A pocket knife is an essential found in every tramper’s backpack. Whether you choose a blade-only or multi-tool device depends on the uses you will put it to.
Handle
Handles are designed to naturally fit your hand for a comfortable grip. When using a knife or other implement, the tools not in use should not protrude into the hand. Some handles also offer a textured surface for non-slip grip.
Blade access
It’s common for the main blade to be accessed with one-hand – just use your thumb to slide it out of the handle. Smaller Swiss Army-style pocket knives usually require two hands.
Locking mechanisms
Most folding blades, especially those that can be opened one-handed, will lock into position so they can’t accidentally fold onto your fingers during use. It’s also common for other tools to lock into place.
Care
Cared for properly, a knife can last a lifetime. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth (for more stubborn sticky substances use a mild mix of detergent and water or even mineral turps). Keep it dry and lubricated – if you use your knife to prepare food, use a cooking oil.
If your knife is exposed to saltwater, clean, dry and lubricate it as soon as possible.
Serrated versus plain blades
Straight-edged blades provide accurate and clean cuts – perfect for slicing anything from rope to cheese. Serrated blades are for more vigorous cutting and for tackling tougher materials, sometimes even wood. A single blade that combines a plain and serrated edge provides the best of both worlds.
Blade sharpening
Use a whetstone, rod or specific sharpening kit. Serrated blades should only be sharpened on the edged side and a specific tool may be required to maintain the curvature of the serrations.
Features
If you’re buying for a tramping trip, choose a model with fewer functions to save on weight.
If it’s a multi-tool to complement your home toolbox or to enable field repairs of gear, then it’s a case of the more the merrier.
Victorinox Swiss Tool Spirit MXBS Black $399.99
There are 24 fully lockable functions with this tool, all accessible from the outside as well as practical one-handed opening of the large blade and belt cutter. Used by many armed forces around the world. Burnished steel finish. 211g. www.ampro.co.nz
Deejo Serrated Carbon Fibre 37gm $119.90
A more tactical version of the classic Deejo knife, with a half serrated blade. It has an ultralight carbon fibre handle and Z40C13 stainless steel blade with a black titanium coating. There’s one-hand opening, a belt clip and liner lock to secure the 9.5cm blade when open. 37g. www.bobo.co.nz
Gerber Armbar Drive $89.99
This tool fits in the pocket like a folding knife and operates like a fully capable multi-tool. It has an awl, pry bar, bottle opener, and a 6.35cm long driver with a double-sided bit. It also has a locking one-hand opening fine-edge blade and scissors. 88g. www.huntingandfishing.co.nz
Victorinox Farmer X $99.95
This compact 93mm pocket knife can be taken everywhere and has 10-functions including wood saw, screwdriver, reamer, punch and bottle opener. It has anodised aluminum scales for durability. 109g. www.ampro.co.nz
Benchmade Bugout $360
This knife uses lightweight, high-performing materials in a slim and ergonomic package. It has a CPM-S30V steel blade, blue Grivory handle with reversible clip, smooth and reliable AXIS folding mechanism with one-handed opening. 52g. www.ampro.co.nz
