Gearing up for hunting means packing the right blades. Here’s some must-see new cutlery all hunters should consider.
Outdoor Edge RazorBone. Field dress, skin, debone and prepare big game cuts, all with one knife? That’s the beauty of the new RazorBone replaceable blade knife ($64.95). Included are three different blades: a 3.5-inch drop-point blade, a 5-inch boning/fillet blade and a new gutting blade, to offer the ultimate solution to processing big game from start to finish, with a single knife that never needs sharpening. The patented RazorSafe exchange blade system means the perfect blade for the job is merely a button push away. Included are three 3.5-inch drop point blades, two 5-inch boning/fillet blades, one gutting blade, a nylon belt sheath and polymer blade box to store the spare blades. The RazorBone is available in blaze orange or gray (shown).
Browning Primal Combo. This rugged fixed blade combo ($59.99) features two knives; one for the heavy work and the other fine enough for caping and other precision duties. Both feature drop point blade profiles and are born to work; the larger all-purpose blade is ready for everything from camp chores to dressing an elk. The smaller blade is ultra-effective for precision work, caping or dressing small game. The featured 7Cr17MoV stainless steel adds a bit of extra strength and toughness, plus important wear resistance. The durable polymer handles feature finger grooves that tell you these knives are ready to be worked hard; the included double knife sheath keeps both blades protected and ready at your side.
Outdoor Edge JaegerPair. Smart hunters always ensure they’re packing the right blades for the job, and the lightweight, compact JaegerPair ($33.95) is one of the most-versatile fixed-blade sets we’ve seen. Weighing in at only 8.5 oz. this big-game field dressing combo with a fixed blade drop-point and gutting knife is a great choice for any hunting pack. The 3.9-inch drop-point skinning knife is the true workhorse for skinning and de-boning, while the 3.7-inch blunt-tipped gutting knife is designed to cut underneath the skin to provide a seamless, effortless cut without piercing vital organs. Both knives feature heat-treated 420J2 stainless steel blades that are resistant to rust and are hand-finished shaving sharp with excellent edge retention. A black nylon belt sheath is included.
Browning Speed Load Steel Folding Knife. Not all replaceable-blade knives are created equal, and Browning’s Speed Load knife series has been lauded by veteran hunters to be among the best interchangeable-blade systems available, with stand-out blade retention, quality, and attention to detail. The Speed Load Steel knife ($45.99) includes four replaceable blades (three drop-point and one caper) and was designed to use both steel (not compatible with the blades used in the Hunting and Tactical models) and ceramic blades, offering greater versatility in cost, durability and edge retention. Blade length is 3 inches; overall length is 7 inches.
WOOX AX1. No it’s not a knife but this deadly sharp and versatile new axe is ready to help in field-dressing larger big game such as elk and moose, while also tackling a wide variety of camp chores. We’re of the opinion that every hunting base camp needs an axe, and this new tomahawk-style premium hand axe (on sale now for $179) is even light and compact enough (2 pounds, 15.7 inches long) to tote into the backcountry. The octagonal Appalachian hickory handle offers both durability and a comfortable grip; the Cerakote finish enhances performance and makes it more resistant to abrasions, wear and tear, corrosion, chemicals, and impact. In addition to its tempered carbon steel head and diamond heel, an Italian leather collar is included with each axe.
Bear Edge Knives 4 ½” Assisted Lockback. Veteran hunters know the value of a truly versatile blade, and this new Lockback certainly qualifies. Designed to accomplish everthing from field dressing to everyday tasks and provide years of use, this affordable knife ($42.99) features premium characteristics. An easy to maintain and sharpen 440 stainless steel blade promptly deploys open with a simple brush of a thumbstud and holds its edge for more cutting; the lockback mechanism ensures positive cutting power while the unique shape of the aluminum handles drive hands into a firm grip, even with gloves on. The Assisted Lockback measures 4.5-inch closed and its taper-ground 3-inch 440 stainless steel clip-style blade opens to an overall length of 7 1/2 inches. Total weight is 4 ounces.
Small Hunter Series by Bear & Son Cutlery. This exciting new series of fixed blade knives ($61.49 to $166.99) is American made and built with a variety of materials to fit most any taste or budget. The 3-inch blade (6 3/8 inches overall) is available in Damascus or 440 stainless steel, resulting in exemplary edge retention and rust resistance, as well as easy sharpening. The clip-point blade allows users to cleanly cut hard-to-reach places and serves as a general-purpose cutting tool. Available in Rosewood or Genuine India Stag Bone handles that provide a traditional look yet offer confident control with or without gloves. A nickel silver finger guard offers additional control for the toughest jobs. Included is a handmade leather sheath and a limited lifetime warranty.
