Knives & Blades

A fixed blade is a single solid piece with no moving parts, making it stronger and easier to clean — better for hard use like camp chores or field dressing game. A folding knife pivots into the handle for compact, pocket-friendly carry, trading some strength and rigidity for convenience.

Knife laws — including blade length limits and rules on assisted-opening or automatic knives — vary by state, county, and even city, and change over time. This isn't legal advice; check your state and local statutes before buying or carrying, especially if you'll be crossing state lines or carrying in a vehicle.

Higher-carbon and powder-metallurgy steels like CPM-S30V, CPM-154, or M390 generally hold an edge the longest, but they're slower to resharpen and often cost more. Budget-friendly steels like 8Cr13MoV sharpen quickly and resist rust well but need touch-ups more often. Match the steel to how often you're willing to sharpen.

Wipe the blade dry after use, especially after contact with acidic foods, saltwater, or blood, and apply a light coat of oil before long-term storage. Stainless and coated blades resist corrosion better than plain carbon steel but aren't rust-proof — carbon steel in particular needs regular maintenance to stay clean.