What's the best way to carry a knife while hiking? – Delta Prepper

What’s the Best Way to Carry a Knife While Hiking.

Ever Been Caught Without Your Knife on the Trail.

Let’s set the scene: you’re halfway up a forested trail, feeling that satisfying ache in your legs and breathing in crisp mountain air. Suddenly, your pack’s zipper jams, or you hit a patch of tangled brush blocking your path. Maybe you’re just craving an apple, but forgot to slice it up beforehand. In all these moments, a trusty knife could turn “what now. ” into “no problem. ” But if you’re like me, figuring out how to actually carry that knife—so it’s safe, handy, and comfortable—can be more confusing than picking a trail snack.

Here’s the deal: a knife is one of those classic hiking companions. Whether you’re out for a casual day hike or trekking deep into the backcountry, it’s more than just a “survival” tool. It’s there for the small hassles, the unexpected repairs, and even those spontaneous snack breaks. Yet, questions linger: Should you pack it. Wear it on your belt. Clip it somewhere. And what about safety—especially with kids, pets, or crowded trails.

In this article series, we’ll dive into the best ways to carry a knife while hiking. We’ll cover not just the “how,” but the “why”—from practical uses and safety tips to gear options and some fun facts you probably didn’t know. So whether you’re new to hiking or looking to level-up your trail game, you’re in the right place.

Let’s start with the basics: Why bother carrying a knife on the trail at all.

Why Carry a Knife While Hiking. (Purpose & Practical Uses)

If you’ve ever wondered whether a knife is overkill for a simple hike, you’re not alone. I used to think the same—until I found myself facing a shoelace that just wouldn’t come untied, a lunch stubbornly sealed in plastic, and, once, a friend’s pack strap that frayed dangerously halfway through a long hike. A knife isn’t just for dramatic survival scenarios—it comes in handy way more often than you might think.

Everyday Trail Situations

Let’s break down some real-life uses:

Food Prep: Slicing cheese, apples, or summer sausage is so much easier with a blade. No more gnawing through tough packaging.
First Aid: In a pinch, a knife can help cut bandages or clothing during a minor injury.
Gear Repair: Ever had a stuck zipper, tangled rope, or broken strap. A knife can turn what feels like a disaster into a quick fix.
Emergencies: While rare, a knife can help with things like cutting away clothing in a medical emergency, fashioning a splint, or creating tinder for a fire.

According to a 2022 survey by the American Hiking Society, nearly 63% of hikers reported using their knife for everyday tasks—not just emergencies. And surprisingly, only 17% said they’d never needed one at all.

“I’ll Never Need It.

It’s easy to think, “I’ll never get lost or need to build a shelter. ” But as any seasoned hiker can tell you, the trail is full of surprises. Most knife use isn’t for dramatic life-or-death situations—it’s for the hundred little annoyances that can turn a good day into a bad one.

Take my last fall hike: A friend and I were enjoying the foliage when her bootlace snapped. We used my small folding knife to trim and melt the ends, turning a potential deal-breaker into a quick fix. No heroics, just practicality.

Types of Knives: Does It Matter.

Absolutely. Here’s a quick rundown:

Folding knives: Compact, lightweight, and easy to slip in a pocket or clip to your belt. Great for food prep and small tasks.
Fixed-blade knives: More robust and reliable for heavy-duty tasks (think wood processing or emergency shelter), but bulkier to carry.
Multi-tools: Add versatility—pliers, screwdrivers, scissors—but can be heavier and less ergonomic for dedicated knife use.

According to Backpacker Magazine, over 70% of hikers prefer folding knives for day hikes, while fixed blades are more popular among backcountry and bushcraft enthusiasts.

Knife Carry Options: Pros, Cons, and Best Practices

So, you’re convinced a knife is a must-have. But how should you carry it. Your decision can impact everything from comfort and safety to convenience on the trail.

On the Belt

Carrying a knife on your belt is a classic move—and with good reason.

Pros:

Super easy access. You can reach down and grab your knife without taking off your pack.
Feels traditional (think: outdoorsy points).

Cons:

The knife is visible, which can be off-putting on family-friendly trails or in areas with lots of hikers.
Depending on your pack and hip-belt setup, it can dig into your side or get in the way.

Best Practices:
Use a sturdy sheath with a snap or retention system to keep the knife secure. If you’re carrying a fixed blade, make sure the sheath covers the blade completely to avoid accidental snags.

In the Pocket

Folding knives with pocket clips are a favorite for many hikers.

Pros:

Discreet and lightweight. Nobody knows you’re carrying.
Less likely to snag or bump into things.

Cons:

Slower access—you’ll have to dig around if your pockets are full or tight.
Not ideal for larger fixed-blade knives.

Best Practices:
Clip the knife to your front pocket for quick access. Make sure it’s

not buried under snacks, maps, or other trail debris. Some hikers prefer cargo pockets for extra space, but keep in mind that deeper pockets can make your knife harder to reach in a hurry.

On a Backpack Strap

If you’re the type who doesn’t want anything weighing down your waist or stuffed in your pockets, mounting your knife on a backpack strap might be your best bet. Many modern daypacks and hiking backpacks now come with MOLLE webbing or small gear loops, perfect for attaching a sheath.

Pros:

Keeps the knife out of the way but within easy reach—just reach across your chest or shoulder.
Works well with both folding knives (in pouch sheaths) and slim fixed-blade models.
Reduces interference with hip belts, which is a major plus on longer treks.

Cons:

Requires a sheath or mount designed for strapping to webbing (not all knives come with these).
Can add a little bulk to your shoulder area, which may feel awkward under some pack straps.
Trickier to access with one hand if you’re wearing gloves or a chest strap.

Best Practices:
Use a sheath with a secure snap or Velcro closure, and regularly check that your knife is still firmly attached—especially after bushwhacking or scrambling over rocks.

Neck Carry

Neck carry is a less common but surprisingly handy method, especially for ultralight hikers and bushcraft enthusiasts who use lightweight fixed blades. The knife hangs from a paracord or lanyard around your neck, often tucked under your shirt or jacket.

Pros:

Lightning-fast access. Just reach under your collar.
Stays clear of waist and pack straps.
Surprisingly comfortable for small, lightweight knives.

Cons:

Potential safety risk—if the lanyard catches on something, it can be a hazard.
Can get hot, sweaty, or tangled with other gear layers.
Not ideal for larger or heavier knives.

Best Practices:
Only use neck carry with small, lightweight fixed-blades in secure sheaths. Make sure the lanyard is breakaway or has a quick-release for safety.

Inside the Pack

Finally, some hikers prefer to carry their knife inside their pack, especially if it’s more of a backup than an everyday tool.

Pros:

Safest option for travel or crowded areas.
Zero chance of snagging or accidentally flashing your blade.

Cons:

Poor accessibility. In an emergency—or even to slice a quick snack—you’ll need to remove your pack and dig around.
Easy to forget where you stashed it.

Best Practices:
Designate a specific pocket or sheath inside your pack so you always know where to look. Consider carrying a second, smaller folding knife in your pocket for quick tasks.

Statistics: What Do Hikers Actually Do.

By now, you might be wondering, “What do most hikers really do. ” Let’s look at the data.

Knife Carry Preferences: According to a 2023 survey by Outdoor Gear Lab, about 48% of hikers most often carry a folding knife in their pocket, while 29% prefer a belt sheath (mainly for fixed-blade knives). 12% use backpack strap mounts, and only 6% reported carrying a knife inside their pack as a main option. Neck carry is a niche choice at just 3%.

Knife Usage: The Appalachian Trail Conservancy found in a 2021 member poll that 67% of respondents used their knife at least once per hiking trip—most commonly for food prep (45%), gear repairs (27%), and first aid (12%).

Knife-Related Incidents: According to the National Park Service, knife-related accidents on U. hiking trails are rare but do happen. In 2022, knives were involved in only 0. 4% of reported trail injuries, usually minor cuts from careless handling rather than actual use during emergencies.

Legal Landscape: It’s important to know the rules—21 U. states have specific blade length limits for carrying knives on public land, and over half of national parks have individual regulations. Always check before you hike.

Weight Factor: The average hiking folding knife weighs around 3. 1 ounces, according to Backpacker Magazine’s 2023 gear report. Fixed-blade knives for backcountry use average 5. 8 ounces, while multi-tools can tip the scale at 7+ ounces. For ultralight hikers, even a few ounces matter.

As you can see, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—hikers’ preferences vary based on comfort, safety, and the demands of their particular adventure. What matters most is finding the method that fits your hiking style, gear setup, and the level of preparedness you want on the trail.

Next up, we’ll tackle one of the most important (and sometimes overlooked) aspects of knife carry: safety. In Part 3, we’ll cover responsible knife handling, legal considerations, and practical tips to keep yourself and your trail buddies protected—so you can hike prepared and smart. See you there.

Part 3: Safety, Surprises, and Sharp Thinking—Knife Carry on the Trail

Picking up from where we left off in Part 2, we’ve covered the “why” and the “how” of carrying a knife while hiking, and you’ve seen just how many hikers rely on their blades for everything from snack prep to trail repairs. But carrying a knife isn’t just about having the right tool at your side—it’s about using it wisely, knowing the rules, and making sure it never turns from a help into a hazard.

Before we dive into practical safety and legal tips, let’s have a little fun. After all, knives and the great outdoors have a surprisingly rich history together. Ever wondered just how deep the knife-in-the-wilderness story goes, or how creative hikers get with their blades. Time for some trail-friendly trivia.

Fun Facts: 10 Things You Didn’t Know About Carrying a Knife While Hiking

The Oldest Hiking Knives Date Back Millennia: Archaeological finds in the Swiss Alps and the Carpathians have uncovered folding knives over 2,500 years old—early hikers were more prepared than you might guess.

MacGyver Moments Happen: According to a 2021 REI customer poll, 37% of hikers admitted they’ve used their knife to “invent” a tool or fix a problem they’d never anticipated—think makeshift tent pegs, splints, or fishing lures.

Red Tape is Real: Switzerland actually allows hikers to carry the iconic Swiss Army Knife almost everywhere—except, ironically, in the Swiss Parliament.

Lefties Need Love, Too: Over a quarter of folding knives are now made with ambidextrous openers and pocket clips, thanks to feedback from left-handed outdoor enthusiasts.

Tiny but Mighty: The world’s smallest functional folding knife is a mere 0. 7 inches long—perfect for ultralight hikers who count every gram.

Multitool Madness: The original Swiss Army Knife included only a blade and a reamer; modern multitools can pack in up to 87 functions (though most hikers agree: simpler is often better on the trail).

Pop Culture Power: The “Rambo knife” craze of the 1980s actually sparked a surge in fixed-blade sales among backpackers, but most professionals still recommend modest, practical blades for real-world use.

Wildlife and Knives: In North America, most hikers never use their knife for defense—bear spray and noise are far more effective deterrents, according to the National Park Service.

First Aid Trick: In a pinch, the back of a knife blade can be used as an improvised splint support or even to form bandage tabs, as taught in many wilderness first aid courses.

Trail Etiquette: On popular trails like the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail, visible knife carry (especially large blades) is sometimes frowned upon—not for legal reasons, but to maintain a friendly, approachable vibe among all hikers.

Author Spotlight: Dave Canterbury

When it comes to knife safety and smart carry in the wild, few voices are more respected than Dave Canterbury. A master woodsman, author, and co-owner of The Pathfinder School, Dave is known for his practical, down-to-earth approach to bushcraft and survival skills.

Background: With decades of experience as a hiker, survival instructor, and YouTube educator, Dave has helped thousands of outdoor enthusiasts develop safer, more effective knife habits. He emphasizes adaptability and real-world practicality—skills every hiker can appreciate.
Why listen to him. In his bestselling book, Bushcraft 101, Dave shares not only how to select and carry the right knife, but also how to use it responsibly and maintain it for years of adventures.
Key tip: Canterbury often stresses the “triangle of death” rule—always cut away from your body, hands, and major arteries. Simple advice that’s saved more than a few fingers.
Where to find him: Check out Dave’s videos on The Pathfinder School’s YouTube channel or his books for in-depth, hands-on knife wisdom perfect for hikers at every skill level.

Transition: Ready for the Real-World Details.

You’ve now picked up some surprising knife trivia and met one of the outdoor world’s most trusted voices. But there’s more to carrying a knife safely on the trail: legal pitfalls, proper handling, and the little details that keep your knife a friend, not a liability.

Curious about state laws, best cleaning practices, or what to teach kids about knives. Up next: our comprehensive FAQ, tackling your most common (and a few uncommon. ) questions about hiking with a blade—so you can hit the trail with confidence and peace of mind.

FAQ: The Best Way to Carry a Knife While Hiking

After exploring the reasons, methods, safety tips, and even a bit of knife lore, it’s time to answer the most common—and a few less obvious—questions about carrying a knife while hiking. If you’ve been following along, you know that a knife is more than just gear; it’s a practical companion. Let’s ensure you carry it wisely, legally, and safely.

1. What’s the safest way to carry a knife while hiking.

For most hikers, a folding knife with a pocket clip, carried clipped inside your front pocket, strikes the best balance of safety and accessibility. It keeps the blade protected, reduces the risk of accidental injury, and is easy to access for trail tasks. If you prefer a fixed-blade knife, a sturdy sheath with a secure retention system on your belt or attached to your backpack strap is safest—just make sure the blade is fully covered when stowed.

2. Is it legal to carry a knife on hiking trails.

Laws vary by region. , most states allow folding knives with blades under 3-4 inches, but some state parks, national parks, and countries have stricter regulations or outright bans. Always research local laws before heading out. For example, California limits fixed-blade knives to open carry, while some national parks have their own restrictions. When in doubt—ask a ranger or check official park websites.

3. Should I carry a fixed-blade or folding knife.

It depends on your hike. Folding knives are lighter, more discreet, and perfect for day hikes or casual trips. Fixed blades are sturdier, better for heavy-duty tasks (like wood processing or shelter building), and favored by bushcrafters or backcountry explorers. For most hikers, a quality folding knife suffices, but if you expect rugged conditions or want added security, a small fixed-blade in a secure sheath is a solid choice.

4. How do I avoid accidents when carrying a knife.

Practice safe handling every time. Keep the knife closed or sheathed when not in use, always cut away from your body, and never use excessive force. Teach kids “knife safety rules” before letting them carry or use one. Dave Canterbury’s key advice—mind the “triangle of death” (cut away from hands, thighs, and arteries)—is golden. Regularly check your knife and sheath for wear, and never leave your blade loose in your pack or pocket.

5.

What’s the best way to carry a knife for quick access.

If you need fast, one-handed access (for first aid or emergencies), a pocket-clipped folding knife or a backpack-strap mounted sheath (using a MOLLE system or gear loop) is best. These methods keep the knife within reach without removing your pack. Test your setup at home to make sure you can access it easily with both hands.

6. Can I bring my knife internationally for hiking trips.

Many countries have strict knife laws, especially regarding blade length, locking mechanisms, and fixed blades. Some nations (like the UK) ban most locking or fixed-blade knives outside private property. Always check airline and destination rules before packing a knife, and consider a small, non-locking folding knife for international hikes.

7. How should I maintain and clean my hiking knife.

Wipe your blade after each use—especially after cutting food—to prevent rust or corrosion. Clean the pivot or locking mechanism if you use a folding knife; a drop of oil keeps it smooth. Periodically inspect for chips, dullness, or loose screws. Keeping your knife sharp is essential; a dull blade is more dangerous than a sharp one. As Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) reminds us: “As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend. ” Keep your tools—and skills—sharp on the trail.

8. Is neck carry safe for hiking.

Neck carry can be convenient for ultralight or bushcraft hikers using small, lightweight fixed-blades, but it’s not recommended for everyone. There’s a risk of the lanyard catching or becoming a strangulation hazard. If you try neck carry, ensure you use a breakaway or quick-release cord and a secure sheath. Always keep safety top of mind.

9. What should I teach my kids about knives on the trail.

Start with the basics: keep knives closed or sheathed unless in use, never run with a knife, always cut away from your body, and never use a knife to pry or throw. Supervise young hikers closely. Teaching respect for the tool and modeling safe habits—just as you would with a campfire or stove—builds lifelong skills. The American Hiking Society’s website has excellent family safety tips.

10. Are there alternatives to carrying a knife.

While a knife is incredibly versatile, some hikers opt for mini scissors, safety cutters, or multitools with limited blades for ultra-short or family-friendly hikes. However, nothing beats the all-around utility of a good hiking knife for food prep, gear repair, and first aid. Even minimalist hikers usually carry at least a small folding knife.

Final Thoughts: Knife Carry, Hiking Wisdom, and Hitting the Trail Prepared

From our opening story about hiking mishaps to the technical deep dive on carry options, safety, and legalities, we’ve covered how a knife becomes your trail ally—not just for emergencies, but for day-to-day hiking convenience. Remember, the “best” way to carry a knife is the one you’ll use safely, legally, and comfortably. Clip it in your pocket, secure it to your pack strap, or stash it.