Best Skinning Knives For Hunters (Reviewed-2023)
Overview: For hunters carrying a proper skinning knife is the second most significant thing during the sport. As skinning is a specific job which requires a particular tool in which most of the other types of knives cannot be effective. Therefore in this article, we have not only listed and explained the feature which separates ordinary skinning knives from the best skinning knives. But also reviewed the best knives available online.
A dedicated skinning knife is essential not only for frequent hunters but also for recreational ones. As the name suggests, skinning knives are specifically designed to peel your hunt, which means you have to apply constant force for a more extended period.
And to meet those need, skinning knives have a better grip, stronger blade with specific blade angle. It does a job which is far more exhausting and frustrating with any other type of blade.
Regardless whether you are a beginner or not, it’s more important to carry the right knife than to carry a top-of-the-line rifle.
Otherwise, how are you going to maneuver the trophy once it’s dead?
If you use a standard one, you will lose a lot of time meaninglessly, and you wouldn’t be able to achieve anything.
This is why we have taken a lot of time to present you with the knives that are worthy of your time. Along with the factors that determine the best utility of the product as per your preferences.
Our Pick Of Best Skinning Knives.
Product | DETAILS | OUR RATING |
|---|---|---|
 Havalon Piranta Z Folding Knife | Our #1 Rated 5 out of 5 In The Skinning Knives Category | |
 Case Medium Leather Hunter Knife | Our #2 Rated 5 out of 5 In The Skinning Knives Category | |
 Buck Knives 393 Omni Hunter | Our #3 Rated 4.5 out of 5 In The Skinning Knives Category | |
 Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter | Our #4 Rated 4.5 out of 5 In The Skinning Knives Category | |
 Benchmade Steep Country | Our #5 Rated 4 out of 5 In The Skinning Knives Category | |
 Old Timer 152 OT Shrapfinger | Our #6 Rated 4.2 out of 5 In The Skinning Knives Category | |
 Benchmade Griptilian 551 H20 | Our #7 Rated 4 out of 5 In The Skinning Knives Category |
Important Features Of Skinning Knives.
i, Blade.
The design of the blade is an essential feature of a skinning knife. In essence, a valuable skinner has a curved blade to make the skinning process easier. Usually, the ideal length of a blade should be between 10-15 cm.
However, this is a matter of preference, as it is when it comes to fixed/folding knives.
If you want a classic and durable hunting companion, a fixed-blade might be a good idea because it`s sturdy and much easier to clean. If you`re looking for a versatile knife that you can carry in your pocket, then a folding blade should be a good pick.
ii, Components.
Blade quality is another important factor when it comes to choosing your skinning knife. Poor quality steel makes it harder to sharpen your knife and may become dull quickly.
Stainless steel contains at least 12% chromium which makes them be more resistant to rust. It takes more time to sharpen it, comparing to carbon steel knives.
Carbon steel blades seem to perform a bit better than stainless steel knives and they are a favorite choice for a large number of hunters because they are more durable despite the fact that they tend to rust over time.
iii, Handle.
When it comes to purchasing a skinning knife, we should keep in mind that a good handle design is both ergonomic and non-slip.
Handle materials:
- Wood offers a great grip but this requires regular care.
- Plastic may become brittle over time and may feel slippery in the hand.
- Synthetic (G10, polyimide) are comfortable and last longer than others.
- Metal handles are fairly durable however they can be slippery or firm sometimes. Many knives have a metal patterned grip which ensures a solid grasp in all conditions.
iv, Knife Sheath.
As with everything else, finding the right knife sheath is a matter of preferences. It depends on the environment you hunt in and the overall game you face.
A leather sheath is pretty durable and is a choice that most hunters look up to mostly because it has a classy look and makes you feel like a proper hunter, even though you`re doing it just for fun.
A nylon sheath is also a popular choice among the hunters for its tactical purpose and lightweight design.
Kydex is a new thermoplastic material that is gaining ranks nowadays. It does not need a strap to fix the knife and stop it from slipping out of the sheath.
For further information please watch the video
Best Skinning Knives For Hunters
1. Havalon Piranta Z Folding Knife.
This model can be a good choice for those that desire the sharpest skinning knife on the market. Due to being specifically designed for hunters, it has a slight curve to provide you with an ease while skinning. The greatest thing about this model is the fact that it’s suitable for those that want a high-quality product without having to pay extortionate amounts of money.
Best Features:
1, Sharpness.
The company stands strong with this Skinner, and they claim that this is one of the sharpest knives on the market. It’s so sharp that it can be used as an emergency surgical knife. You do not need to sharpen it as you can add a new blade whenever the time comes.
2, Grip.
The reason why this is suitable for beginners is that this model has been designed with a long and wide handle. It’s very easy to grip and to hold. While you are skinning, you will experience full control and maneuverability it any way you want it. The super-sharp blade will cut through the thick skin while the handle can be maneuvered whatever way you want.
3, Safety.
It’s crucial for such item to be lightweight. This is because while you are hunting, you will walk long distances, so you don’t want added weight. Thus, it has been designed with thumb studs for fast thumb opening. As well as, it has liner lock to prevent the blade from escaping. Additionally, it also has lanyard hole and pocket clip. These are great features for beginners.
Pros
Cons
Product Demo & Further Information.
Conclusion.
This is one of the easiest and sharpest knives to use for all type of hunters. Therefore, we rate this model a 5 out of 5. If you purchase this knife, you will notice straight away the ability to completely eliminate caked on blood, membrane or fat.
2. Case Medium Leather Hunter Knife.
This multi-purpose knife is excellent for those who want versatility from their knife. Case hunter knife has been designed with a sharp tip which makes it perfect for stabbing. In addition to this, you will thoroughly enjoy the fact that it’s corrosion-resistant.
The product will resist the corrosion for many years to come because of the chrome vanadium blades. Nonetheless, we recommend that when you store it, you put a thin layer of oil on the blade. It will preserve its finish.
Best Features:
1, Resistance.
This model has been designed to last for a lifetime. Regardless of how frequent you use it. If you want an item that is durable, this is the product which will meet your needs. This knife has been created with Case Thru-Sharp Stainless Steel, a form of carbon steel. This heavy-duty hunter's knife will resist for more years than many of its competitors. In addition to this, the genuine leather sheath will be able to preserve the quality of the knife.
2, Quality Craftsmanship.
The company stands so strong with their product that they offer their customers lifetime warranty. Such thing shows you how much you can rely on the brand to provide the best for your money. All of the parts that create this great knife are made from quality materials. The known secret that will make it last for so long.
3, Versatility.
We highly recommend that you use this knife for more than skinning. It will work as efficiently for bushcraft or as a survival knife. This means that you can cut different materials such as ropes, wood, and plastic. Due to the narrow spine, you will be able to easily skin fishes.
Pros
Cons
Product Demo & Further Information.
Conclusion.
This is a long-lasting product. You will be investing your money rather than making a meaningless purchase. We would rate this model a 5 out of 5. Nonetheless, in comparison with the Havalon Piranta, you will have to sharp the knife rather than changing the blade. However, it does provide more versatility than the first item.
3. Buck Knives 393 Omni Hunter.
The grips and lanyard hole of this compact and ergonomic model makes it very easy to control. This model is suitable for people that want to have an easy time when maneuvering the knife for dressing animals such as deer. Thus, we highly recommend that you look into this item if you are a beginner. It will provide you confidence through its qualitative materials. You will thoroughly enjoy the fact that this brand makes high-quality products at suitable prices.
Best Features:
1, Safety.
This model has been designed with a curved handle. It has grip ridges, so it’s very unlikely that you will drop it out of your hand or that it will slip out. The Dynaflex rubber grip not only makes it waterproof, but also a all season durable knife. In addition to this, the lanyard hole will allow you to attach it to anything you wish. Regardless if it’s your belt or hand.
2, High Quality Blade.
The 420HC steel blade will be able to provide you with superior strength. The edge retention feature will ensure that you can pierce through the toughest skin. It doesn’t require maximum effort from your behalf. Just push, and the highly sharp blade will do its job. The blade is corrosion resistant so you will be able to have it for many years to come, if you take proper care of it.
3, Weather-Proof.
This model is suitable for the people that go for hunting whenever they want. Due to its robustness, the company promises that you will be able to use it even in the harshest weather conditions, extreme hot or cold or constant rain.
Pros
Cons
Product Demo & Further Information.
Conclusion.
Due to the fact that the handle is made out of plastic, we give this product a 4.5 out of 5. In addition to this, whilst this item is weather-proof, the plastic can start emitting a chemical like smell. In comparison with the Case Medium Leather Hunter Knife, this knife does not provide as many features.
4. Benchmade – Hidden Canyon Hunter 15016-1 Knife.
This compact knife is suitable for those like to equipped tightly. However, its small size does not negatively affect its efficiency. You will be able to take it with you wherever you go because it’s explicitly made for skinning and meat removal. However, we would argue that it’s not very appropriate for cutting wood or any other materials because of its size. Nonetheless, if you want a model that does what it says, this is the knife you should focus on.
Best Features:
1, Balanced Knife.
The rust-resistant blade is made out of stainless steel. It will be able to cut through thick skin and membrane without creating a mess. The handle is made out of natural wood which means that it will be able to maintain even in the harshest conditions. The small overall size will be able to bring you a balance between efficiency and manageability. You will be able to rely on it regardless of what trophy you are handling.
2, Fully Ambidextrous.
This is a great feature that not many of its competitors have. The leather sheath does not lose quality over time, and you will be able to control it with both hands. This is excellent news for those that get hand fatigue quickly. In addition to this, due to the way it has been designed, you can attach the knife horizontally to your belt.
3, Diverse.
If you are looking for a knife that will work on any type of prey, this is the suitable model for you. As you can take more control of how you work with it. On the other hand, please note that your hands will get inevitably dirty. If you are a professional hunter, it wouldn’t matter as it would be a pleasure to get rid of the unwanted fat or membrane.
Pros
Cons
Product Demo & Further Information.
Conclusion.
Due to the fact that this model is small in size, we would rate it a 4.5 out of 5. Nonetheless, even though it’s smaller, it doesn’t mean that it’s less efficient. In fact, it’s much better than many of its competitors. In addition to this, you will enjoy the fact that it will not take up a lot of space.
5. Steep Country 15008 Knife.
This stainless-steel model is for those that want a high-quality product. The flexibility of it will give you diversity. You will be able to use it for skinning and as a survival knife. Some people would prefer a fixed knife blade like this one because they are much stronger than the rest. Some argue that you can rely on it to not lose quality over time. As the item is smaller in size, you will be able to clean it much more comfortably and quickly. As the company cares about their customers, you will be able to take advantage of the limited lifetime warranty.
Best Features:
1, Convenient Size.
If you want a hunting knife that you can use for skinning, this is the right model for you. If you are a professional hunter, you may prefer this knife since it doesn’t take too much space. You can even carry it in your backpack as the leather sheath will protect you from accidentally cutting through things. Additionally, you can also wear it whatever way you want. It’s always ready to come in handy whenever you need it.
2, Superior Handle.
As soon as you unpack it, you will notice that the handle is grip-enhancing especially the part that goes in your hand. It’s made out of Santroprene, so you don’t have to worry about it slipping out of your hand. The polymer is heavy-duty plastic which means that you can use it in harsh conditions. Whether you are skinning when wet or dry, the handle will provide you with high-quality grip.
3, Advanced Blade.
As mentioned, if you are serious about hunting, you will find this model the most suitable size. The drop point of the blade will meet your needs regardless of what they are. For example, the blade is full tang. This means that you will be able to pierce through the toughest skin as you will be provided with strength for heavy cuts. Like bone. At the point where the blade ends and the handle begins, you will notice crenelations that are pointing upwards. They will allow you to take better control of the knife.
Pros
Cons
Product Demo & Further Information.
Conclusion.
This model isn’t suitable for beginners due to its size.Even though it may take a longer time to accommodate it, once you understand how to work with this knife, you will find it extremely useful. Because of this and its handle grip we will rate it 4 out of 5.
6. Old Timer 152OT Sharpfinger.
This steel knife will be able to get the job done, and without too much hustle. This is suitable for those that want to get the job done fast. With the rectangular handle, rounded edges and arched spine, this knife provide you with innovative ergonomics.
If you need a sharp, precise, economical and efficient blade, this is the model you should focus on buying. When you are done wash it and wipe it dry, no need to oil or wax it.
If you desire a model that you can cut precise slits and cut through thick bones, this is the model you should look into.
Best Features:
1, Large Cutting Area.
The upswept 3.3” fine edge blade of flat ground high carbon stainless steel offers a large cutting area. Suitable for any type of fish or dressing game. As well as, any camping chore you may have. In addition to this, since it’s made out of superior steel, you will be able to use it for many years to come.
2, Safety.
As the company cares about safety features, you will notice straight away that your hands are protected from the razor-sharp blade. This is because it has a raised and textured handle design. Furthermore, the curved spine towards the handle provides a suitable thumb or forefinger rest. It will also increase leverage and blade control when held. The comfortable and natural feel will let you use it for an extended period.
3, Advanced Features.
The full tang blade that arches through the virtually indestructible genuine saw cut OT handle scales. The two halves of the finely etched handle are attached to the exposed tang by twin nickel-plated compression rivet. The sheath will easily slide over any belt. It was designed to remind you of the old knives found in the olden days. This can be an added advantage for those who are old-school yet practical.
Pros
Cons
Product Demo & Further Information.
Conclusion.
This is an excellent knife if you want to use it for more than skinning. However, even though the blade is made out of carbon, the handle is made out of plastic and may not resist as much as you would like it to. When compared to the Hidden Canyon Hunter, the whole knife is made out of corrosion-resistant materials. Thus, we rate this model a 4.2 out of 5.
7. Griptilian 551 H20 Knife.
This rust-resistant model is suitable to be used in saltwater. You may want to purchase this product if you a product that will last. In addition to this, having an ambidextrous model can work to your advantage especially if you get hand fatigue fast.
As well as, the most significant feature about this item is the fact that you can open or close it with only one hand. Thus, when you are in a rush, you do not have to waste time to get it out of the sheath. Additionally, it also requires minimal attention regarding maintenance.
Best Features:
1, Light weight.
Some may see this feature as a disadvantage, but this is one you should take significant advantage of. It is true that it’s lightweight, but it’s made out of heavy-duty materials. In addition to this, due to its weight, there’s a convenient balance point. You will find it where the index finger should be positioned. Thus, you can easily manipulate it while skinning and take full control while dressing. You will not have the same effect with a heavier knife.
2, Excellent Traction.
As this is a model that provides high-quality features, you will be pleased to know that the back of the blade has wide grooves. This makes it perfect for when you have a huge job at hand or when you have thick bones to cut through. In addition to this, the metal and the plastic on the handle will allow you to have a better grip.
3, Survival Knife.
Due to its design, you will be able to cut through a range of materials. Including things such as rope, canvas or wood. This is excellent news if you are someone that prefers manual jobs. Please bear in mind that since it doesn’t come with a sheath and because it’s razor sharp, you may risk getting injured.
Pros
Cons
Product Demo & Further Information.
Conclusion.
This is an easy to control knife that can be used in damp conditions. Including in saltwater. Nonetheless, due to the fact that it’s difficult to sharpen it, we rate this model a 4 out of 5. When compared to the Old Timer 152OT Sharpfinger, it’s better to have a knife that has a plastic handle rather than one that you cannot fully rely on.
Final Verdict.
Well, we hope that that information provided above will be sufficient for to choose the best hunting/skinning for as per you utility and preferences. but, if you are still in doubt, we have selected some based on our testing and research.
Thanks for staying till here, for further reviews and any question regarding hunting equipment please comment below,
Cheers.
