So you are like me, into hunting knives as well as tactical knives. But are you in the same dilemma as I am as to what size or design to choose when buying these knives? With a whole gamut of hunting knives and tactical knives out there, it is rather too easy to get overwhelmed.

photo credit: Sarah Leo

I did a couple of interviews for hunting knives enthusiasts like me, and here are a couple of the things they shared with me:

• Check the blade. There are designs that you can choose from. It is a matter of preference really, or what use will you put the knife into. Among the main types of blade styles you can choose from are the drop point, clip point and skinning designs. Also, pay attention to serrations. They are really useful for tough cuttings.
• Check the handle. There are traditional handles like wood, leather, or animal bones which are aesthetically appealing. However, for practical purposes consider metal or plastic, as these offer better grip.

As for the tactical knife, here a couple of things that you need to consider:

• Again, check that blade. Regardless of the shape, the point is if it works for you, then the shape and the quality of the blade is perfect.
• Check that blade lock. Yes, this is one of the main features of a tactical knife. You can opt for the exotic widgets, cam and rollers, but most of those manufactured today are safe.
• Check the scales. You will need a good handle if you are going to put the knife into good use. Consider metal, plastic or other man-made materials.
• And if you want, go for those pocket clips. They can be very convenient.

So I hope you find your best hunting knives and tactical knife. Remember, it’s all about personal preference, so be sure about what you want.

photo credit: DRB62

Hunting knives and knives in general, have always been a major factor in the survival of humans.

Around 2.6 million years ago, in the Afar region of Ethiopia, the first knives were being made from flint, obsidian and other fine-grained sediments. These crude hunting knives were used primarily for cutting meat and scrapping fatty tissue from hides. They were also used for shaping branches into usable tools such as a digging stick or spear. Although there is limited evidence, it has been suggested that Stone Age knives were used to hollow out larger pieces of wood to be used as water collectors or containers.

How do we know this? By examining the technologies of chimpanzees and modern hunter-gatherers. Combine these with archaeological findings and we can compile a list of possible uses for early stone hunting knives.