Survivalists : The Top 5 Best Survival Tools and Multitools

81

By Randy Godwin

See all 3 photos
Source: Randy Godwin

Survival Of The Best Equipped?

The huge number of survival tools on the market can be confusing to the beginning survivalist. Some are so cumbersome and of such low quality as to be almost worthless in many situations. This article will help you choose the right tools for optimum efficiency and safety in any survival situation

Many of us spend a lot of time outdoors because of our occupations and hobbies. We are farmers, hunters, anglers, campers, construction workers, loggers, and the list goes on and on. It is extremely important for us to carry high quality tools which are useful for everyday work and for other outdoor purposes. We are the people most likely to really need them.

Man's First Tool

Survival is the thing!
Survival is the thing!

My Kingdom For A Knife!

The number one survival tool is, unsurprisingly, the knife. But what kind of knife? Well, this depends upon you and your particular occupation or hobby. Wearing a survival type hunting knife, which may contain a compass, fish hooks and line, waterproof matches, etc., may not be possible if you are working at a particular task.

The long blade, while very versatile for hunters and anglers, may impair movement to a certain degree if one’s work entails squatting or other awkward working positions. In this case, a good lock blade knife is better utilized and more comfortable. Any survival tool which is awkward to carry or wear will often be left at home. Always choose tools which may be carried comfortably and safely.

Source: Randy Godwin

Quality Survival Hunting Knives

Gerber 22-41121 Prodigy Survival Knife
Excellent knife for survival and hunting uses.
Amazon Price: $40.99
List Price: $82.40
United Cutlery Bush Master Survival Knife
Everything needed for most survival situations and at a great price too.
Amazon Price: Too low to display
List Price: $64.00

The Best Survival Hunting Knives

Military style knives are the top choice of many who are looking for a good multi-purpose outdoors knife. These survival knives are carefully tested and are made of the highest quality materials.

They may also include other implements such as fishhooks, compass, matches, etc. which may aid in almost any emergency situation.

The best survival knives are not inexpensive, but are well worth the price if you are ever faced with an actual emergency situation.

Less expensive knives can be found which are of good quality, but examine the materials and included accessories closely before you make a purchase.

Quality Survival Pocketknives

Gerber Hinderer Rescue Knife with Serrated Edge and Sheath
Amazon Price: $60.06
List Price: $129.60
FireSteel Survival/Rescue Folding Knife
Amazon Price: $39.99
Buck 277 Folding Alpha Hunter, Rosewood Handle, Liner Lock Folding Knife with Leather Sheath
Amazon Price: $60.16
List Price: $114.00

The Best Survival Pocketknives

Like the hunting type knives, a folding pocketknife may be bulky or awkward to carry on your person. But some folding pocketknives come with a case to wear on the belt, much like a survival hunting type knife or multi-tool.

While the cost of the particular pocketknife you choose can be indicative of its quality, it isn’t always an assurance of its utility. Whether you choose a survival pocketknife of the Swiss Army Knife type or simply a durable, high quality steel, traditional style pocketknife, make sure it meets your own particular requirements.

Weight and ease of opening and locking of the blade are two important qualities to look for in ant type pocketknife. A good knife also makes a good future family heirloom.

High Quality Survival Multi-tools

Leatherman Tools Blast Multi Tool Standard Stainless Finish With Leather Sheath 830030
Amazon Price: $32.99
List Price: $64.00
Leatherman 831085 Core Multitool and C33LX Knife Combo Set
Amazon Price: $90.00
SOG Specialty Knives & Tools B61-N EOD PowerLock, Black Oxide
Amazon Price: Too low to display
List Price: $120.00

The Best Survival Multi-tools

If you watch Survivorman or Man vs. Wild on television, you are aware of how important a multi-tool can be in any survival situation. Multi-tool brands are made by many different companies, each with their own combination of tools included with each model.

The size and weight of the multi-tool should be considered along with the particular tools included in the multi-tool itself. Be sure not to choose a cheap multi-tool for any outdoor purpose. The steel used in many of these multi-tools is not favorable for efficient use in survival situations.

It is best to choose a survival multi-tool with a small wood saw as part of the choice of accessories. With wood being the primary material at hand in many outdoors situations, a good wood saw is second only to the knife blade itself.

The Choice Of Survival Experts

Ultimate Survival Technologies SaberCut Saw (Black)
Amazon Price: $22.50
List Price: $29.95
Timber Wolf Game Cleaning Long Folding Saw
Amazon Price: $35.00
Snow and Nealley Hudson Bay Axe
Quality made and wilderness proven since 1864.
Amazon Price: $61.75

The Best Survival Saws And Axes

For the serious outdoorsman and survivalists, a good axe or saw is always part of the package. Hunters, campers and anglers, among others, enjoy the use of these fine tools. Versatile, yet rugged, these tools are worth their weight in gold in any survival situation. For constructing shelters or maintaining a fire, they are well suited for use in the wilderness.

Survival saws come in both rigid and folding styles. The folding variety of saws are the most popular because of their ease of portability and size. The axe can be of several sizes and may have other added features. Once again, quality is the chief factor in choosing either of these wonderful tools.

Survival axes come in many sizes and shapes. Some are merely hatchets but others are larger, more utile tools made especially for outdoorsmen and survivalists. These hand tools often have other useful features made into the axe itself. A quality made or hatchet axe is not inexpensive.

Neat Pocket Survival Tools

Tool Logic CC1SB Credit Card Companion with 1/2-Inch Knife, Translucent Black
Amazon Price: Too low to display
List Price: $23.50
KNIFE, RESCOM RED
Amazon Price: $23.97
List Price: $41.95

The Best Pocket Survival Tools

Because of today’s technology, even urban dwellers can carry around a small bit of survival equipment. There are several very fine tools made which may be carried in a wallet or purse.

Just because you spend most of your time in the city, doesn’t mean you must be unprepared for emergency situations. There is always room in your purse or wallet for a survival tool of some sort.

Even starting a fire in a survival situation is made easier with a small tool made especially for this purpose.These pocket sized tools may give you the edge you need to make the difference in your situation, or the well being of family and friends.

Choose the tool which fits your lifestyle and personality. After all, it’s your life. Survive with the fittest. Make the correct choice when purchasing survival tools, and feel confident in doing so.

Comments

Ghost Whisper 77 profile image

Ghost Whisper 77 2 years ago

Great hub! You know I was thinking that this hub will come in real handy for most of us one day! Thanks!

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

You never know, GW! 12-21-12 is coming up soon!

Ghost Whisper 77 profile image

Ghost Whisper 77 2 years ago

I don't know anything about 12/21/12 ? Have I missed something while hubbing? lol

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

Check out my Dec. 21 2012 end of the world party hub. LOL

Ghost Whisper 77 profile image

Ghost Whisper 77 2 years ago

Ohhhhh..I will...I was just thinking of something more sooner than 12/21/12...I will still take two knives to go thank you ;)

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

Thanks,GW! You seem like the "survivor"type. Keep the pointy ends down!

Austinstar profile image

Austinstar Level 7 Commenter 2 years ago

I definitely need one or three of these knives. And you can take them to work! Sweet. I never knew about the 'cards'. I'm going to check them out.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

The cards make wonderful inexpensive gifts for those you care about. You never know when one might come in handy. They will also cut a seatbelt in an emergency situation.

Thanks for reading,Austinstar!

habee profile image

habee Level 7 Commenter 2 years ago

I should get one of these - I might get lost in the mall someday! I actually have a nice survival knife that a guy friend gave me years ago. Wonder where the heck that thing is?? Great info, RD!

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

Better find it before we have to go to the cave! Thanks Holle!

GarnetBird profile image

GarnetBird Level 2 Commenter 2 years ago

Nice article! Thank you for your comment on my snake piece.-Garnetbird

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

And thank you,Garnetbird! One good turn.....

prasetio30 profile image

prasetio30 Level 8 Commenter 2 years ago

Nice tool, I learn much from you.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

Thanks for commenting,prasetio!

traderx profile image

traderx 2 years ago

you forgot one - best survival woman partner. After all, if Man is in survival mode, he will need some company ...

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

That is a given,traderx! Someone has to clean the fish and build a hut.LOL

Ben Zoltak profile image

Ben Zoltak Level 4 Commenter 2 years ago

Interesting descriptions Randy, I see a lot of cross over in application here. I'm wondering, what would be the best way to use any of these tools to start a fire?

Thanks for the great article,

Ben

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

Some have flint and steel fire starters, Ben. All that's required is dry tinder of some sort. A few strikes and voila, warmth and security. Thanks for reading!

Ben Zoltak profile image

Ben Zoltak Level 4 Commenter 2 years ago

thanks Randy, I always wondered, if you don't have actual flint and steel, I wonder if you can just use a hunk of metal (whatevers laying around) and smack it against a stone into the tinder for a spark? I wish I could say I was camping soon to try it but it's going to be awhile for me. What do you think?

Obscurely Diverse profile image

Obscurely Diverse 2 years ago

Oh, cool... It is more nifty tools for the Mayan Prophecy of Doom. I was looking for a 'beer making kit' and a good solid flask amid all this survival stuff, but I never found it.

LOL! Nice hub... :)

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

Well Ben, it is theoretically possible to use a hunk of steel and a stone to start a fire, but highly unlikely to work in a survival situation. Flint and steel works fine, but not just any flint or steel.

I am compiling a survival article which actually illustrates how to start a fire by rubbing 2 sticks together. It can be done quite easily if you know how. It's handy to know and it seems to impress people, surprisingly. Thanks again!

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

I haven't written the "how to make a flask or beer" survival article yet. But give me time! Thanks ObDi!

Ign Andy profile image

Ign Andy 2 years ago

When I read you hub what I remember is "Man vs Wild" tv program (by Bear Grylls). Well trained survivalist and very good with all these tools. Great hub Randy.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

I prefer "Survivorman" over Bear Grylls, Ign! Although Bear is entertaining, he is not alone in the wilderness when making his show. He does give some good survival advice though. Thanks for reading and commenting!

Michael Shane profile image

Michael Shane 2 years ago

Awesome hub Randy!

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

Glad you enjoyed it, Michael. Most of us men like the survival stuff. It's in the genes I guess. Thanks for reading!

Lalulinho profile image

Lalulinho 2 years ago

It must be in the male genes--really. I am a liberal, vegetarian New Yorker, and I couldn't help but stop and read your hub when I saw the title. Am looking forward to your survival skills hub--I have seen the two-sticks start a firing thing, I think at one of these Polynesian cultural shows in Hawaii. Looks like they use dried coconut husk as tinder, but it seems to work. By the way, I scanned and very much liked your other hubs as well--interesting, useful, and most of all with a good sense of humor.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

I'm glad you enjoyed my hubs, Lalulinho. I really must get back to my survival hubs as I really enjoy writing them. Lately, I've been concentrating on hubs which make money and have been putting off articles which interest me personally.

the Polynesian fire starting method is a little different than the one I use, but they use what they find handy as do I.

Thanks for the comments too!

LegendaryHero profile image

LegendaryHero 2 years ago

Very informative, thank you. How are you counting these?

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 years ago

By the category of the tools, with the hunting knife being #1 on the list. The multi-tools would normally give the most options but knives seem to have a long history of being the most used in survival situations.

Thanks for reading, Legendary Hero!

diogenes profile image

diogenes Level 7 Commenter 23 months ago

Hi Randy: Just found your hub(s). I have an Uncle Henry knife, a Bear Paw lockback, one of the last Schrades made i imported from the 'States. A prized possession: maybe not the best, but good enough. Bob

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 23 months ago

I love knives too, Diogenes! Like you, I still own some very old knives which have served me well over the years!

Thanks for stopping by and commenting!

J. McCoy profile image

J. McCoy 21 months ago

Nice hub! Thank you for differentiating between quality and utility. My personal interest survival tools has gradually changed over the years reflecting my growing love for learning and using a minimalist approach to survival; primitive living skills. But as for survival TOOLS, I really like the Leatherman Charge TTi. It has exactly what I like to use the most and nothing more. But, what tool you would take if you only got to choose one item to survive with?

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 21 months ago

Thanks for checking out my hub, J! I wear a Leatherman of some sort on my belt almost daily in my construction and farm work. I have worn several out but good thing they have a lifetime warranty.

The Charge TTi is a great choice and the quality is great. Yes, you can have too much variety in the tool selection if not careful!

Thanks again!

dwtj1982 profile image

dwtj1982 20 months ago

Great Hub, Randy. Whenever I am outdoors fishing of camping, I like to take a decent full-tang knife, pocket knife, and multi-tool. I have been looking at getting the new knife that Gerber and Bear Grylls created. Looks like a pretty decent knife and I am willing to bet it's good if Bear put his name on it.

I carry around a Gerber multi-tools too. These are great for small chores and should be something that we all carry with us. Thanks for the great information.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 20 months ago

I know what you mean, dwtj! I spend the majority of my time outdoors and I am never without a knife or my trusty Leatherman multi-tool! Yes, you can't go wrong with any of the knives or multi-tools made by Gerber! The steel is of the best quality and they stand behind their products.

Thanks for the great comments and for stopping by and reading my hub! Let me know how the Bear Grylls knife pans out if you decide to get one!

tdarby profile image

tdarby 19 months ago

The Ka Bar is good. I especially like the ESEE knives, you don't have them here on your list but they are sure good survival knives. Especially the little IZULA they make. It is small and portable. Gerber knives and tools are always a good choice.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 19 months ago

Thanks for the input,tdarby! I will check out the ESEE knives for another hub!

jenniferg78 profile image

jenniferg78 Level 3 Commenter 16 months ago

Hey Randy,

You have any recommendations for knives that are compact and lady friendly? Seems like all of these hiking knives are geared towards men. Can you help?

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 16 months ago

Thanks for stopping by, Jennifer! Mulitools and pocket knives both are made in smaller sizes for both ladies and for older children too. The Amazon links will take you to these tools and more.

Thanks again!

Randy

TahoeDoc profile image

TahoeDoc Level 4 Commenter 16 months ago

I have 3 leatherman varieties. I actually have an easier time opening/closing them than my husband since they are compact and fingernails can be useful. I have one in my car, one in my bag for opening vials and bags at work and one in the house. It's amazing how many things they are useful for :)

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 16 months ago

@Tahoe Doc-I've worn out several Leatherman Multitools both on the farm and doing construction work. Very fine steel in the tool. The pocket survival tools are great to keep in a vehicle.

Thanks for the input and for your experience with the tools.

Randy

HKrafston profile image

HKrafston 16 months ago

That's some good advice. Hardest environment for survival is extreme cold weather landscapes.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 16 months ago

So right,HK! Not a frozen landscape type of person, myself. LOL!

Thanks for reading!

Randy

paypalku profile image

paypalku 15 months ago

Very useful equipment to survive in the wild.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 15 months ago

Very true, paypalku! Nothing beats having the best survival tools when you need them. Thanks for reading!

Randy

daffodil2010 profile image

daffodil2010 14 months ago

nice hub

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 14 months ago

Thanks for reading and for the comment, daffodil!

Randy

Jo_Goldsmith11 profile image

Jo_Goldsmith11 Level 5 Commenter 12 months ago

This is a great idea. I think it is important to have the right tools for the right job. We live up in the mountains, and we hike quite a bit. My husband will bring along his knife, just in case. On one occasion we saw a snake. He didn't need to use it, but I am sure glad he brought it with us that day.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 12 months ago

Hi Jo! It always pays to carry at least a knife any time one ventures into the wilderness. But a good multi-tool is the best choice for those who are outdoors often.

Thanks for your input and time!

Randy

sofs profile image

sofs Level 7 Commenter 11 months ago

Oh wow! this is an awesome hub. Though I wouldn't know what to do with a knife or axes I am convinced that I need one..

Great information here.

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 11 months ago

Thanks Sofs! Everyone needs at least one knife! I wrote a hub just about survival tools for ladies too! They come in colors now to match your shoes and purse. I try to cover all angles, if you couldn't tell!

Thanks again,

Randy-ssssss

sup67 2 months ago

nice!i bet all you guys at the end of the world most people will have all these items in storage.hahahaahaha

Randy Godwin profile image

Randy Godwin Hub Author 2 months ago

I hope they don't ever need them at all, sup67! Better to have them and not need them, than the other way around. Besides, as a hunter/angler/camper/amateur archaeologist I tend to use these type tools as a matter of course! Thanks for your time!

Randy SSSSS

Submit a Comment
Members and Guests

Sign in or sign up and post using a hubpages account.



    • No HTML is allowed in comments, but URLs will be hyperlinked
    • Comments are not for promoting your Hubs or other sites

    Please wait working