In-depth testing and comparison of affordable survival knives. Includes durability tests, edge retention, and real-world performance evaluations.
What Makes a Great Survival Knife
A survival knife is arguably the single most important tool in any emergency kit. The right knife can build shelter, prepare food, create fire, fashion tools, and serve as a last-resort defensive weapon. When evaluating the best survival knives under $100, we focus on five critical factors: blade steel quality, edge retention, handle ergonomics, sheath quality, and overall durability. A budget survival knife does not mean a cheap knife. Several manufacturers produce outstanding fixed-blade knives in this price range that rival models costing three times as much. Our testing protocol includes batoning through hardwood, feather stick creation, rope cutting endurance, food preparation, and deliberate abuse testing to identify which knives truly perform when your life depends on them.
Morakniv Garberg: Best Overall Value
The Morakniv Garberg consistently earns our top recommendation as the best budget survival knife available. Priced around $70-85, this Swedish-made knife features a full-tang 14C28N stainless steel blade that offers exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. The 4.3-inch blade is thick enough for batoning yet precise enough for detailed carving work. The ergonomic polymer handle provides a secure grip even when wet or wearing gloves. In our testing, the Garberg batoned through 6-inch diameter oak logs without any handle loosening or blade damage. It maintained a working edge through 200 rope cuts before requiring sharpening. The included leather sheath with a multi-mount system is among the best we have seen at any price point. For a knife review focused on value, the Garberg is nearly unbeatable.
ESEE 4: Built for Abuse
The ESEE 4 is legendary in the survival gear community for its virtually indestructible construction and industry-leading warranty. Priced at $95-100, it sits at the top of our budget range but delivers performance that justifies every penny. The 4.5-inch 1095 carbon steel blade is incredibly tough and easy to sharpen in the field with a simple stone. Carbon steel does require more maintenance than stainless to prevent rust, but many survivalists prefer it for its superior toughness and ease of sharpening. The canvas Micarta handle scales provide excellent grip and develop a beautiful patina with use. ESEE backs every knife with an unconditional lifetime warranty that covers everything including abuse. If you break it, they replace it. This makes the ESEE 4 one of the best survival knives for hard use in demanding conditions.
Ontario RAT-5: Military Heritage
The Ontario RAT-5 brings military-grade quality to the civilian market at an accessible $55-65 price point. Designed by survival instructor Randall's Adventure and Training, this knife features a 5-inch 1095 carbon steel blade with a versatile drop-point profile. The blade geometry excels at both heavy tasks like batoning and fine work like feather sticks. The Micarta handle is comfortable for extended use and provides a secure grip in all conditions. In our knife review testing, the RAT-5 impressed with its balance and handling characteristics. The slightly longer blade provides more cutting surface than the Morakniv or ESEE while remaining controllable for detailed work. The included MOLLE-compatible nylon sheath is functional though not as refined as the Garberg's leather option. For preppers seeking a larger survival knife on a budget, the RAT-5 is an excellent choice.
Condor Bushlore and Schrade SCHF36: Honorable Mentions
Two additional knives deserve recognition in our best survival knives roundup. The Condor Bushlore at $40-50 offers incredible value with its 4.3-inch 1075 carbon steel blade and beautiful walnut handle. It excels at bushcraft tasks and comes with a quality leather sheath. The blade is thinner than our top picks, making it less suitable for heavy batoning but superior for carving and food preparation. The Schrade SCHF36 at $30-40 is the best entry-level survival knife available. Its 1095 carbon steel blade and TPE handle provide solid performance at a price that makes it accessible to beginning preppers. While it lacks the refinement of more expensive options, it handles basic survival tasks competently. Both knives prove that effective survival gear does not require a large investment.
Knife Care and Maintenance Tips
Regardless of which budget survival knife you choose, proper maintenance ensures it performs when needed. Keep the blade clean and dry after each use. Carbon steel blades should be wiped with a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Stainless steel blades are more forgiving but still benefit from occasional oiling. Learn to sharpen your knife using a whetstone or diamond sharpener. A sharp knife is safer and more effective than a dull one. Check handle fasteners periodically and tighten if needed. Inspect the sheath for wear and replace retention straps or snaps as they loosen. Store your knife in a dry location and avoid leaving it in a vehicle where temperature extremes can damage handle materials. Your survival knife is a lifelong tool that will serve you faithfully with basic care and regular maintenance.
Ryan Cooper
Ryan is a bladesmith and survival gear reviewer who has tested over 300 knives in field conditions across multiple continents.