What's the difference between a Bushcraft knife and a Hunting knife


Bushcraft vs Hunting Knives – What’s the Difference?

One of the questions I’m asked most often is, “What’s the difference between a bushcraft knife and a hunting knife?” On the surface they might look similar – both are fixed blades, both tough as nails – but the real difference comes down to purpose, shape, and steel. At Skol Knives, every blade I make is designed with function in mind, whether you’re carving feather sticks or field dressing game.

A bushcraft knife is your all-round outdoor tool – think carving, batoning, making fire prep, and general camp work. You want a strong, simple edge that’s easy to sharpen in the field and can take a beating without chipping. For that, I often use 1095, 1084, or 80CrV2 steel. These high-carbon steels hold a wicked edge and are perfect for tough bushcraft use. Just a quick oil and they’ll last a lifetime.

A hunting knife, on the other hand, is a bit more refined. It’s designed for clean, controlled slicing and skinning, not chopping wood or striking a ferro rod. That’s why steels like AEB-L, SF100, and 440C are ideal – they’re stainless, sharp, and easy to clean after field work. The blade geometry is thinner, with a finer point, giving precise control when working around joints or skin.

At Skol Knives, I build each knife to suit its job. My bushcraft knives are built tough for the woods, while my hunting knives are balanced for precision and comfort. Whether you’re camping in the UK, trekking through the Scottish highlands, or heading off-grid, I make blades that are built to perform and built to last.

If you’re looking for a handmade bushcraft knife or custom hunting knife, have a look at my range over at www.skolknives.co.uk — every knife is heat-treated, tested, and finished by hand right here in our Northamptonshire Workshop 



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