Life of a hunter means a lot of things – you don’t always stay in one place; you have to withstand the sight of blood and always be agile. Knives and bullets are your best friends. So this time, we want to help you choose the best skinning knives that will accompany you for your next hunting trip.
In particular, we will be reviewing the seven best skinning knives available on Amazon right now. And while most skinning knives are pretty affordable, we also know you shouldn’t be spending days and weeks throwing $10 and $20 just to find out which one works for you. We want to help you save your time and budget to find the right skinning knife for you.
Oh, and let us enlighten you as to why your hunting knife won’t work (or at least, not as good as a skinning knife can).
Page Contents
Top 7 Best Skinning Knives In 2023
1. HavalonPiranta Z Folding Blade Skinning Knife
- 12 additional stainless steel #60A blades, 2-3/4"
- Super-strong military grade polymer handle
- Overall length 7-1/4"
- Nylon holster included
- Fits All Piranta Blades
Last update on 2023-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The HavalonPiranta Z is crazy sharp. This folding skinning knife is one of the sharpest and we’re not the only one who thinks so. The folding knife comes with an easy handle to make sure that you have a firm grip on it. The knife uses a 60XT blade that is known for its super sharp quality. The handle is also of military standard, featuring Black Zytel military plastic handle.
The blade is 2.75” long and 7.25” wide, your typical skinning knife dimension. It has the same dependability as a surgical knife. The blades are replaceable and you get 12 replacement blades along with the sheath. It’s also made in the USA.
The biggest drawback of the knife would be the risk of the blade falling off the handle. Which is actually quite a big risk to users as the blade is razor sharp. When it comes to skinning big games, you do have to exert quite the power and your blade has to be able to withstand the pressure. Several people have mentioned that the blade falls off the knife after quite a quick use of it.
2. Old Timer 152OT Sharpfinger 7.1in Stainless Steel Full Tang Fixed Blade Knife
- DIMENSIONS: 7.1 inch (18 cm) overall length with a blade length of 3.3 inches (8.4 cm) and a weight of 3.1 ounces
- DURABLE: Blade is made of reliable High Carbon Stainless Steel
- DEPENDABLE: Quick and easy access with the convenient brown, leather belt sheath making it ideal for everyday carry
- BE PREPARED: Have confidence that the blade will not slip with the security of the thumb rise and finger choil
- SECURE: Knife features a full tang design complimented by an ergonomic handle made of sawcut delrin slabs
Last update on 2023-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Old Timer is determined to make products that you can pass on to your next generation, hence, their Sharpfinger 7.1 stainless steel skinning/clip point blade. The knife is 7.1 inches long with a 3.3-inch tang fixed blade. The blade is made of 7Cr17MoV High Carbon S.S. that ensures high durability.
The blade is fixed in saw cut handle slabs made out of Delrin and is designed with such balance you won’t easily slip when skinning. It also has a brown leather sheath that can be hung around your belt. The clip point blade makes it easy to slash through any thick skin. But due to this shape, you won’t be using this for rough cutting or stabbing as it’s prone to break.
Some of you are probably wondering if the Sharpfinger is made in USA or China. Previously, Schrade was a company based in the USA before it went under and bought by a Chinese company, Taylor Brands LLC. Since then, the blades are made in China, but you don’t have to worry about the blade quality – it’s still the same razor-sharp blade with a fancy, functional belt to boot.
3. ESEE Knives 5P Fixed Blade Knife w/Kydex Sheath
- Overall Length: 11.00"
- Blade Length: 5.25"
- Handle Material: Micarta
- Sheath: Kydex
- Blade Finish: Black
Last update on 2023-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
ESEE is a company known for its high-quality blade knives of various purposes, design, and functions. The 5P fixed blade knife is a hunting knife that works great as a skinning knife as well. This is proven by the razor-sharp edge, pointy end with a comfortable grip that will help your skin without accidents.
The knife is 11 inches long and the blade alone is 5.25” long. This is considerably bigger than the usual skinning knives, but also means you have one knife for all the job you need to be done. The thickness if .25” inches. The blade is made of 1095 Carbon, 55-57 Rc with powder coat finish for increased durability. It’s a 1.56” wide saber ground blade.
The handle also has a bow drill divot and has a glass breaker pommel. It’s canvas micarta material which has the slightly rougher appearance and steadier grip.
Additionally, the ESEE 5P comes with a fancy black Kydex sheath for the knife and a clip plate. This is also a product made in the USA.
4. Buck Knives 113 Ranger Skinner Hunting Knife
- Razor Sharp Blade - 3-1/8" 420HC Blade has great edge retention, corrosion resistance and excellent strength for long lasting durability. Overall Length 7-1/4" Weight 5. 2 oz.
- Skin Like A Pro - The skinner blade is optimized for skinning game. The narrow tip and wide curved belly provide a smooth skinning sweep that aids getting through thick layers. The downward angled point helps prevent an accidental slice through the hide
- Classic and Functional - The 113 Ranger Skinner is a stylish and performance oriented combination of Buck's famous Ranger and Vanguard knives, yet more compact with a versatile skinning blade
- Ergonomic Design - Now with Genuine Ebony! Ebony Handle with Brass Bolster fits comfortably in your hand. The Genuine Leather Sheath with integrated belt loop allows you to carry on your belt for easy access
- Forever Warranty - Since 1902 Buck Knives has offered a lifetime warranty on our knives because we believe in the integrity of our products. This knife is proudly made in the USA. Includes imported sheath.
Last update on 2023-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Buck Knives are known to make quality blades that last long, such as their 113 Ranger Skinner Hunting Knife. As the name implies, this skinning knife can also alternate as a hunting knife thanks to it’s stronger built. The drop point blade makes this a suitable knife for not just skinning, but also surviving as it’s less prone to break for prolonged or rough use.
But because it’s a drop point blade, this type of knife usually takes more to pierce into thick skin when compared to clip point blades like the ESEE 5P. The blade is made of 420HC, which is corrosive-resistant. The blade is fixed in an American walnut handle with brushed Brass Bolster and a lanyard hole. Everything about the blade is made in the USA for best quality control.
It also comes with a sheath made of genuine leather and the manufacturer brags selling sharp knives that stay so for long. After using the knife quite a while, you can actually feel the knife still easily slicing through hides and when you need to, the knives can be sharpened easily.
5. ESEE ESLSP-BRK Laser Strike
- Made in: USA
- Category name: knives
- Made in USA or imported
Last update on 2023-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The ESEE Laser Strike is another highly capable knife whose sole purpose isn’t for skinning only. With a total length of 10 inches, it’s certainly the ideal size of a skinning knife but with the versatility of a camping or hunting knife.
The 4 7/8” blade is 1096 carbon steel with a thumb ridge and has a powder coated finish. The blade is fixed full tang to the canvas Micarta handle which also has a bow drill divot and a Lanyard hole. For the knife, ESEE provides a black sheath with clip plate and OD green nylon lanyard and boot clip. The ESEE Laser Strike is also completely made in the USA.
ESEE also provides a lifetime warranty on their product and it’s not limited to anything at all. The only worrying thing about the knife is the carbon steel that remains fine when the powder coat remains. You will have to begin oiling their steel afterward to prevent rusts.
6. Buck Knives 0103 Skinner Fixed Blade Knife with Leather Sheath
Last update on 2023-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another Buck Knives made it our list and it’s not surprising seeing the superior quality of their products. The 0103 skinners fixed knife is 4” wide and has a 420HC blade fixed. It’s also corrosion-resistance and is full tang fixed with Integrated Finger Guard and Deep Choil.
It is made exclusively for skinning, the blade as a narrow tip and wide curved belly that makes the skinning process smooth. The overall length of the knife is 8.25” and comes with a genuine leather sheath with a snap fastener that can be hung on your belt for easy carry. Everything about the knife is also made in the USA.
The knife also comes in two different variances. The wood/brass is particularly aesthetic with hardwood Cocobolo handle that is designed with curves to give you a firm grip. The pommel is made of brass and gives it a luxurious look for those who want a functional knife that is also aesthetic.
7. Outdoor Edge Swingblade Double Blade Hunting Knife
- TWO BLADES IN ONE – Blade rotates from hand finished DP skinner to a razor- sharp specialized gutting blade on the other side; Comes complete with a nylon belt sheath.
- OPENS GAME EASILY – Special gutting blade cuts underneath the skin without cutting hair.
- RUBBERIZED TPR HANDLE – Nonslip blaze-orange handle is mounted to a study stainless steel frame to provide a secure and comfortable grip, even when wet. The blaze-orange handle is easy to spot on the ground, saving valuable time in the field while preventing loss.
- JAPANESE AUS-8 STAINLESS STEEL BLADE – Extremely tough and corrosion-resistant blade is precisely heat treated then hand finished shaving sharp to ensure excellent edge retention.
- SERVICE FOR LIFE – Outdoor Edge produces quality cutting tools that are built to last; If you have a problem with your Outdoor Edge knife contact us; we address all replacement and service requests.
Last update on 2023-09-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’ve ever wondered whether taking a single knife for all your effective game prepping process is possible, the answer is yes. At least with Outdoor Edge Swingblade Double Blade Hunting Knife, you can have skinning and gutting knife on a single knife. The secret lies in the rotating handle that easily swings to the other way at the push of a button.
The skinning blade is a 3.6” long drop point blade while the gutting blade is 3.2” long. It’s a Japanese Aichi AUS-8 stainless-steel blade that extends up to 8.3” long. The blade was heat treated and the gutting knife is bluntly treated to prevent damaging the internal organs that can spoil the meat.
The handle is a black rubberized TPR that prevents slipping and gives you an ergonomic grip even when wet. Having a longer blade, the knife is slightly heavier at 7 ounces. It also comes with a black nylon sheath for easy carrying. The blade’s handle comes in various colors with blazed orange meant to keep the knife visible even in the middle of a jungle.
It also comes with a lifetime warranty on the knife.
Skinning Knife’s Blade Shapes And What They Do
You might have heard that there is a skinning knife with a drop point or clip point. What do they mean and how can you know that you got the right blade for your need? Before that, here’s a quick go over on what is a skinning knife and how it differs from the others.
Skinning knife typical features
A skinning knife has the sole purpose of skinning your game and to get the most effective result. Your knife has to be sharp and make a smooth cut between the skin and the meat. That is why skinning knives are typically saber-grinded to get that smooth thin shape on edge, but thick on the other side. They are also dead sharp and can make a really big gash if your hand slipped when using them.
Skinning knives typically have super-sharp tips that easily break, so you don’t typically stab them on hard surfaces or you’ll lose that clip point. If you need to break something with your skinning knife (under super emergency situations), you use the handle to do that. Some knives have a glass breaker pommel that works much better than the tip of a knife.
Clip point, drop point and everything else
- Clip point refers to the shape of the front half that looks like it has been clipped off. This ‘clipped off’ part makes it easy to maneuver while cutting and is usually much sharper than drop point. Clip point knives easily penetrate things but put a little too much pressure on them and they’ll break. The bowie knife, commonly used in hunting, is an example of a clip point knife.
- Drop point knives are convex-shaped with a lowered point and sloping spine and a wide belly. Because of wide shape, it is also common for skinning knives to be made this way. The tip is resistant to breaking since it’s not as pointed as clip point is. The knife basically trades its sharpness with durability and this is vital for survival. It’s especially good for people who use the knife for skinning and other survival needs.
- Spearpoint knives are, like what they’re called, can be used for spears and are usually throwing knives with a symmetrical shape and a tip that lines up with the blade’s center. They are great for stabbing, piercing and are thick enough to withstand continuous use compared to clip point that is prone to breaking. On the other hand, they can’t make clean cuts like clip point knives do.
- Sheepsfoot knives are the ones you need for cutting and slicing as they feature a long, horizontal sharp edge. The false point is minimized to prevent unwanted piercing or puncturing while using the knife. This is the typical knife that emergency responders use to cut through stuck seatbelts or sailors through ropes.
What Is A Skinning Knife (And All Other Knives) Does?
Skinning knives have one sole purpose – they are designed to allow you to skin your hunted preys easily. They typically have wider and razor-sharp blades to cut through the skin. Skinning knives are also usually smaller much like a pocket knife, but one has to be super careful because, again, they are very sharp.
In comparison, hunting knives are the all-purpose knives that can be used to skin, chop, and sometimes, cut tree branches or thick vines. Survival knives are similar, but bigger with higher durability compared to a skinning knife. They might not be as sharp, but survival knives are what you want to be left with when you’re stranded on an island. For example, Survival knives can also be turned into spearheads if they have holes in their handles.
Camping knives are much larger knives and come in different sizes. It depends what you want to use it for, but most campers with this knife use it to chop woods for the campfire.
Things to Consider for Buying a Good Quality Skinning Knife
There’s plenty of information available in relation to purchasing the right skinning knife. In spite of the high-end skinning knives I’ve described, you’ll should be aware of some aspects that go into an ideal skinning tool. These are:
Blade Design
One of the primary factors to be aware of when purchasing the Skinner is the blade’s design. It could significantly alter the results of your work. Skinning knives are available with curved blades , however others are made using straight blades. I’d still prefer curving ones.
Type of Game
Skinning knives come in various types, and your requirements will determine the kind of knife you’ll need to buy. For example, a knife for skinning which is suitable for rabbits might not work when you’re skinning deer, moose or the elk. Based on the kind of game you’re hunting, choose an appropriate skinning knife to most effectively complete the task.
Comfort
A good skinning knife will give you an ergonomic grip that ensures the knife isn’t slipping off your fingers. The knife you choose to use that’s easy to hold allows you to get your skin in the right place with precision. You will be able to finish your task in a short amount of time.
Blade Length
One of the main aspects that determine the proper blade size you should choose is the kind of game you’re looking for. If you’re hunting large game (elk brown bear or moose) it is essential to find a skinning blade with a length of at least 7 inches long, or if you’re in the middle of a game like mule deer whitetail, or coyote, you will require a blade that is longer than 5 inches will be needed and 3-4 inches would be ideal for smaller game such as squirrels and rabbits, or dressing upland birds as well as waterfowl.
Blade Sharpness
It is not necessary to constantly sharpen the skinning knife. It must be able to keep the sharp edges for prolonged duration. This can save the time of waiting during the dressing or skinning procedure to make the knife sharper. The top skinning knife needs to be sharp and razor-sharp for a long period of time so you can enjoy the best time with it.
Durability
What person wants an item that doesn’t last for long? I’m sure it’s difficult to assess the durability of a knife simply by viewing it. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t invest in a top-quality skinning knife. There are high-quality knives like the ones I’ve looked at that offer greater endurance.
One of the most efficient methods to gauge the quality that a tool has is reading what customers have to review it. This way, it’ll be easy to determine the strength of a knife for skinning before you purchase it.
Fixed Blade vs. Folding Blade Skinning Knives
Many hunters favor fixed blades over the folding type. But, the decision is based on individual preference and there is no way to prove which is superior to the other.
Certain hunters prefer carrying both folding and fixed blades in order to make their work easier. They employ the folding knife for initial belly incisions, cutting down around the legs, along with the anus.
In this way, the edge of the Fixed Blade knife is able to be used for the process of removing hides.
Blades with fixed blades are durable and long-lasting. However, they’re not as compact and portable as folders.
The choice of a folding knife implies that you’ll need select the locking mechanism. Lock-back knives have the lock bar that is situated at the rear of the knife.
They’re the most popular choice among the hunters, however other options such as liner locks, frame locks and button locks also are available. The primary thing is to determine which style or choice is the best fit for your needs.
Make sure to maintain the lock mechanism clear to ensure its functionality.
A listing of the best companies that are known for making the top hunting knives.
If you’re going to purchase a knife you shouldn’t choose a cheap knife that isn’t likely to last for long. Which brand should you be thinking about purchasing from? There’s no definitive answer, therefore we’ve compiled this list of top brands with no order, that you must definitely research. Below is a list five well-known knife makers who have been in business for quite a while. They are among the top knives for hunting around the globe.
Buck
Buck is one of the most well-known makers of knives that has been operating for a considerable time(over 100 years). They sell some of the most premium knives, which are heat-treated and tampered blades made to last. Buck is among the most famous producers of knives. Buck also offers a lifetime 4 year warranty on its knives. The Buck knife is designed to last. Visit the Buck website and can see that the listing of products is now simplified for simple navigation. It is not just possible to select the knife type you’re looking for, but what length the knife is and the price range in which you’d prefer to view knives. This is great because many other well-known knife manufacturers aren’t offering this option on their websites.
Gerber
Gerber started in 1939, making hand-crafted cutlery. In the early 60s Gerber became one of the famous knife makers. Gerber is known for its superior quality and ingenuity knives. When it comes to the durability and quality of their knives are related, Gerber is right up with other well-known brands in the industry. Gerber provides a 25-year guarantee on their knives. Gerber promises to the customer the knife will be free from imperfections in workmanship and materials during the warranty period. You can visit their site and are able to go to the maintenance section, where frequently asked questions regarding knife maintenance are addressed by Gerber.
Kershaw
Kershaw is one of the top manufacturers of knives is worth considering when purchasing an item. Kershaw knives are top of the line even for their entry-level models. Kershaw introduced knives that have blades that can be interchanged. They also use the Composite Blade technology, in which the knife is comprised of two different kinds of steels. This means you’ll have the steel that is capable of cutting edge retention as well as an alloy with good strength in the knife’s back. Kershaw offers a limited lifetime warranty of its items. They also sharpen your knife free of charge when you return the knife back to them in exchange for warranty services.
Cold Steel
Cold Steel is a Ventura, California based manufacturer of swords, knives machetes, as well as other instruments. The majority of their items are made of the VG-1 stainless steel that is resistant to corrosion and abrasion. Most knifes are well-rated, and they have some that are top-selling on Amazon. They also provide DVDs that demonstrate their products, something that isn’t something other brands offer. Their website is where they’ve got numerous knives that are categorised in a way that allows you to choose the ones you want to see.
Case
The oldest maker of knives on this listing, Case is in business since the mid 1800s. They offer premium quality knives, and many include chromium Vanadium steel which makes the steel robust and resists corrosion, scratching and rusting on the steel.
There are a few more well-known names that have been in industry for quite a while such as Schrade and Smith & Wesson. Check out the offerings of these brands on their websites. You can also read Amazon reviews of customers to determine which one you want to choose.
Finding the perfect hunting knife will depend on your requirements.
Conclusion
A skinning knife is mandatory for every hunter out there to get the best results of their big games. The function of a skinning knife typically makes it unfitting to use your skinning knives for other things, unless you buy something like Outdoor Edge Swingable that comes with a gutting edge as well.
Clip point or drop point? Micarta or G-10? Many things about a skinning knife rely on your purpose as well as your preferences. Clip point knives sound better in making a clean cut while drop point sounds more durable and make smoother cuts. It falls onto what kind of knife you prefer and the manufacturer you are purchasing from.
Micarta and G-10 are both made from different materials, but end up with pretty similar results when it comes to practical use. No matter what finish is used, even if matte looks ‘grippier’ you might find both give you the same firmness. Or maybe non-matte finish works better because it prevents hot spots.
Thus, why our review is important – you can’t be made to spend hundreds of dollars and months to see which skinning knife works best for you.
Thumbs down and quit watching after five seconds of the worst intro ever. Who thinks rapid zoom on everything is a good way to draw attention? Try regular steady shots next time.
You can feel the season in the air.
I love a good drop point for skinning and field dressing.
I hope somebody makes some deer jerky this year, as ohio wont let me hunt with my mosin. 12 guahe is on the wishlist though.
Non of these knives are suitable for a real hunter, a hunter needs a handmade forged knife with a good steel quality with a five to 6 inch blade.
I had recently inherited my great grandfather’s rigid r7 skinning knife. It’s very hefty and very well made. I’ll be looking foward to use it for many years to come.