Hunting Knives

As the name suggests, the hunting knife was specially designed to meet the needs of the hunter. It assists him especially in hunting and processing game. Initially, the hunter used any knife for his daily work. However, not every model provided the necessary stability, sharpness, and finesse for the special task. A special knife for hunting was needed.

Hunting knives are available in a wide variety of designs - whether as folding knives or fixed blade knives. The fixed blade knife is particularly popular. Not only is it extremely sturdy and safe, but also easy to clean. Its average blade length ranges between 10 and 15 centimeters - with two exceptions. The blades of hunting swords and deer catchers are often up to 70 centimeters long.

As the profession of the hunter is particularly diverse, he needs different knives depending on the task. He usually carries more than one knife with him. He stores the different models in a hunting set in a common sheath. For this purpose, stable and non-slip handles are used, which are mostly made of stag horn or woods.

As an alternative to the fixed hunting knife, the folding hunting knife is available. The flexible model usually has several inserted blades or so-called interchangeable blades that the user can easily replace as needed.

The typical tasks of the hunting knife

Mainly, the hunting knife is used for field dressing game. With its sharp blade, the entrails can be quickly and easily removed from the body. It also proves to be extremely useful for the killing itself. If the hunter carries only one knife, he also uses it for dispatching game. With a precise stab to the heart, he kills the animal. When dealing with wounded game, he often needs the hunting knife for what is known as "knocking off." With a precise stab to the spinal cord, he puts the animal out of its misery. For skinning and butchering, he usually relies on other knives, which can also be found in butcher shops and slaughterhouses.

Many hunters also rely on a special gutting knife in addition to the universal knife. It is not uncommon for the blade to be part of a folding hunting knife. Typical for the gutting knife is its slightly inwardly curved blade and its blunt, button-like tip. This allows the innards to be removed effortlessly without seriously injuring them. If the entrails are almost intact, the quality of the meat improves.