

The biggest news is that the LST Ultra is made entirely in the US, and the blade has been improved. Instead of the 440A stainless steel used in the LST, which is typically associated with more budget-friendly blades, the LST Ultra uses higher-carbon 420HC stainless steel, which is stronger and more corrosion-resistant, and hopefully means this is a buy-once product.

Like the LST, it's equipped with lanyard hold and pocket clip so you'll be spoiled for choice as to how you want to carry it (Image credit: Gerber)

The new blade is also smoother, as it's free of the nail nicks you'll find in previous models, which does mean it may be a little harder to open, but it also makes it easier to clean and keep clean.

The LST Ultra has the same glass-filled nylon handle that made its forefather so popular, but it's been updated to be more ergonomic with better grip for those fiddly jobs and wet days. Like the LST, it's equipped with lanyard hold and pocket clip so you'll be spoiled for choice as to how you can carry it.

It's pricier than the LST and the Ultralight LST, but at under $40 it's still a good contender for one of the best budget camping knives of the year. The LST Ultra is available now in black for $39.95 at Gerber with multiple other colorways coming soon.

Tactica M.020: this credit-card sized multitool is the single most useful bit of camping kit you can fit in your pocket

Pat Kinsella — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:00:00 +0000

Specifications

Material: 420C stainless steel body + Ferrocerium rod

Color: Orange / Silver / Black

Weight: 35g / 1.2oz

Dimensions: 92 x 56 x 3mm / 3.6 x 2.2 x 0.1in

Number of functions: 11

An Australian brand specializing in multitools and tactical implements with a lightweight twist, Tactica was formed in 2017 after a highly successful Kickstarter campaign led to the launch of their first product: a credit card–sized multitool that fits in your wallet and weighs about the same as a couple of coins. This concept kept evolving and the brand started exploring how to make the best multitools for camping, hiking and other outdoor adventures. The range is now extensive, with tools for everyone from bikepackers to EDC enthusiasts, plus camping knives and compact cutting devices for all kinds of outdoor escapades.

The M.020 is the second iteration of Tactica’s popular camping multitool. On screen it looked really impressive: carefully crafted and intelligently designed, with 11 separate applications. I obviously knew it would be small and light – that’s literally the USP of this piece of kit – but I was still a little surprised at just how little it weighed when I first unboxed it. I’m accustomed to messing around with chunky tools like Leathermans and Victorinox Swiss Army knives – could something so svelte and affordable as the Tactica M.020 really prove anywhere near as useful as those ingenious (but bulky) devices? I’ve been busy testing in the field (and campsite and by the fire and trailside) to find out how good it really is.

The Tactica M.020 has many uses and can fit in the palm of your hand (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

Design and construction

Made of 420C stainless steel with a PVD coating, the Tactica M.020 is available in three colors (the orange is the smartest choice, since it makes the little tool much easier to find, but the black and the silver versions look pretty). It fits in the palm of your hand and slides easily into most wallets. Tipping the scales at 35g (1.2oz), there are cookies that weigh considerably more than this tiny tool kit. Measuring about the same as a credit card, it slides right into a wallet, making it good piece of everyday carry kit, but if you’re not someone who takes their wallet backpacking or camping, then the M.020 also fits easily into the pocket of hiking pants, not to mention fleece jackets and waterproof shells (the clever design means there are no exposed sharp edges that could cause damage to such garments) and of course backpacks.

Tactica M.020 with the ferro firestarter rod (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

Applications

So, what can the Tactica M.020 actually do? There are 11 named uses for this multitool, but since I started carrying it around I’ve also discovered plenty of other ways that it can come in very handy, including as a tire lever and a carrot peeler (see below). The following are the applications it was actually designed for:

The most obvious feature is the ferro rod firestarter; the rod is a separate element to the main tool, but fits securely to the top of the M.020 with a rubber pinch handle. You strike this rod along the serrated blade edge that runs along one side of the largest gap in the main tool, to create sparks for lighting tinder and starting fires (or, conceivably, for igniting a gas camping stove if the piezo ignition has stopped working). This serrated blade can also be useful for other tasks, from peeling carrots to cutting stubborn ropes and plastic cables if the dedicated rope cutter, found in the shape of a straight bladed hook further around the same edge of the tool, needs some help.

Tactica M.020 with the rope cutter being used (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

Next to the ferro rod, with their pointy edges cleverly covered up by the rod’s rubber handle, are a pry bar and a can opener, and right beside the latter is a flat head screwdriver. On the inside of the pry bar is a blunt-edge hook, which is designed to operate as a tent peg puller (but could also be used to hook and pull all sorts of things).

Along the two straight edges of the tool is a pair of rulers, with measurement increments in metric (mm and cm) on one side, and imperial (inches) on the other. The two small eyelets that feature in the middle of the tool are intended for use as a rope tensioner (if you’re missing one on a crucial tent guy rope, for example). At the wider end of the tool is a large gap with a bottle opener, and around the edge of this are markings and eyelets that enable you to use the M.020 as a sundial (employing a straight twig or the ferro rod as a gnomon).

(Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

In the field

In all honesty, it’s hard for this style of tool to compete with a Leatherman or a Swiss army knife in terms of multifunctionality, but I have been seriously impressed by how smart the design of the Tactica M.020 is, and how genuinely useful it is for myriad tasks when you’re out on the trails and setting up camp (not to mention going about your everyday life). For its weight, size and price, it is absolutely brilliant.

Inevitably, some elements and applications will be employed far more often than others, but these will vary from user to user, depending on what kind of camping and outdoor adventuring you do. For many of us, the bottle-opener might see the most action, but even if you primarily carry it for that purpose, there will be times that other features – such as the flathead screwdriver, rulers, pry bar, serrated blade and rope-cutter – will be an absolute god-send.

The Tactica M.020 is great for removing stubborn tent pegs (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

The ferro rod fire starter might feel like a novelty garnish, but these things really work (with a little know-how, some dry tinder and a bit of patience). The piezo ignition on my otherwise brilliant Jetboil Flash no longer works, and if I forget to take a lighter with me, then this tool will allow me to fire it up. Likewise the sundial – which might appear gimmicky at first, but could prove to be a literal lifesaver in certain circumstances (again, you need a little bit of bush knowledge to make this work).

The Tactica M.020 easily fits in a wallet (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

I’m a bit mystified about the centre hole, which is exactly sized to accommodate the ferro rod – there are probably numerous ways this could prove useful, I just need to figure them out. Such is the nature of these things that, as soon as you start playing around with them, not only do you chance upon additional applications that the tool can be used for (bonus!), but also find yourself thinking of extra features that could, perhaps, have been included in the design. I think the rope-tensioning holes are too big, for example, but I also reckon they could have been shaped as two different-sized bolt eyelets – likewise the spaces either side of the bottle opener – so the M.020 could then be used as a spanner set too. Also, could one end of the ferro rod feature a Phillips-head screwdriver (made with strengthened tip)? Maybe the reverse face of the tool could be mirrored, for emergency signalling and as an extra fire-starting option… Tactica may well have thought of these ideas and discounted it for some good reason – perhaps around keeping the cost down – but it’s fun to think up extra possibilities for future versions.

This pocket knife costs a whopping $425 – and now it's been recalled for safety reasons

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 13:16:25 +0000

A premium pocket knife brand has launched a recall of two high-end folding knives due to a design flaw that may cause injury to campers and other users.

According to an alert by the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, the Michigan-based company GiantMouse Knives has issued a recall of two of its knives after users reported the flaw. The official recall states that the locking mechanism on the knives can fail during use, meaning the user can be injured.

This recall involves two GiantMouse knives: GM12, listed at $385, and the GMP12, $425, both button-lock folding knives with milled scales of titanium or bronze. Each knife is numbered on the inside of the back spacer. The brand logo and country of origin are etched on the inside of one of the knife handle scales.

The company has received eight reports of the lock failing during use, but no injuries have been reported. Approximately 600 of these products have been recalled.

A knife is a must-have for anyone who spends time in the outdoors, but it's vital to have one that you can operate safely. (Image credit: Getty)

What should I do if I own one of these knives?

If you believe you own either of these products, you should immediately stop using it and contact GiantMouse for a full refund or for a free repair, including shipping, after the original knife has been returned to the firm. You will not be asked for proof of purchase and will receive a pre-paid shipping label to return the recalled knife.

According to the brand's website, GiantMouse was cooked up in 2015 by Danish designers and knifemakers Jens Ansø and Jesper Voxnaes, along with their American entrepreneur friend Jim Wirth. Its knives are manufactured in Italy and prices start at $145.

A knife is a must-have for anyone who spends time in the outdoors, but it's vital to have one that you trust. If you're in the market for a new or replacement blade for whittling wood, chopping food or any other outdoor endeavors, we've tested and rated our favorite camping knives that run the gamut of prices and can recommend the Zero Tolerance 0235 for a premium quality steel cutter.

Read our article on how to choose a camping knife before taking the plunge.

Best camping stoves: backpacking and double-burner stoves

This Leatherman multi-tool is the perfect sidekick for hikers and there are still a few days left to save 20% in REI's Christmas sale

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 08:45:00 +0000

Still looking for last-minute Christmas gifts? Right now, you can pick up the highly-rated Leatherman Sidekick multi-tool for just $55.89 at REI. That's a healthy savings of nearly 20% off the list price for this reliable piece of kit that gets an average 4.4 star rating from hikers and campers.

As I've written before, I never leave the house without my Leatherman and this pocket-sized version is extremely handy. The stainless-steel blades are accessible from the outside and can be opened easily with one hand while you're stabilizing your camping pot with the other. The rounded handles offer a comfortable grip.

It's got loads of uses, from pliers with spring-action jaws to medium, small and Phillips screwdrivers for tinkering with gear. There bottle and can openers for nights around the campfire and even a one-inch. ruler. Once you get your hands on it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.

This deal applies to the stainless steel model, and the sale ends on December 31 so don't sleep on this one.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools.

Leatherman Sidekick multi-tool: ~~$69.95~~ $55.89 at REI
Save $14 The handy, pocket-size Leatherman Sidekick multi-tool has a wide range of the tools you need to get your project done, at a fraction of the cost of other tools, and it's even cheaper if you buy it before New Year.View Deal

Compact, lightweight and made for just about any job, the Sidekick also comes with a nylon carrying sheath to keep it protected in transite.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools where you are:

The best multitools: for camping, hiking and other outdoor adventures

The "perfect" Leatherman Rebar multi-tool has 17 functions gets the job done right every time – grab yours for a rare 20% off at Amazon

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 11:44:58 +0000

A multi-tool is an essential piece of kit for anyone who loves going hiking or camping and it makes the perfect gift for anyone outdoorsy in your life. While we don't often see discounts on high-quality ones from Leatherman, the Portland-based brand has made some exceptions with Father's Day approaching.

Right now, you can pick up the excellent Leatherman Rebar multi-tool for just $71.96 at Amazon. That's a rare savings of 20% off the list price for this trustworthy piece of kit that campers call "perfect," saying it gets the job done right every time.

There's no excuse for ever setting foot outdoors without this piece of kit, which boasts all-locking tools like knives, pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, an electrical crimper, a wire stripper, bottle and can openers, a file, a saw and even a ruler. Honestly, you'll find yourself using it around the house as much as you do out in the wild.

This deal applies to the Black/Tan model, but you'll also find good savings on other colors. If this is the right deal for you, we suggest you act fast as these discounts don't usually last long, but if you're still shopping, we've spotted good deals in recent days on both the Leatherman Wave+ and the Leatherman Rev.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools.

Leatherman Rebar multi-tool: ~~$89.95~~ $71.96 at Amazon
Save $19 Inspired by Tim Leatherman's original PST, the Rebar features all-locking tools, 100% stainless steel construction and removable wire/hard-wire cutters.View Deal

Compact, lightweight and made for just about any job around the campsite, house or job site, your Rebar is always within reach and ready to go

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools where you are:

Leatherman's bestselling multi-tool has 18 functions you can operate single-handedly, and Amazon just slashed its price by 20%

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 12:23:48 +0000

Backcountry adventures and Leatherman multi-tools go hand-in-hand, but we rarely see generous discounts on these high-quality tools. Just in time for Father's Day, however, you can pick up the awesome Leatherman Wave+ for just $95.96 at Amazon. That's a healthy savings of 20% off this bestselling tool that hikers and campers give a near-perfect 4.8 stars.

My Leatherman is always tucked away in my backpack, whether I'm day hiking or backpacking, and more often than not, I'll find a use for it on the trail. And let's not forget that California hiker last year who spent 10 days missing in the wild with only a Leatherman to keep him safe. These tools can be handy to open a cold one at the end of a long day, but they can also save your life.

If you're looking for a multi-tool with tons of functionality, the Leatherman Wave has 18 different functions, and you can operate it with one hand while steadying your camping pot with the other. In addition to upgraded premium replaceable wire cutters, it boasts needle-nose and regular pliers, an electrical crimper, 420HC knife, serrated knife and saw.

This deal applies to both black and stainless steel models, and we recommend you jump if you're interested, because Leatherman deals don't usually hang around for long.

Not in the US? Scroll to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on multi-tools where you are.

Leatherman Wave+ multi-tool: ~~$119.95~~ $95.96 at Amazon
Save $24 A best-selling multi-tool that's been upgraded with premium replaceable wire cutters, the Leatherman Wave+ multi-tool features 18 outside-accessible tools that can be operated with a single hand.View Deal

Of course, it's also got spring-action scissors, a can and bottle opener file, medium screwdriver and more, and many of these tools are outside-accessible, allowing you to access them when the multitool is folded and closed.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools near you:

You can't buy this "frustration-free" multi-tool on Leatherman's website anymore – but at Amazon, it's at its lowest price ever for Cyber Monday

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Mon, 02 Dec 2024 10:04:00 +0000

This deal has now ended, but you'll be the first to know when we spot more Leatherman deals.

Black Friday already brought us one sensational Leatherman deal, but now Cyber Monday has arrived and with it comes another multi-tool from the legendary Oregon company at a great price. Right now, you can pick up the Leatherman Free K2 multi-tool for just $62.96 at Amazon. That's a sizzling 30% off the regular list price for this tool, which Leatherman customers give an average 4.5 star rating.

With a 3.3-inch blade and seven additional tools, including a pry tool and Phillips screwdriver, the entry-level K2 provides plenty of services for "frustration-free" operation. Campers love how strong and user-friendly it is, while Leatherman notes that the industry-first magnetic locking system allows smooth, quick access, so you can work with speed and confidence for years.

Each tool is housed on the outside of an ergonomically refined aluminum body for easy access, so you’re never left fumbling in a pinch. You can't buy the Free K2 multi-tool on Leatherman's website anymore, but Amazon still has stocks in Gray, Navy, Evergreen and Silver colorways.

Cyber Monday will be over before you know it, so don't snooze on this deal, which makes an excellent Christmas gift for anyone outdoorsy in your life. We're keeping you updated on all the best Black Friday and Cyber Monday camping deals if you're searching for multi-tools, sleepings bags, tents and more.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools where you are.

Leatherman Free K2: ~~$89.95~~ $62.96 at Amazon
Save $27 An ideal pick for anyone new to multi-tools, the Free K2 is a folding pocketknife with extra capabilities; Includes a pry tool, bottle opener, screwdrivers and package opener.View Deal

Every feature (except the plier head) locks into place, so you can use the tools safely and effectively.

Not in the US? Here are today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools where you are:

More great Black Friday deals

The best multi-tools: tested by experts

This "exceptional" Leatherman multi-tool opens with the push of a thumb and it's 30% off for Black Friday – the cheapest we've ever seen it

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Mon, 25 Nov 2024 13:30:57 +0000

Going camping or hiking in the backcountry without a multi-tool isn't a risk we'd like to take, and thanks to Black Friday discounts, you can arm yourself for the wild without breaking the bank. Right now, you can pick up the Leatherman Free P4 multi-tool for just $104.96 at Amazon. That's a rare and generous savings of 30% off the list price for this piece of kit that campers call "exceptional," and the cheapest we've ever seen it.

I've owned my Leatherman for years and whether I'm going on a day hike or backpacking trip, it's always tucked away in my backpack and if you think it's overkill, earlier this year, we reported on a California hiker who spent 10 days missing in the wild with only a Leatherman to keep him safe.

Leatherman Free P4 multi-tool: ~~$149.95~~ $104.99 at Amazon
Save $45 Introducing the P-Series, Leatherman's most advanced multipurpose plier experience to date. A brand-new platform, magnetic closing and outside-accessible tools.View Deal

The Free P4 has 21 tools including scissors, saw and Leatherman's most advanced multipurpose plier to date. It boasts magnetic closing for smooth, quick access to tools. Each tool opens with a push of the thumb, so you can kiss goodbye to broken fingernails if you need to make a DIY repair in the field, trim gauze or just open a bottle of wine.

Needless to say, this tool also makes an excellent gift for anyone outdoorsy in your life. We're keeping you up-to-date on all the best Black Friday camping deals this week where you'll find more great savings on tents, stoves, sleeping bags and more.

The premium nylon sheath keeps your multi-tool within reach. Crafted for durability and quick access, it ensures your tools are protected and ready for immediate use

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on the Leatherman Free P4 multi-tool where you are:

More great Black Friday deals

The best multitools: for camping, hiking and other outdoor adventures

I never enter the backcountry without my Leatherman multi-tool and it's 20% off right now ahead of Black Friday

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 10:31:27 +0000

Black Friday may still be weeks away, but there are some great deals to be found already on camping and hiking gear. Right now, you can pick up the bestselling Leatherman Wave+ multitool for just $95.96 at Amazon. That's a healthy savings of 20% off the regular list price for this lightweight multi-tool that lets you easily handle any task.

A multi-tool is an essential for anyone who likes adventures in the wild. I never leave home without mine tucked into my backpack and earlier this year, I reported on a California hiker who survived for 10 days lost in the backcountry with only a Leatherman.

The Wave+ gives you tons of options with 18 tools including replaceable, durable wire cutters which double as pliers for removing a hot pot from the camping stove, a saw to process kindling for the fire and easy-to-use spring-action scissors to cut dressings to size if you take a tumble on the trail. The whole package weighs just 8.5 ounces and can easily fit in your pocket.

This deal applies to both the black and stainless steel colorways, and this tool makes an excellent stocking stuffer if you're taking care of some early Christmas shopping.

Not in the US? Scroll down to the bottom of this article for today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools where you are.

Leatherman Wave+ multi-tool: ~~$119.95~~ $95.96 at Amazon
Save $25 An international best-seller, the Wave+ has all the essential tools of the original with the addition of replaceable, durable wire cutters. All 18 tools can be opened and locked quickly, conveniently to tackle any task. Many of these tools are outside-accessible, so you can use them when the multi-tool is folded and closed. View Deal

The advantages of a multitool are that they give you a portable, compact and highly functional unit that’s always at the ready, making them popular with back and bike variety packers.

If you're not in the US, here are today's best deals on Leatherman multi-tools where you are:

This multitool looks so cool you can wear it as a pendant

Dave Golder — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:03:16 +0000

Hiking and camping aren’t pursuits that you’d normally do sporting a diamond necklace… but this new diamond-shaped multitool is so stylish you can actually wear it as a pendant. And for once you won’t be searching through multiple pockets trying to remember which one you stashed it in.

Welcome to the X-Edge Flounder, a useful little multitool with 13 different functions… well, 14 if you include being a talking point if you decide to wear it as a pendant. “Yes, it’s an EDC… I just choose to carry it round my neck.”

So many tools packed into a dinky little kite-shaped hub (Image credit: X-Edge)

The Flounder 2.0 comes to us from X-Edge, an Atlanta-based team specializing in titanium EDC products, such as the original Flounder , a keychain multitool which launched on Kickstarter last fall. The Flounder 2.0, which is also launching on Kickstarter, packs even more functionality into a even smaller package.

The new Flounder. made from GR5 titanium, weighs just 1.16oz / 33g, is 62.4mm / 2.45in in height and has over twice as many functions as its predecessor.

They are:

• A firestarter
• Bit driver & magnetic bit holder
• Everlasting pen
• Rope cutter
• Knife sharpener
• Bottle opener
• Flat head screwdriver
• Pry bar
• Box opener
• Saw
• Nail puller
• File

It also boasts 2 tritium slots, designed to hold tritium vials of luminous liquid, basically giving the multitool two little glow-in-the-dark stripes, allowing you to easily locate it during night time activities. You can even choose what color you want.

The pricing rewards tier is extensive and arcane but early birds can pick up the Flounder 2.0 for as little as $57, while (we think) the normal price will be $89.

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The best multitools 2026: for camping, hiking and other outdoor adventures

The makers of Swiss Army Knife bring a Finnish vibe to a seriously stylish new multitool

Dave Golder — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 11:46:32 +0000

Multitools are usually fairly utilitarian pieces of kit, but the new limited edition Victorinox Farmer x Alox Damast looks to be a cut above the rest.

And if you like the look of it, you’d better snap one up fast: only 7,000 will go on sale.

It’s the latest model in the Alox series from the makers of the original Swiss Army Knif, all of which feature handle covers made from a distinctive stamped and polished aluminum. It’s pretty much a deluxe version of the lightweight Victorinox Alox Bantam, but adding several tools and upgrading the blade to a Damasteel one, featuring one of that brand’s many patterns.

In this case the pattern is one called Hakkapella, inspired by the Finnish light cavalrymen known as Hakkapeliitta, who fought in the 30 Years Wars in Europe (1618 to 1648). So you could call the Victorinox Farmer x Alox Damast a Finnish Army Knife.

Victorinox has used Damasteel blades with the Hakkapella patten in a few products in the past, but this collaboration really shows off the swirly motif to great effect.

The main Damasteel blade is created from 115 layers for improved toughness, according to the brand.

The Alox Damast boasts 10 tools in total including:

A large blade
A can opener
Two screwdrivers (3mm and 7mm flathead drivers)
A bottle opener
A wire stripper
A reamer
Scissors
A wood saw
A key ring

The Victorinox Farmer x Alox Damast special edition is 3.7in / 9.4cm in length and weighs 3.8oz / 108g .

Each of the 7,000 knives is numbered and costs $275.

The best multitools 2026: for camping, hiking and other outdoor adventures
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5 reasons you need a camping knife: from mealtime to the campfire

Alex Foxfield — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

From essential applications like preparing food and processing firewood, to less obvious but equally rewarding uses, like whittling wood into lovely mementos of a successful camping trip, there are several reasons you need a camping knife. These small, compact, foldable blades come in handy time and time again in the backcountry, covering many bases from enjoyment to survival.

Yes, survival! There are quite a few accounts of people using camping knives to fend off or even kill attacking predators. One example is the incredible true story of Gene Moe, a hunter who survived a brown bear attack in Alaska by stabbing the beast under its jaw bone.

Of course, this is an extreme example – the most exciting thing you’re likely to butcher with your camping knife is the evening meal. However, whether you’re packing the tent and venturing into the wild on a solo backpacking mission or you’re taking the kids to discover a new national park, your camping knife will have you covered for multiple scenarios.

Meet the expert

What is a camping knife?

A camping knife is usually a foldable, lightweight pocket knife
Camping knives are legal as everyday carry in most countries
They usually feature high quality stainless steel blades

Splitting wood with a camping knife (Image credit: Getty Images)

A camping knife is usually a folding pocket knife with a quality steel blade that makes it ideal for all kinds of tasks. The portability of camping knife makes it a real winner with lovers of the outdoors. It can be stowed in the pocket of your hiking pants or jacket just like a multitool. A standard camping knife will also be legal as everyday carry in most countries, which makes them preferable to a Crocodile Dundee style blade, which we wager you’d have trouble getting through security at LAX.

What sets the best camping knives apart from the rest is the quality of their steel alloy blades, which you’ll need if you want it to perform tasks like whittling. Of course, if used for such endevors, every now and again you’ll need to sharpen your camping knife with a whetting stone or a honing rod. They’re usually nicely ergonomic and feature grippy handles that make processing items a breeze.

Here are our 5 main reasons you need a camping knife for your adventures this year.

1) to embrace your inner Chef Ramsey

From slicing veg and breaking eggs to gutting fish, a camping knife is useful during food prep

You cannot make an omelette without breaking eggs (Image credit: Getty Images)

Now, when I say embrace your inner Chef Ramsey, I don’t mean spend the evening swearing at everyone at the campsite for not living up to your standards. What I mean is that, with a decent camping knife, you can really go for it in your outdoor kitchen.

Cooking outdoors can be the highlight of any camping trip. You might have the fanciest double-burner stove in California and more camping utensils than you can shake a whisk at, but if you don’t have a quality blade, you’re not going to be able to prepare your al fresco feast with quite the same panache. From slicing veg and breaking eggs to gutting fish, as sharp blade that sits beautifully in the hand is easily preferable to lesser tools.

2) for a spot of whittling

Whittling is using a knife to shape wood into useful or decorative objects
A camping knife allows you to practise whittling on your trips

Humans have been whittling, shaping wood into useful or decorates forms, for thousands of years (Image credit: Getty Images)

Whittling is an incredibly satisfying and rewarding activity that promotes mindfulness too. Humans have been whittling, shaping wood into useful or decorates forms, for thousands of years. A little whittling on your camping trip, along with the ritual of the campfire, is a way to reconnect with the deep past and what it is to be human. A word of warning though, once you’ve sculpted your first wooden spoon, whittling can become a little bit addictive.

You may use your newfound whittling skills and put them to practical use by crafting some kitchen utensils or even your own DIY tent stakes, though it’s more likely you’ll get whittling just for the fun of it. It’s a great skill to teach older children; after all, camping with teenagers can be challenging but not if you can involve them as much as possible. You could carve mementos to remember your trip by or create a mascot for your basecamp and enchant it with magical powers to ward off evil spirits (if you’re feeling particularly sorcerous, of course).

3) to get that campfire going

A camping knife is great for processing kindling, smaller twigs and branches
It can also be used to create a spark with a piece of flint or a char cloth

Get that fire roaring! (Image credit: Getty)

While our early ancestors created useful tools by whittling wood, this innovation had nothing like the impact of when they first started igniting campfires. It’s thought that the ability to cook food had a profound effect on the evolution of our species, enabling us to become the all-conquering force we are today.

When it comes to starting the campfire, a camping knife has many uses. Firstly, you can process small bits of wood for tinder, shave dry scraps off for kindling and shape those crucial marshmallow roasting sticks. (It’s just not a proper campfire unless you’re making s’mores!) Another use – and this is really one for the bushcraft show-offs – is to use the blade with a flint or char cloth to create a spark to ignite the fire. Note: matches and lighters are also available.

4) it's your survival buddy

A camping knife can assist you when bushwhacking or creating a shelter
It's a useful addition to a first aid kit too and can be used to cut bandages and dressings

A camping knife can help you craft your own woodland shelter (Image credit: Alex Foxfield)

Speaking of bushcraft show-offs (see image above), a camping knife is useful when it comes to survival in the wild. While it obviously lacks the cutting power of a camping saw or the splitting power of a camping axe or hatchet, a quality knife is still your friend when it comes to bushwhacking your way through the wilderness. Need to erect a makeshift shelter for the night? You can cut stray limbs from the branches you collect in order to shape your creation.

In an emergency situation, it’s a friend to your first aid kit. You can use your knife to cut dressings, cut away clothing and slice open packaging (some blizzard jackets are notoriously difficult to open up in a hurry).

5) it's a weapon in any scary animal encounters

The fast-to-hand nature of a camping knife makes it a good tool in self-defence situations
This should be a last resort, when all other strategies have been exhausted

As a last resort, better to have a knife than not to have a knife (Image credit: Getty Images)

The best way to avoid any scary animal encounters is to respect the local wildlife and give any potentially dangerous beasts a wide berth. You can also minimize the risk of unwanted visitors snooping around for food by properly learning how to store food when camping.

However, the fast-to-hand nature of a foldable camping knife means that you’ll be able to grab it as a last resort in any face off with an animal, just like hunter Gene Moe did. These are situations where standing your ground is the better option than running away.

Notice the phrase last resort in the preceding sentence. Fighting back is always your last option once all other strategies have been exhausted, including making yourself bigger – which the knife will also help you with – and backing away slowly. Animals that you shouldn’t run from are usually apex predators like bears, wolves and mountain lions. If you run, they’ll think you’re prey, their natural predatory insticts will kick in and they’ll chase you, armed with a new dose of adrenaline. All the animals above run much faster than any human.

Felco 601 folding saw review: a compact beast

Pat Kinsella — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 15:24:14 +0000

Meet the reviewer

Felco 601 folding saw: first impressions

Swiss brand Felco are famed for producing excellent bladed tools for use in the kitchen, garden and wider outdoor environment, and the Felco 601 folding saw is one of the very best implements in its armory for camping and general alfresco adventure use.

Specifications

• List price: $27 (US) / £35 (UK)
• Weight: 141g/5oz
• Blade length: 12cm / 4.75in
• Overall length: 30cm / 12in
• Closed length: 18cm / 7in
• Teeth per inch: 8
• Blade: Chrome-coated carbon steel
• Lanyard: None

Despite the ‘Swiss-made’ insignia, Felco products (including this one) are actually constructed in South Korea these days, but that doesn’t appear to have negatively affected the build quality, which remains excellent.

Previously we’ve reviewed the Felco 600 Pruning Saw, a garden weapon that works well in many campsite scenarios, but the 601 – being slightly more compact (albeit only by an inch when folded), a little lighter and having a couple more teeth per inch – is considerably easier to carry and better designed for campsite and adventure-style applications, from cutting firewood to clearing trails. But how does it compare other excellent camping saws on the market? To see, I went out and sawed.

Felco 601 folding saw: design and construction

The handle is ergonomically designed with a thumb groove to fit comfortably in either hand (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

Perfectly proportioned for the itinerant wood cutter, the Felco 601 boasts a super strong but nice and narrow 12cm-long chrome-plated carbon steel blade, which bristles with slightly off-set dual-design fangs, featuring a mini tooth on the inside of each larger one. Designed to do the business of cutting on the pull (back) stroke, this smart blade then glides forward with virtually no effort required.

The Felco 601 doesn’t lock shut in the closed position, but unlike the longer 600, none of the teeth are left showing when it’s retracted into the handle, so there’s little to no chance of it catching and flipping open. It is possible that the opening action will become loose over time, but the single screw can easily be tightened to sort that out. On that note, if the blade were to snap or deteriorate (which it really shouldn’t), you can replace it.

The safety switch automatically engages when you open the saw and the lock can then be released with a simple, single press (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

Like any folding saw worth its weight, the 601 does, of course, lock into place when the blade is extended. The safety switch automatically engages when you open the saw, stopping it from closing on your hand (or anything else). This lock can then be released with a simple, single press from your thumb or finger, and the serrated blade folds entirely back into the handle.

The handle itself – colored bright red, to drive home the Swiss roots and create an association with the famous Swiss penknife, perhaps – is ergonomically designed with a thumb groove to fit comfortably in either hand.

Annoyingly, the 601 doesn’t come with a carry case, holster or lanyard, but there is an eye in the handle for looping a piece of cord or leather (or a separately sourced lanyard) through if you so desire.

Felco 601 folding saw: in the field

The Felco 601 cuts on the backstroke and moves smoothly forward again afterwards (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

Although I’ve subsequently used this folding saw in all kinds of camping and outdoor scenarios, its maiden voyage was during a course checking patrol for a local trail running race that I’m involved in organizing. Bad weather in the lead-up to the event had resulted in branches and whole trees being left strewn all over the trails. The Felco 601 made short work of cutting through them.

In the campsite, it’s an absolute beast. Many people automatically reach for an axe or hatchet to get wood chopped while camping, but often these tools are far less dextrous and effective than a really good saw, which gets the job done much quicker, using less effort and creating a smaller mess.

The cutting edge of the Felco 601 goes through branches several inches thick in a matter of seconds, and this is an excellent tool for everything from bivy making, site clearing and firewood grading to trail maintenance and bushcraft. I did find that some sawdust became congealed in the tiny cavity between the big and little fangs on the offset serrated blade, but you can brush those off (don’t use your bare hand, though – this saw bites).

The blade bristles with slightly off-set dual-design teeth, featuring a mini tooth on the inside of each larger one (Image credit: Pat Kinsella)

As a southpaw with semi-ambidextrous capabilities (I wouldn’t chance operating a chainsaw with my right hand, but I’m happy to risk giving a folding saw a go) I love the fact that lefties and weirdo right-handers can use the Felco 601 equally easily. The handle sits really comfortably in either palm, and the thumb groove is a particularly nice touch. The locking system is effective and easy to use, too.

With a svelte weight of 5oz, and measuring just 7in when folded up, it’s simple to stash the Felco 601 into the pocket of a hiking backpack for use when you’re in camp, whether you need to cut firewood down to size, clear debris from a potential tent pitch or collect branches for bush craft. It can also be used to clear significant obstacles blocking trails. And once you’re back at home, it comes in super handy in the garden too.

How Advnture tests products

5 reasons you need a multitool for your outdoor adventures

Alex Foxfield — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 14:00:15 +0000

It’s clear that designers of outdoor clothing and equipment know there are many reasons you need a multitool when exploring the backcountry. When you stop and think about it, multitools – a single object that gives you multiple functions – are ever-present in the outdoors.

Your backpack strap redistributes the weight of your pack and has an integrated emergency whistle. Your ice axe has a spike for stability, a pick for gripping snow and ice and an adze for cutting and clearing snow. Your compass allows you to tell which direction you’re heading in, but also has a magnifier for enlarging the features on a map and rulers for measuring the distance from A to B. In fact, the ultimate trail gadgets, the smartphones and GPS watches of this world, perform a vast array of tasks that were almost unimaginable mere decades ago. I could go on…

While none of these fit the classic image of a multitool, I’d say they qualify if the definition of ‘a small device that incorporates several tools within a single unit’ is taken at face value. More importantly, they all go to show that carrying less is clearly beneficial for outdoor adventures of all kinds. When travelling fast and light, with only a hiking backpack or hydration pack on our shoulders, us adventurers like to be able to do as much as possible with as little as possible. This is why a 'traditional' multitool is such a handy item.

So, from the humble wooden spork to the most expensive Swiss Army Knife, there are many reasons you need a multitool. In this feature, I’m mainly dealing with the classic multitool – you know, the traditional blade, screwdriver, bottle opener, pliers variety – and give five reasons you need one for your backcountry adventures.

Meet the expert

Today's best deals

What is a multitool?

A multitool is a compact and portable piece of equipment designed to fulfill multiple functions
They usually have fold-out knives, screwdrivers, scissors, pliers, bottles openers and more

A compact tool with multiple functions (Image credit: Getty Images)

At a fundamental level, a multitool is any piece of equipment that has been purposefully designed to perform more than one specific function. The popular image of a multitool is something like the classic Leatherman, a compact, metallic gadget with fold-out knives, screwdrivers, scissors, pliers, bottle openers and the rest. However, these days multitools come in many shapes, including payment card sized units that can slip inside a wallet or minimalist tools that can be clipped to your backpack or a carabiner, all while still providing the various uses of a multitool that we’ve become accustomed to.

The advantages of a multitool are that they give you a portable, compact and highly functional unit that’s always at the ready, which makes them popular with packers of the back and bike variety. In terms of disadvantages, you could argue that any one of a multitool’s individual components isn’t going to do its job quite as well as a dedicated tool. For example, a dedicated camping knife is always going to offer a more ergonomic grip and a finer cutting and slicing action than a blade that’s been crammed into a unit with a dozen other tools.

1) Portability for the trail

Multitools fold into a small and portable package
Bikepackers should look for a specific bike multitool
Wild campers heading into the wilderness will benefit from various tools

A multitool is light and compact, perfect for days on the trail (Image credit: Getty Images)

One of the primary advantages of a multitool is its portability, which makes it a real favorite of backpackers and other trail users. The model you opt for will depend on your chosen adventure. Those exploring the backcountry on two wheels will want to carry a bike multitool, which are designed specifically to be an essential part of your bikepacking repair kit. You can expect such a tool to have allen wrenches, chain tools, screwdrivers and pliers all included.

Meanwhile, wild campers heading into the wilderness may not have much use for tools for mechanical items (think screwdrivers and the like) but will value the keys to simple pleasures like bottle openers for that summit beverage and can openers for the evening meal.

2) Functionality for camp life

A multitool can be used for tent repairs, when cooking and for the campfire
Vanlifers will benefit from its functionality when it comes to both the van's mechanics and its interior appliances

You can process wood with the saw tool on a multitool (Image credit: Getty Images)

“Anyone got a bottle opener?” Yep, a multitool really comes into its own as part of your camping tool kit. Okay, some coolers have an integrated bottle opener, which, if you think about it, makes them multitools too. However, you get my point. You can work a quality multitool extremely hard when you get to your chosen basecamp.

As well as things like tent repairs, camp life can demand a lot from a multitool around dinnertime. From using the saw blade to process kindling for the wood-burning stove and using the knife to slice vegetables, to opening cans of chopped tomatoes and removing the pan from the camping stove using pliers, a multitool is most of your camping utensils in one. Plus, that kindling you process can also be used for the campfire.

Of course, a multitool is a massive help to those using internal combustion engines to explore the backcountry, such as overlanders and vanlifers. As well as all the usual campsite scenarios, add in all the mechanics of a vehicle and, in the case of van life, half of the appliances you’d find at home, you’re multitool will be out so often you’ll wonder how you coped without one.

3) For emergency situations

The quick-to-hand nature of a multitool makes it immediately useful in an emergency
Scissors can be used to cut dressings to size, while pliers can be used to remove foreign objects

A multitool, immediately to hand, can be very useful in an emergency situation (Image credit: Getty Images)

As well as being wonderfully portable, a multitool is also immediately to hand, giving you rapid access to its myriad functions. This is particularly important in an emergency, when the last thing you want to be doing is rummaging in your daypack for a specific tool. A multitool’s scissors can come in handy for cutting dressings to size and the like, while the pliers can be used to remove foreign objects (within reason, of course).

It’s worth noting that your multitool won’t be sterilized, so avoid mixing it with bodily fluids or actually inserting it into a person. Also, one of the most dreaded foreign objects that can latch onto us is the tick. If you have no other choice, you can use a multitool’s pliers to remove a tick. However, it’s better to use a dedicated tick removal device such as a Tick Twister, as otherwise you might inadvertently crush it into your bite wound, which can make complications like Lyme Disease more likely.

4) It’s a precise navigational tool

The ruler on a multitool can be used to calculate distances on a topographical map
The sharp end of an awl can be used to point at specific points on a map

A multitool has its uses when reading a topographical map (Image credit: Getty)

If your multitool features a ruler, it can be used to calculate distances between places on a topographical map when used in conjunction with the map’s scale. Knowing the distance between your location and intended objectives is vital when working out how long any give route might take. When winter walking, mountaineering or ski touring, you could also use it measure the distance between contour lines to get a sense of slope angle and, therefore, the avalanche risk. For example, on a 1:25,0000 scale, contours lines spaced between 1mm and 3mm apart are between 30 and 45 degrees and therefore prone to avalanche.

Our index fingers are also relatively rounded and blunt when it comes to pointing to precise locations on a map and sharing them with a hiking partner. The sharp end of an awl on a multitool is much better suited to this purpose, allowing you to pinpoint that key navigational feature with certainty.

5) Of course, it can be used at home too

A multitool is very useful to have around the house
It's a timesaver when you have it to hand

Of course, a multitool is also hugely useful around the house (Image credit: Getty Images)

If you get into the habit of having your multitool to hand as part of your everyday carry, it becomes a real ally in the house, the garden and around the city too. As a father, I spend a lot of time doing things like replacing batteries in singing teddy bears so that they don’t sound like a detuned nightmare from a horror film, just to give one example.

Yes, from tightening stair gates and adjusting cots to building new furniture and snipping open packets of Bluey stickers, my life would be unimaginable without my multitool. I’m being slightly dramatic here, of course. I do own scissors, screwdrivers, a spanner and an allen key set. However, as other parents will attest to, looking after children is a bit of a time vacuum, and the more I can claw back by having a multitool to hand for odd jobs, the better.

Leatherman launches ARC multitool made with corrosion-resistant MagnaCut steel

cat.ellis@futurenet.com (Cat Ellis) — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 13:41:23 +0000

Looking for a dependable multitool for you next camping adventure? The new Leatherman ARC might be just the ticket. It's the company's first multitool made using MagnaCut steel, which was developed by metallurgists to find a sweet spot that provides maximum hardness and resistance to corrosion.

The ARC tool was developed in response to feedback from Leatherman users, and is intended to everyday tasks, as well as hard use out in the field when you never know what you might encounter next.

The Leatherman ARC has 20 tools {though only the knife blade is made from MagnaCut steel):

Needle nose pliers
Regular pliers
Premium replaceable wire cutters
Premium replaceable hard-wire cutters
MagnaCut knife
Spring-action scissors
Saw
Pry tool
Awl
Can opener
Wire stripper
Wood/metal file
Diamond-coated file
Edge file
Bottle opener
Electrical crimper
Large bit driver
Small bit driver
Large screwdriver
Impact surface

You'll also get a removable pocket clip, a four-pocket nylon sheath, and eight double-ended bits. The tool weighs a substantial 8.6oz/243.8g, which is a good indicator that it's solidly made and won't let you down outdoors and is something we always look for in a multitool.

The Leatherman ARC will be available from Whitby & Co in the UK from October 17, priced at £260.95 (about $320). That makes it a seriously high-end tool that's pricier than any of the models featured in our current guide to the best multitools, including the Leatherman Surge and Leatherman Charge+ TTi. We're hoping to put it through its paces in the field soon to see whether it justifies that price tag. When you really need it, a really well made tool can be invaluable.

Uses for a multitool: how to get the most out of your tool

Casio launches new Pro Trek adventure watch inspired by your best camping knife

cat.ellis@futurenet.com (Cat Ellis) — Sat, 17 Sep 2022 21:15:15 +0000

Casio has revealed a new watch in its outdoor Pro Trek line, with a look the company says was inspired by bushcraft and woodcarving.

As Casio fan blog G-Central reports, the Pro Trek PRW-6900 is the first watch in the series to have an octagonal rather than round bezel. Casio itself says that the edges are intended to resemble the head of a camping axe, with a hairline finish and ion plating intended to make them appear sharp.

The surface of the dial is intended to evoke the feeling of camping cookware, while the hand of the inset subdial is designed to resemble your best camping knife, with a black handle and silver blade. The second hand of the main dial is colored to look like a campfire flame.

Casio says that the Pro Trek line is designed for "mountain climbers, trekkers, and everyone who just loves the outdoors". However, it's worth noting that this particular model doesn't have the rotating dial of the Casio Pro Trek PRG-340 launched in August, and isn't designed to be used flat against a map.

It does, however, have Casio's triple sensor (altimeter-barometer, compass, and thermometer), solar charging, and automatic radio time syncing. It also offers world time for 29 cities, stopwatch, countdown timer, and alarm. This isn't a GPS watch, which means battery life is measured in months, or even years. The watch will run for six months using all functions without solar charging, and 25 months in power-saving mode.

(Image credit: Casio)

The new Pro Trek comes in three colorways. The khaki PRW-6900Y-3 and black PRW-6900Y-1 both have cases and bands made from biomass plastics to reduce the use of petrochemicals, while the brown PRW-6900YL has a band made from fire-retardant leather (intended to shrug off stray campfire sparks).

Casio has yet to announced prices or international release dates, but the three Pro Trek PRW-6900 variants are expected to go on sale in October.

Best field watches: for hiking, camping, and backcountry adventures

Multi tool vs pocket knife: do you need both?

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 14:45:00 +0000

A good camping knife is a great addition to your camping kit, whether you’re cheffing it up round the camping stove, gathering kindling to build a campfire or performing emergency gear surgery. Then again, the best multitools can serve all kinds of handy functions with a wrench, screwdriver, bottle opener and they always have a knife blade to boot. So do you need both for your next outward bound expedition, or can one of these devices be the jack of all trades? We weigh the pros and cons of the multi tool vs pocket knife to help you find the perfect tool for all your camping tasks and repairs.

A good camping knife is a great addition to your camping kit (Image credit: Getty)

Multi tool vs pocket knife: size and weight

Because a multi tool performs multiple functions, it’s naturally going to weigh more than a simple, single-function pocket knife. Though lightweight options are available, several of the best multitools we’ve tested weigh more than eight ounces, with some more than 12 ounces, whereas pocket knives usually weigh in at about 3 - 4 ounces. Naturally, this is only an issue if you’re backpacking and looking to save weight wherever you can.

When closed, multi tools on average are slightly longer than pocket knives, too, but both are designed to be compact and fold away into a pocket in your backpack or hiking pants so this is not much of a deciding factor.

Because a multi tool performs multiple functions, it’s naturally going to weigh more than a simple, single-function pocket knife (Image credit: Getty)

Multi tool vs pocket knife: use and versatility

Clearly, a multi tool performs many functions, including cutting things, while a pocket knife really only performs one job. A single multi tool might equip you with scissors, tweezers, a screwdriver, a magnifying glass and 10 other functions, helping you cut down significantly on how much gear you carry, while a camping knife provides you with a single blade.

That said, it’s fairly well agreed upon that while a multi tool can perform a lot of jobs adequately, it doesn’t perform any of them really well and it's definitely not that helpful for tasks like cutting through wood or rope or gutting fish. A good camping knife will be useful for those types of chores since it will generally have a much better quality blade than a multi tool.

One argument that could be made for having both here is that some multi tools come with a serrated blade, which can be handy for certain tasks but usually isn’t the only type of blade you want. Camping knives at best offer a half serrated blade, but the most fail safe plan is to carry a non-serrated pocket knife and a multi tool with a serrated blade to cover all bases.

Camping knives at best offer a half serrated blade, so the most fail safe plan is to carry a non-serrated pocket knife and a multi tool with a serrated blade to cover all bases (Image credit: TRM)

Multi tool vs pocket knife: ease of use

Whether you’re releasing the blade or slicing and dicing, a pocket knife is likely to be much more easy to use than a multi tool. You can usually release a spring blade single-handedly and ergonomic handles make the knives easy to hold while you’re using them, especially for longer periods and more arduous tasks.

Multi tools usually take two hands and a bit more effort to extract whichever tool you’re looking for, and since the handle is the tool itself, they’re a bit more burdensome to operate. No matter which you’re choosing, make sure you get one with a locking blade for ease of use and safety.

Whether you’re releasing the blade or slicing and dicing, a pocket knife is likely to be much more easy to use than a multi tool (Image credit: Getty)

Multi tool vs pocket knife: durability

Any time you have a piece of tech or kit that does a lot of things, there’s more that can go wrong with it, and as such it’s often true that your pocket knife will last longer than a multi tool, even when the latter is of great quality. Now, treat both items well and they can last for years, but it’s totally reasonable to expect a knife to last a lifetime (though regular sharpening is needed, of course), while you might need to replace your multi tool at some point in the future, and the blade is not as easy to sharpen.

It's totally reasonable to expect a camping knife to last a lifetime (Image credit: Getty)

Multi tool vs pocket knife: price

Though both devices come in budget-friendly, mid-range and high-end options, on the whole multi tools are cheaper than the pocket knives we’ve tested, despite performing more functions. Of course, pricier multi tools and knives should be of better quality and last longer, cutting down on the need to replace them imminently, but in the short term, if you’re camping on a budget you can save more with a multi tool.

Multi tool vs pocket knife
	Multi tool	Pocket knife
Size and weight	Lightweight versions are available, but often 2-3 times heavier than a pocket knife and slightly longer	Good quality camping knives usually weigh only 3-4 ounces
Use and versatility	Multiple uses and functions such as knife, scissors, magnifying glass, tweezers and screwdriver	One function
Ease of use	Usually needs two hands to open and can be more cumbersome to use, especially for cutting, since the tool itself is the handle	Quick release blades can be operated single-handedly and ergonomic handles make these easier to use for longer periods
Durability	There's more than can break on a multi tool, while the blade may be more difficult to keep sharp	Should last a long time and easier to sharpen
Price	The multi tools we've tested range from $5 to $170	The camping knives we've tested range from $41 to $245

Multi tool vs pocket knife: the verdict

Clearly, a multi tool and a pocket knife might have some overlap, but they perform very different purposes. While a multi tool might, in many ways, serve as a replacement for a knife, a knife can’t really be a good replacement for a multi tool. It seems as though a multi tool is a great piece of kit for any type of camping – even if you don’t plan on quartering an elk, you might want to open a bottle of wine or replace the batteries in your camping lantern and chances are, a multi tool will help.

If you’re not planning on performing a whole lot of survivalist-type activities and instead are going out on a leisurely car camping trip, you might not need a camping knife at all. However, even if you’re just planning on doing a bit of vegetable chopping for dinner, you’ll be happier with a camping knife than you will a multi tool and there’s a good argument for arming yourself with both if you’re serious about camping.

Best camping stove: easily prepare meals for one, or a group

SOG Camp Axe review: a striking looking and portable hatchet for lighter camp tasks

Matthew Jones — Sun, 26 Jun 2022 13:05:13 +0000

SOG Camp Axe: first impressions

With a reputation for producing specialist hunting, survival and military-tactical equipment, SOG is a brand that you might not immediately turn to when looking for tools designed for camping and general outdoor use. But actually, in our recent review of the best camping knives we were very impressed with the brand’s Terminus Slipjoint, and we also included their folding Wood Saw in our best camping saws roundup.

Specifications

• RRP: $75 (US) / £61 (UK)
• Weight: 470g / 16.6oz
• Blade length: 7cm / 2.75in
• Overall length: 29cm / 11.5
• Head: Stainless steel (satin finish)
• Handle: Glass-reinforced nylon
• Head guard: Black plastic

The US brand also produces a range of hatchets, throwing axes and tomahawks. Many of these are sleek, mean-looking weapons designed to appeal to survivalists and preppers, but the SOG Camp Axe is a more modest and practical tool intended, the brand says, “for starting fires, clearing campsites and hammering tent stakes”. So how does it compare to other entries in our best camping axes buying guide?

It is certainly light in weight and small in stature, which ensures it is easy to transport and stow. It is supplied with a simple plastic sheath that protects the blade and the front part of the axe head. The head itself is made of stainless steel, which ought to ensure good resistance to corrosion even in damp and humid conditions.

The SOG Camp Axe’s supplied plastic head guard protects the blade and the front part of the axe head (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The head has a wedge profile with a blocky poll or butt for hammering things like tent pegs. It’s an unusual shape, with a pronounced cutaway a little like a carpenter’s axe, which actually makes this a good little whittling tool.

The handle is made of glass-reinforced nylon – fiberglass, in other words – and secured with two fasteners. The upper part of the handle is protected by a steel collar, while the lower portion has molded grooves for grip, debossed “SOG“ branding and a small lanyard hole. It’s a simple, straight-shafted handle, with no shoulder or palm swell.

SOG Camp Axe: in the field

The SOG Camp Axe has a a steel collar that protects the handle (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

This hatchet’s short length and light weight make it easy to carry, whether in a hiking backpack or on a belt. It’s easy to wield, even in the confines of a small campsite, and has some very practical features. Firstly, the stainless-steel head and fiberglass handle mean you don’t need to worry too much if it gets left out in the rain, as it won’t rust, rot or absorb moisture like a wooden-handled axe with a carbon steel head.

The poll or butt on the back of the axe head is blocky and robust, which is great for hammering. It knocks tent stakes into hard-packed ground easily. The bit has a tapering, wedge-shaped profile that does a pretty good job of processing firewood for kindling too. Admittedly, there’s not really enough head weight to split logs, though it can be done with a bit of effort (see also: How to chop firewood). We appreciated the fact that this hatchet is fitted with a steel collar though, which protects the handle and means you can give it a bit more grunt when chopping wood without worrying about damaging the axe.

We’re not overly keen on the fiberglass handle, as the straight shaft isn’t the most comfortable or efficient in use (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

That’s just as well, since the bit is relatively short and shallow, which means this axe tends to lack penetration. It’s not a problem if you’re only dealing with dry, seasoned or very straight-grained wood that splits cleanly, but it does tend to stick in knottier wood. For us, the SOG Camp Axe wasn’t quite as effective around camp as Mora’s Lightweight Axe, despite being a similar weight and length.

On the other hand, for finer cutting tasks, we preferred the SOG Camp Axe. The unusual lower cutaway in the head makes it easy to choke up on the handle, giving much greater precision and control if you’re whittling wood, shaving bark or removing twigs from branches.

We didn’t love the fiberglass handle. It has molded grooves that give reasonable grip, but the straight shaft isn’t the most comfortable or efficient in use. The lack of a palm swell at the end of the handle means you also need to keep a firm grip on this hatchet when chopping.

Still, despite some gripes, this is a practical camp tool that can hammer, chop and even whittle. If used purely as a traditional hatchet for splitting kindling and small logs for firewood, we preferred the similarly compact Mora Lightweight Axe, which is also around the same price, but the SOG Camp Axe is arguably slightly more versatile around camp.

Stihl AX6 hatchet review: an impressively sturdy tool for a reasonable price

Matthew Jones — Sat, 25 Jun 2022 15:18:12 +0000

Stihl AX6 hatchet: first impressions

Another traditional-looking hatchet, the Stihl AX6 hatchet has a carbon steel head forged in Italy fitted to a chunky ash handle. It has been hafted using a standard wooden wedge, secured with an additional metal ring. The wedge was slightly off center on our test sample, though the head itself was solid, with no wiggle.

The head weighs 600g or about 1lb 5oz. It has a large, squared-off poll or butt for hammering, and a tapering wedge-shaped bit that is a versatile shape for varied cutting and chopping tasks (see our best camping axes buying guide if you need to brush up on your axing jargon). The cutting edge came sharp from the factory and the steel is of good quality. The rest of the head is painted safety orange for visibility, which also offers some protection from corrosion.

Specifications

• RRP: $33 (US) / £26.75 (UK)
• Weight: 855g / 1lb 14oz
• Blade length: 11cm / 4.25in
• Overall length: 40cm / 15.5in
• Head: Forged carbon steel
• Handle: Ash
• Head guard: None

The handle is made from straight-grained ash, and our test sample had nice grain orientation. It’s about an inch longer than other hatchets in its class (such as the Husqvarna and the Adler 1919 Rheinland), which adds power but also a bit more bulk – though interestingly the overall weight matches the shorter Husqvarna hatchet, which has the same head weight. Both are hafted with ash handles too, so the weight difference is down to the fact that the Stihl’s handle is slimmer and better sculpted.

The lower section of the handle is painted safety orange for visibility, and the whole handle has been varnished. This improves weather resistance at the slight detriment of grip, since it obviously prevents the wood from absorbing palm sweat and moisture. On the other hand, it would be easy enough to sand and refinish the handle with boiled linseed oil if you prefer a more natural look and feel. There’s no lanyard hole, but again it would be easy to drill one.

The handle comes varnished, which is great for protection against the elements but does have an effect on the grip (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The profile of the handle is very traditional, with large shoulders for added strength and heft, and a pronounced palm swell at the butt end for a secure and comfortable grip.

As a budget hatchet, this tool is supplied without a mask or guard – just a rubber edge protector primarily intended for safety in transit. We’d advise buying or making a leather head guard if you’re going to carry this in a bag or pack.

Stihl AX6 hatchet: in the field

The carbon steel head is hefted to the chunky ash handle using a standard wooden peg and and additional metal ring (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

We liked this little hatchet a lot, and on camp it proved a versatile tool. It has plenty of head weight to split small logs and chop kindling easily (see also: How to chop firewood). The cutting edge has plenty of belly for good penetration. The handle is comfortable to use despite its varnished finish.

This hatchet also outperformed most of its comparable rivals like the Husqvarna hatchet and the Adler 1919 Rheinland hatchet for trimming or snedding twigs from branches. That’s because the ash handle is about an inch longer than those models, which gives greater leverage and power whilst still being short enough for easy one-handed use.

The steel is of impressive quality for the budget price (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

It has the familiar head cutaway that defines the modern hatchet, and this means you can choke up on the head for finer work, say if you wanted to carve or whittle some wood. The shoulders are perhaps a bit too thick to be comfortable for smaller hands, but it would be easy enough to thin it down with a rasp and a few sanding sheets if desired.

The steel seems to be of good quality, particularly given the bargain price. It kept its edge well without chipping or rolling yet also sharpens easily. In fact, when it comes to value, we think the AX6 is pretty tough to beat. You get plenty of bang for your buck here.

Whitby Camp & Survival Axe review: a very cheap survivalist’s tool that can double up on light camp duties

Matthew Jones — Sat, 25 Jun 2022 12:57:31 +0000

Whitby Camp & Survival Axe: first impressions

We’re not sure who designed the Whitby Camp & Survival Axe, but they appear to have taken inspiration from multiple different historical tools and weapons, then melded them together to create a slightly bizarre-looking beast.

The steel head has a tomahawk-like profile with a black oxide finish, presumably designed to appeal to those who like the stealth or “tactical” look. Instead of a standard butt or poll, the back of the head has a wicked-looking scraper blade, plus a nail pry at the top. Then there are a series of cheek cut-outs for good measure, which can be used as a hex wrench in survival or emergency situations.

Specifications

• RRP: $25 (US) / £20 (UK)
• Weight: 340g / 12oz
• Blade length: 9.5cm / 4in
• Overall length: 33cm / 13in
• Head: Stainless steel (black oxide coated)
• Handle: Nylon with rubberized grip
• Head guard: Black nylon

This unusual head is attached to a plastic nylon handle via two bolt fasteners. The lower portion has a green rubberized grip with a chain and rune pattern that is primarily decorative – perhaps it is supposed to evoke the power and strength of Viking axes. It’s finished with a lanyard hole. In short, the styling and design is certainly divisive and makes it a bit of an outlier in our best camping axes buying guide. We weren’t big fans, but it might appeal to some.

The head is made from 4mm stock, 3CR13 stainless steel. This is an entry-level Chinese steel but a popular choice for budget camping knives and tools because of its balanced qualities. It has excellent corrosion resistance, sharpens easily, is reasonably hard and tough, has decent edge retention and is easy to work with. The cheeks are flat, while the bit has a double bevel of similar profile to Mora’s Lightweight Axe. The cutting edge came reasonably sharp, but it is very thin, and the heel and toe in particular flare to points that look susceptible to chipping.

The nylon guard protects the whole of the axe’s head, but it’s a bit tricky to get on or off (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

Given this axe’s budget price point, we were surprised to find that it comes with a nylon guard / mask that covers the whole of the head. It’s stitched and riveted, with a strip of nylon webbing to attach it to a belt or hiking backpack – though we wouldn’t recommend doing so, since unfortunately it gave way almost immediately on our test sample. The mask is also slightly awkward to fit and remove, since you need to slip the entire handle through it before snapping the two press studs together to hold it in place. Having said that, it does the job, and is more than you get with many hatchets.

Whitby Camp & Survival Axe: in the field

The weirdly shaped cut-out in the cheek is so that the axe can be used as a hex wrench, but you need a lot of room around anything you’re trying to tighten up or loosen (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

There’s no denying this little axe is extremely light and portable. Both the shaft and head have thin profiles that ensure it is easy to carry, with minimal bulk. It will slide easily into a small pack or the side pouch of a bigger hiking backpack. Obviously, this small size is a slight drawback when it comes to performance, since it simply doesn’t have the heft to easily split larger pieces of wood. Still, for chopping kindling and similar light tasks, it works well, and is generally quicker and easier than batoning with a knife.

Though the straight shaft isn’t the most comfortable or efficient design for making arcing, chopping motions, the rubberized grip ensures reasonable safety. It didn’t slip in use thanks to the tacky surface, though we noted that it did tend to pick up bits and pieces from the ground, like wood chip and other campsite debris.

The tomahawk-like head means it is technically possible to choke up on the head if you want to use the cutting edge for more precise cutting tasks, but that sharp scraper blade on the back of the head is worryingly close to the fleshy part of your hand. We were pleasantly surprised by the performance of the rear scraper blade itself, though. It actually works well for making wood shavings or peeling bark for campfire tinder.

The ultra-thin profile of the Whitby Camp & Survival Axe is great for reducing weight to make it more portable, but you wouldn’t want to hammer in tent pegs using this thing (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The nail pry is less effective, since we were reluctant to apply too much force for fear of breaking the nylon handle. And while the hex wrenches do technically work, using them is time-consuming and requires a fair bit of clearance around the bolt or nut you’re trying to loosen. Then again, it’s a feature primarily designed for survival or emergency use, so in that sense it’s better than nothing.

The materials used, while being relatively cheap, ensure that this is a fairly practical outdoor tool – that stainless steel head with its black oxide finish is unlikely to rust, and the plastic handle won’t rot or swell with moisture. It doesn’t make for the most elegant or tactile feel in the hand, though.

Overall, a mixed bag. But for the price – which is less than most pocket-knives – that’s perhaps inevitable and means that the negatives can be largely overlooked. The positives are its affordability, its low weight and compact dimensions. In short, if you just need a hatchet for chopping kindling and making tinder for fire-lighting, this is a reasonably priced alternative to a fixed blade knife. However, we suspect the Whitby Axe will mostly be purchased by preppers and survivalists attracted to its tactical look and emergency utility features.

Mora Lightweight Axe review: small, nimble and strangely shaped, it’s great for lighter camp duties

Matthew Jones — Thu, 23 Jun 2022 14:59:34 +0000

Mora Lightweight Axe: first impressions

The Mora Lightweight Axe comes from a long-established Swedish tool brand best known for its inexpensive yet very capable knives, frequently used by hunters, campers and bushcrafters. But Mora also produce a compact camp hatchet, somewhat counter-intuitively called the “Lightweight Axe”. It’s quite an unusual-looking beast, with a 6mm thick, black-coated steel head slotted into a polypropylene handle, which comes in two colors – muted forest green or high-viz orange.

This hatchet tips the scales at around half a kilo, or just over a pound, and its overall length is just over 12 inches. So, it’s a very compact tool that slides easily into even a small pack. It’s also light enough to be a viable option to take on backcountry camping trips or backpacking adventures, even those that might involve lugging everything in on foot.

Despite its diminutive size, the Mora has decent head weight, especially compared to other compact hatchets we tested for our Best camping axe buying guide, such as the SOG Camp Axe or the Whitby Outdoor Axe. It’s also made from high-quality boron steel, which is slightly harder and stronger than most standard carbon steels, and keeps an edge better.

The vegetable-tanned leather edge protector is stitched and riveted, fastening with a simple press stud (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

It’s finished with a black ED-coating to protect from rust and is also supplied with a good quality edge protector made from vegetable-tanned leather. This is stitched and riveted, fastening with a simple press stud. Though it doesn’t protect the whole head, it ought to enable you to keep this hatchet in your best hiking backpack without you worrying about it damaging the rest of your camping kit. It’s certainly a step up from the simple plastic or nylon sheaths that are usually supplied with budget axes and hatchets.

The bit has plenty of belly for its size, and a double bevel reminiscent of the Scandinavian grind that characterizes a lot of Mora’s bushcraft-oriented knives. This only gives you about half an inch of cutting surface, though, since the flat steel head lacks the wedge-shaped profile of most small axes.

The handle is made from textured polypropylene, which offers good grip, aided by an oversized, turned-in palm swell that sits comfortably in one hand. It’s finished with a useful lanyard hole. The handle’s ergonomic, teardrop-shaped profile also ensures it’s easy to choke up near the head for finer work. It might lack the warmth and tactility of a wood handle, but it’s undeniably practical.

Specifications

• RRP: $60 (US) / £50 (UK)
• Weight: 495g / 17.5oz
• Blade length: 9cm / 3.5in
• Overall length: 32cm / 12.5in
• Head: Boron steel (black ED coated)
• Handle: Reinforced polypropylene
• Head guard: Black vegetable-tanned leather

Mora Lightweight Axe: in the field

When is a hatchet not a hatchet? When it’s a Mora Lightweight Axe (B) (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

Initially, we weren’t sure whether we’d get on with this unusual-looking hatchet, but it surprised us not only with its capabilities but also its comfort in use. The curved handle and nicely weighted head give you plenty of downforce when chopping, ensuring it makes light work of cutting kindling and even splitting small logs. The textured plastic handle offers good grip too, aided by that pronounced palm swell, which feels comfortable and secure. The similarly unusual, bevelled bit ensures finer cutting tasks – like shaving bark or whittling feather sticks for tinder – are easy too. So, for light camp tasks, the Mora is a winner.

It's best used for that kind of stuff only, though – this isn’t a great hatchet for clearing trails, snedding branches or limbing logs so that you can build a natural shelter. It’s too light and too short to be of much use in this capacity, and here the unusual shape of the handle just feels awkward.

The thin, flat head also means there’s not much in the way of a poll, butt or hammer at the back of the head, so this hatchet is of limited use if you like to use the weight of an axe to hammer in tent pegs or similar, unless you’re extremely confident in the precision of your striking.

The Mora Lightweight Axe’s thin poll isn’t much use to hammering in tent pegs, unless you have a very precise aim (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

We also noticed that although this hatchet works well for splitting small logs, over time this does tend to scuff the plastic handle, where it meets the head. This is where a traditional one-piece steel head with a wedge profile would work better.

On the other hand, that would change the design of this hatchet altogether, adding weight and bulk. And the major advantages of the Mora are that it is light and compact enough to take on many trips where a bigger axe would be impractical. And unlike many other miniature hatchets, the Mora is a genuinely useful, well-designed tool. The hardened boron steel head comes sharp straight out of the box and retains its edge remarkably well.

The handle is decent too – despite being made from plastic, it’s strong, sturdy and seems reasonably durable, while also being nicely shaped and textured. Our test sample did have some molding and flashing marks, but we can forgive that. All in all, we were impressed with how this little axe performed on camp, and it would be our pick of the bunch amongst the three lightest and most compact hatchets we tested.

The best camping axes and hatchets: light chopping tools

Matthew Jones — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 09:52:38 +0000

For processing wood on your backcountry trips, the best camping axes and hatchets are a no brainer. In terms of usefulness, a hatchet is up there with a quality folding saw and its lightweight qualities make it very portable for your camping trips. Meanwhile, the heavier axes in our selection are great if you work the land, chop your own firewood or are involved in a bushcraft association.

We've tested a selection of the best camping axes and hatchets available in 2026 to bring you this guide. Assessing qualities like durability, handle construction, ergonomics, head design and the shape of the bit, as well as considering price point and overall value, we've arrived at our favorite half-dozen.

For us, the best camping axe is the Hults Bruk Akka, which is versatile enough for mid-sized chopping and detail work. If money isn't a limiting factor, we also recommend checking out the premium Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe, with a beautiful hand-forged head and hickory handle that can be used one or two-handed.

The quick list

This list lets you compare all the camping axes in this guide at a glance, and lets you easily jump down the page for a full review of each one.

Best axe overall

Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby Forest Axe

Best overall

We love this premium camping axe with an extended handle for extra power, and a versatile head profile for a variety of tasks.

Read more below

Best for limbing logs

Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe

Beautifully and sustainably crafted, with a hand-forged head versatile hickory handle – we're big fans of this extremely capable axe.

Read more below

Best for backpacking

Adler 1919 Rheinland Hatchet

Best for backpacking

We approve of this stout hiking hatchet for all kinds of tasks around camp – it's Well made and versatile, particularly for the price.

Read more below

Best budget axe

Stihl AX6 Hatchet

We like this forestry hatchet that's great for camp and trail use too, offering plenty of bang for your buck.

Read more below

Best for splitting logs

Husqvarna Hatchet

We like the way this broad, wedge-shaped head of this no-nonsense hatchet splits logs cleanly every time without getting stuck.

Read more below

Best for light tasks

Mora Lightweight Axe

Weighing just under a pound, we reckon this super lightweight axe is great for chopping kindling and small logs in the backcountry.

Read more below

Back to the top ⤴

The best camping axe overall

Supremely versatile, the Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby is our top rated camping axe (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

1. Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby Forest Axe

A premium axe with an extended handle for increased power, and a versatile head profile for a wide array of tasks

Premium hand-forged steel head

Hickory handle

High-quality leather head mask

Versatile size and weight

Longer handle for cutting power

Overkill for many campers

One of the most expensive axes

This premium, hand-forged felling axe has a 1.5lb (approximately 700g) head and a 23in hickory handle. It’s not the most compact axe around, but that extra heft enables this axe to be used for heavier work like clearing trails, as well as general use around camp.

The head is a fairly unusual but very versatile shape, well suited to both mid-size chopping and more detailed work. "It feels very precise" says our expert, "with a large cutaway that allows the user to choke up on the handle for very fine control". In two hands, we found the Åby is great for limbing logs, snedding branches, or felling small-to-medium-sized trees. In fact, it’s a fantastic axe for processing larger volumes of wood.

You could just about strap this axe to the outside of a decent-sized trekking pack, and it’s no heavier than many shorter axes or the more robust hatchets out there. But we think the Åby delivers significantly more felling power than almost anything else in its weight class. It might be more than many campers need, and it isn’t cheap either. But if you want a lifelong camp companion for everything from bushcraft weekends to wilderness canoeing trips, this little powerhouse is our top pick for the best camping axe.

Read our full Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby Forest Axe review

Back to the top ⤴

The best camping axe for limbing logs

The premium Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe is versatile, capable, and beautifully made, though it may be more than you need (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

2. Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe

A superlative tool for demanding users who need a versatile and capable yet still reasonably compact axe for outdoor living

Premium hand-forged steel head

Hickory handle

High-quality leather head mask

Versatile size and weight

Overkill for many campers

The most expensive axe on test

Gränsfors Bruk's many sustainability commitments are laudable and the finished products are also outstanding. The Small Forest Axe has a beautiful hand-forged head with a versatile 19.5in hickory handle. On test, we found its size meant that could be used with one hand or two, making it the best camping axe for many outdoors folk, including noted experts like Ray Mears. Essentially, it straddles the divide between a small hand axe and a light felling axe. It’s also still light and compact enough to carry strapped to the outside of a decent-sized rucksack.

The total weight is a fraction under a kilogram – just over two pounds – which isn’t much heavier than many of the more robust hatchets out there. In contrast to a hatchet, however, you get an "extremely versatile and capable axe with considerable chopping and felling power" according to our expert. Of course, it might be overkill for many campers, but we understand why many people like the idea of a hand-forged tool that can be traced right back to its individual maker. If that’s you, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate this finely crafted camping axe, which will no doubt become a prized possession.

Read our full Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe review

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The best camping axe for backpacking

Supremely practical, the Adler 1919 Rheinland hatchet is great value and well made (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

3. Adler 1919 Rheinland Hatchet

This premium hatchet is nicely crafted with heritage looks, and makes a very capable backwoods tool

Versatile tapered bit

High quality, German-forged steel head

Hickory handle with anti-slip finish

High-quality leather head mask

Relatively expensive

This is a stout little hiking hatchet with handsome heritage looks, forged in Germany. The head is a very traditional and well-proven shape, with a flared beard and an extended cutting edge. It has a conventional tapered wedge profile, with thick lugs around the eye for added strength and heft.

The back of the head has a chunky poll or butt that "works well for hammering tent pegs or similar camp tasks" according to our camping expert. The head is extremely well seated on the handle, which is made from American hickory. It’s well sculpted too, feeling elegant and precise yet strong and secure in the hand during our test.

The steel is of high quality and the hatchet came with a keen edge. It sharpens up easily with a circular whetstone. All in all, this is a very versatile and well-made tool with plenty to recommend it and no real negatives to speak of. It is slightly more expensive than entry-level hatchets, but the superior quality is evident, while still being cheaper than a traditional hand-forged axe. We think it's one of the best camping axes for value.

Read our full Adler 1919 Rheinland Hatchet review

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The best budget axe

If you're on a tight budget, the Stihl AX6 Hatchet is one of the best camping axes around (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

4. Stihl AX6 Hatchet

The AX6 is a light forestry hatchet that’s great for camp or trail use too, offering plenty of bang for your buck

Versatile tapered bit

Good quality, Italian-forged head

Ash handle

Slightly longer than most rivals

Varnished finish can be a little slippery

No head guard or edge protector

This traditional-looking hatchet has a carbon steel head forged in Italy, fitted to a chunky ash handle. It has a large, squared-off poll or butt for hammering, and a tapering wedge-shaped bit that’s a versatile shape for varied cutting and chopping tasks. On test, we found the cutting edge came sharp from the factory, and the steel is of good quality. Being about an inch longer than other hatchets in its class, it has slightly more leverage and power whilst still being short enough for easy one-handed use.

"I liked it a lot," says our expert reviewer "and on camp it proved a versatile tool". It has plenty of head weight to split small logs and chop kindling easily. The cutting edge has plenty of belly for good penetration. The handle is comfortable to use despite its varnished finish too.

In fact, if you’re on a tight budget, we think the AX6 is one of the best camping axes out there, You get plenty of bang for your buck here.

Read our full Stihl AX6 Hatchet review

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The best camping axe for splitting logs

The Husqvarna Hatchet is great for one-handed use, and should last many years with a little care (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

5. Husqvarna Hatchet

Swedish-designed but German-made, this compact little hatchet from Husqvarna is an effective and robust tool

Compact dimensions

Supplied with edge guard

Wedge-shaped, all-steel head

Ash handle

Steel seems softer than some rivals

Shorter handle than some rivals

This feels like a sturdy, no-nonsense hatchet and proved itself as such on camp during our tests. The broad wedge-shaped bit splits small logs cleanly, without getting stuck. It works just as well for chopping sticks and kindling thanks to plenty of head weight and a pronounced palm swell that enables an easy chopping stroke.

The handle is comfortable to use, and the natural, unvarnished wood also absorbs palm sweat, ensuring a good grip. It is quite chunky, though, so best suited to larger hands. The length enables easy one-handed use and feels well-balanced overall. The large head cutaway also enables you to choke up for more precise carving work too, which is great for camp bushcraft projects. Though the steel seems slightly softer than some of its rivals, it sharpens easily. Our expert reviwer summarized: "And all in all, for the price, this is a solid hatchet that, with a little regular TLC, ought to see the user through many years of good service."

Read our full Husqvarna Hatchet review

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The best camping axe for light tasks

The unusual looking Mora Lightweight Axe is great for adventures where something bigger or heavier would be impractical (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

6. Mora Lightweight Axe

This distinctive Swedish hatchet is an unusual-looking tool, but the unconventional design proves highly effective for light tasks around camp

Light and compact

Supplied with leather edge guard

Hardened steel head

Rust-resistant coating

Plastic handle scuffs easily

Small, thin poll

This axe has a 6mm thick, black-coated steel head slotted into a polypropylene handle, which comes in two colors – muted forest green or high-viz orange. It tips the scales at around half a kilo, or just over a pound, and its overall length is just over 12 inches. So, it’s a very compact tool that slides easily into even a small pack. Our expert reviwer states that "it’s also light enough to be a viable option for backcountry camping trips and backpacking adventures."

The Mora has decent head weight for a compact hatchet and the head is made from high-quality boron steel, which is slightly harder than most standard carbon steels. The bit has plenty of belly for its size, and a double-bevel Scandinavian grind. The textured handle offers good grip and has a turned-in palm swell that sits comfortably in one hand. On test, it surprised us with its capabilities.

It's not so good for clearing trails or limbing branches, mostly because it’s just too light and too short to swing easily. The thin, flat head also means it isn’t great for hammering. But its advantages outweigh the negatives, and this is still a genuinely useful, well-designed tool – not least because it is light and compact enough to come on many adventures where a bigger hatchet would be impractical.

Read our full Mora Lightweight Axe review

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Comparison table

Best camping axes and hatchets
Axe / hatchet	List price	Weight	Blade length	Total length	Head
Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby Forest Axe	$160 (US) / £130 (UK)	975g / 2lb 2oz	8cm / 3in	60cm / 23.25 in	Hand-forged carbon steel
Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe	£132 (UK) / €152 (EU)	975g / 2lb 2oz	8cm / 3in	50cm / 19.5in	Hand-forged carbon steel
Adler 1919 Rheinland hatchet	$84 (US) / £69 (UK)	830g / 1lb 13oz	10.5cm / 4in	36cm / 14in	Forged carbon steel
Husqvarna hatchet	$39 (US) / £31.49 (UK)	855g / 1lb 14oz	10.5cm / 4in	36cm / 14in	Forged carbon steel
Mora Lightweight Axe	$60 (US) / £50 (UK)	495g / 17.5oz	9cm / 3.5in	32cm / 12.5in	Boron steel (black ED coated)
Stihl AX6 hatchet	$33 (US) / £26.75 (UK)	855g / 1lb 14oz	11cm / 4.25in	40cm / 15.5in	Forged carbon steel

How we test camping axes

Meet the expert

All of the camping axes and hatchets featured here have been trialled and tested in campsite and backpacking scenarios, used to chop a variety of wood for different purposes.

For more details, see how Advnture tests products.

How to choose a camping axe or hatchet

Before choosing one, it's worth considering if you need a camping axe in the first place. If you're looking to process the firewood you've been provided with, then great. If you’re employed to work on the land, you may well have need of a camping axe in order to clear trails and make sure recreation areas are safe. However, if you've got visions of roaming the backcountry chopping down trees, you might want a rethink. Remember the leave no trace principles and the fact that decent firewood should be sustainably sourced and should be seasoned for several months anyway.

Axe handles are traditionally made from either hickory or ash, both hardwoods with excellent strength and stiffness (Image credit: alexxx1981 / Getty Images)

Wood is a natural, renewable resource that mankind has used for millennia – but it should be used responsibly, especially in wilderness areas. Remember to follow local rules and guidance on gathering wood and building campfires, and always practice leave-no-trace principles.

However, if you’re in an area where campfires are permitted, and there’s a suitable stock of deadwood that you can use for firewood, an axe will be an invaluable companion. It will give you plenty of cutting power to chop wood and split logs whilst being relatively lightweight and compact. An axe can also come in handy when building shelters, building camp furniture and practicing other bushcraft skills, as well as for clearing paths and trails. But which type should you go for?

Axe or hatchet (and what’s the difference)?

Today, these terms are often used interchangeably – probably because fewer people use hand tools on a regular basis, which means they’re less familiar with the term 'hatchet'. On the other hand, most people still know – or at least think they know – what an axe is.

Experts will tell you that there is a clear difference between the two, but many will also argue over the finer points and details. In short, though, a hatchet is a specific type of small axe, designed to be used one-handed, usually in a crouching position, close to the ground. It has a short handle (almost always less than 15 inches long), a head that will weigh less than 2lb, and usually has a wedge-shaped profile, with a distinctive lower cutaway or beard. The bit will usually be wedge-shaped to help it cleave through small logs. It is commonly used for light splitting tasks, like processing firewood and kindling.

An axe is bigger and heavier than a hatchet, with a longer handle and (usually) more head weight. A camp axe or hand axe may be short and light enough to use one-handed, but most axes are designed to be used two-handed. A felling axe is designed to cut across the grain, enabling the user to limb or sned branches and cut down trees. This can be useful for clearing trails and campsites that are choked with fallen trees or overhanging branches.

A splitting axe cuts with the grain, just like a hatchet, but has more head weight and length to generate power and leverage, enabling the user to split big logs and rounds or cords of wood. They’re too heavy to be a viable option to bring camping, but you may find one at some campgrounds or in designated wilderness campsites and mountain huts where firewood is provided. See also: how to chop firewood.

If you’re backpacking, an axe will probably be too big to carry with you, but a hatchet will happily split small logs and chop kindling (Image credit: Klaus Vedfelt / Getty Images)

Key features of a camping axe or hatchet

Size and weight A longer, heavier axe delivers more cutting power, but is more tiring to use, requires two hands, and comes with added weight and bulk. If you’re camping or backpacking, you’ll probably only need to split small logs and chop kindling. This is when a hatchet is the perfect tool. Look for one that is small, lightweight and compact so it fits easily in a pack. If you’re canoeing or overlanding in a 4x4-type vehicle, you might need a more robust, heavy-duty felling axe, which will give you the ability to clear fallen logs and branches.

Handle or haft Traditionally, axes were wooden handled or hafted, normally with ash or hickory. Both are hardwoods, with excellent strength and stiffness – the perfect properties for making tool handles. However, some modern hatchets have a one-piece forged steel construction, usually incorporating a plastic or rubber grip. Others use lightweight materials such as glass-reinforced nylon (GRN or fiberglass), polypropylene or other types of plastic and composite material. Wooden handles are seated to the head, or hafted, using a wedge, which is hammered into the eye of the head. This stops the head from wiggling around or shifting up and down when you use the axe. Most wedges are secured with a metal pin, which may be straight or circular.

Look for an axe or hatchet with a sculpted, ergonomic handle that feels comfortable to use. Many feature a bulge or palm swell at the butt end of the handle (sometimes called a knob) for a more secure grip, a slimmer throat (where you grasp the axe) and enlarged shoulders towards the axe head, which adds strength and heft. Slimmer shoulders can be preferable if you need to choke up on the handle for precise cutting work, though.

Parts of an axe (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

Head The upper metal part of an axe is called the head. For general camping use, look for an axe with an overall head weight of 1lb-2lb. Most axes have heads made from carbon steel, which is a type of tool steel that balances strength, hardness and wear resistance, so it should stay reasonably sharp. Carbon steel rusts easily, so always dry it between uses. They may be machine forged or hand forged. Other axes might use stainless steel or other types of steel alloy to increase hardness, such as boron steel. Many are painted or coated to provide some protection from rust – but you should regularly oil the axe head with mineral oil too.

Different areas of the head are referred to using specific terminology, which is useful to understand. The back of the head is called the poll or butt. It is usually squared off, and some axes have a robust poll that can be used for hammering. The hole in the top of the head, where it is attached to the handle, is known as the eye. The areas of metal that surround this, sometimes extending down the handle a little way, are called the lips or lugs. The front part of the head is called the bit. It is made up of two cheeks, which slope down towards the cutting edge or blade.

The top of the cutting edge is the toe, while the lower part is the heel. The sharp edge in between is referred to as the blade space. A curved cutting edge is said to have “plenty of belly” – this usually improves the penetration of the bit when it is swung. When penetration is less important (eg, when splitting with the grain), an axe will typically have a flatter cutting edge to increase the contact area with the wood. This improves efficiency even if the user’s striking is less precise. Lastly, the lower portion of the bit that extends the cutting edge is known as the beard. This often has a cutaway area to make the axe easier to swing, and allows the user to choke up on the handle for finer cutting tasks.

A sharp axe cuts more quickly, more efficiently and is safer too (Image credit: ArtistGNDphotography / Getty Images)

Camping axe / hatchet care tips

How to stop your axe from rusting
The carbon steel heads of many axes and hatchets will rust quickly if you don’t look after them. Always clean and dry the bit after use, and ensure your axe is not stored in damp or humid conditions. If your axe head does not have a protective coating or finish, oiling it with mineral oil will also help to prevent rust.

Sharpening
A sharp axe cuts more quickly, more efficiently and is safer too. There are many online tutorials to learn how to sharpen an axe – YouTube is your friend here – but unless your axe head is in a really bad way, the process isn’t too difficult or onerous. Generally, you’ll need a good file and a circular whetstone or sharpening puck.

Cleaning and maintenance
To get the most out of your axe or hatchet, always clean the bit before you put it away. Use the mask or edge protector that is supplied with the axe, and if you don’t have one, make or buy one. When you get home, wipe the head and the handle using soap and water and an old rag to remove any buildup of mud, sweat and grime. Dry it thoroughly and apply a little mineral oil to the head, which will guard against rust. Use boiled linseed oil on the handle to protect the wood.

Why do you need a camping axe?

A camping exe iis particularly useful if you intend to build a shelter from natural resources, make simple camp furniture or tackle other projects that test your bushcraft skills. It’s worth bearing in mind that a small hatchet or a larger axe can also be a very useful asset when backpacking, hiking or canoeing, especially if you’re heading into wilderness areas. It will enable you to clear fallen logs or branches from the trail or cut back tangled undergrowth that might otherwise stop you in your tracks. And, if your camping trip involves hunting game, an axe can help you to process meat, hacking easily through joints and hides.

For all these tasks, there are specialist axes, custom-made for the job at hand. But for general camping use, we’re looking for a solid all-rounder – a tool that is reasonably lightweight and compact, so it can be carried and packed away. Luckily, there’s plenty of choice out there. A small hatchet can give you a surprising amount of chopping power for making kindling and even splitting small logs (see also: how to chop firewood: split your campfire fuel with ease). Or, for more permanent basecamps and extended backcountry trips, a longer and heavier light felling axe is ideal.

Campfire safety: how to stay safe when managing a campfire

Adler 1919 Rheinland hatchet review: a quaintly old-fashioned design that still outperforms modern rivals

Matthew Jones — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 16:04:31 +0000

Adler 1919 Rheinland hatchet: first impressions

As the name “Adler 1919 Rheinland hatchet” suggests, Adler 1919 is a brand with plenty of axe-making history – over a century’s worth of knowhow, in fact.

Originating in Josef Schmitt’s small village blacksmith’s shop in Wiesental, southern Germany, the company has grown to become a highly regarded manufacturer. Even today all Adler axes are still forged in Germany, albeit now in a larger purpose-built factory located in the town of Waghäusel, close to the River Rhine in Baden-Württemberg, just south of the city of Heidelberg.

So, there’s impressive history behind the Rheinland hatchet. It shows too – this immediately feels like a high-quality tool, showing good craftsmanship in the quality of finish and attention to detail. It’s a stout little hatchet with handsome heritage looks that thoroughly deserves it place in our best camping axes and hatchets buying guide.

The forged carbon steel head is a very traditional and well-proven shape, with a flared beard or lower cutaway and an extended cutting edge. Viewed from above, it has a conventional tapered wedge profile, with thick lugs around the eye for added strength and heft. The back of the head has a chunky poll or butt that works well for hammering tent pegs or similar camp tasks. We were slightly surprised to find that our test sample wasn’t quite uniform here – one side of the poll had lost an edge during the forging process, meaning it wasn’t quite square. Still, it did not affect usability.

A high-quality leather head guard that protects the versarile, taped bit effectively (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The Rheinland hatchet is hafted with a wooden split wedge and secured with a ring pin – but the finish here is superior to most rivals, with the wedge perfectly centered and no gaps in the eye. The head is extremely well seated on the handle.

The handle itself is made from American hickory. This will no doubt reassure US readers, though it might come as a surprise to some British and European readers, since most of our wooden-handled tools are typically hafted with ash. Both woods are renowned for their strength and stiffness – though hickory is usually considered to be the harder of the two woods. It makes for a very sturdy tool, particularly since our test sample showed fine graining and perfect orientation.

The handle is sanded but unvarnished, allowing the user to oil it, but the lower portion in finished with a sand-textured anti-slip black paint and a distinctive red or olive-green signature stripe. The handle is well sculpted, with a thinner throat than most small hatchets, which feels more elegant and precise. However, it still has enlarged shoulders for strength and a pronounced palm swell for a secure grip. It also has a drilled lanyard hole to add a leather thong or cord – ideal for hanging the tool around camp or in your woodshed.

Specifications

• RRP: $84 (US) / £69 (UK)
• Weight: 830g / 1lb 13oz
• Blade length: 10.5cm / 4in
• Overall length: 36cm / 14in
• Head: Forged carbon steel
• Handle: Hickory
• Head guard: Heavy duty leather

Adler 1919 Rheinland hatchet: in the field

The American hickory handle is is well sculpted, with a thinner throat than most small hatchets (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The head weight of this hatchet is 1.35lb or just over 600g, and we found that it delivered more grunt than slightly lighter rivals like the Stihl AX6 or the Husqvarna hatchet. It’s extremely comfortable and secure in use, thanks to that nicely sculpted handle and anti-slip grip.

The versatile design will split small logs, chop kindling and sned branches. The wide cutting edge has plenty of belly, ensuring that this hatchet delivers good penetration in soft or hardwood. And though it’s best used around camp, it will also deal with greenwood and standing deadwood if you need to clear overhanging tree limbs from the trail.

Despite its similar capabilities to the Stihl or Husqvarna hatchets we tested, however, it is slightly lighter and more compact overall than either. That makes it even better suited to camping and bushcrafting skills, since it will easily slide into a bag or strap onto the outside of a hiking backpack. It also comes with a high-quality leather head guard that protects the bit effectively.

The Adler 1919 Rheinland hatchet has a conventional tapered wedge profile, with thick lugs around the eye for added strength and heft (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The shorter handle does limit cutting power a little, but that’s true of hatchets in general. And it is worth noting that if you do need more leverage, Adler produces a longer axe called the Canoe Axe, which has the same head as the Rheinland Hatchet but mated to a 19.5in handle.

This hatchet has a large head cutaway, so you can choke up for finer work, ideal for carving and whittling projects. As with most small hatchets, the shoulders are perhaps fractionally too thick to be comfortable for smaller hands, but it would be easy enough to thin it down with a rasp and a few sanding sheets if desired.

The steel is of high quality and the axe came with a keen edge. After a few weeks of hard use, we had put a couple of small nicks in the cutting edge, but it was still splitting seasoned ash and softwood without any problems. The edge sharpened up easily with a circular whetstone.

All in all, this is a very versatile and well-made tool with plenty to recommend it and no real negatives to speak of. It is more expensive than the hatchets we tested from Stihl and Husqvarna, but then you get a better-quality product, and one that is still cheaper than a traditional hand-forged hatchet from Hultafors or Gränsfors Bruk. For a tool that will probably last a lifetime if you look after it, that’s solid value – and besides, you can think of it as an investment in adventure…

Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe review: a serious tool for serious bushcrafters

Matthew Jones — Sun, 19 Jun 2022 13:04:31 +0000

Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe: first impressions

The Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe hails from one of the most highly regarded axemakers in Sweden, Europe and indeed throughout the world. With a history that dates back to the mid-19th century, the company has serious heritage and world-class expertise in the complex hand-forging process. They’re so confident in the quality of their products that all their axes come with a 20-year guarantee.

And like many Scandinavian brands, sustainability is at the heart of operations too. Heads are forged from recycled steel, while the leather used to make sheaths and masks is vegetable tanned (and therefore chromium-free). Wooden handles are made of responsibly sourced hickory. These materials are all renewable, since at the end of the axe’s life the steel can be recycled, while the leather and wood will decompose, eliminating waste.

Moreover, Gränsfors Bruk minimize unnecessary grinding and polishing to consume less energy in the forge and use up less abrasive material, ultimately reducing carbon emissions. The heads and handles are also left unpainted, since paint can be harmful to the environment and adds another costly but unnecessary step in the manufacturing process, in terms of both resources and impact. We can happily add Gränsfors Bruk to our list of the best eco-friendly outdoor brands.

The 19.5in handle has tapered shoulders and slim throat so that this axe can be used with one hand or two (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

For outdoorsy types who care about the planet – which should be all of us – these commitments are laudable and worth supporting. It also results in a simple, elegant and handsome finished product – and the Small Forest Axe is certainly all of those things. That’s why it features in our best camping axe buying guide.

The hand-forged head is stamped not only with the Gränsfors Bruk name and crown, but also with the individual maker’s initials. It’s a useful and practical shape, with a long, thin bit and slender cheeks that ensures excellent bite when cutting across the grain. The convex profile enables greater precision, as does the bevelled cutting edge. The blade space is smaller and flatter than is typical of many modern axes and hatchets, but still has a slight curve to ensure improved penetration.

The head is well seated on the hickory handle, with plenty of crown above the eye – a nice touch. It is hafted with a wooden wedge and a single metal pin that is well finished, demonstrating the manufacturer’s commitment to quality. In our experience, this approach also makes rehandling easier compared to a circular pin, which usually needs drilling out.

The 19.5in handle is a versatile length, while the tapered shoulders and slim throat ensure this axe can be used with one hand or two. A pronounced palm swell and a squared butt offer a secure, comfortable grip. The handle is natural wood, left unvarnished and unpainted. This offers both warmth and tactility, while also absorbing moisture from sweaty palms. Give it a coat of boiled linseed oil every few months and it will last a very long time indeed.

The handle is finished with a lanyard hole and the axe is supplied with a high-quality leather head guard or mask that protects the bit effectively.

Specifications

• RRP: £132 (UK) / €152 (EU)
• Weight: 975g / 2lb 2oz
• Blade length: 8cm / 3in
• Overall length: 50cm / 19.5in
• Head: Hand-forged carbon steel
• Handle: Hickory
• Head guard: Heavy duty leather

Gränsfors Bruk Small Forest Axe: in the field

The hand-forged head is stamped not only with the Gränsfors Bruk crest, but also with the initials of that head’s individual maker (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The Small Forest Axe is the axe of choice for many bushcrafters and outdoors folk, whether for weekend adventures or more extended outdoor living. Admittedly, that’s partly because it has developed a reputation as being “the best”, recommended by noted experts like Ray Mears, amongst many others. But there’s no denying it is the ideal size and weight to straddle the divide between a small hand axe and a more heavy-duty felling or limbing axe. With an overall length of 19.5 inches, it combines practicality with power and can be used with one hand or two, particularly if you choke down on the slender haft. This enables you to use it for light splitting work or even close carving and whittling.

Still, as the long, thin head shape suggests, this is an axe that is really designed for efficiency when cutting across the grain, as when limbing logs, snedding branches or felling trees. In that capacity it is excellent, and on test it made short order of a standing dead ash that had succumbed to dieback. It’s a fantastic axe for processing small and medium-sized trees, especially when used in conjunction with a good camping saw (do you know the best trees for firewood?).

The hand-forged steel head is of extremely high quality and the axe came with a keen edge. The bit has an excellent balance of edge retention, strength and toughness. Of course, like all tools, for optimum performance, it requires fairly regular TLC – this isn’t an axe to use and abuse – but if cared for, it will last a lifetime.

The head is well seated on the hickory handle, with plenty of crown above the eye (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

It is also light and compact enough to carry in a hiking backpack, or at least strapped to the outside of a decent-sized rucksack. The total weight is a fraction under a kilogram – just over two pounds – which isn’t much heavier than many of the more robust hatchets out there. In contrast to a hatchet, however, you get an extremely versatile and capable axe with considerable chopping and felling power.

Of course, these uses might be overkill for many campers, particularly if you’re just splitting small logs or chopping kindling. And even if you still want a hand-forged tool from the Gränsfors Bruk stable, you might be better served by the Small Hatchet, Wildlife Hatchet (another bushcrafters’ favorite) or the Splitting Hatchet.

But despite the fact that not everybody needs a premium, artisan-made axe, plenty of people like the idea of a hand-forged tool that can be traced right back to its individual maker. If that’s you, you’ll undoubtedly appreciate this finely crafted axe, which will no doubt become a prized possession.

Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby Forest Axe review: an elegant beast of a wood chopper

Matthew Jones — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 16:08:31 +0000

Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby Forest Axe: first impressions

Along with rival forge Gränsfors Bruk, Hults Bruk is one of the most highly regarded axe makers in Sweden. You might notice, however, that this axe is branded Hultafors. That’s because Hults Bruk was bought by the Hultafors group in 1992 and now manufactures axes for both brands. The Hults Bruk brand is sold in the US, while Hultafors is sold in other international markets.

The company makes a wide range of premium and standard axes, which are sold by both brands under different names. Fortunately, the premium axes are identical in all but name – so the Hults Bruk Akka and the Hultafors Åby are the same axe. And whatever it’s called, it’s definitely one of the best camping axes out there.

It’s designed as a light felling axe, with a hand-forged 1.5lb (approx 700g) head and a hickory handle. Overall length is just over 23 inches. That’s not the most compact axe around, but on the other hand it enables this axe to be used for heavier felling and limbing work.

The leather head mask oozes old-school quality (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The head is well seated on the hickory handle, with plenty of crown above the eye – a nice touch. It is hafted with a wooden wedge and a circular metal pin. The handle has tapered shoulders and a slim throat, so it can be used with one hand if needed. A pronounced palm swell and a squared butt offer a secure, comfortable grip, with space for two hands. The handle is natural wood, left unvarnished and unpainted but oiled to maintain the wood. This offers both warmth and tactility, while also absorbing moisture from sweaty palms.

The handle is finished with a lanyard hole and the axe is supplied with a high-quality leather head guard or mask that protects the bit and most of the head very effectively.

Specifications

• RRP: $160 (US) / £130 (UK)
• Weight: 975g / 2lb 2oz
• Blade length: 8cm / 3in
• Overall length: 60cm / 23.25in
• Head: Hand-forged carbon steel
• Handle: Hickory
• Head guard: Heavy duty leather

Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby Forest Axe: in the field

The longer-than-average handle gives you greater cutting power (but makes this axe more of a challenge when it comes to packing) (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The head is a fairly unusual shape, but very versatile. It is well suited to both mid-size chopping and more detailed work thanks to a thin blade profile with slightly convex cheeks that makes deep cross-grain cuts.

It feels very precise, aided by a shorter cutting edge that comes wickedly sharp. The beard also has a large cutaway akin to a carpenter’s axe, which allows the user to choke up on the handle for very fine control. Despite the longer handle, this makes it a good tool for carving and whittling projects, whether you’re making wooden camp utensils, larger camp furniture or even building a natural shelter. Slim shoulders also ensure it’s very comfortable to use in this way.

But in two hands, the Åby is great for limbing logs, snedding branches or felling small to medium-sized trees. In fact, it’s a fantastic axe for processing larger volumes of wood, especially when used in conjunction with a folding saw. Though it isn’t really designed for splitting, it will chop through small rounds and make batons for kindling. It has a slightly thicker bit than the popular Gransfors Bruk Small Forest Axe, which we also tested, and we think the Hultafors Åby actually performs better in this respect than its rival.

The slimline, head-on profile of the Hults Bruk Akka / Hultafors Åby Forest Axe (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The hand-forged steel head is of extremely high quality and the axe came with a keen, nicely polished edge. The poll has bevelled edges and a brushed finish that enables it to be used as a light hammer for knocking in tent pegs or similar.

You could just about strap this axe to the outside of a decent-sized hiking backpack too. In terms of total weight, it is a fraction under a kilogram – just over two pounds – which is the same as the GB Small Forest Axe. Neither are much heavier than a robust hatchet. But we think the Åby delivers significantly more felling power than almost anything else in its weight class.

It might be more axe than many weekend campers need, of course, and similarly there’s no reason to spend this much if budget is a consideration. But if we wanted a lifetime camp companion and were going on something like a wilderness canoeing trip, this little powerhouse would be our top pick.

Stihl PR16 Handycut camping saw review: light, compact and versatile

Matthew Jones — Sat, 18 Jun 2022 12:16:09 +0000

Stihl PR16 Handycut: first impressions

The Stihl PR16 Handycut comes from a brand best-known for manufacturing power tools for both domestic and professional use. Many people will have a Stihl chainsaw, leaf blower or lawnmower in the shed at home. They also make a range of heavy-duty hand tools for pro arborists and foresters, as well as lighter-duty pruning shears, saws and secateurs designed for backyard and garden use. The PR-16 Handycut comes from this range, but this compact-yet-capable tool can do far more than simply tackle tasks in your backyard or garden. It also doubles up as one of the best camping saws around.

It has a folding 6.25-inch chrome-coated carbon steel blade. In terms of size and weight, it’s perfect to stash in your best daypack or slip into the pocket of your best hiking pants, as it’s among the lightest and most compact saws we tested. The bright orange color for which the brand is known also means you’re unlikely to lose it amongst long grass and undergrowth.

The Stihl PR16 Handycut makes fast work of branches up to about three inches in diameter (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

If you’re comparing this folding saw with the Felco F600, you might be starting to notice that the specs and features seem to be identical. There’s a good reason for that – colorways and branding aside, it is exactly the same tool. Stihl and Felco entered into a partnership agreement back into 2015, so that the current Stihl-branded garden tools are actually made under license by Felco.

As such, spare parts (including blades) are replaceable and interchangeable between the PR-16 and the Felco F600. If you’re shopping around for this saw, buy whichever of the two products you can find at the best price – unless you particularly like Stihl orange over Felco red, or vice versa.

Just like the Felco model, the handle is nicely sculpted, with a rubber pistol-style grip that feels both secure and comfortable in the hand. A thumb indent on the back of the saw also enables better control and precision. It also has a large lanyard hole, though no lanyard is supplied. It’s worth fitting a loop of paracord or similar if you’re likely to be pulling this saw out of your pocket on a frequent basis.

Specifications

• RRP: $30 (US) / £26 (UK)
• Weight: 153g / 5.4oz
• Blade length: 16cm / 6.25in
• Overall length: 35cm / 14in
• Closed length: 21cm / 8in
• Teeth per inch: 6
• Blade: Chrome-coated carbon steel
• Lanyard: None

Stihl PR16 Handycut: in the field

The Stihl PR16 Handycut has triple-ground teeth designed to cut on the pull stroke (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

Again, just like the Felco F600 – since they’re made in the same factory – the Stihl PR-16 is actually manufactured in South Korea. The 16cm blade is high-quality steel that has been impulse hardened rather than quenched, increasing the steel’s hardness. It features triple-ground teeth designed to cut on the pull stroke, with six teeth per inch. This makes fast work of branches up to about three inches in diameter, ripping quickly through green wood and seasoned wood alike. The coarser blade does make starting off a cut a little trickier than blades with more teeth, but on the flipside it makes for fewer strokes and rarely clogs with sap or sawdust.

The soft touch, non-slip handle is perhaps our favorite element of the design. It is ergonomically shaped for either left or right handers and feels exceptionally comfortable in use. We particularly like the top thumb indent, which aids dexterity when cutting in confined spaces, for example if working in thick tangles of brush or processing piles of deadwood. The lever that locks the blade in place is made of hard plastic, but it has a stiff backspring that means it is unlikely to deploy accidentally. It also has a very positive action as it clicks into place, which is reassuringly solid.

The lever that locks the blade has a stiff backspring so it’s unlikely to deploy accidentally (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

When folded, the design is equally secure, as the contours of the handle completely cover the tip of the blade. There are a few teeth on display though, which isn’t quite as neat or elegant looking as some rival saws. And while the few millimeters left exposed aren’t enough to catch on anything, bear in mind that the blade doesn’t lock closed, so if it were to open a fraction, this might become an issue. Still, we experienced no problems on test, and overall we were very impressed with this tough little saw, which delivers considerable cutting power in a very compact and portable package.

The best camping saws: portable, lightweight, and effective

Matthew Jones — Mon, 13 Jun 2022 11:48:49 +0000

As well as the hardy camping axe, the best camping saws are among the most useful bits of kit you can take on a camping adventure. When it comes to cutting firewood, they're essential. However, they also earn their place via a plethora of other tasks, bestowing you with the ability to process wood quickly and make precise, clean cuts.

They also have their uses on the trail, especially if you are venturing out into wild backcountry. Their ability to slice through tangled undergrowth and thin branches as you battle through the wilderness is a real boon.

Once you're done, the best camping saws fold up neatly and slot handily into your hiking backpack. Having cleared the way ahead, your fellow hikers will be thanking you without you even knowing it.

Finally, if your trips often involve hunting game, one of the best camping saws will help you immensely when it comes to processing meat and carcass. With all these uses, it's important to choose a versatile and durable saw. So, whether it's for cutting trees into firewood, for a spot of bushcrafting, as a survival tool or for working in the yard or garden, we can point you to the best camping saw for your needs.

Folding camping saws

(Image credit: Matthew Jones)

1. Stihl PR16 Handycut

This well-made pruning saw is primarily designed for garden tasks but also does double duty around camp

Very lightweight

Extremely compact

Soft and comfortable grip

Relatively short blade

Doesn’t lock in closed position

No lanyard, pouch or carry case supplied

Stihl is a well known manufacturer of garden tools, and the PR-16 Handycut comes from this range, but this compact yet capable tool can do far more than simply tackle tasks in your backyard – it’s also ideally equipped for life around camp or on the trail, with a folding 6.25-inch chrome-coated carbon steel blade. In terms of size and weight, it’s perfect to pack in a rucksack or slip into a hiking pants pocket, being among the lightest and most compact saws we tested. The bright orange colour for which the brand is known also means you’re unlikely to lose it amongst long grass and undergrowth.

If you’re comparing this folding saw with the Felco 600, you might be starting to notice that the specs and features seem to be identical. There’s a good reason for that – colorways and branding aside, it is exactly the same tool. Stihl and Felco entered into a partnership agreement back into 2015, so that the current Stihl-branded garden tools are actually made under licence by Felco. As such, spare parts (including blades) are replaceable and interchangeable between the PR-16 and the Felco 600. If you’re shopping around for this saw, buy whichever of the two products you can find at the best price – unless you particularly like Stihl orange over Felco red, or vice versa.

Read our full Stihl PR16 Handycut camping saw review

(Image credit: Matthew Jones)

2. Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition

With a premium Japanese steel blade, this compact folding saw delivers precision cutting power

Compact

Sturdy and robust

Blade can be locked in two positions

Versatile blade profile

Supplied with protective hard case

Fractionally heavier than its rivals

Finer teeth means blade can clog

Doesn’t lock in closed position

The PocketBoy is a more compact and versatile version of Silky’s bestselling Gomboy saw, while this special Outback Edition has been upgraded with a thicker saw blade made of premium Japanese steel. It folds fully into the handle and has a blade notch for use even when wearing gloves.

The handle is made of an unusual wood/plastic composite, which is warm and tactile. It’s finished with a lanyard hole and comes with a hard case made from transparent plastic, with a metal belt loop.

The PocketBoy features versatile triple-ground blade toothing to rip through wood quickly, without bouncing or jumping out of the cut. It works really well on both green or seasoned timber, and the blade can be locked in two positions, which gives you some useful extra clearance when working in tight spaces or among thick, tangled branches.

This is a serious tool built for serious outdoor use, with superb build quality. If you need a dependable workhorse for camping, hunting or to add to your survival gear, the Silky is more than fit for purpose.

Read our full Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition review

(Image credit: Matthew Jones)

3. Bahco Laplander

A bushcrafters’ favorite, this compact-yet-powerful folding saw is lightweight and easy to carry, with an efficient blade profile that cuts quickly and cleanly

Cuts in both directions

Locks open and closed

Supplied with leather lanyard

Locking button occasionally jams

No pouch or carry case supplied

The Laplander is a well-built, high-quality saw, available at a very affordable price. It has a straight Sandvik steel blade, finished with a low-friction coating that helps it glide through even knotty or sappy wood. This finish also protects it from corrosion and staining.

The handle is comfortable to use, and the saw comes fitted with a handy leather lanyard, so it’s easy to pull it out of a pocket or pack. The blade folds away fully into the handle, while a simple press button locks the blade in both open and closed positions.

On test, we found the Laplander’s blade to be well adapted for cutting branches up to about four inches thick, whether you’re dealing with freshly felled greenwood, seasoned timber or deadwood. It also saws remarkably quickly, since it cuts on the push stroke as well as the pull stroke. The curved grip gives plenty of clearance for the hand and the extended handle allows for greater leverage, especially if cutting branches at shoulder or head height.

All in all, it’s one of the best camping saws for sheer versatility. A great choice for campers and bushcrafters, as well as for general pruning work in your yard or garden.

Read our full Bahco Laplander review

(Image credit: Matthew Jones)

4. SOG Folding Saw

This well-priced folding saw has a longer blade and coarse peg teeth that are best suited to ripping through dry, seasoned wood

Long blade can handle larger branches

Locks in open and closed positions

Blade rarely clogs

Well priced

Comes with nylon storage sheath

Slightly slow cutting speed

Coarse blade cuts less cleanly

Not the lightest or most compact

This is a well-priced tool that undercuts a lot of other folding saws on the market. It still feels like a quality product, though – you get an eight-inch, powder-coated carbon steel blade and a two-part handle with molded grooves for secure grip.

The long, thin blade and coarser teeth of this saw can deal with bigger pieces of seasoned timber or deadwood compared to smaller saws. It’s ideal for cutting up camp firewood, though slightly less well-suited to heavy pruning work or clearing choked paths and trails.

The SOG comes with a nylon storage sheath, and unlike many folding saws, it locks in both open and closed positions for safety. The blade snaps crisply away into the handle, leaving no exposed points or teeth.

It is a little heavier and bulkier than many other folding saws, but then, it also has a longer blade length, which will enable you to deal with larger pieces of firewood.

Read our full SOG Folding Saw review

Compact camping saws

(Image credit: Matthew Jones)

5. Felco F600

This simple and effective pull-stroke pruning saw works great around camp, but is also seriously light and extremely compact, so it stows neatly in your pack or your pocket

Very lightweight

Extremely compact

Soft and comfortable grip

Relatively short blade

Doesn’t lock in closed position

No lanyard, pouch or carry case supplied

Although designed as a pruning saw, this small-but-capable tool can do far more than just tackle tasks in your backyard or garden. It’s also ideally equipped for life around camp or on the trail. It is lightweight and compact, slipping easily into a backpack or pants pocket. The blade is made from chrome-coated carbon steel, while the handle is nicely sculpted, with a rubber pistol-style grip that feels both secure and comfortable. A thumb indent on the back of the saw also enables better control and precision.

The saw features triple-ground teeth designed to cut on the pull stroke, making fast work of branches up to about three inches in diameter. The coarser blade does make starting off a cut a little tricky but requires fewer strokes and rarely clogs with sap or sawdust.

The soft-touch, non-slip handle is exceptionally comfortable in use. We particularly like the top thumb indent, which aids dexterity when cutting in confined spaces, for example if working in thick tangles of brush or processing piles of deadwood. The blade locking lever is reassuringly solid too.

Overall, we were very impressed with this little saw, which delivers considerable cutting power in a very portable package.

Read our full Felco F600 review

Collapsible camping saws

(Image credit: Matthew Jones)

6. Sven-Saw

This collapsible bow saw delivers considerably more cutting power than any folding saw

List price: 15-inch saw: $42 (US) / £40; 21-inch saw: $44.99 (US) / £45 | Weight: 15-inch saw: 312g / 11oz ; 21-inch saw: 388g / 13.7oz | Blade length: 38cm / 15in; 52cm / 21in | Collapsed length: 15-inch saw: 44cm / 17.25in; 21-inch saw: 58cm/23in | Teeth per inch: 4 | Blade: Swedish carbon steel | Lanyard: Leather

Strong and robust design

Can handle big branches and logs

Cuts in both directions

Blade rarely jams and never clogs

Supplied with leather lanyard

A little heavier than a folding saw

Requires some assembly

The Sven-Saw is a collapsible bow saw with a strong-but-lightweight, anodized aluminum frame and a high-quality Swedish steel blade. The design breaks down into a slim, compact package, with the blade completely covered and protected inside the handle.

The Sven-Saw is available in 15-inch and 21-inch sizes, whether you need maximum cutting power for larger diameter logs or prefer a slightly smaller saw for added convenience and portability. When packed away, the Sven-Saw is longer than a folding saw, but the clever collapsible design means it is also slim and compact, so it slides neatly into a hiking backpack. Assembly is easy and can be done in under a minute.

The triangular aluminum frame is lightweight yet strong, with no play. Peg and raker blade teeth rip through wet or freshly fallen wood with ease, rarely jamming or clogging. The thin blade also makes for very clean cuts, and the swift cutting action ensures less fatigue when used for extended periods. It’s comfortable to work with too, so this is a great choice for processing lots of firewood quickly. It’s perfect for group camps and basecamps, whether you’re backpacking, canoeing, hunting or fishing.

Read our full Sven-Saw review

Best camping saws
Camping saw	List price	Weight	Blade length	Closed length	Teeth per inch
Stihl PR16 Handycut camping saw	$30 (US) / £26 (UK)	153g/5.4oz	16cm/6.25in	21cm/8in	6
Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition	$60 (US) / £45 (UK)	243g / 8.6oz	17cm / 6.5in	21cm / 8.25in	6
Bahco Laplander	$30 (US) / £25 (UK)	193g / 6.8oz	19cm / 7.5in	23cm / 9in	7
SOG folding saw	$20 (US) / £23 (UK)	267g / 9.4oz	20cm / 8in	24cm / 9.5in	5
Felco F600	$30 (US) / £26 (UK)	153g / 5.4oz	16cm / 6.25in	21cm / 8in	6
Sven-Saw	15-inch saw: $42 (US) / £40; 21-inch saw: $44.99 (US) / £45	15-inch saw: 312g / 11oz ; 21-inch saw: 388g / 13.7oz	38cm / 15in; 52cm / 21in	15-inch saw: 44cm / 17.25in; 21-inch saw: 58cm/23in	4

How we test camping saws

Each of the saws featured here has been tested in the field by our expert reviewer, who put them to use in forests and around campsites and other outdoor scenarios, cutting a variety of woods for various purposes.

For more details, see how Advnture tests products.

How to choose a camping saw

(Image credit: Iuliia Isaieva / Getty Images)

However, if you’re in an area where campfires are permitted, and there’s a suitable stock of deadwood that you can cut up for firewood, a camping saw will be an invaluable companion. Lighter, more efficient and more portable than an ax, a camping saw will give you plenty of cutting power to process wood while being lightweight and compact enough to keep in your pack or even in your pocket.

A portable saw can also come in handy when building shelters, building camp furniture and practicing other bushcraft skills, as well as for clearing paths and trails. But which type should you go for?

Types of camping saw

Folding Saws The most popular choice for most campers, hunters and bushcrafters is a folding saw – sometimes referred to as a pruning saw or even a Japanese saw (since this type of saw was popularized by Japanese brand Silky). Typically, they have a blade length of around six to nine inches (15cm–23cm), attached to the handle via a locking pivot. The handle will have a groove into which the blade folds away, allowing for convenient and safe carry. They can be used one-handed to cut through branches up to about five inches (12cm) in diameter, and usually weigh less than 300g.

Collapsible Bow Saw If you’re building a semi-permanent basecamp, going on an extended trip or camping with a larger group, you might need to process a lot of firewood. This requires more cutting power, and here a collapsible bow saw is the ideal choice. They’re well suited to ripping through larger diameter branches and even small logs. The triangular frame and fixed blade of a bow saw adds strength and rigidity, making them suitable for prolonged use and hard work. They tend to be heavier and bulkier than folding saws, though, and are not so good if you need to work in confined spaces, like tangled undergrowth.

Sliding Saws With a sliding saw, the blade slides into the handle rather than folding away. The blade is locked into place via a tightening nut on the side of the handle. Sliding saws are smaller and lighter than folding saws, but not quite as user-friendly or as robust. The thin blades can bend or break, so are best suited to cutting small diameter branches. Unless you’ll only be using a camping saw for light tasks, we’d generally recommend choosing a folding saw over a sliding saw.

Pocket chainsaws or wire saws Best for occasional, emergency or survival use, wire saws and pocket chainsaws are flexible lengths of metal wire or toothed chains fitted with a handle on each end. They can be wrapped around branches or logs and used to rip through wood with an alternate back and forth pulling motion. They can deliver surprising amount of cutting power in a light and portable package but do take a fair bit of effort and technique to use efficiently.

You too can pretend your SOG folding saw is a lightsaber (Image credit: SOG)

Key features of a camping saw

Size and weight A larger, heavier saw usually delivers more cutting power, but comes with added weight and bulk. If you’re hiking or backpacking, look for a saw that is small, lightweight and compact so it fits easily in a pack or even a pocket. If you’re canoeing or overlanding in a 4x4-type vehicle, this may be less of a consideration, which may mean you can select a more robust, heavy-duty saw.

Handle material Most camping saws have steel blades, but the rest of the tool will usually be made from lightweight materials such as aluminum, nylon or other types of plastic and composite material. Look for a saw with a curved, ergonomic handle that feels comfortable to use. Many saws feature rubber or silicon non-slip grips for added security. A bulge at the butt end of the handle can also prevent your hand from slipping when using the saw. Molded grooves or channels in the handle can help to reduce buildup of sweat and moisture, as can absorbent materials like wood fiber or cork.

Blade Look for a saw with a blade length of at least six inches (15cm). This will enable you to cut through branches of at least three inches (7.5cm) in diameter – roughly the thickness of your wrist – which is more than adequate for processing wood for a campfire. Most saws have carbon steel blades, which is a type of tool steel that balances strength, hardness and wear resistance, so they should stay reasonably sharp. However, carbon steel rusts easily, so always dry it between uses. It’s also worth looking for a blade that has been treated or coated. Many coatings are also designed to reduce friction, which makes the saw cut more quickly and easily, without jamming. Blade thickness is another factor that affects cutting speed as well as how cleanly a saw cuts. Thinner blades are usually better for fast, clean cuts, but are also more liable to bend, break or wander off, making it harder to cut in a straight line.

The Sven-saw’s thin blade makes for a quicker cutting action (Image credit: Sven-Saw)

Teeth It is actually the tooth pattern of the blade that largely dictates the cutting action and efficiency. Many saws cut on the pull stroke, which is the most efficient way to rip through wood, but some saws are bidirectional, meaning they cut on both the push and pull stroke. This can increase overall cutting speed, depending on user technique.

As a general rule, coarse or rip cut saws have fewer teeth per inch (TPI) than medium or fine blade saws. So, a blade with fewer teeth per inch will cut more quickly than a fine-toothed blade. On the other hand, it can be trickier to start off the cut, particularly on smooth wood or bone. Because you are removing more material with each stroke, the saw is also more likely to clog or jam. Thus, finer-toothed saws are typically a little slower but cut more cleanly and neatly, while being easier to use. Traditional wood saws have double ground ‘peg teeth’, which are good for cutting through seasoned timber and deadwood. Others have ‘peg-and-raker teeth’, with regularly spaced double teeth that are designed to clear out the cut. This helps to prevent sap and sawdust from building up and clogging the blade or your cut. More modern saw blades have triple ground teeth, which is a very versatile tooth pattern that cuts quickly and efficiently across a range of different woods and even other materials such as bone.

Locking mechanism Safety is essential when using sharp tools, especially in the great outdoors when you might be miles from the nearest road or hospital. A secure locking mechanism is the easiest way to ensure the safety of a tool. Some saws use lever locks, others use push buttons or even adjustable nuts and screws to hold the blade in place. Ensure the mechanism works reliably and engages fully, and cannot be accidentally depressed. A saw that locks in the closed position as well as when open is also a bonus, since this prevents the blade from partially opening in transit and catching on other pieces of equipment. Remember that the exposed teeth of a saw will soon shred the lining of your pocket or rucksack.

The blade of the Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition can be locked in two positions (Image credit: Silky)

Camping saw tips

How to stop your camping saw from rusting The carbon steel blades of many saws will rust quickly if you don’t look after them. Always clean and dry the blade after use, and ensure your saw is not stored in damp or humid conditions. If your saw blade does not have a protective coating or finish, oiling the blade with mineral oil will also help to prevent rust.

Blade sharpening and replacement Most saw blades are relatively inexpensive to replace, and replacement blades are widely available for most popular camping saws. They are generally designed to be quick and easy to change too – some don’t even require a tool to do so, while others typically need only a flat-head or Phillips screwdriver. For these reasons, it is not generally worth spending a lot of time sharpening old blades. Triple ground teeth are particularly tricky to sharpen easily without a specialist file. Of course, that’s not to say it can’t be done with a little patience and dedication.

Cleaning and maintenance To get the most out of your camping saw, always clean the blade before you put it away. Blow out the teeth of the blade and the groove of the handle to remove sap and sawdust. When you get home, wipe the blade and the handle using soap and water and an old rag to remove any buildup of mud, sweat and grime. Dry it thoroughly and apply a little oil or similar lubricant to the pivot and hinge to ensure it operates smoothly. If the blade has no protective treatment, give it a light coating of mineral oil to help prevent corrosion.

Bahco Laplander camping saw review: impressive two-way cutting power for its size

Matthew Jones — Sun, 12 Jun 2022 16:02:09 +0000

Bahco Laplander: first impressions

The Bahco Laplander comes from a long-established and highly regarded manufacturer of hand tools, so you’d expect it to feel like a well-built, high-quality saw. It doesn’t disappoint, despite its very affordable price point.

It has a straight-edged Swedish Sandvik steel blade, finished with a black low-friction coating that helps the blade to glide through even knotty or sappy wood. This finish also protects the steel from corrosion and staining.

The handle is a two-part design with a nylon frame and integrated liners, overlaid with a rubberized plastic grip, ergonomically shaped for comfort in use. The grip has molded grooves to help minimize slippage, even when working in humid or damp conditions (see also: How to camp in the rain: 10 tips for expeditions in wet conditions).

The curved grip of the Bahco Laplander is comfortable to hold, giving plenty of space and clearance for the hand. (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The end of the handle also has a lanyard hole, and the Laplander is supplied with a long leather thong. This ensures the Laplander is easy to pull out of the pocket of your best hiking shorts or best daypack, and also means you can hang it from a branch or hook in camp, minimizing the chances of losing it in the undergrowth. That’s perhaps just as well, since the muted black and forest green colorway doesn’t make for great visibility – though bushcrafters might appreciate the subdued, natural look of this understated tool.

The blade folds away fully into the handle, leaving no sharp protruding teeth or point. It pivots on an adjustable bolt with a dual Phillips flat-head fitting. This ensures the blade can easily be disassembled for replacement, cleaning or oiling. A simple press button locks the blade in both open and closed positions. The fact that the blade locks closed is a plus for safety but does mean it’s slower to deploy compared to some rival saws.

But how did it fare under test conditions for our best camping saw buying guide? Read on…

Specifications

• RRP: $30 (US) / £25 (UK)
• Weight: 193g / 6.8oz
• Blade length: 19cm / 7.5in
• Overall length: 40cm / 16in
• Closed length: 23cm / 9in
• Teeth per inch: 7
• Blade: Coated Swedish Sandvik steel
• Lanyard: Leather

Bahco Laplander: in the field

The Bahco Laplander comes supplied with a convenient, long. leather thong (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

On camp, we found the Laplander’s blade to be well adapted for cutting small logs and branches of up to about four inches in diameter. It also cuts remarkably quickly, since it utilizes Bahco’s XT hardpoint toothing, with seven teeth per inch (TPI). This tooth profile cuts in both directions – on the push stroke as well as the pull stroke – which makes this a fast-cutting saw whether you’re dealing with freshly felled greenwood, seasoned timber or deadwood (do you know the best trees for firewood?).

The curved grip is comfortable to hold too, giving plenty of space and clearance for the hand. And the extended handle is slightly longer than many comparable saws, which allows for greater leverage, especially if cutting branches at shoulder height or even above the head.

A simple press button locks the blade into place (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

In fact, there’s very little not to like about this well-designed tool. The only thing we would say is that the button lock is not the easiest to depress, being particularly stiff when new. When it came down to convenience and speed of deployment, we generally preferred the lever-style lock used by most other saws of this type. On the other hand, Bahco’s design is arguably a bit safer, particularly since the button locks the saw blade closed in the folded position as well as when the blade is fully opened.

All in all, it’s a versatile saw, and using the Laplander soon made it apparent just why it’s such a popular choice amongst campers and bushcrafters, as well as professional arborists. However, we reckon it would work almost as well for hunting and game preparation, as well as for general pruning work in your yard or garden. At this price, you can hardly go wrong however and wherever you put it to task.

Felco F600 pruning saw review: the gardening tool that’s more than ready to take on camping duties

Matthew Jones — Sun, 12 Jun 2022 12:54:09 +0000

Felco F600 pruning saw: first impressions

While the Felco F600 pruning saw functions quite happily as a bushcraft tool, the Swiss brand it comes from will probably be more familiar name to green-fingered gardeners. Felco is best known for its excellent range of secateurs, pruning shears, loppers and grafting knives. Unsurprisingly, they also make various pruning saws, the smallest of which is the Felco F600. Equipped with a 6.25-inch blade that folds away into the handle, it’s a compact-yet-capable tool that can do far more than simply tackle tasks in your backyard or garden. It’s also ideally equipped for life around camp or on the trail.

In terms of size and weight, it’s perfect to store away in your best daypack or slip into the pocket of your best hiking shorts – it’s among the lightest and most compact saws we tested for our best camping saws buying guide. The bright red color reflects the brand’s Swiss heritage, but also means you’re unlikely to lose it in long grass or undergrowth.

The handle of the Felco F600 pruning saw is nicely sculpted, with a rubber pistol-style grip that feels secure and comfortable in the hand (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The blade is made from chrome-coated carbon steel, which adds rust resistance for better durability. However, the blade is easily replaceable if necessary – though Felco’s proprietary heat treating and hardening should ensure a long-lasting and high-performance cutting edge too.

The handle is nicely sculpted, with a rubber pistol-style grip that feels both secure and comfortable in the hand. A thumb indent on the back of the saw enables better control and precision. It also has a large lanyard hole, though no lanyard is supplied. It’s worth fitting a loop of paracord or similar if you’re likely to be pulling this saw out of your pocket on a frequent basis.

But how did it fare under test conditions for our best camping saw buying guide? Read on…

Specifications

Felco F600 pruning saw: in the field

The blade doesn’t lock closed, so if it were to open a fraction when it was in your pack, this could be an issue (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

Despite Felco’s Swiss roots, this saw is actually manufactured in South Korea. That’s no indication of poor quality, though – quite the opposite. The 16cm blade is high quality steel that has been impulse hardened rather than quenched, increasing the steel’s hardness.

It features triple-ground teeth designed to cut on the pull stroke, with six teeth per inch. This makes fast work of branches up to about three inches in diameter, ripping quickly through green wood and seasoned wood alike (do you know the best trees for firewood?). The coarser blade does make starting off a cut a little trickier than blades with more teeth, but on the flipside it makes for fewer strokes and rarely clogs with sap or sawdust.

The soft touch, non-slip handle is perhaps our favorite element of the Felco F600’s design. It is ergonomically shaped for either left or right handers and feels exceptionally comfortable in use. We particularly like the top thumb indent, which aids dexterity when cutting in confined spaces, for example if working in thick tangles of brush or processing piles of deadwood.

The lever that locks the blade in place is made of hard plastic, but it has a stiff backspring that means it is unlikely to deploy accidentally. It also has a very positive action as it clicks into place, which is reassuringly solid.

When folded, the design is equally secure, as the contours of the handle completely cover the tip of the blade. There are a few teeth on display, though, which isn’t quite as neat or elegant looking as some rival saws. And while the few millimeters left exposed aren’t enough to catch on anything, bear in mind that the blade doesn’t lock closed, so if it were to open a fraction, this might become an issue.

Still, we experienced no problems on test, and overall we were very impressed with this little saw, which delivers considerable cutting power in a very compact and portable package.

Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition camping saw review: a small, versatile and classy folding saw

Matthew Jones — Sat, 11 Jun 2022 15:22:09 +0000

Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition: first impressions

The Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition has an impressive heritage. When it comes to steel blades, one nation’s reputation for superior craftsmanship and expertise arguably stands above all others: Japan. And though we’re testing saws here, not samurai swords, Silky is a company with serious pedigree.

Established by Katsuji Miyawaki in Kishi, Japan back in 1919, Silky soon built an enviable reputation for crafting well-designed, high-quality saws. In 1970, they were amongst the first to adopt the newly invented automatic saw-setting machine, which marked a sea change in the development of modern saw manufacturing. A decade on, Silky created and patented their own proprietary saw-setting process, which resulted in a remarkable improvement in blade sharpness. Then in 1985, they introduced the Gomboy, a folding saw with a rubber-clad handle that became the forerunner of almost all modern pruning-style saws (which are often referred to as “Japanese saws” to this day).

The Pocketboy is essentially the Gomboy’s little brother, designed to be even more compact and versatile. This special Outback Edition has been upgraded with a thicker and more rigid saw blade to better survive the demands and rigors of bushcraft. The premium Japanese steel is coated in a compound of nickel and tin, which is designed to prolong blade life and improve cutting performance in multiple materials including wood and bone. It’s a dark, non-reflective gunmetal color, which also gives the saw a tactical look that doesn’t glint or dazzle in bright sunlight.

But how did it fare under test conditions for our best camping saw buying guide? Read on…

The Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition’s blade fold fully into the unusual wood/plastic composite handle (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The locking blade folds fully into the handle, completely concealing both teeth and point. A blade notch also ensures it’s easy to deploy the saw, even when wearing your best hiking gloves, which is a thoughtful touch that shows this is a saw designed to be used year-round and in cold-weather environments.

The lever lock and frame are made from pressed steel, while the handle is made of an unusual wood/plastic composite, which is warm and tactile. It’s a bit less forgiving in the palm than the softer plastic and rubber grips of other saws but offers more secure control when covered in grease and moisture, whether rain or sweat. It’s finished with a lanyard hole, though no lanyard is actually provided – so it’s probably worth adding a loop of paracord or a leather thong if you’re going to be pulling this out of your pocket frequently.

Unlike most other saws, the Pocketboy Outback comes with a hard case made from transparent plastic with a metal belt loop, which works well for long-term storage, protecting the tool quite well when not in use. For us, it’s a little flimsy to take into the great outdoors though, as it would be relatively easy to crack or shatter the case.

Specifications

• RRP: $60 (US) / £45 (UK)
• Weight: 243g / 8.6oz
• Blade length: 17cm / 6.5in
• Overall length: 37cm / 14.5in
• Closed length: 21cm / 8.25in
• Teeth per inch: 9
• Blade: Coated Japanese steel
• Lanyard: Plastic carry case

Silky PocketBoy 170 Outback Edition: in the field

The Silky’s triple-ground blade toothing will bite immediately into smooth surfaces without jumping out of the cut (Image credit: Silky)

The Pocketboy is fitted with a 170mm blade, featuring triple-ground blade toothing. It has nine teeth per inch (TPI), which Silky class as a medium blade. This is their most versatile saw – it will rip through wood and bone quickly but has enough teeth to bite immediately into smooth surfaces, without bouncing or jumping out of the cut.

We found that it works really well in both green or seasoned wood (do you know the best trees for firewood?), and though you need a few more strokes than some saws, cutting speed is still impressive. In fact, cutting performance is only really limited by the relatively short blade length. The curved grip is comfortable to hold too, and the handle has a pronounced butt to stop it from slipping out of your hand. This is a saw that can do serious and prolonged work without giving you hotspots or blisters.

It comes with a protective plastic case, which is nice – it just doesn’t strike us as robust enough to survive the rigors of the great outdoors (Image credit: Silky)

The other feature that makes this an extremely versatile saw is the fact that the blade can be locked in two positions – parallel with the base of the handle or slightly beyond vertical. The latter position gives you some useful extra clearance for the hand, ideal for working in tight spaces or thick, tangled branches. It doesn’t lock in the closed position, but this is a benefit is some scenarios, as it makes it quicker to deploy the Pocketboy’s blade.

In terms of drawbacks, we did occasionally manage to accidentally depress the lever lock, which will cause the blade to disengage backwards. As soon as you get familiar with using the Pocketboy, it’s a quirk that’s easily avoided – just wrap your thumb around the handle rather than keeping it on the spine of the saw. The only other area in which the Pocketboy loses out is weight: it’s a little heavier than other similarly-sized saws. On the other hand, that added heft can be useful, and reflects the robust construction and materials. There are no flimsy plastic parts here.

Overall, this feels like a serious tool built for serious outdoor use. In terms of durability, the build quality is a notch above anything else we tested – though that’s also reflected in the higher price. But if you need a dependable workhorse for camping, hunting or to add to your survival gear, the Silky is more than fit for purpose.

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SOG folding saw review: built for ripping through tough wood rather than finesse

Matthew Jones — Sat, 11 Jun 2022 13:20:09 +0000

SOG folding saw: first impressions

The SOG folding saw comes from a brand with a reputation for producing specialist hunting, survival and military-tactical equipment, so you might not immediately think of SOG when looking for tools to add to your camping checklist. But actually, in our recent review of the best camping knives we were very impressed with the brand’s Terminus Slipjoint, so we were understandably keen to get our hands on their folding wood saw.

The SOG folding saw has a two-part handle, comprising a pressed steel hinge and a hard nylon grip (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

This is a well-priced tool that undercuts a lot of other folding saws on the market. It still feels like a quality product, though – you get an 8-inch powder-coated carbon steel blade and a two-part handle with a pressed steel hinge and a hard nylon grip, which features molded grooves and channels. The lever lock and blade pivot incorporate plastic parts but feel fairly robust. The pivot bolt’s plastic fastener also enables the blade to be disassembled for cleaning, oiling or replacement without the need for to go looking for the screwdriver attachment on your multitool, which is convenient.

The straight blade has coarse peg teeth primarily designed to rip through dry deadwood or seasoned timber. That black powder-coated finish will help it to resist corrosion too, though such a coating is unlikely to be as durable as metal-based treatments (like the nickel and tin compound used by Silky).

But how did it fare under test conditions for our best camping saw buying guide? Read on…

Specifications

• RRP: $20 (US) / £23 (UK)
• Weight: 267g / 9.4oz
• Blade length: 20cm / 8in
• Overall length: 44cm / 17.5in
• Closed length: 24cm / 9.5in
• Teeth per inch: 5
• Blade: Powder-coated carbon steel
• Lanyard: Nylon

SOG folding saw: in the field

The larger teeth of the SOG folding saw rarely clog, which is good, but they do make sawing slightly harder work (Image credit: SOG)

The long, thin blade and coarser teeth of this saw look like they’ll rip quickly through most branches and even small logs. But while it’s true that it can deal with bigger pieces of wood than smaller saws, in general we found it was slightly harder work.

We put that down to the saw’s peg-tooth blade, which didn’t bite as cleanly or efficiently as blades with triple-ground teeth. The thin blade stock can also wobble around sometimes. On the other hand, the larger teeth mean the blade rarely clogs, which is a plus.

In fairness this saw also works pretty well when ripping through seasoned timber or deadwood – which is the kind of stuff you’ll likely be dealing with on camp, rather than cutting freshly felled greenwood. It’s perhaps not the best saw to use if you’re doing a lot of pruning work or clearing choked or overgrown trails and footpaths though.

The SOG folding saw comes with nylon storage sheath (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

Otherwise, it held up well and feels decently made for the price, though the hard plastic handle is not as comfortable as those with rubberized grips. The handle is also straighter in design than the more pronounced curve of many other folding saws, which, together with the longer length, makes it slightly more awkward to work in tighter spaces.

The flipside is that if you’ve got plenty of space in camp, it does give more leverage when sawing. It’s also worth noting that the blade will also actually open beyond the vertical, and although it doesn’t lock in this position, this can occasionally be handy, particularly if you’re cutting branches that are low to the ground.

Lastly, we appreciated the fact that this saw comes with a nylon storage sheath, and that unlike with many folding saws, it locks in both open and closed positions too. The blade snaps crisply away into the handle, leaving no exposed points or teeth.

It is a little heavier and bulkier than many other folding saws, but the flipside is a longer blade length that will enable you to deal with larger diameter branches up to 4.5 or even 5 inches (12cm) at a push.

Sven-Saw collapsible camping saw review: when it comes to power, it’s a cut above a folding saw

Matthew Jones — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 15:20:09 +0000

Sven-Saw: first impressions

Like almost all great products, the Sven-Saw has a similarly great origin story. Back in 1960, its inventor Richard Swenson took a canoeing trip with his brother in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness on the Minnesota-Canadian border. They came across two men on their way out, one limping on a bandaged foot. He’d cut his foot badly with an ax and was on his way to hospital (you can be prepared for similar mishaps with the best first aid kits for hiking, backpacking and camping). That got Richard thinking about building a better – and safer – wilderness tool.

The result was the Sven-Saw, a collapsible bow saw with a strong-but-lightweight aluminum frame and a high-quality Swedish steel blade. The design breaks down into a slim, compact package, with the blade completely covered and protected inside the handle. The company are still making the Sven-Saw today, and it continues to be family-owned and operated, with all parts proudly manufactured and packaged in Minnesota, USA.

The Sven-Saw’s striking livery means you should be able to spot it easily around camp (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

Now, there’s no better test than the test of time, so if a product has been successful for over 60 years, it’s clearly a well-designed and well-made bit of kit. The current model is a handsome beast too, with a red anodized aluminum handle marked with Richard Swenson’s signature and “60th anniversary edition” text. The anodizing protects the metal from wear and tear as well as corrosion, while the eye-catching color ought to help ensure it doesn’t get lost around camp, even if the saw gets misplaced in long grass or undergrowth.

The blade is made from high-quality Swedish carbon steel and is easily replaceable. The Sven-Saw is available in 15-inch and 21-inch sizes, which means there’s a saw for you whether you need maximum cutting power for larger diameter logs or prefer a slightly smaller saw for added convenience and portability.

But how did it fare under test conditions for our best camping saw buying guide? Read on…

Specifications

• RRP: 15in saw $41.99 (US) / £40 (UK); 21in saw $44.99 (US) / £45 (UK)
• Weight: 15in saw 312g / 11oz ; 21in saw 388g / 13.7
• Blade length: 38cm / 15in; 52cm / 21in
• Collapsed length: 15in saw 44cm / 17.25in; 21in saw 58cm / 23in
• Teeth per inch: 4
• Blade: Swedish carbon steel
• Lanyard: Leather

Sven-Saw: in the field

The basic design of the Sven-Saw has remained unchanged for over 60 years, which must say something about its reliability (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

When packed away, the Sven-Saw is longer than a folding saw, but the clever collapsible design means it is also slim and compact, so we found it slides neatly into a rucksack, whether you prefer to stow it in the main compartment or a side pocket. The 15-inch size slots easily inside a daypack, while the larger 21-inch saw will fit inside a typical 40-liter hiking backpack.

Assembly is also easy, and after familiarizing ourselves with the process, we could soon do it in under a minute. You simply unscrew the wing nut, slide out the inner frame, unfold the blade and then slot the end of the frame and the blade retaining bolt simultaneously into the red anodized frame. Screw the wing nut back on and the saw is ready to use. Disassembly is the same process in reverse – simple.

The triangular aluminum frame is lightweight yet strong, with no play. It holds the steel bow saw blade firmly and securely. This has a peg and raker tooth pattern, primarily designed for ripping through wet or freshly fallen wood. The triangular teeth do the cutting on both push and pull strokes, while the rakers chip the wood out. This ensures the blade rarely jams or clogs with sap and sawdust.

The Sven-Saw has a swift cutting action (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The thin bow saw blade also makes for very clean cuts, and both sizes of the Sven-Saw are able to deal with larger diameter branches than any of the other saws we tested. The 21-incher in particular makes fast work of bigger logs.

This swift cutting action ensures less fatigue when used for extended periods. It’s comfortable to work with too; the handle’s anodized finish also stops it from getting too slippery. Perhaps some sort of rubberized overlay might provide additional grip – though that would, of course, also add weight. Otherwise, the only thing worth being mindful of is not to lose the wing nut. Thoughtfully, the brand provides a spare with every saw.

Overall, we like the Sven-Saw an awful lot. It is very versatile, immensely practical and performs impressively in the field. It has few downsides, other than a little added weight and length over a folding saw. Obviously, a triangular bow saw can’t get into tight spaces like a folding saw.

The flipside is that you get considerably more cutting power, which makes this a great choice for processing lots of firewood quickly (it’s also handy to know the best trees for firewood). It’s perfect for group camps and base camps, whether you’re backpacking, canoeing, hunting or fishing.

How to clean a pocketknife: keep your blade shiny and in working order

Alex Foxfield — Thu, 07 Apr 2022 16:06:00 +0000

When it comes to knowing how to clean a pocketknife, let us guide you on the methods to get your backcountry blade back to its best. Knife envy is not just the preserve of whoever’s tagging along with Crocodile Dundee for the day. You too can turn green with jealousy when your camping buddy pulls out a shiny new pocketknife and you realise your once beloved old thing looks like something you’ve just found in a muddy puddle during a hike.

However, there’s no reason that repeated use should render your pocketknife dulled and dirty. Giving it a thorough clean every once in a while will make a world of difference. A grimy pocketknife is not only unhygienic but excessive dirt can clog up the mechanism, meaning that it may not close properly, which is potentially dangerous.

These tips work just as well for cleaning your multitool (Image credit: Getty)

Besides, your best camping knife sees its fair share of varied use. It’s your best friend in the kitchen, helping you to cook up a storm come dinnertime; it’s a handy tool to have when making tent repairs; and the creatives among you might even use it for a spot of whittling. The point here is that a blade that may have helped to gut a fish, slice through chicken and carve a lovely wooden spoon is going to need a thorough clean once in a while.

So, here with give you our step-by-step guide on how to clean a pocketknife. These tips and tricks work just as well for that versatile cousin of the pocketknife too, the multitool. First, let’s gather everything we’ll need.

How to clean a pocketknife: what you’ll need

Screwdriver
Cloth
General purpose cleaning spray or mild soap
Old toothbrush
Cotton buds
Toothpicks
Compress air can
Lubricant (vegetable oil recommended)
Towel
Paper towels

How to clean a pocketknife: regularly give the exterior a good clean

When you come to wash your camping utensils after a scrumptious meal, it’s a good time to give your pocketknife the once over.

When you clean your pots and pans, it's also a good time to give your pocket knife a good scrub (Image credit: Getty)

Open up the blade and take a toothpick to all the more intricate parts of the knife, such as the pivot point and screwheads. Lever any gunk or lint out of the crevasses. Another trick you can use here to fight off stubborn dirt is using a compressed air can and blowing into the tiny gaps.

Next, apply your cleaning product onto the knife and scrub with an old toothbrush to remove any tough bits of dirt. Finally give it a good wipe down with your cloth, being careful of the blade. This should be enough to keep your knife relatively clean during your camping trips.

For a multitool, you’ll want to follow the same principles before pulling each tool out one at a time. Give them a thorough scrub with the toothbrush, before a more general clean with a cloth.

Rinse the soap or cleaning products off your knife and then dry it using a towel.

How to clean a pocketknife: the deep clean

Your knife can get into all kinds of scrapes, a deep clean is needed every once in a while (Image credit: Getty)

Every now and again, your pocketknife is going to need some additional TLC. This is where the deep clean comes in.

1: Disassemble

First things first, check your manufacturer’s warranty, as taking your knife apart can void this. If all is well and good regarding warranty, proceed to take the screws out of your pocketknife. They’re only tiny little things, so make sure you store them somewhere safely. If you’ve never taken your knife apart before, you may be surprised at just how grimy the out-of-sight parts of it are.

All kinds of grime can work its way into your pocketknife (Image credit: Getty)

2: Clean the individual components

Using your soap or cleaning spray and your toothbrush, go to work on all the individual components of your knife. Use all the tools in your arsenal. Toothpicks are great for getting the gunk out of intricate spaces, while cotton buds can be useful for cleaning out the circular hinge holes and for general polishing. Don’t forget it’s not just the main parts of your knife that need a good clean, the screws and washers should also be given a quick scrub.

3. Dry and reassemble

As good as new after a good clean (Image credit: Getty)

The metal in your knife is prone to rust when in contact with water and oxygen, so it’s absolutely essential to dry your components thoroughly before reassembling. This is another good time to utilize your compressed air can, which can be used to blow through the little screw holes and hinge points to ensure there’s no residual moisture.

When it comes to reassembly, it’s usually easier to put the knife back together in the open position.

4. Apply lubricant to the pivot

The final step is to add some lubricant to your knife’s pivot and any other moving parts to give you a smooth action when you flip the blade open and closed. The lubricant you choose will depend on how you use your knife. If you regularly use your tool to prepare food for your camping meals, a food-based lubricant is probably best, such as vegetable oil. The rule here is to just use a little, before working it in by flexing the pivot to check the action. Wipe away any excess oil with a paper towel and you’re done!

Camping axe vs hatchet: what’s best for building a campfire?

julia.clarke@futurenet.com (Julia Clarke) — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 14:08:28 +0000

Gathering sticks to build a campfire certainly beats turning the central heating on but it’s got nothing on swinging a giant axe over your shoulder and chopping your own wood, which you’ve probably been fantasizing about since you first read Jack and the beanstalk.

If you’re planning on spending some time in the woods and want to build more impressive campfires good for cooking over as well as warming your hands, you might be wondering if you can finally get your hands on that axe of your dreams, or is a hatchet more suitable? In this article, we take on the debate over camping axe vs hatchet to help you determine which you need for building a winning fire.

What is the difference between a hatchet and a camp axe?

A camping hatchet has a shorter handle, sometimes less than half the length of a camping axe, and is used single-handedly (Image credit: ArtistGNDphotography)

First off, what is the difference between these two tools and is it enough to matter? A camping axe has a long wooden handle (typically around 20 inches long) and a steel head with a double beveled wedge for cutting wood. A camping hatchet has a shorter handle, sometimes less than half the length of a camping axe, that can be made from wood but is more often made using synthetic materials and covered with plastic or rubber for grip. The steel head has the same double beveled edge as the axe, but the other end is flat and can be used as a hammer.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s see how the two stack up against each other when it comes to criteria like weight, striking power, versatility and ease of use.

Camping axe vs hatchet: weight

A hatchet weighs less than a camping axe, which matters if you're backpacking (Image credit: vm)

As we’ve established, a camping axe is bigger than a hatchet, which is smaller and usually made using synthetic materials, so it should come as no surprise that the axe is the heavier of the two. Of course, there are lots of models of both types of tool, but you can generally expect a camping axe to weigh between 2lbs and 4lbs whereas a camping hatchet will likely come in around 1.5lbs.

In a time when ultralight camping is all the rage, that might suggest that the hatchet is the best choice, and certainly if you’re hiking, you can just strap it to your backpack so in that scenario, the hatchet does seem like the clear winner. However, the difference in weight means the two are actually better suited to different purposes, so let’s take a look at those before you make your decision.

Camping axe vs hatchet: striking power

That added weight of the camping axe that makes it a bit more burdensome for carrying also means that it’s better suited to chopping through larger pieces of wood (Image credit: Jon Paciaroni)

That added weight of the camping axe that makes it a bit more burdensome for carrying also means that it’s better suited to chopping through larger pieces of wood (think: tree trunks) because it comes down harder, and also for larger volumes of wood. Meanwhile, the camping hatchet doesn’t have as much power behind each swing so it’s better suited for splitting smaller pieces of kindling and not a great match for larger pieces of wood, and you’ll get far more tired if you have to chop a lot of wood. So, if you’re expecting lots of larger logs or just planning on camping for an extended period of time and will need to do lots of chopping, the camping axe wins this round. If you know you just want to take care of some smaller branches, a hatchet job should do the trick.

Camping axe vs hatchet: ease of use

The hatchet is easier to use in tight quarters, whereas you need more room to swing an axe (Image credit: Klaus Vedfelt)

Next up is the question of how easy each tool is to use. The camping axe’s extra weight and length means two hands are required to wield it, however that also means you have more accuracy with your axe. Plus, even though the camping axe is heavier, that means that once you start swinging, it comes down more easily and you actually have to put less elbow grease into it. The hatchet can be used single handedly and requires a smaller chopping motion.

But there’s another variable that affects how easy these two are to use, and that’s how much space you have available. Due to the axe’s larger size, you do need quite a bit of space around you to swing it properly, so if you’re camping around lots of other people and children, or chopping in a dense forest where the branches are low and the trees are tight, the axe will be more difficult to swing. The hatchet is easier to use in tight quarters, so this one might again come down to where you’re going.

Camping axe vs hatchet: versatility

The hatchet has that flat edge on the other side of the head which can be used as a hammer for your tent stakes (Image credit: Chase Jarvis)

Finally, there’s the question of versatility. The camping axe has one job and it does it well – chopping through large pieces of wood. Other than that, it’s not really got any other purpose. The hatchet, on the other hand, has that flat edge on the other side of the head which can be used as a hammer too, meaning you have a bit of a multi tool for driving in steel tent stakes, hammering dents out of your camping pots and pans, breaking things open and anything else you might need a bit of blunt force for.

Camping axe vs hatchet
	Camping axe	Camping hatchet
Weight	Longer handle and steel head mean these weigh in between 2-4lbs	Smaller size and synthetic materials mean these are usually under 2lbs
Striking power	Heavier means better for cutting through larger logs and chopping lots of wood	Smaller size means better for smaller kindling and not so good for lots of chopping
Ease of use	Requires two hands which means more accuracy and needs lots of space, but less effort required thanks to the weight of the axe	One handed wielding and easier to use in tight quarters
Versatility	Only functions as an axe	Chops wood and double as a hammer

Camping axe vs hatchet: the verdict

Ultimately, your choice between a camping axe vs hatchet comes down to what type of camping you’re doing and what types of trees and kindling are available (Image credit: Cavan Images (Getty))

So, will it be the heavier, more accurate camping axe or the smaller, lighter and more versatile camping hatchet for you? Ultimately, it comes down to what type of camping you’re doing and what types of trees and kindling are available. If you’re car camping and plan to be doing lots of chopping, or expecting large pieces of wood, load up your axe and you won’t be disappointed. However, if you’re hiking in with your gear, you’ll almost certainly be happier with a camping hatchet. And if you’re doing a bit of both? More and more hybrid-type models are appearing on the market that have all the benefits of an axe with a slightly lighter weight and the versatility of the hatchet.

Camping bucket ideas: tips for getting the most out of your multi-functional bucket

Alex Foxfield — Sun, 08 Aug 2021 12:58:14 +0000

We’ve compiled list of camping bucket ideas as broad and deep as… well, a 5-gallon bucket. Of all the things you can take camping, few have as many applications as the modest, unsung hero of the campsite, the watertight bucket.

From hauling gear from your car to your tent, lugging wood over to the fire pit and storing food, to washing hands, clothes and pots and even acting as an emergency toilet (all will be revealed), there are many ways you can put your camping bucket to use.

Gone are the days when it resembled a large paint tub with the kind of unergonomic handle that bit into your hand when weighed down by a substantial load. Today, camping gear manufacturers are designing more and more innovative models that fold away to nothing and are blessedly kind on the hands. See our guide to the best camping buckets you can buy for further enlightenment...

Camping bucket ideas: haulage

Collecting firewood for a campfire (Image credit: Getty)

Of all our camping bucket ideas, those that involve lugging stuff around are probably the most obvious. After all, the bucket has been the go-to for carrying water since Jack and Jill went up the hill…

1. For hauling luggage

On a family expedition, the camping bucket is ideal for carrying all manner of trinkets, from bats and balls to sun cream and fishing nets. From your car to your large tent and back to the car for the trip to the beach, and then back in the car to the campsite and then over to the kids play area: the camping bucket is a fast and efficient way to transport such tools. Better still, by keeping these items out of your day pack, you’re not worried about mud and sand getting everywhere.

2. Collecting firewood

Collecting firewood with the kids is always a great little micro-adventure before the campfire fun ensues. A 5-gallon bucket is a great size for collecting your medium sized sticks and twigs, as well as dry leaves for kindling. When you’ve removed all the fire’s fuel, see if there are any creepy crawlies left in the bottom of the bucket to show the little ones.

3. Carrying your catch back to camp

Chop up your fresh catch and carry it back in your bucket (Image credit: Getty)

If a spot of fishing is on the cards on you next camping trip, a bucket is perfect for transporting your catch.

Camping bucket ideas: storage

A bucket is watertight, which means nothing is going to leak out and, crucially, nothing is going to get in.

4. Keep your items out of the wet

A bucket can fulfil the same role as your dry bags, keeping your stuff out of the drink, should conditions turn a little bit nasty. On the other hand, it can also be used to store wet clothes, keeping them away from your other garments and saving your backpacks and suitcases from getting damp and smelly.

5. Keep your food away from scavengers

Leave any food out and a fox might have it (Image credit: Getty)

Foxes, raccoons and, in some places, even bears will be attracted to your campsite by the smell of food. You may well have brought a camping cooler box for any items that need to be kept fresh. For other food items, a bucket with a lid is the perfect storage solution.

6. Holding water for the campfire

You’ve already used your bucket to collect the firewood but, to ensure campfire safety, you’ll also need a few liters of water ready. This is to provide the initial treatment should anyone get burned – which will hopefully never happen – and to make sure the fire is well and truly put out after use.

Once the fire dies down, you'll need some water to douse its remnants (Image credit: Getty)

Camping bucket ideas: washing

7. A wash basin

A camping bucket can do the same job as your household wash basin. Heat some water on your stove and mix with cold water and you’ve got yourself some warm water for washing your hands, cleaning your your pots and pans, or doing a quick bit of laundry.

Camping bucket ideas: seating

8. As a chair

This is the simplest of all our camping bucket ideas. A bucket doubles up as an alternative camping chair for when you’re relaxing, eating and chatting with your pals.

9. As a DIY emergency toilet

Another kind of seat your camping bucket can double up as is a toilet seat. Yes, you read that right. Simply get a 10-gallon waste bag, place it inside the bucket and add a handful of absorption medium (such as pine chips or saw dust). Fold a grocery store bag over – and slide pipe insulation around – the bucket's rim to make a soft circular seat. Add another handful of absorption medium into the smaller bag. After each use, drop the plastic bag to the bottom of the bucket and repeat until full. Dispose of contents responsibly.

Camping bucket ideas: campsite fun

What could improve this campfire singalong? A bucket. (Image credit: Getty)

10. Percussion for a sing song

Now we’re not suggesting you re-enact the musical Stomp in the campsite, but along with an acoustic guitar and everyone’s best singing voices, a bucket's percussive qualities add a lot to a campfire singing session. Even better if you bring a couple of different sized buckets; a 5-gallon will give you a pleasing low floor tom pitch, while a 3-gallon makes for an excellent high tom. Some parts of your multitool make for an excellent beater. Don’t bring a cymbal – you’ll only annoy your camping neighbours in the adjacent tent.

Best camping buckets, bowls and sinks: for campsite chores

Jasper Winn — Sun, 08 Aug 2021 12:58:04 +0000

The best camping buckets and bowls can be lifesavers. Literally sometimes. Rain aside, you can never have too much water on a trip into the outdoors. You may have addressed basic drinking needs with a hydration pack or water bottle, but once you’ve made camp for the night the best water carriers, buckets and bowls can give you ‘just-like-home’ amounts of water for all your kitchen and washing needs.

Hikers will find that lightweight folding camping buckets and bowls like those made by Sea to Summit, or Nalgene’s range of tough, wide-mouth canteens, work well in camp kitchens, whilst the Ortlieb Water Bag has an add-on shower head which can make ablutions an actual pleasure. Those sailors, van campers, cyclists and kayakers who are less constrained by weight have even sturdier and bigger capacity options for camp sinks and water portaging, many of which can multi-task.

The Decathlon collapsible bucket, for instance, is as useful for throwing wild swimming kit or muddy running shoes into (keeping them separate from dry stuff) as it is for scrubbing dishes, and Alpkit’s slimline Kamel has reimagined the classic jerry can shape by using expanding sides that only concertina out when filled to its huge 13L capacity. The Platypus Tank is another clever design, with a full length Big Zip top for quick filling and sealing, making it practical for both carrying and dispensing water.

The best camping buckets, bowls, and sinks

Best camping buckets

(Image credit: Sea to Summit)

1. Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Folding Bucket

A capacious folding bucket you can carry in your pocket

Super lightweight

Easy to carry

Not reliably spill-proof when free standing

Weighing the same as a single AA battery, folding down to near-nothing and still able to comfortably carry 10 liters of water, even the most gram-counting camper could surely justify carrying a Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Folding Bucket. In camp that amount of water makes the difference between miserable sip-counting and care-free splashing out. The bucket is essentially a well-designed waterproof bag with a comfortable carry handle. It depends on the pressure of liquid inside it to keep its integrity; stand it only on flat surfaces to avoid the sides collapsing and spilling the contents or, better still, hang it from a tree branch. Though not designed for use as a bowl or for storing water in, the canny lightweighter will find ways of doing both, whether its suspending the handles from sticks to make a washing sink or putting a cloth over the bucket’s mouth when keeping water over night so it doesn’t become a spa-pool for insects.

(Image credit: Decathlon)

2. Decathlon 10L Foldable Fishing Bucket

A standard bucket shape that collapses down into an easily stored flat disk

Folds

Saltwater proof

Heavy

It’s a bucket. And it folds flat. Ostensibly (and nominally) it’s designed for fishing folk, but there are plenty of other uses for this easily transportable bucket. This is not a lightweight option, so it’s not going to suit hikers and backpackers, but for kayakers, sailors, wild swimmers and car / van campers a bucket that takes up less space is always useful. Better still, the bucket is rigid when concertina-ed open making it robust for rinsing and washing items like trail shoes in.

It’s saltwater resistant, so perfect for dumping wet gear in after sea swims or surfing, and it’s practical for carrying water over distances and using as a camp sink. Handily, it can also be part opened, forming a shallow bowl which works better for washing-up small items, or giving a dog a drink. The rigidity makes it stable and it should be easy to improvise a lid if storing water overnight.

Best camping sinks and bowls

(Image credit: Sea to Summit)

3. Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil 10L Kitchen Sink

A feather-light 20Lfolding bowl for all your washing tasks

Lightweight

Strong

Easy to pack when empty

No lid, so shouldn’t be used to store water for long periods

Requires flat surface

A camp sink that’s small and light enough to slip into a backpack’s or hiking pants’ pocket, but which holds enough water to wash up a night’s cooking and eating utensils, rinse out a shirt or use for a quick ‘truck stop shower’. Short loop handles on the rim are good for carrying water away from streams or shorelines to avoid food waste, detergent or and grey water contamination. Other uses include storage of wet clothes for cleaning and drying later, or as a dog bowl.

Once filled the sink swells out under its wired rim making a relatively stable, bottom-heavy shape, though it needs to be placed on a flat surface to avoid spillage, and it’s easier to dip water out of it than pour from it. Pack the bowl away into its pouch by twisting the metal rim hoop into a ‘figure of eight’ and then back onto itself to form a double circle, halving its diameter, while the ultralight fabric flattens to almost nothing – there’s a knack to this, which some get straight away while others struggle like a macaque working out a Rubik’s cube.

(Image credit: Highlander)

4. Highlander PVC Collapsible Water Bowl

Classic retro styling for a simple and tough PVC washing up bowl

Cheap

Lightweight

Tough fabric

Spillage is always a possibility

The Highlander foldable bowl harks back to the days of canvas buckets and bowls in safari camps, though its retro simplicity has been given greater practicality through the use of fully waterproof and easy-to-clean PVC. Though it crushes down flat when stuffed into a pack or pocket the olive green material is stiff enough to hold its shape and avoid spillage when filled with water, though you still need to be careful when using it for washing up. The two short loop handles on opposing sides of the rim are fine for moving the bowl from one place to another but not for long hikes to fetch water. It’s toughness and size, both filled and when folded down, also make it a good carry for a hiking dog’s drinking bowl.

(Image credit: Ortlieb)

5. Ortlieb Folding-Bowl

Kitchen sink practicality in a fold-down design

Style: Folding sink with reinforced rim | Weight (empty): 200g / 7oz | Dimensions (H x W x D): 12 x 24 x 24cm / 4.7 x 9.4 x 9.4in | Capacity: 5L / 170 fl oz | Variations available: 10L / 340 fl oz; 20L / 680 fl oz; 50L / 1,700 fl oz | Materials: Polyester fabric, PVC-coated, PFC-free, BPA-free | Closure: None | Colors: Asphalt / Olive Green

Reinforced rim gives rigidity when filled

Easy clean fabric

Heaviest of the folding bowls

Ortlieb make four sizes of square and oblong folding sinks ranging from 5L, through 10L ($36 / £25) and 20L ($42 / £30), to a whopping 50L ($100 / £67.50) in volume. For a lightweight camp kitchen the 5L is ample for washing vegetables, cleaning pots or doing small items of laundry, whilst the biggest can take a sodden wetsuit or other bulky kit either for transport or for rinsing saltwater out.

When unfolded the flat, squared-off base and the straight edges of the reinforced rim give the Ortlieb the rigid feel of a solid sink, which makes washing clothes or kitchenware easy. The two handles are long enough for a one-hand carry, bucket-fashion, making moving water around and pouring from one of the corners – to put a campfire out, for example – straightforward for the smallest of the bowls; no-one’s likely to be lifting the 40 or more kilos of the largest one when it’s filled with water.

Best camping water carriers

(Image credit: Jasper Winn)

6. Platypus Platy Water Tank 6L

A tough, light, flat-base water bag with practical carry handles and a wide mouth for easy filling, which also seals

Style: Carry handle tank with fully sealing, large top opening | Weight (empty): 120g / 4.16oz | Dimensions (width x length): 24 x 45.5cm / 9.5 x 18in | Capacity: 6L / 210 fl oz | Variations available: 2L / 70 fl oz; 4L / 140 fl oz | Materials: Clear Polyurethane / polyethylene, nylon fabric handles | Closure: Pinch-close ‘zip seal’ fastener | Colors: Transparent

Wide filling opening can be fully sealed

Comfortable carry in the hand

Easy to pack when empty

Closing the ‘zip’ seal effectively can take effort

Platypus are a long-established manufacturer of water bottles, bladders and storage for the outdoors, and their 6-liter Tank, (there are also 2- and 4- liter versions), holds enough water for a night’s cooking and drinking. With comfortable fabric carry handles and its full-length Big Zip opening the Tank is like a bucket that can be sealed shut against spillage and contamination.

The Big Zip allows quick filling, and cleaning, though it does take considerable effort to push the two lips together to ensure correct closure; a tip is to wet the ‘zip’ channels to make pushing them into each other easier. For controlled pouring there’s a separate screw top, with a diameter and thread size which fits many water filters and drinking tubes.

The body of the Tank is marked in liters, useful for calculating amounts of water purifying chemicals, while the plastic itself is BPA-, BPS- and Phthalate-free, impregnated with silver-ion to deter mould and bacterial growth and flagged up as ‘taste free’. The Tank sits squarely on the ground when full, and the flexible body rolls up to make a small package when empty.

(Image credit: Ortlieb)

7. Ortlieb Water Sack and Shower-Valve

A well-designed water bag with added functionality delivered by an add-on shower head

Style: Water sack with shower attachment | Weight (water sack empty): 190g / 6.7oz | Weight (shower valve): 5g / 0.2oz | Dimensions (height x circumference): 35 x 35cm / 13 x 13in | Capacity: 10L / 340 fl oz | Materials: PS17; Nylon fabric, PU coated, PVC-free PFC-free BPA-free | Closure: Roll closure with snap lock | Colors: Black / Blue

Big volume for minimal weight

Roll top for easy filling and cleaning

Not free-standing and needs to be hung up to stop leaking

Ortlieb’s water sack builds on the proven design and materials of the company’s excellent water bags which have been lightweight expedition essentials for decades. The fully opening roll-top mouth makes filling easy, especially if dipping from standing water, and also offers full access for cleaning. Once closed the clip and strap closure makes a handle (perhaps not comfortable for miles of carrying, but fully practical) and also a suspension point.

For use in camp there’s a screw-top at the other end of the bag, with a twist open-close valve which is handy for controlled filling of pots or your favorite camping mug while you’re cooking. Even better, the same screw thread is compatible with various water filters and also takes Ortlieb’s own shower valve. The latter works well; nothing makes camp showering easier than having a hands-free source of water raining down on you, especially as it can be filled with water heated up to comfortable shower temperature – choose the black sack if you want it to heat naturally in the sun. The roll-top closure isn’t reliable enough for water transport in any position but vertically, but that’s possible if strapped to the outside of a pack, and you can reduce any chance of leakage if you under fill and add a few more rolls to the top.

(Image credit: Nalgene)

8. Nalgene 3L Cantene

A large-volume, lightweight container with a wide mouth and leak-proof lid

Holds enough water for one-person’s cooking and washing needs

Guaranteed leak-proof screw-top lid

Tolerates a range of temperatures

Tall shape makes it susceptible to knocking over

The three-liter Nalgene Cantene earns its keep when carried in a pack side-pocket ready to fill in those last hours before making camp, or tied onto a day pack to carry water for a lunch stop on a hot weather hike. Empty, it rolls down to minimal size and weighs almost nothing (there are smaller volume Cantenes but the weight saving is so negligible it’s hard to argue the case for choosing those over the largest of the trio).

The bottle has a guaranteed leak-proof screw-top lid, though user error being what it is, I wouldn’t actually put one inside a pack. The wide mouth is a useful feature; not just aiding dip filling, and making the Cantene easier to clean, but also allowing you to soak grains, pasta or oats either in cold or hot water to cut cooking time and save on fuel. There is a ‘hole’ handle moulded into the Cantene, good for securing under or from a pack’s straps, but less comfortable on the fingers over long carries. The Cantene’s BPA- and BPS-free food-grade materials tolerate a wide temperature range – from -29°C (-20°F) to 104°C (220°F) – so it can be used as a hot water bottle or a chill pack.

(Image credit: Alpkit)

9. Alpkit Kamel Water Carrier

A slimmed-down jerry can that expands to take a lot of water

Sides fold in to take up less room

Large capacity

Sealed top with spigot tap

Top needs to be closed securely

Thirteen liters is a lot of water and the Alpkit Kamel expands from its flatter empty profile to full capacity with sides that open out like bellows. Because of its size it’s going to be most practical for vehicle campers, but I’ve done long bike trips in India and the Sahara with rigid jerry cans tied from my crossbar and the Kamel would have carried the necessary amounts of water for far less bulk and more versatility.

Fully filled it’s heavy (use as a kettle weight for on-the-move exercises!), but the handle gives a comfortable and balanced carry. Even opened to its max the spigot in the screw-on top has a tiny flow, useful for drawing off small amounts of water or if hooked upside down to wash under, but when you need to fill something faster from the Kamel it’s far easier to open the whole top. It is critical to ensure that the top is screwed on very firmly every time used otherwise it will leak if laid on its side. If carrying water in a moving vehicle or on a boat tie the handle off to something to keep the Kamel upright.

How to choose a camping bucket or bowl

There is plenty to think about when you’re looking to buy the best camping bucket or camping bowl for your adventure. Carrying, storing and using water have different requirements, meaning that there isn’t a single piece of camp kit that will do all three jobs well.

Priorities

Lightweight hikers will want to go for equipment based primarily on their weight saving and basic function. Those criteria make Sea to Summit’s featherweight folding bowls and buckets good choices for fetching water and doing essential washing, while Nalgene’s Cantene and Ortlieb’s Water Sack are more than light enough for walkers, cyclists and paddlers to carry and so be able to collect, store and dispense water when camp has been set up.

For van or car-based campers, as well as surfers and wild swimmers who spend time on or by the water, weight might be less of an issue, but space will undoubtedly still be at a premium. Decathlon’s bucket that concertinas flat and Ortlieb’s folding bowls are good for most outdoor chores involving H2O, offering a good mix of hide-away size and full sink functionality, whilst the Platypus Tank and Alpkit’s Kamel do the same pack-away trick for bulk water carrying. Use some imaginative mixing and matching of kit options and you can come up with the portable plumbing that can make your outdoor home nearly as easy to live in as your indoor house.

Our list of camping bucket ideas explains plenty of potential uses for your water carrier.

Now you can pack everything and the kitchen sink… Sea to Summit’s Kitchen Sink, that is (Image credit: Sea to Summit)

Features

Many of the tested camping buckets and bowls here are fairly specific in their design aims, making sacrifices in versatility to deliver a particular benefit. Thus the lightweight materials of some of the folding utensils means less stiffness and stability when filled with water, while the strength to carry large and heavy volumes of water means beefier and heavier construction for other items.

All water carrying equipment, though, requires appropriate handles for lifting and moving them even when filled and heavy. Some of the water carriers have wide Big Zip or roll-top mouths to make filling easier, and to allow efficient cleaning (denture tablets and a good rinse work well to keep water bags, bottles or jerry cans reasonably hygienic). Look for food grade materials, and for plastics free from harmful chemicals for drinking and food preparation containers; manufacturers who use them flag these up as pluses, and quite rightly so. Some brands go further and include silver-ion embedded in the materials to stop mould and bacteria taking over.

Price and value

Even a generation ago having sufficient water in camp depended on heavy cans, leaky canvas water bags or far-from-food-grade plastic bottles. But that’s all changed. Modern materials mean lighter, more hygienic and better-designed kit. Being able to bring in abundant water to camp in the evening, and having a way to hold it whilst doing splashy things like washing up or rinsing vegetables, makes the difference between counting every drop just to be able to cook and drink, and having the full ‘running-water kitchen in the outdoors’ experience. Buckets and bowls might be unglamorous when up against other outdoors equipment but that’s entirely because being able to carry, store and hold water is such a basic need for everyday life. Just like water itself.

Manly Wasp camping knife review: high performance at a low price

Matthew Jones — Thu, 29 Jul 2021 15:08:49 +0000

Manly Wasp: first impressions

One of Advnture's best camping knives, the Manly Wasp certainly delivers on Bulgarian knifemaker Manly’s mission to offer practical everyday tools made from top-grade materials and representing unbeatable value for money. It comes in two versions – one with 14C28N steel, the other with premium S90V.

Our test sample was the former, featuring a brushed blade with a nail nick. 14C28N is a stainless steel from Swedish steel maker Sandvik that is basically a more corrosion-resistant version of their well-known 13C26 steel. Despite not carrying the cult appeal of S90V, it is still an impressive mid-range steel that sharpens to a razor edge (but you’ll still need to know how to sharpen a camping knife at some point).

The handle scales of both versions are solid and chunky G10 fibreglass composite, finished with a repositionable deep carry clip. Our test sample was an attractive black-and-red combo that looked particularly striking.

Similarly, the overall fit and finish was excellent, with all components well machined and flush-fitting. The blade arrived sharp straight out of the box, with a drop-point profile that has plenty of belly for easy slicing.

In short, you get an awful lot of knife for your money here, and in fact we are struggling to think of another EDC slipjoint camping knife that can compete in terms of overall value. (Wondering what EDC is? See our What is Everyday Carry? feature).

Specifications

• RRP: £41.95 (UK)
• Weight: 80g /2.8oz
• Blade length: 7.5cm / 3in
• Overall length: 17.4cm / 6.85in
• Closed length: 10cm / 3.94in
• Materials: 14C28N stainless steel blade and G10 scales
• Features: Flat grind / Drop point blade

In the field

The 14C28N is an excellent all-round steel that is ideally suited to hard outdoor use. It handled all sorts of general outdoor tasks with aplomb, including a long whittling session.

However, the action takes a little getting used to – although the blade is non-locking (and incidentally under three inches long, so classed as UK legal carry), the slipjoint mechanism features no less than three stops. So, it essentially opens in three steps, stopping at 45, 90 and 135 degrees before extending fully. This doesn’t make for quick or particularly easy deployment, though it does offer highly effective additional protection from accidental folding. It’s extremely unlikely that the Wasp will close on your fingers. Some will like it; others will find it a frustration.

That quirk aside, there is little not to love about this compact but highly capable knife. Having said that, we would be tempted by the upgraded premium S90V steel version. It costs a little more, but in our view the extra outlay would be worthwhile.

Gerber Wingtip camping knife review: judge it not by its size

Matthew Jones — Tue, 27 Jul 2021 15:06:44 +0000

Gerber Wingtip: first impressions

The Gerber Wingtip comes from a company increasingly known in the UK for its Bear Grylls-branded survival range of knives, axes and machetes in distinctive black and orange. But US giant Gerber actually makes plenty of more understated tools. The Gerber Wingtip is one such example: a modern slipjoint pocket-knife, with a short but useful blade.

The handle incorporates two aluminium scales plus stainless steel liners, backspacer and bolster. It makes for a very lightweight knife in the hand or the pocket.

Like all knives in our best camping knife buying guide, it conforms to UK legislation for legal everyday carry, with a non-locking folding blade of less than 3 inches. But the Wingtip is extremely compact when folded or opened, more so than many other UK-legal EDC options (see What is Everyday Carry?). This makes it easier to carry but arguably limits cutting power a little. It’s also worth noting that the short handle might not suit users with bigger hands unless you stick to smaller tasks.

The drop-point blade has a nice mirror polished finish, matching the bolster and contrasting nicely with the brushed aluminium scales, which are available in either green or grey. The blade is 7Cr stainless steel, a Chinese-made steel that is commonly used by many US brands. It’s fairly corrosion resistant, which is good for hiking and camping use. Otherwise, performance in terms of edge-holding isn’t outstanding, but certainly comparable to most other rivals in this price bracket.

Specifications

• RRP: $23 (US) / £25 (UK)
• Weight: 55g / 1.9oz
• Blade length: 6.4cm / 2.5in
• Overall length: 14cm / 5.5in
• Closed length: 8cm / 3.15in
• Materials: 7Cr stainless steel blade and aluminium scales
• Features: Flat grind / drop point mirror polished blade

In the field

A chunky nail nick makes for fairly easy deployment. The blade has a half stop for safety, and snaps smoothly into place with very little play. We did find that the aluminium scales tend to mark and scratch over time, but then perhaps that just adds character to a diminutive knife that makes for a decent little pocket companion.

Its usefulness is only really limited by its size, but then the emphasis is very much on light and compact occasional use rather than sustained work (see how to choose a knife for camping if you think it may be be the knife for you). As such, it’s a good knife for small camp tasks, and feels robust enough to last many years on the trail. The Wingtip is also fitted with a lanyard hole, which can be easily threaded with some slim cord – 2mm Dyneema is ideal – if you wanted to attach it to your kit for added security or make it easier to grab out of a pocket.

Best camping knives: folding knives for wild expeditions

Matthew Jones — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 15:41:29 +0000

The best camping knife has myriad uses, particularly on backcountry camping expeditions and the like. These small, folding, compact yet mighty tools are a far cry from the kind of massive blades wielded by a Crocodile Dundee character and are all the more useful for it.

A quality camping knife is a great tool to have when cooking up a campsite feast, slicing food packets open, chopping veg, carrying out repairs to your tent or hiking gear, or as an addition to your first aid kit. You get the picture, it's an almost indispensable tool that we've turned to time and time again during our many years of camping adventures.

What sets the best camping knife apart from, say, the blade on best multitool? Surely just carrying the one tool is preferable to two? Well, we'd argue there's a place for both in your backpack, particularly as they're both so compact. The best camping knife will usually have a superior blade to that of your multitool, which makes them the go-to for campsite cooks.

We've tested the knives in this selection over countless expeditions and rate the Three Rivers Atlas to be the best camping knife around, thanks to its low weight, excellent blade steel and build quality.

The best camping knives

Best knife for fast and light expeditions

This surprisingly capable, US-made blade is well-designed and superbly executed (Image credit: TRM)

1. Three Rivers Atlas

The best knife for fast and light camping expeditions

Weight: 60g /2.1oz | Blade length: 5.7cm / 2.25in | Overall length: 14cm / 5.5in | Closed length: 8.57cm / 3.375in | Materials: S35VN stainless steel blade, titanium liners, spacers and pocket clip, G10 fibreglass composite scales | Features: Flat grind / Drop point blade

Excellent blade steel

Good build quality

Blade half stop

Lightweight and compact

Not the cheapest

The Atlas is a compact US-made slipjoint folder from TRM (Three Rivers Manufacturing), a small but fast-growing knifemaker from Massachusetts. It is a clean and well-thought-out design with a stubby but very slicey blade made from high-end S35VN steel. It’s a serious knife despite its compact dimensions, and one that is built for hard work. The blade also has an enlarged cut-out that can allow for one-handed opening, enabling quicker deployment. We liked the way the handle fits snugly in the hand, incorporating a finger choil and slimmed down rear end for added comfort and dexterity.

Spine jimping also adds to an overall sensation of firm, reliable control in use, whether we were cutting cordage or whittling wood. Similarly, the very positive blade half stop feels reassuringly safe, and there is ideal tension on the backspring that means the blade snaps open and closed securely.

Read our full Three Rivers Atlas camping knife review

Best camping knife for those on a budget

An elegant slimline pocket-knife that’s lightweight and easy to carry, with a versatile blade profile for everyday tasks (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

2. CRKT CEO Heinnie Haynes Edition

Best budget camping knife

Weight: 57g/2oz | Blade length: 7.4cm / 3in | Overall length: 17.8cm / 7in | Closed length: 10.6cm / 4in | Materials: 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel blade and Glass Reinforced Nylon (GRN) scales | Features: Pocket clip / Flat grind / Drop point blade

Slim, lightweight design

Slips easily into almost any pocket

Smooth opening

No blade half stop

Perhaps a little ‘dressy’ for outdoors use

Single-sided nail nick and pocket clip do not particularly suit left-handers

With its understated yet considered design, this slim and elegant knife aims for precision and simplicity in terms of both aesthetics and purpose. On test, we found it delivers on both counts – the knife feels well-balanced in the hand, while lubricated ball bearings in the pivot reduce friction so that the satin-finished, stainless-steel blade clicks smoothly and crisply into place.

The long, thin blade has a high flat grind that is well suited to prepping food for camp cooking or taking on small whittling projects. Meanwhile, its low weight, compact folded dimensions and thin profile make it easy to carry in a pocket or slip into the side pouch of a rucksack. The secure carry pocket clip ensured it stayed firmly in place throughout our test period. Given its premium look and feel, it also offers good value at this price.

Read our full CRKT CEO Heinnie Haynes Edition review

Best knives for steel-blade perfection

This minimalist, ultra-modern slipjoint is incredibly light but has serious cutting power (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

3. Zero Tolerance 0230 Jens Anso

The best premium steel blade camping knife

Premium build quality

Superb 20CV steel blade

Incredibly light

Minimalist, understated design

Blade half stop

More expensive than most here

This sleek, minimalist and ultra-modern slipjoint knife has serious pocket appeal. It is incredibly light, thanks to the use of carbon fibre scales, and we think it's also very handsome. Black oxide steel hardware, a stonewashed blade finish and a blue anodised aluminium backspacer complete the package. On test, we found it to be extremely well balanced and it sat comfortably in the hand, with a crisp action and a double detent system with a half-stop.

The blade is a Wharncliffe or sheepsfoot style with a full-width flat grind that allows precise, controlled cutting – ideal for all sorts of outdoor utility work. It uses CPM 20CV, a much-coveted ‘super steel’ with exceptional wear and corrosion resistance, not to mention excellent edge-holding ability. Real-world performance is hugely impressive: it keeps a sharp edge even after putting it through some serious hard work.

Read our full Zero Tolerance 0230 Jens Anso review

Premium materials and high-quality blade steel, built to last (Image credit: Manly)

4. Manly Wasp

Best value steel blade camping knife

Excellent blade steel

Good build quality

Exceptional value

Three blade stops are perhaps overkill

The Manly Wasp is a tough and practical knife that offers superb value for money. It comes in two versions – one with a 14C28N steel blade, the other with premium S90V steel. 14C28N is a stainless steel from Sandvik that is basically a more corrosion resistant version of their well-known 13C26 steel. Despite not carrying the cult appeal of S90V, it is still an impressive mid-range steel that sharpens to a razor edge.

The handle scales of both versions are solid and chunky G10 fibreglass composite, finished with a repositionable deep carry clip. We found it ideally suited to hard outdoor use, handling all sorts of general outdoor tasks with aplomb on test. The slipjoint mechanism features three blade stops, so it’s extremely unlikely that the Wasp will close on your fingers, though it doesn’t make for quick deployment. That quirk aside, there is little not to like about this compact but highly capable knife.

Read our full Manly Wasp review

Best small penknife

A diminutive penknife, designed to be legal for everyday carry in most countries (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

5. Fällkniven LTC

The best small penknife

Compact design

High quality finish

Superb blade steel

Too small for more demanding tasks

Swedish knifemakers Fällkniven are renowned as one of the outdoor knife brands. But the LTC (Legal to Carry) is a little different from their other offerings, which are mostly designed for hunting, bushcraft/survival and military/tactical applications. Instead, this is a small but supremely well-built penknife, made to sit unobtrusively in a trouser pocket.

The blade is short and narrow, but is forged from the brand’s premium laminate powder steel, 3G. As such, it comes wicked sharp straight out of the rather attractive wooden box that it is packaged in, and though the blade doesn’t lock, it has a stiff backspring plus nail nicks on both sides that make it useable for both right and left handers. We loved the way, for such a compact knife, it cuts extremely efficiently.

Read our full Fällkniven LTC review

The best clip-point blade

This US-made clip point knife is a premium slipjoint folder that employs a top-quality blade steel (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

6. Benchmade Proper 318 Clip-point Micarta

The best clip-point blade camping knife

High-quality steel blade

Classic looks but ultra-modern materials

Blade half stop for safety

Not the stiffest backspring or smoothest action

Expensive

The Benchmade 318 Proper is a contemporary take on the traditional pocket-knife, with a Barlow-style clip point blade and mottled green scales that soon take on a weathered patina, despite being made from modern Micarta. Similarly, though the blade has an unmistakeable classic silhouette, the steel is a bang up to date CPM S30V.

Widely regarded as being among the best all-round high-end stainless knife steels available, S30V is known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, while also balancing hardness and toughness. This makes the Proper 318 a premium knife with impressive capabilities, which is reflected in the price. But it is made in the USA and we found it to be an undoubtedly classy blade on test. If you can afford to splurge, you won’t regret it.

Read our full Benchmade Proper 318 Clip-point Micarta review

The best camping knife for classic looks

The epitome of the traditional pocket-knife, this clip-point Barlow is a timeless classic (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

7. Böker Barlow O1

The best looking camping knife

Weight: 51g/1.8oz | Blade length: 6.5cm / 2.55in | Overall length: 14.9cm / 5.86in | Closed length: 8.4cm / 3.3in | Materials: O1 carbon steel blade, nickel silver bolsters, canvas micarta scales | Features: Flat grind / Clip point blade

Classic looks

Compact and lightweight

Blade half stop

Carbon steel blade will rust easily

With its rounded handle and long metal bolsters, this knife possesses all the classic features of a traditional Barlow pocket-knife. As such it will appeal to outdoors lovers who appreciate heritage kit. This particular model boasts nickel silver bolsters, natural canvas micarta scales and a clip-point blade made from O1 steel. This is a basic carbon steel that sharpens easily and is relatively tough, developing an appealing patina over time. We found it needs a little more care and attention than stainless steel versions in order to prevent rust though.

In use, the knife has a reassuringly stiff backspring with a pronounced half-stop for safety. It’s a knife designed for deliberate, leisurely use rather than quick deployment. If that’s also how you like to enjoy the great outdoors – we’re thinking relaxed camping weekends in the countryside rather than ultralight mountain missions – you’ll doubtless appreciate the old-world charm of this handsome knife.

Read our full Böker Barlow O1 review

Best knife for one-handed operation

The UKPK is a lightweight and compact but highly effective cutting tool (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

8. Spyderco UK Penknife Drop Point (UKPK)

Best camping knife for one-handed operation

Weight: 98g / 3.5oz | Blade length: 7.5cm / 3in | Overall length: 17cm / 6.7in | Closed length: 9.5cm/3.8in | Materials: CTSBD1N stainless steel blade and fibreglass-reinforced nylon (FRN) scales | Features: Flat grind / drop point blade

Lightweight

Thumb jimping on top of blade

‘Spydie hole’ for one-handed operation

Half stop and finger groove for safety

Reversible pocket clip

Divisive looks

US brand Spyderco has built a great reputation among outdoor users for its range of folding pocket-knives. The UK penknife (UKPK) is one such example, which was specifically developed to comply with UK knife laws for everyday carry. There are plenty of other reasons for its popularity too though. While it’s not the most graceful knife – the design certainly prioritises function over aesthetics – we found the ergonomic design fits superbly well in the hand.

We liked how the shaped choil for the forefinger and the upper thumb ramp make it very precise when used for both fine and coarser cutting tasks. The leaf-shaped drop point blade is a versatile shape that adapts well to a multitude of uses, and the CTS BD1N alloy is a US-made stainless steel that balances hardness, edge retention and resistance to corrosion. It’s often used in quality cutlery, so this is a great knife for all sorts of camp cooking jobs.

Lastly, this knife feels very safe and secure for a non-locking folder, thanks to a stiff backspring and a half stop that catches the blade at 90 degrees.

Read our full Spyderco UK Penknife Drop Point (UKPK) review

Best camping knife for comfortable use

Works well for everyday carry on the trail, and for use at camp (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

9. SOG Terminus Slipjoint Satin

Best camping knife for comfortable use

Solid build

Comfortable to use

Thumb jimping on top of blade for good dexterity and control

Reversible pocket clip

No blade half stop

Slightly heavy

With a reputation for producing hunting, survival and military-tactical knives, as well as highly-regarded multitools, SOG is a brand that you might not turn to when looking for a discreet folder for camping, everyday carry and general outdoor use. But we found the Terminus to be a well-made, well-designed knife that utilises a Carpenter CTS-BD1 steel blade, offering reasonable edge holding and easy sharpening.

The G10 laminate fibreglass scales feel tough and durable in the hand, forming a solid, chunky handle that will work even for those with large hands. The texturing and grooved pattern on the scales is also excellent, providing secure grip and inspiring confidence, as does the pronounced jimping for the thumb on the spine of the blade.

Read our full SOG Terminus Slipjoint Satin review

Best camping knife comparison table

Knife	RRP	Weight	Blade length	Features
CRKT CEO Heinnie Haynes Edition	$55 (US) / £40 (UK)	57g/2oz	7.4cm / 3in	Pocket clip / Flat grind / Drop point blade
Three Rivers Atlas	$142.50 (UK) / £136 (UK)	60g /2.1oz	5.7cm / 2.25in	Flat grind / Drop point blade
Zero Tolerance 0230 Jens Anso	$245 (US) / £179 (UK)	55g / 2oz	6.8cm / 2.67in	Full flat grind / Wharncliffe blade
Manly Wasp	£41.95 (UK)	80g /2.8oz	7.5cm / 3in	Flat grind / Drop point blade
Fällkniven LTC	$82.95 (US) / £60 (UK)	33g / 1.16oz	5.9cm / 2.32in	Flat grind / Spear point blade
Benchmade Proper 318 Clip-point Micarta	$170 (US) / £163 (UK)	60g /2.1oz	7cm / 2.75in	Flat grind / Clip point blade
Böker Barlow O1	$170 (US) / £71.95 (UK) / €81.95 (EU)	51g / 1.8oz	6.5cm / 2.55in	Flat grind / Clip point blade
Spyderco‌ ‌UK‌ ‌Penknife‌ ‌Drop‌ ‌Point‌ ‌(UKPK)‌	$110 (US) / £79 (UK)	98g / 3.5oz	7.5cm / 3in	Flat grind / drop point blade
SOG Terminus Slipjoint Satin	$90 (US) / £66 (UK)	83g / 3oz	7.5cm / 3in	Hollow grind / Drop point blade

How we test the best camping knives

Our reviewers test camping knives in multiple settings and for myriad used. We test them during backcountry expeditions, camping trips and day hikes, using them to prepare food, whittle wood and repair kit, among other tasks. Specific features (including comfort, grip, materials used, cutting ability, portability and folding mechanism) are tested against claims made by the brand, and we assess factors such as durability, environmental impact and value for money.

Meet the testers

Choosing the best camping knife for you

What constitutes the best camping knife for you will depend on a various factors – most importantly, when, where and how you intend to use the tool.

In this round-up we’ve focused on compact, non-locking folding knives, which are useful but still lightweight and give you more than enough cutting power to perform simple tasks in camp or on the trail, which combined with their multi-use qualities, makes them a real hiking essential and a great addition to your first aid kit.

Such knives are also legal as everyday carry in countries and states where knife laws are relatively strict, such as the United Kingdom. However, you should check the relevant legislation in your country if this is a concern.

When considering what would make the best camping knife for you, think about things such as the folding mechanism, and the quality and feel of the handle. Most importantly, though, decide which kind of blade will work best for your intended purpose, factoring in the following features.

Don't forget that a camping knife and a quality multitool together will cover all bases on your backcountry missions. There are so many uses for a multitool that, while a camping knife will do certain things better, having a tool along as well is often a good idea.

Below are some crucial considerations when buying a camping knife, as well as some frequently asked questions.

The best camping knife: blade steels

The blade will define the usefulness of any knife, and the quality of the steel used in its composition largely determines the quality of the blade. Various components can be used in steel alloys, which will affect a blade's strength, durability, sharpness and functionality.

High carbon steel is both easy to sharpen and holds an edge effectively, which are two qualities you'll really appreciate in a knife. As well as this, you can also use this kind of blade with a flint or charcloth to spark a campfire to life.

If you're intending to use your knife to do a spot of whittling, you'll need a higher quality blade than if you're just going to be chopping tomatos and chicken breasts. If your blade does start to look a little burred, blunt, or worn check out our guide on how to sharpen a camping knife.

For more rigorous tasks, you might want an axe blade, such as the lightweight option of the SOG Camp Axe. This is ideal for whittling wood, chopping kindling or hammering in tent stakes.

The Manly Wasp boasts excellent blade quality (Image credit: Manly)

The best camping knife: blade shapes

Knife blades come in myriad shapes, some of which are ideal for specific tasks.

When it comes to pocket-knives, the most common types include Drop Point, which is an elegant blade with a convex curve. A drop point blade is easy to sharpen and perhaps the best for camping trips. All in all, it's a good all-rounder).

A classy drop point blade, the Three Rivers Atlas gets our vote for lightweight camping (Image credit: Three Rivers)

A Straight Back blade has a classic ‘kitchen knife’ shape, good for all cutting and slicing tasks, as well as piercing.

The CRKT CEO Heinnie Haynes Edition is a straight back camping knife (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

Clip Point blades have a traditional aesthetic and are good for precision cutting. The blade's spine has a downward sweep, creating a very distinctive point.

The Benchmade Proper 318 Clip-point Micarta (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

A Tanto blade is distinctive, with two angled cutting edges and a strong tip that's well suited for piercing. There are no rounding edges, making this an angular looking tool.

The angular point of a Tanto blade (Image credit: Getty Images)

A Spearpoint has a distinctive symmetrical blade profile, ideal for slicing and cutting, though it's dagger-like character means that both sides are sharp, making it less ideal for camping than other varieties.

The Fällkniven LTC is a classic spearpoint camping knife (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

A Sheepsfoot blade is a ‘safe’ blade with a straight cutting edge, ideal for a multitude of tasks. Meanwhile, a Wharncliffe is a version of the sheepsfoot, offering excellent precision and control.

The Zero Tolerance 0230 Jens Anso is a premium Wharncliffe blade (Image credit: Matthew Jones)

The best camping knife: grinds

The grind dictates how the cutting edge of a knife looks and performs. For pocketknives, the most common grinds are Flat grind (with a triangular profile that tapers from the spine towards the tip, making it very strong), Scandi grind (classic bushcraft blade, ideal for carving and splitting wood), Hollow grind (traditional concave blade with a very thin cutting edge, ideal for slicing and precision work). Chisel grind (bevelled on one side, good for slicing and very useful for those camping meals), and Convex grind (rounded towards the cutting edge).

How do I store my camping knife the right way?

You've got back from a great trip and you've cleaned your camping knife. Now, it's time to store correctly it until the next adventure. Storing your knife properly will help it reach its maximum lifespan potential, avoiding problems like rust or the blunting of the blade.

Store your knife in a cool, dry and contained space where it won't be banging into any other hard objects. It's important to keep it away from sunlight, which can give rust a helping hand, while the "dry" in the previous sentence is also crucial for this very reason. Obviously, make sure your knife is out of reach of children.

A really good option is to get a dedicated knife bag or a protective case with a knife-shaped slot surrounded by soft, accommodating foam.

How do I sharpen my camping knife?

Using a whetstone to sharpen a blade (Image credit: Kieran Cunningham)

There are a few ways to sharpen your camping knife. You could use a whetting stone, a honing rod or even a pair of rocks. The precise method is too involved to go into detail here, so check out our step-by-step guides in the link above.

What is the best blade length for a camping knife?

There's a wide variety of blade sizes on offer when it comes to camping knives. All the products in this guide are between 5.7cm (2.25in) and 7.5cm (3in), which is ideal for everyday carry as it fits snugly into a pocket with no issues. This length of knife is also legal to carry in most places.

Shorter blades exist, and they're ideal for tasks like opening food cans, cutting craft materials or opening packages. Generally though, you'll want at least 2 inches of blade.

Longer blades aren't as ideal as everyday carry and, depending on when you are, can be illegal.

Buck Ridgeway camping knife review: a classy US knife made with Britain in mind

Matthew Jones — Sun, 25 Jul 2021 17:36:47 +0000

Buck Ridgeway: first impressions

The Buck Ridgeway is a dual nationality knife. Buck is a US brand dating all the way back to 1902, when a young Kansas apprentice blacksmith named Hoyt Buck developed a new way of tempering steel for knife blades. Fast-forward over a century later and Buck knives are still going strong, being best known today for their utility and survival knives as well as their extensive fishing, hunting and general outdoor models.

This knife is a little different from most of the Buck range, however. It was developed by the brand specifically for the UK market, and even the name references the Ridgeway, an ancient trackway that is one of the 16 designated National Trails in England and Wales. As such it was designed to conform to UK legislation for legal everyday carry, with a non-locking folding blade of less than 3 inches. This makes it a very practical tool and one that can be carried without concern whether hiking, hillwalking or camping. A strong contender for the best camping knife, perhaps?

The drop-point blade is forged from 420HC (High Carbon) stainless steel. So, although it’s still a stainless steel, the increased carbon content means increased hardness as well as easy sharpening. It’s an inexpensive Chinese-made steel, and one that is generally regarded as lower mid-grade, though Buck in particular are known for their 420 heat treatments that result in better edge retention and corrosion resistance than is typical. So, performance-wise, you’re not going to get the same levels as premium steels, but for a reasonably priced EDC knife (see What is Everyday Carry?), it’s still a solid choice. But you should also know how to sharpen a camping knife.

On the other hand, when it comes to looks, this is a handsome knife. The smooth, contoured Burlwood handle is classy and feels pleasantly tactile in the hand. This is finished with a brushed stainless-steel bolster that matches the blade finish nicely. There are also steel liners and flush-fitting screws to hold everything together in a neat little package.

Specifications

• RRP: £37 (UK)
• Weight: 62g / 2.2oz
• Blade length: 7.1cm / 2.8in
• Overall length: 17cm / 6.7in
• Closed length: 9.52cm / 3.75in
• Materials: 420HC stainless steel blade and Burlwood scales
• Features: Flat grind / Drop point blade

In the field

The action is smooth, with a backspring that snaps satisfyingly into place. There’s no half stop, but then, the Ridgeway is very much intended as a general-purpose EDC blade rather than a tough, overbuilt outdoor tool. The nail nick in the blade is easy to use and the ergonomics of the knife are pretty good. It sits easily in the hand, with a pleasing symmetry between the curved handle and the spine of the blade.

In the field it proved that it was certainly up to most small camp tasks, from cutting cordage to prepping food. The Ridgeway also works well as an EDC knife for opening boxes and packages, or indeed almost any other day-to-day use. You could even put it to task as a steak knife. It slips easily into a pocket, while being light and compact enough not to be obtrusive. Admittedly, the lack of a pocket clip or lanyard hole means you do occasionally have to fish around for it in a pocket, but it’s hardly a dealbreaker. Overall, we liked this practical, versatile and elegant little knife a lot.

Böker Barlow O1 camping knife review: old-school charm and timeless practicality

Matthew Jones — Thu, 22 Jul 2021 13:51:16 +0000

Böker Barlow O1: first impressions

The Böker Barlow O1 reeks tradition. When it comes to classic pocket-knives, few designs carry the same timeless appeal as the Barlow (you can find more examples in our best camping knife buyer’s guide). Characterised by their rounded handles and long metal bolsters, they have a distinctive look and feel that has been used by multiple generations. And that’s one of their principal attractions – there’s something undeniably comforting about carrying the same sort of knife that would have been familiar to your grandfather. For outdoors lovers who appreciate heritage kit, this is an enticing knife to add to your camping arsenal. (If you like something a bit more modern see our best multitools for alternatives.)

German band Böker make several variants of the Barlow, each with different handles, blade steels and blade profiles. Our test sample was a limited-edition version exclusive to knivesandtools.co.uk, featuring nickel silver bolsters, natural canvas micarta scales and a clip-point blade made from O1 carbon steel. It’s undoubtedly a handsome little knife, with timeless looks and a harmonious, understated design.

Specifications

• RRP: $170 (US) / £71.95 (UK) / €81.95 (EU)
• Weight: 51g / 1.8oz
• Blade length: 6.5cm / 2.55in
• Overall length: 14.9cm / 5.86in
• Closed length: 8.4cm / 3.3in
• Materials: O1 carbon steel blade, nickel silver bolsters, canvas micarta scales
• Features: Flat grind / Clip point blade

In the field

For all the Barlow’s traditional appeal, it’s also practical. That makes sense – after all, the design wouldn’t have survived if it wasn’t also a useful companion for all sorts of daily tasks, whether you’re at home in the garden or in the great outdoors. It could become one of your everyday carry essentials.

The O1 is a basic carbon steel, a choice that is both faithful to the tradition of the Barlow knife and appropriate for this type of small blade. It sharpens easily and is relatively tough, developing an appealing patina over time. It’s worth noting, however, that it is not very rust-resistant. As such, it needs a little more care and attention than stainless steel versions.

The Böker Barlow has a long, deep nail groove in the left-hand side of the blade (which makes it better suited to right-handers than southpaws). It needs two hands to open and has a reassuringly stiff backspring with a pronounced half-stop for safety. It’s a knife designed for deliberate, leisurely use rather than quick deployment. If that’s also how you like to enjoy the great outdoors – we’re thinking relaxed camping weekends in the countryside rather than ultralight mountain missions – you’ll doubtless appreciate the old-world charm of this knife.

Three Rivers Atlas camping knife review: an extremely capable cutting tool

Matthew Jones — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 14:42:23 +0000

First impressions

The Atlas is a compact US-made slipjoint folding camping knife from TRM (Three Rivers Manufacturing), a small but fast-growing knifemaker from Massachusetts. The brand has built its reputation on outstanding quality, honest pricing and first-class customer service. Our experience was no exception, and the fit and finish of our test sample was top-drawer, while the company were a pleasure to deal with.

The knife itself is a clean and well-thought-out design that takes quality components and puts them together to create a stubby but surprisingly capable little knife. So, you get a thin, slicey blade made from high-end S35VN steel. The hand-sharpened blade comes shaving-sharp straight out of the box. It has a pronounced drop point but a broad profile with plenty of belly and a robust tip. This makes it feel like a serious knife despite its compact dimensions, and one that is built for hard work. The blade also has an enlarged cut-out that can allow for one-handed opening, enabling quicker deployment. The bevel extends all the way to the ricasso, which allows for complete edge sharpening – learn how to sharpen a camping knife in our guide.

Specifications

• RRP: $142.50 (UK) / £136 (UK)
• Weight: 60g /2.1oz
• Blade length: 5.7cm / 2.25in
• Overall length: 14cm / 5.5in
• Closed length: 8.57cm / 3.375in
• Materials: S35VN stainless steel blade, titanium liners, spacers and pocket clip, G10 fibreglass composite scales
• Features: Flat grind / Drop point blade

In the field

The handle fits snugly in the hand, incorporating a finger choil and slimmed down rear end for added comfort and dexterity. Spine jimping also adds to an overall sensation of firm, reliable control in use, whether you’re cutting cordage or whittling wood. Similarly, the very positive blade half stop feels reassuringly safe, and there is ideal tension on the backspring that means the blade snaps open and closed securely.

Scales are made from textured G10 fibreglass composite, though versions with micarta and carbon fibre are also available. The scales themselves are easy to swap over, allowing you to customise the knife to your tastes. The liners, backstraps and deep pocket clip are all machined from titanium, which is a great weight-saver. This is a very lightweight knife, ideal for ‘fast and light’ backpacking trips.

Uses for a multitool: how to get the most from your versatile little gadget

Alex Foxfield — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 13:03:59 +0000

The humble multitool is one of the most essential pieces of survival kit. Few items are as practical and I can't think of anything that, pound for pound, gives as much value for its weight in your pocket or backpack.

In this guide, we reveal 6 potential uses of a multitool for standard camping and hiking adventures in the backcountry. Of course, this is by no means an exhaustive list, the applications of such a tool go way beyond this, especially if you start thinking about bushcraft, fishing or hunting. It's also worth bearing in mind that every multitool model is different, some will be better suited to the wilderness than others.

By their very nature, the best multitools do all things well but nothing perfectly. Their many components are never going to rival individual function tools, which are specifically designed for one job only. For example, the best standalone camping knife is going to perform better than the knife on your tool. However, the whole reason a multitool is on our camping checklist is that, at some point, a situation will arise where you’re glad you’ve got it.

Let's get into our 6 main uses for a multitool for your outdoor exploits.

Meet the expert

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1. Setting up basecamp

A multitool can be used to hammer in the tent pegs
The screwdriver is handy if you need to change lantern batteries
When it comes to packing down, pull the pegs out with the awl

Getting camp set for the adventures ahead (Image credit: Getty)

A solid camping multitool will be strong enough and allow enough clout that you needn’t grab a massive hammer for driving in the stakes on your 2-person tent. When it’s time to pack down, use the awl to get under those difficult pegs and lever them out. If you find your camping lantern is out of battery, use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the battery flap’s screws.

2. Cooking

From opening cans to slicing meat and veg, a multitool is very handy in the outdoor kitchen

A multitool is a huge help in the outdoor kitchen (Image credit: Getty Images / SolStock)

A good multitool negates the need for so many camping utensils, making it a huge weight saver. This is particularly useful if you’re on an extended expedition. You can liberate those tinned tomatoes with your can opener before chopping up the garlic and opening the packet of bacon with your serrated knife. With everything sizzling away on the double-burner stove, you can flip the rashers with your pliers.

3. Eating and drinking

A multitool has various tools to help with eating and drinking
You can open beer bottles with the bottle opener and wine bottles with the corkscrew
Its knives and forks give you the cutlery you need to enjoy a meal

As an implement for cooking and eating, a multi-tool performs the function of many camping utensils (Image credit: Getty)

At some point, you’ll come to the rescue of some hapless soul who hadn’t considered how they’d get at their liquid refreshments. No multitool worth its salt comes without a bottle opener, both for beer bottles and wine corks. On an epic thru-hike? Separate knives and forks are needless additions to your pack weight. You can chop and pierce just about anything with a multitool, though you may still want a spoon for porridge and soup.

4. Repairs

Your multitool is very handy when tent or clothing repairs are required

Patch up your gear with tape and keep on adventuring (Image credit: Anton Novikov)

Tent fabric and clothing are all prone to wear and tear after repeated use. As long as you’ve got some patches and tape, this need not be an issue. Use the tools’ ruler to measure the area in need of some tent repairs and cut your patch accordingly using the scissors.

A multitool can be used to measure distances, as well as point to specific locations on a topographical map

A multitool can be used to measure distances, as well as point to specific locations on a topographical map (Image credit: Alex Foxfield)

Quickly and accurately measure how far it is from point A to B on your map using the multi-tool’s ruler and convert it using the scale. This will give you an estimate of how long it should take you to get to point B and allow you to pace it effectively. If you’re discussing the route with a friend on a large-scale map, pointing to locations with a finger leaves quite a large margin for error. Increase your pointing precision the awl’s sharp end, which will leave neither of you in doubt as to exactly where you mean.

6. Emergency situations

You can use the scissors to trim dressings, cut tape and clothing
Pliers can be used to pull out splinters
Pliers can also be used to remove a tick, though a dedicated tick twister is preferable

A multitool can be very handy in an emergency situation (Image credit: Getty)

Let’s hope you’re never in a ‘Touching the Void’ situation. This was the infamous position Simon Yates found himself in, where he was faced with the choice of falling into a crevasse along with his climbing partner Joe Simpson, or cutting the rope that held them together, saving himself but potentially propelling Joe to his demise. Well, if you are unfortunate enough to find yourself in such a fix… you’ve got your multi-tool.

In all seriousness, there are many uses for a multi-tool in first aid situations (see our best first aid kits) as is the main reason it's one of our hiking essentials. The scissors on your tool negate the need for a separate pair in your first aid kit and can be used to trim dressings down to size, cut tape or even clothing if necessary. If a splinter occurs, you can use the pliers to safely pull it out.

We wouldn’t recommend using your tool’s pliers to remove a tick unless it was the absolute last resort. This is because if you accidentally squash one of these little arachnids while trying to remove it, it can lead to complications like Lyme disease. Far better is to use a purpose-made tick twister to cleanly remove the nasties.

How to sharpen a camping knife: cutting edge techniques

kieran.cunningham@futurenet.com (Kieran Cunningham) — Tue, 18 May 2021 14:54:51 +0000

"A mind needs books like a sword needs a whetstone, if it is to keep its edge. That is why I read so much," said Tyrion Lannister in George RR Martin's Game of Thrones. It's not just swords and minds that need an edge in order to maintain their usefulness, any blade requires a sharpening once in a while. This is why knowing how to sharpen a camping knife is important, if you want your backcountry blade to maintain its performance.

After all, a good camping knife is an essential part of every camper’s kit. Whether you’re using it for food prep, whittling, trimming firewood, or preparing those all-important marshmallow roasting sticks, few items in your pack offer the same degree of practicality at so little a cost in weight.

Even the best camping knife (and the best multi tools), however, can become a whole lot less practical and useful without adequate TLC, maintenance, and regular sharpening. And while this might seem like a relatively straightforward task, there’s more to learning how to sharpen a camping knife than most expect. Did you know, for example, that not all knives should be sharpened at the same angle? Or that different types of sharpening implement should be used in different scenarios, depending on how blunt and/or burred your blade has become?

We’ll cover all of this, and more, in the following guide to how to sharpen a camping knife.

Meet the expert

1) Using a whetstone

Douse your whetting stone in water or mineral oil before you begin sharpening (Image credit: Kieran Cunningham)

Choose your whetstone wisely. Different types of whetstone have different sharpening capacities. If your blade is severely blunt, burred, or otherwise damaged, your best bet is to start off with a coarser grit in the 200-250 range. If the blade is only dull, then a 600-700 grit whetstone should do the trick. For fine-tuning and honing, a softer whetstone with 900-1000 grit is the way to go. For our money, the best whetstone for camping is the Fallkniven DC3 Whetstone, which has a softer grit on one side and a hard grit on the other, thus covering all angles.
Prep your whetstone. Before you start sharpening, douse your whetstone in mineral oil or water and leave this to sit for a few minutes while the liquid soaks into the porous surface of the stone. Doing this improves the stone’s ability to sharpen while also making the stroking action in step 3 a lot smoother, thereby reducing the risk of creating more burrs or an uneven edge while sharpening.
Adjust to the appropriate angle. Start by placing the blade flat on the whetstone and then tipping it until the edge of the blade lies against the stone at the desired angle. Most blades have an angle of roughly 20 degrees. A lesser angle will make your knife sharper, but will also require more frequent sharpening. For whittling and food prep for camp cooking, sharper’s the way to go; for general bushcraft skills and campsite use, a broader, less acute angle will suffice.
Sharpen. Maintaining the aforementioned angle, and with the blade facing away from you, push the blade towards the opposite end of the stone. As the blade moves down the stone, take care to maintain the original angle and apply light pressure to the top of the blade. Start with the base of the blade and work up towards the tip. Repeat this process six or seven times on each side of the blade.
Repeat. If your blade is still dull after step 4, repeat the same process with a softer, finer grit whetstone.

Push the blade away from you at a 20-degree angle (Image credit: Kieran Cunningham)

2) Using a honing rod

When using a honing rod, the most important thing is to ensure the blade is not moving in the direction of your hands or body. Here’s how it’s done:

Plant your rod. Hold the rod vertically, with the tip planted on a solid surface and the grip in your non-dominant hand. Press the heel of the blade against the top of the rod and point the tip of your knife slightly upward. The blade should be held at a 20‑degree angle away from the steel.
Sharpen. Slide the blade down the length of the steel while maintaining gentle pressure and the 20-degree contact angle. Pull the knife towards your body as it descends the steel, so the full length of the blade is sharpened.
Repeat. Repeat the above 10-15 times on each side of the blade.

If you’d like to have a honing rod with you on your trips, we’d highly recommend the Sharpal 6-in-1 Pocket Knife, which has a miniature rod among its 6 instruments.

3) Using a rock (or two)

The best rocks for sharpening are usually found near rivers
This is because they've been smoothed to a fine grain that's ideal for sharpening
Once you've sourced your rocks, the process is the same as the whetstone method

Running the blade back and forth in the V will create a sharp edge and reduce burring (Image credit: Kieran Cunningham)

If you’re the kinda camper who prefers to keep costs to a minimum or you simply don’t want to carry more gear than is absolutely necessary, you can sharpen your knife using in-situ sharpeners – i.e. rocks – found at or around your campsite.

The best rocks for sharpening are usually those found in rivers, mainly because the water has smoothed them out and worn the surface down to a very fine grain that’s more suitable for sharpening. Once you’ve sourced a rock, the process for sharpening is exactly the same as with a whetstone.

Another way of sharpening your knife without tools brought from home is to use two roundish rocks of roughly the same size. Holding the rocks together to create a ‘V’, you can sharpen your knife by running the blade back and forth in the groove.

Benchmade Proper 318 Clip-point Micarta review: a classy everyday carry knife

Matthew Jones — Wed, 12 May 2021 15:15:00 +0000

First impressions

The Benchmade Proper 318 Clip-point Micarta is a handsome looking thing. Perhaps best described as a contemporary take on the traditional gentleman’s pocket-knife, it boasts a Barlow-style clip point blade and mottled green scales that soon take on a weathered patina. The scales are actually made from modern Micarta though, and similarly, despite the knife’s classic silhouette, the steel is a bang up to date CPM S30V. Widely regarded as being among the best all-round high-end stainless steels available, S30V is known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, while also balancing hardness and toughness.

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In terms of folded and overall length, we think the proportions of the 318 are just about spot on for an everyday carry-type blade. The slipjoint mechanism also has a blade stop at 90 degrees for safety, and though the backspring isn’t the stiffest, nor the action particularly crisp, it still possesses a sense of confidence and assuredness in operation. We just wish the blade had nail grooves on both sides to make pinching and pulling the knife open a little easier.

Though there’s no pocket clip – which would arguably affect the aesthetics – there is a lanyard hole in the handle. This is a nice touch for a companion knife, and gives a little more reassurance that it’ll stay safe and secure in the great outdoors too.

Specifications

• RRP: $170 (US) / £163 (UK)
• Weight: 60g / 2.1oz
• Blade length: 7cm / 2.75in
• Overall length: 17cm / 6.7in
• Closed length: 10cm / 4in
• Materials: CPM S30V stainless steel blade and Micarta scales
• Features: Flat grind; clip point blade

In the field

We were looking forward to testing out that S30V steel, and we weren’t disappointed. It can take a razor edge that will shave hairs off your arm, but more importantly it retains that edge impressively well. Those qualities alone give the Proper 318 a broad range of capabilities. Though a clip-point might not be everyone’s blade of choice, it is a fairly versatile shape that can slice, pierce, whittle and do plenty more to boot. Overall, this is a great blade that maximises the performance of the superb steel, with a nice thin edge that has plenty of visual appeal too. The warm, slightly tacky Micarta also ensures a firm grip and makes this a comfortable knife in the hand. It’s a very tactile piece that is inviting to hold and use.

It goes without saying that unlike some others tested here, this is no beater knife. It’s a classy blade at a premium price, and not everyone will be able or willing to spend this much on a pocket-knife – especially a slipjoint. And even if you can justify the cost, whether you’d be too keen to take it camping or hiking is another matter. On the other hand, its build quality is excellent, boasting premium materials and ‘made in the USA’ credentials – so you should be guaranteed of high quality in terms of both components and craftsmanship. The fit and finish of our test sample was certainly spot on.

SOG Terminus Slipjoint Satin review: a tough steel knife for any outdoor use

Matthew Jones — Wed, 05 May 2021 14:32:00 +0000

First impressions

The SOG Terminus Slipjoint Satin is a rarity in the SOG product range: a non-locking slipjoint folding knife. With a reputation for producing hunting, survival and military-tactical knives, as well as highly-regarded multitools, SOG is a brand that you might not turn to when looking for a discreet folder for camping, everyday carry and general outdoor use. The SOG Terminus Slipjoint Satin may change that. It retains the military-inspired looks that have become characteristic of the brand though, signalling that this is a serious knife, which will appeal to a certain breed of outdoor user.

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You can’t miss who it’s made by either – the SOG branding appears no less than four times on the knife (stamped on the blade, debossed into the scales on both sides of the knife and die cut into the pocket clip). It is, however, well-made and generally well-designed, utilising a Carpenter CTS-BD1 steel blade for reasonable edge holding and fairly easy sharpening, as well as possessing the other qualities you expect from a mid-grade stainless steel.

A nail nick on both sides of the blade and a reversible, pocket clip makes it suitable for left- or right-handers. The G10 laminate fibreglass scales feel tough and durable in the hand, forming a solid, chunky handle that will work even for those with large hands. The knife is well-built, with steel liners, flush-fitting screws and a backspacer that still leaves enough of the frame open to allow for easy cleaning.

Specifications

• RRP: $90 (US) / £66 (UK)
• Weight: 83g / 3oz
• Blade length: 7.5cm / 3in
• Overall length: 18cm / 7in
• Closed length: 10cm / 4in
• Materials: CTSBD1 stainless steel blade and G10 scales
• Features: Hollow grind; drop point blade

In the field

In its folded position, the knife is fairly neat and compact, though not the lightest. The back square of the blade also protrudes from the handle, which doesn’t make for the cleanest silhouette. Nor are the nail nicks placed in the easiest or most convenient position to access, making opening the blade a little trickier than it might be. They’ve been positioned further forward than we’d otherwise like to allow for the spine jimping, so we can see the rationale, but we still felt the need to improve this knife by adding a thumb stud. Once we’d done so, the knife was instantly transformed, becoming a great little pocket companion that could now be opened one-handed.

It looks fairly mean once unfolded, with obvious military influences. Still, the blade is relatively short compared to the length of the handle, so we wouldn’t describe the SOG Terminus as appearing to be particularly well balanced. However, it feels good in the hand. The grid texturing and grooved patterning on the scales provides secure grip and inspires confidence, as does the pronounced jimping for the thumb on the spine of the blade.

The blade has a tapered drop point, plenty of belly up front and a straight edge behind. The hollow grind makes for a versatile blade with an easy cutting action. Blade centring is good, with little play. The backspring grabs the blade effectively when open, and though there is no half stop, the blade has a large, rounded kick just past the heel, protecting your fingers.

Overall, this is a knife that lends itself well to many different camp tasks and sits happily in a pocket or the lid of a rucksack. It feels reassuringly solid and well-built too.

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