Best Survival Knives Under $100

Objective

Select a knife that survives prying, carving, food prep, and light batoning without breaking the bank.

Specs That Matter

• Blade: 3.5–5 in., 2.5–4 mm thick, drop/clip point.
• Steel: 1095, 8Cr13MoV, or Sandvik 12C27—easy to sharpen in field.
• Tang: Full or robust partial; avoid hollow handles.
• Handle: Grippy when wet; no hotspots.
• Sheath: Solid retention, drain hole, multiple carry options.

Field Test Protocol

1. Feather sticks: curls without tearing.
2. Notch: clean 90° notch in thumb-thick stick.
3. Split: baton wrist-thick wood—no edge roll.
4. Food: slice an apple/tomato thinly (control test).

Care

• Dry and oil carbon steel; strop often.
• Sheath clean to avoid grit wear.

Common Errors

• Oversized blades reduce control.
• Gimmick saw-backs.
• No lanyard—easy to lose at night.

5-Minute Drill

Carve a pot-hanger notch and a feather stick; time yourself. Compare knives and pick the one that controls best for you.

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