Buying a hunting knife? Here’s what you need to know about steel, handles, blade design and fixed vs. folding

FOLDING VS. FIXED BLADES

For years, I carried just one knife—a Buck Model 110 folder—and dressed dozens of big-game animals with it. Folding knives have several advantages. They’re compact and convenient, easily worn on a belt, safe to transport and practical for everyday uses. Fixed blades, meanwhile, are stronger because the blade runs through the handle. They’re also easy to clean and, with no moving parts, they’re extremely durable and reliable. They can be awkward to wear on a belt, however.