Survival Knife Description
The survival knife is a specialized tool designed to aid in wilderness survival situations, particularly when the user has lost their primary equipment. Military pilots, hunters, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike rely on these knives to perform a variety of tasks, from setting traps and carving wood to skinning animals and self-defense. The versatile design of survival knives even allows for the attachment of a stick, transforming the knife into a spear and providing a safer distance for hunting wildlife.
Prior to the late 19th century, knives used in the outdoors and military were not notably different from those used by butchers. Handles were often simple wooden slabs riveted to the tang, and blades were relatively thin. Serrations were added to knives in the 19th century for wood sawing and fish scaling purposes. During WWII, survival knives were issued to aircraft crew and included in naval survival kits due to the possibility of being stranded in wilderness or enemy territory. These knives varied in design across branches and nations, with most being commercial knives bought in bulk by the military. However, since the Vietnam War, purpose-built survival knives have continued to evolve.
Several militaries, including the People's Republic of China, Great Britain, Germany, the Soviet Union, and the United States, have redesigned their bayonets to incorporate survival knife features. Bayonets had previously been designed primarily as thrusting weapons and were inadequate for use as field knives. The new models function more effectively for everyday tasks while still allowing for attachment to a rifle's muzzle.
Knife Details
Overall Length: 10"
Rockwell Hardness: 55-62 HRC
Sheath: Leather
Blade Material: D2 Steel
Tang: Full
Handle: Gray and Black Micarta
Guard: D2 Steel