Pocket Knives

What you need to know about folding knives

A pocket knife is an essential component of an emergency or disaster kit. The cutting blades and other tools and implements found in folding pocket knives can really come in handy during an emergency. While one of the best-known types is the Swiss Army pocket knife, there are many other pocket knives worth considering. The best pocket knife for your disaster kit is one that is reliable, lightweight and contains a good selection of the tools you will need in an emergency.

To choose the right pocket knife, start by considering what you will need in case of an emergency. If the pocket knife will be the only knife in the disaster kit, then you will need one with a blade that is sturdy and a good size. If your kit also contains a military survival knife or other knife, then a pocket knife with a smaller blade will suffice. If your kit contains a survival knife as well as a pocket knife, the best survival knife may be a multi-function model, such as one with a compass and a hollow handle with a range of other tools tucked inside it.

Pocket knives which include built-in tool kits are a great way to save space in your kit; common pocket knife implements include can openers, bottle openers, files, scissors, screwdrivers, scalers and wrenches. Though more tools might seem like a benefit, they’ll only help if they’re actually usable. Test them out first to ensure they are. Also, make sure that the number of tools and their size does not increase the bulk of the pocket knife, making it difficult to handle.

Pocket knives are typically made from hard plastic, but metal and wood models are also available. If your disaster kit will be stored somewhere where it may be exposed to heat or cold, a plastic or metal knife may be a better choice. Stainless and carbon steel are the best choices for the actual blade material.

Why Is a Survival Knife Important in a Disaster Kit?

  • Knives are versatile tools which are necessities in survival situations.
  • Pocket knives also house a wide range of other useful tools and accessories.

Things to Consider When Buying a Survival Knife

  • What pocket knife tools will I most likely need?
  • What is the best combination of versatility and size?

Top Brands of Survival Knives

  • Wenger
  • Victorinox
  • Leatherman