Top 10 Boot Knives
for May 2023

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As outdoor enthusiasts and hunters, we know the importance of having versatile and reliable gear by our side. Among the many tools we carry with us, a good quality boot knife stands out as a crucial piece of equipment. These compact and concealable knives have been widely popularized in recent times, thanks to their ability to serve as a reliable backup weapon and as an effective EDC tool. The best boot knives are well-designed, durable, and easily accessible when you need them the most. Typically, these knives come with a fixed blade, which offers superior strength and stability when compared to folding knives. The blade is made of high-quality steel, such as stainless steel or 7Cr17MoV High Carbon S.S., which maintains its sharp edge even after extended use. Boot knives feature a sleek, ergonomically designed handle that fits comfortably in your hand, allowing for maximum control and precision. Additionally, most knife handles feature a non-slip grip, which provides a secure grip, even when the handle is wet. All of these great features are bundled together in a compact and discreet package, with a sheath that easily slides onto your boot, belt, or pant waistband.

In this article, we will be looking at the top 10 boot knives that are perfect for sports & outdoors, hunting equipment, and EDC use. We will dive deep into the features of each knife, including blade length, material, handle design, sheath quality, and more. We have carefully curated this list to include knives that represent a range of budgets and purposes, so no matter what type of outdoor activity you enjoy, you'll be sure to find the perfect boot knife for you. We believe that no hunter, hiker, or outdoor enthusiast should be without a reliable, high-quality boot knife, and we're excited to show you some of our top picks!

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9.9
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Schrade SCHF44LS 12.7in High Carbon Stainless Steel Boot Knife with 7.6in Dual Sided Blade and TPE Handle for Outdoor Survival, Tactical and EDC

Schrade SCHF44LS 12.7in High Carbon Stainless Steel Boot Knife with Dual 7.6in Sided Blade and TPE Handle for Outdoor Survival

by Taylor Brands LLC
What We like

DEPENDABLE: Quick and easy access with the convenient leather sheath with a belt loop and boot clip making it ideal for everyday carry

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Product Features

  • DURABLE:Blade is made of reliable 7Cr17MoV High Carbon S.S. with a black, thermoplastic elastomer handle
  • DIMENSIONS: 12.7 inch (32.2 cm) overall length with a blade length of 7.6 inches (19.4 cm) and a weight of 5.1 ounces
  • SECURE: Have confidence that the blade will not slip with the security of the quillon
  • BE PREPARED: Knife features a lanyard hole for added security when in use
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9.9
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Kershaw Secret Agent (4007); Concealable Boot Knife with Strong Single Edge 4.4 Inch 8Cr13MoV Steel Blade; Arrives with Dual Carry Molded Sheath and Stealthy Non-Reflective Black Oxide Finish, 3 OZ

Kershaw Secret Agent (4007); Concealable Boot Knife with Strong Single Edge 4.4 Inch 8Cr13MoV Blade; Steel Arrives with Dual Carry Molded Sheath and Stealthy Non-Reflective Black Oxide Finish

by Kershaw Sporting Goods
What We like

High performing sheath provides clip for belt or UWB carry and slots for leg carry straps; both ensure users preference for accessibility

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Product Features

  • 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade with high carbon is heat treated for performance, hardness and durability
  • Handle is reinforced synthetic polymer encased by textured rubber for grip security; reinforcement provides increased strength, stiffness and stability
  • Tech rich black oxide coating converts steel to magnetite to boost appearance and corrosion resistance
  • Blades first edition survives torture test seen on Survival Bros; fans claim it slices through plastic, aluminum, kelp, rope, jellyfish and fiberglass
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9.3
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Schrade SCHF19 7in High Carbon Stainless Steel Small Boot Knife with 3.6in Dual Sided Blade and TPE Handle for Outdoor Survival, Tactical and EDC

Schrade SCHF19 7in High Carbon Stainless Steel Small Boot Knife 3.6in with Dual Sided Blade and TPE Handle for Outdoor Survival

by Taylor Brands LLC
What We like

DEPENDABLE: Quick and easy access with the convenient leather sheath with a belt loop and boot clip making it ideal for everyday carry

more infoarrow_drop_down

Product Features

  • SECURE: Have confidence that the blade will not slip with the security of the quillon
  • BE PREPARED: Knife features a lanyard hole for added security when in use
  • DURABLE:Blade is made of reliable 7Cr17MoV High Carbon S.S. with a black, thermoplastic elastomer handle
  • DIMENSIONS: 7 inch (17.7 cm) overall length with a blade length of 3.6 inches (9.1 cm) and a weight of 2.1 ounces
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9
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Old Timer 162OT Boot Knife 7.8in High Carbon S.S. Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife with 3.8in False Edge Blade and Sawcut Handle for Outdoor, Hunting and Camping

Old Timer 162OT Boot Knife 7.8in High Carbon S.S. Full Tang Fixed Knife Blade with 3.8in False Edge Blade and Sawcut Handle for Outdoor

by Schrade
What We like

DEPENDABLE: Quick and easy access with the convenient brown, leather belt sheath making it ideal for everyday carry

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Product Features

  • DURABLE: Blade is made of reliable 7Cr17MoV High Carbon Stainless Steel with sawcut delrin handle slabs
  • DIMENSIONS: 7.8 inch (19.8 cm) overall length with a blade length of 3.8 inches (9.6 cm) and a weight of 3.9 ounces
  • SECURE: Have confidence that the blade will not slip with the security of the front bolsters
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8.9
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Rothco Raider II Boot Knife, Black Matte

Rothco Raider II Boot Knife

by Pro-Motion Distributing - Direct
What We like

Comfort and performance come hand in hand with rothco

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Product Features

  • Designed with only the toughest, roughest users in mind
  • Quality tested and ensured for maximum durability
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8.9
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Reapr 11002 Tac Boot EDC Knife, 4.75 Inch Double Edge Trench Dagger, Conceal on Leg or Shoulder, TPR Grip & Ballistic Nylon Sheath, Black

Reapr 11002 Tac Boot EDC Knife

by Great Neck Saw
What We like

ULTIMATE SURVIVAL KNIFE: Fixed-blade tactical boot knife, perfect for hunting, camping, and outdoor use, as well as tactical and survival use

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Product Features

  • THE HEFT: 16 ounces, well balanced, designed for both power and cutting precision
  • THE PARTICULARS: 1680D above military-grade Ballistic Nylon web sheath; 9 inch overall length; Sword hilt built in for added control
  • THE GRIP: 4.25 inch rugged hi-grip fiberglass-filled TPR handle for non-slip comfort and control
  • THE BLADE: 4.75 inch 420 stainless steel blade; Sharp out of the package, dual-edged with a black-oxide finish for easy cleaning and rust resistance
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8.6
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United Cutlery Hibben Double Edge Boot Knife

United Cutlery Hibben Edge Double Boot Knife

by United Cutlery
What We like

Features a compact fixed blade

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Product Features

  • Has a mirror polished, 5Cr15 stainless steel double-edged blade
  • Has a stainless steel guard and a pommel with a lanyard hole
  • The handle is crafted of dark pakkawood and brass spacers
  • Includes leather belt sheath with a snap closure strap
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8.5
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CRKT Shrill Fixed Blade Knife with Sheath: Light Weight, Double Edged Ti Nitride Finish, Resin Infused Fiber Handle, Leather Sheath with Boot Clip 2075

Columbia River Knife & Tool CRKT Shrill Blade Fixed Knife with Sheath: Light Weight

by Columbia River Knife & Tool
What We like

Designed by Matthew Lerch in Sussex, Wisconsin

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Product Features

  • High Quality: Durable, full grained leather sheath with clip
  • Useful Utility: Classic blade shape provides proven utility
  • Strong And Visual: Resin infused fiber handle combines strength with visual appeal
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8.5
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GThrowing Ninja Knife Paracord Handle - Real Fixed Blade Stainless Steel Tactical Full Tang Balanced Single Knives -Throw Boot Practice Knofe Khaki Olive Color - Best Christmas Gifts for Men 15873

GRAND WAY GThrowing Knife Ninja Paracord Handle

by GRAND WAY
What We like

COMES WITH A SHEATH - this solid and practical holder allows you to wear the knife on your belt. The multifunctional sheath is made of heavy duty cordura fabric. Nylon rope & cord used widely throughout all branches of the military and civilian use and has different strength grades.

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Product Features

  • PERFECT LIGHTWEIGHT KNIFE FOR EVERYTHING - Camping, Hiking, Backpack, Trainings & Sport, Military & Army needs, Outdoor activities, Survival, Self Defense, Emergencies.
  • GREAT GIFT IDEA: Gifts for husband from wife, proving hugely popular as dad gifts, gifts for men, brother, college gifts for guys and even father in law gifts, perfect gift for Christmas, Graduation, Anniversary, Birthday, Thanksgiving day. Stocking stuffers for men.
  • THROWING KNIFE OF BOWIE SHAPE WITH DROP POINT BLADE designed for effective target throws. Reinforced with the fuller. Army Green Paracord Handle Wrap gives the handle greater traction, making it easier to hold and widens the range of its application.
  • 420 STAINLESS STEEL WITH MATTE GRAY COATING - excellent balance of hardness, corrosion resistance and softness that protects the blade from undesirable destruction. Provides sharp pointing performance and high durability.Total Length:10,6"; Weight: 8,9 oz; Blade Surface: Titanium Nitride.
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SOG Small Fixed Blade Knife - Instinct Boot Knife, EDC Knife, Neck Knife, 2.3 Inch Full Tang Blade w/ Knife Sheath and Clip, 4in. x 1in. x 8.5in. (NB1012-CP)

SOG Small Fixed Blade Knife

by SOG
What We like

FULL TANG FIXED BLADE KNIFE: Durable satin-polished 5Cr15MoV stainless steel construction handles various work tasks as a backup knife; full tang blade makes the knife more solid

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Product Features

  • SMALL KNIFE WITH SHEATH: The SOG Instinct is the perfect small fixed blade knife for your EDC gear; tactical neck knife measures 5.9 inches in total length; model number: NB1002-CP
  • LIGHTWEIGHT EDC KNIFE: 2.3 oz. Slim necklace knife is a great everyday carry knife; use as a belt knife or boot knife, and quickly access this compact knife from its swivel sheath clip for any emergency
  • FIXED KNIFE WITH TEXTURED G10 HANDLE: G10 handle with finger grooves and jimping enhances the ergonomics, grip, and blade control of this compact tactical knife; get maximum control from the SOG Instinct

Boot knives are a type of fixed-blade knife that have a long and storied history dating back many centuries. These knives were originally designed for use as a convenient and discreet weapon, ideal for self-defense and close combat situations. Today, boot knives are still popular among law enforcement personnel, military personnel, and civilians alike who want a sturdy and reliable blade in a compact package.

Boot knives have been around since ancient times, used by soldiers, hunters, and everyday people for combat and survival purposes. They were typically worn in a sheath attached to the leg or boot, making them easily accessible when needed. These early knives typically had a simple design, with a straight blade and a handle made out of natural materials like bone, wood, or horn.

As technology advanced and metalworking became more advanced, boot knives evolved as well. During the Renaissance, for example, boot knives were often adorned with intricate designs and ornate handles, reflecting the artistry of the time. In the 18th and 19th centuries, boot knives became popular among soldiers and explorers who needed a reliable blade for survival in the wilderness.

During World War II, boot knives saw a surge in popularity among US soldiers, who often carried them as a backup weapon. These knives were designed to be lightweight and compact, making them easy to stow away in a pocket, bag, or boot. Today, boot knives are still popular among military and law enforcement personnel, as well as hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who want a reliable and discreet weapon.

One of the most important features of a boot knife is its size. These knives are typically lightweight and compact, with a blade length ranging from 2-5 inches. This makes them ideal for use as a backup weapon, as well as for self-defense situations where a larger knife may be too cumbersome. Many boot knives also feature a serrated edge, which can be useful for cutting through tough materials like rope, leather, and fabric.

Another important feature of boot knives is their sheath. Many boot knives come with a sheath that attaches directly to the boot or leg, providing easy and quick access when needed. The sheath is typically designed to be discreet, with a low profile that doesn't draw attention to the wearer. Some boot knives also feature a lanyard hole for added security when in use.

In conclusion, boot knives have a long and rich history that spans many centuries and cultures. These knives have evolved over time to become a reliable, discreet, and effective weapon for self-defense and survival. Whether you're a military or law enforcement professional, or just someone who enjoys spending time in the outdoors, a boot knife can be a valuable addition to your arsenal. So, whether you prefer a traditional design or a modern tactical knife, there's sure to be a boot knife out there that's right for you.

Key Decision-Making Factors:

1. Durability of the Blade

2. Dimensions of the Knife

3. Security of the Blade while in use

4. Preparedness factor with added lanyard hole

Performance Ratings:

1. Durability of the Blade - High Importance

The durability of the blade is a critical factor for any hunting knife. The 7Cr17MoV High Carbon S.S. used in this knife provides excellent durability, ensuring that the blade can withstand heavy use and sustain its sharpness for an extended period. Hunting knives are often subjected to harsh use conditions like cutting through tough animal hides or bones, so the blade's durability is essential to ensure that it does not fail and result in an accident.

2. Dimensions of the Knife - Medium Importance

The size of the knife is essential to feel comfortable in the hand while in use. The overall length of 12.7 inches and blade length of 7.6 inches is ideal for a hunting knife, as it is long enough to handle challenging jobs, but not too long to make it unwieldy. The weight of 5.1 ounces is also perfect for easy handling, allowing its use for an extended period without considerable fatigue. The dimensions of the knife are not as critical as its durability and security, but it is essential to ensure that the handle fits comfortably in the user's hand.

3. Security of the Blade While In Use - High Importance

When using a hunting knife, the security of the blade is crucial, as it can prevent accidents and ensure the knife's efficiency. This knife has a quillon that ensures a secure grip, reducing the risk of slippage while in use. The quillon provides added control while using the knife, making it safer and more efficient, particularly when working on challenging tasks, like skinning or preparing an animal for consumption.

4. Preparedness Factor with Added Lanyard Hole - Medium Importance

The lanyard hole in the knife provides an additional level of preparedness, ensuring that the knife is secured when in use. This feature is useful for situations where the knife could accidentally slip from the user's hand. The lanyard hole can be used to tie the knife to a secure spot, ensuring that it remains in place while in use. While this feature is not critical to the knife's functionality, it is useful to have for added preparedness, making it a valuable feature when it comes to purchasing the knife.

In conclusion, the key decision-making factors for a hunting knife, such as durability, security, and size, are critical factors in ensuring that the knife is functional and safe to use. All the features mentioned in the product description, such as the quillon and lanyard hole, improve the knife's functionality and ensure that it is safe to use in any hunting scenario. When choosing a hunting knife, the buyer should consider these factors carefully to ensure that they select a knife that is durable, secure, and ready for any hunting task.

FAQ About boot knives

Q: Are boot knives practical?

A: Boot knives can be practical in certain situations. They are small and easily concealable, which makes them great for self defense.

Q: What kind of knife is a boot knife?

A: A boot knife is a small, fixed blade knife that is designed to be worn inside a boot or on a belt. They usually have a double-edged blade and a short handle.

Q: What is the purpose of a boot knife?

A: The purpose of a boot knife is for self defense. They can also be used for cutting tasks when a larger knife is not available.

Q: Does Case make a boot knife?

A: Yes, Case makes a boot knife. They have a few different models to choose from.

Q: How big should a boot knife be?

A: Ideally, a boot knife should be small enough to conceal easily, but large enough to be effective. A blade length of 3-5 inches is a good range to look for. It is also important to consider the overall length and weight of the knife to ensure it is comfortable to wear.

Curtis Weaver

Curtis Weaver Author

Curtis Weaver is a lifelong outdoorsman and hunter who loves to share his passion for the outdoors with others. A self-taught angler and hunter, Curtis has been fishing and hunting since he was a small child. He has spent countless hours in the woods and on the water and has developed a deep understanding of the natural world and the animals that live in it. Curtis is an accomplished outdoorsman who is equally at home in the woods or on the water, and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge of the outdoors with others.

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