I’m in the market for a versatile knife that I can use for cooking full meals while camping. I’m not familiar with using kitchen knives normally, so I need something straightforward and lightweight. I want a knife that’s easy to carry as I’ve realized how burdensome heavy gear can be after many winter camping trips. It should handle cutting vegetables, meats, and everything in between. I’m not planning on doing a lot of intricate chopping, but a knife that handles basic cuts well enough would be great. At home, I use simple $1 knives since I don’t have much space for cooking.
I always bring my Mora knife when I cook outdoors. It’s affordable enough that I’m not worried if it gets lost or damaged.
Zeke said:
I always bring my Mora knife when I cook outdoors. It’s affordable enough that I’m not worried if it gets lost or damaged.
Seconding the Mora recommendation. I have a Mora Classic #2 which is perfect for me because of the longer blade. It’s got great steel that’s easy to sharpen. I’ve also used the Companion Heavy Duty for years in the Scouts. You really can’t beat it for the price.
If you prefer a fixed blade, go for a Mora. If you’d rather have something foldable, an Opinel would be a good choice. Really, any decent knife will do the job.
I personally use a Helle knife. It’s been with me everyday for over a decade, whether I’m working on the farm or hiking. It’s durable enough that I don’t need another knife.
You might want to check your local thrift store for a 5-7 inch chef’s knife with a slim blade. You can get a feel for different handles and find one that’s comfortable, all for around $5. Just sharpen it when you get home. You could also create a simple sheath with cardboard and tape. If you decide you want something fancier later, there are plenty of options in the $25-60 range.
@Rin
If you’re looking for a blade protector, you can pick one up for cheap at any restaurant supply store. It’s surprising how often I find good brands like Mercer, Henckels, and Victorinox at thrift stores. My go-to camp knives are a Chicago Cutlery santoku and a Kuhn Rikon paring knife.
For camping and cooking, I like Opinel knives. They have a 5-inch folding blade that’s easy to sharpen and stays sharp. They’re great for packing but not ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
GSI Outdoors has some nice 4-inch and 6-inch santoku knives that come with plastic sheaths. They’re lightweight, sharp, and affordable, about $15. They also have a folding cutting board that might be useful.
@Val
Mora knives aren’t the best for cooking due to their blade grind, which is more like a chisel and doesn’t slice well. If it were me, I’d pick up a cheap chef’s knife from Walmart and use it until it dulls.
Visit a kitchen supply store and pick up a commercial-grade chef’s knife. Make sure to get a snap-on cover for the blade. These knives are lightweight and easy to carry with your camping gear.
Consider a Buck 110.
I use a Cold Steel Canadian Belt Knife. It’s excellent for slicing, cutting, and general campsite use.
I keep a 6-inch chef’s knife in my camping kit. It’s good enough for most tasks and doesn’t cost much.
Opinels are essentially folding paring knives. A larger size like #9 or #10 should handle most of your cooking needs well.
An Opinel knife might be what you’re looking for. They fold into their wooden handles, making them safe to store. They’re simple, effective, and come in various sizes.
Sawyer said:
An Opinel knife might be what you’re looking for. They fold into their wooden handles, making them safe to store. They’re simple, effective, and come in various sizes.
I used to have an Opinel and loved it until it got dirty and I couldn’t clean it. Definitely going to replace it.
Victorinox Swiss Classic folding picnic knife might be worth a look.
I swear by this super lightweight and convenient folding knife from Victorinox for cooking while hiking.
I’m a fan of ESEE knives. I use the Ashley Game Knife and ESEE 3 made from S35VN stainless steel for all my camping trips.