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Tools for Camping
Published: September 3rd, 2025
Camping has a way of reminding us just how important the right tools can be. Whether you’re out for a weekend getaway in the woods or tackling a backcountry trek miles from the nearest trailhead, the gear you bring often determines how smoothly camp life unfolds. A good knife, hatchet, or multitool doesn’t just make chores easier; it turns challenges into simple tasks and ensures you’re ready for whatever the outdoors throws your way. Building a fire, preparing food, or setting up shelter all become faster and safer when you have dependable tools at hand, and the peace of mind that comes with that reliability is worth its weight in your pack. This article highlights some of the best camping tools available today, each chosen for its ability to make your time outdoors more efficient, enjoyable, and secure.
Fixed Blade Knives
Morakniv
Basic 511 (Color of the Year 2025)
The Morakniv Basic 511 Color of the Year 2025 is a compact fixed blade that shines around camp. Its 3.58-inch German C100S carbon steel blade is easy to sharpen and tough enough for tasks like carving tent stakes, preparing food, or trimming cord. The Scandi grind makes it especially effective for controlled, precise cuts common in camp chores. This limited edition from Morakniv pairs utility with style, featuring a Dala red and Siljan blue polymer handle inspired by the cottages of Mora and the waters of Lake Siljan. Shaped for comfort, the handle includes a large finger guard for added safety. At 8.1 inches overall and weighing just 2.9 ounces, the knife is lightweight enough to carry all day. A blue polymer sheath with a belt clip and Morakniv’s Smart Button System keeps it secure and accessible. Made in Mora, Sweden.
Condor Tool & Knife
Terrasaur (Desert Tan)
The Condor Terrasaur Desert Tan is designed to be a dependable tool for life around camp. Its 4.25-inch drop point blade is forged from 1095 carbon steel, making it tough enough for fire prep, food prep, or general camp chores, while still being easy to touch up with a simple field sharpener. The full tang construction adds strength for heavier tasks like batoning kindling or shaping camp tools. A Desert Tan polypropylene handle provides a lightweight, secure grip that stays comfortable through extended use. At 9 inches overall and 4.53 ounces, the Condor Terrasaur carries easily yet has the size and durability to handle real work. The included polypropylene sheath with belt loop offers secure storage and reliable carry, ensuring the knife is ready whenever you may need it.
ESEE
4 HM
Not every camp knife needs to be oversized to get real work done, and the ESEE 4 HM proves it. With a 4.38-inch drop point blade made from 1095 high carbon steel, it delivers strength and control in a size that’s easy to carry. The black powder-coated finish protects against wear, while the drop point shape excels at everything from preparing food to batoning wood. Full tang construction adds confidence for demanding tasks, and the canvas micarta handle provides a sure grip even in wet or muddy conditions. Triple rivets and a lanyard hole reinforce durability and offer carry options. At 8.8 inches overall and 7.7 ounces, it balances portability with performance. The knife rides in a black leather sheath with a belt loop for dependable carry and, like all ESEE knives, is covered by an unconditional lifetime warranty. Proudly made in the USA.
White River Knife & Tool
Firecraft PKO
The White River Firecraft PKO is an ideal camping knife, built for both daily camp chores and fire-making in the field. Its 3.7-inch CPM S35VN stainless steel blade combines a satin grind lower finish with a stonewashed upper finish, offering durability, corrosion resistance, and excellent edge retention. The drop point profile is versatile enough for carving, slicing, and food prep, while the spine includes a finger ring striking notch for use with the included ferro rod. Full tang construction ensures strength throughout, and the textured tan Micarta handle with a high-visibility orange liner provides a secure grip that won’t get lost in camp. A polished stainless steel divot in the handle adds the option of fire bow use, giving this White River knife extra value in survival situations. It comes with a molded Kydex sheath with ferro rod storage. Designed by Jason Tietz and proudly made in the USA.
Benchmade
Saddle Mountain Skinner
The Benchmade Saddle Mountain Skinner was originally designed for hunters but has also proven itself as a reliable camp knife. Its 4.2-inch CPM-S30V stainless steel drop point blade holds a sharp edge through extended use and resists corrosion in the field. The drop point profile offers excellent control for skinning and game processing, yet it’s just as capable for food prep, carving, or other campsite chores. Full tang construction ensures lasting strength, while the contoured Richlite handle scales and orange G10 spacers provide a comfortable, secure grip even in wet or cold conditions. At camp or in the backcountry, visibility matters, and the included safety orange Boltaron sheath keeps the knife protected and easy to locate. Benchmade’s SelectEdge technology refines the cutting edge for smooth, consistent performance cut after cut. Proudly made in the USA.
Folding Knives
Buck Knives
110 Folding Hunter
The Buck 110 Folding Hunter is one of the most iconic outdoor knives ever made, and it remains a trusted companion for camping and field use. This version features a 3.75-inch 420HC stainless steel clip point blade with a satin finish, locking securely in place with Buck’s classic lockback mechanism. The clip point blade excels at precise slicing and detailed work while still offering plenty of strength for camp chores like food prep, carving, or light wood processing. Its handle combines polished ebony wood with brass bolsters, pins, and liners for a timeless look that also feels solid in hand. Measuring 8.62 inches overall, 4.87 inches closed, and weighing 7.2 ounces, it comes with a leather belt sheath for dependable belt carry. For campers wanting a modern version of the classic 110, with upgraded steel in a slimmer, lighter build, the Buck 110 Slim Pro TRX is an excellent alternative. Made in the USA.
Hogue
Deka
The Hogue Deka is a folding knife that combines strength, light weight, and modern materials to make it an excellent choice for camping and daily carry. Designed by Allen Elishewitz, this version features a 3.25-inch CPM MagnaCut stainless tool steel blade with a black Cerakote finish for added durability and corrosion resistance. The clip point profile offers control for food prep, carving, or whittling while still being capable of heavier camp cutting tasks. Ambidextrous thumb studs and Hogue’s ABLE lock provide smooth, secure operation, while the textured glass-filled nylon handles in flat dark earth give a comfortable, reliable grip. Measuring 4.25 inches closed and weighing just 2.1 ounces, the Deka is compact and easy to carry. An ambidextrous pocket clip and lanyard hole add versatile options for belt or pocket carry. Proudly made in the USA.
Benchmade
Crooked River (Burnt Copper)
The Benchmade Crooked River Burnt Copper blends traditional hunting knife lines with modern performance, making it as useful around camp as it is in the field. Its 4.02-inch CPM MagnaCut clip point blade delivers excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance, while Benchmade’s Black Battlewash DLC finish provides a worn-in look that hides wear and adds durability. Dual thumb studs allow smooth, ambidextrous opening, and the AXIS Lock secures the blade with confidence. The handle combines black canvas micarta scales with burnt copper anodized aluminum bolsters, creating a mix of grip, strength, and striking style. Measuring 9.29 inches overall yet weighing only 3.28 ounces, the Crooked River carries lightly for its size, making it practical for camp chores like food prep, wood shaving, or general cutting tasks. A reversible pocket clip keeps it accessible, and like all Benchmade knives, it’s proudly made in the USA.
Hatchets
Marble's
Hickory Single Bit Hatchet
The Marble’s Hickory Single Bit Hatchet is a compact, reliable tool well-suited for camp chores, wood prep, and general outdoor use. Its 4.62-inch hand-forged 1045 carbon steel head offers durability and dependable edge retention, with a 2.25-inch cutting edge that handles chopping kindling, splitting small logs, or shaping wood around camp. The forged head adds character and strength, ensuring each piece is unique. Fitted with an American hickory handle, the hatchet balances shock resistance with durability, while its natural grain gives it a timeless look and comfortable feel in hand. A lanyard hole at the handle’s end provides an additional carry or hanging option. Measuring 11 inches overall and weighing just over 1 pound, this Marble’s hatchet is easy to pack yet heavy enough to perform efficiently and effectively.
Adler
The Scout Hatchet
The Adler Scout Hatchet is a compact, packable tool built for campers who want cutting power without extra weight. Forged from C60 high-carbon steel and hardened to 47–55 HRC, its head provides dependable chopping strength for splitting kindling, shaping wood, or clearing small branches. The 11.8-inch handle is crafted from European ash, chosen for its strength and resilience, and finished with black anti-slip paint and a bold red stripe for visibility and grip security in rough conditions. Weighing only 0.88 pounds, the Scout Hatchet is light enough to carry easily yet balanced for controlled, effective swings, whether feathering tinder or handling tougher camp chores. It comes with a heavy-duty leather sheath for safe transport and storage, making it a versatile addition to any outdoor kit. Made in Germany, the Scout Hatchet combines portability with dependable performance for camp and trail.
Knives of Alaska
Bobcat Mini Hatchet
The Knives of Alaska Bobcat Mini Hatchet is a compact chopping tool built for campers and hunters who need performance in a portable size. At just 8.125 inches overall and 9.5 ounces, it packs easily yet delivers the cutting power needed for kindling, food prep, or field dressing tasks. Its 2.5-inch D2 tool steel blade offers excellent edge retention and toughness, and full tang construction ensures durability under hard use. The blade’s wide profile and integrated gut hook add versatility for outdoor work, while the rubber handle provides a secure, slip-resistant grip even in wet conditions. A leather sheath protects the edge during transport and keeps it accessible on your belt or in your pack. Rugged, lightweight, and easy to carry, the Knives of Alaska Bobcat Mini Hatchet is a reliable option for campers, hikers, and outdoorsmen who want a small tool that still handles big jobs.
Axes
Marble's
No. 10 Camp Axe
The Marble’s No. 10 Camp Axe brings more power to camp chores, offering the reach and leverage needed for bigger jobs that a hatchet can’t easily handle. Its 5-inch satin-finished stainless steel head features a 3-inch cutting edge designed for clean, efficient chopping, whether you’re splitting firewood, clearing downed limbs, or shaping larger pieces of wood for camp use. The 20.5-inch wooden handle provides two-handed control and balanced swings, giving you the confidence to move through tougher tasks with less effort. At 1.53 pounds, it strikes a middle ground between portability and striking force; light enough to carry into camp, but substantial enough to get real work done. Built with classic materials that combine durability and comfort, the No. 10 Camp Axe is a reliable choice for campers who want a tool capable of keeping the firewood pile stocked and the campsite in order.
Adler
The Pulaski Axe
The Adler Pulaski Axe brings the proven design of a firefighter’s tool to camping, trail building, and heavy outdoor work. Its dual-function head is hand-forged from C60 high-carbon steel, with one side shaped as a chopping blade for felling or splitting wood, and the other as an adze for digging, cutting roots, or building fire lines. Originally designed for wildland firefighters, this design has become equally valuable for campers, trail builders, and homesteaders who need one tool that can handle both cutting and digging tasks. The axe head weighs 3.3 pounds, giving it the striking force needed for demanding jobs, while the full tool balances at 5.5 pounds and measures 27.5 inches overall. A straight American hickory handle with a red-striped grip zone ensures control, comfort, and visibility in the field. Made in Germany.
TOPS Knives
High Impact Axe
The TOPS Knives High Impact Axe is a serious backcountry tool, built to bridge the gap between a compact hatchet and a full-sized felling axe. Measuring 20 inches overall and weighing 3.67 pounds, it carries enough mass for deep, powerful cuts while still being short enough to pack or stow easily. The 5.75-inch cutting edge is forged from .38-inch thick 1075 high-carbon steel, heat-treated for durability, and finished with TOPS’ black Traction Coating to resist corrosion and heavy use. A full-tang design ensures strength throughout, transferring every swing directly into the cut. The tan canvas Micarta handle scales provide a secure grip that stays reliable in wet or cold conditions, with dual lanyard holes for added safety and carry options. Balanced for both one- and two-handed use, the High Impact excels at firewood prep, shelter building, and camp chores. Proudly made in Idaho, USA.
Multitools
Gerber
Stakeout
The Gerber Stake Out Graphite is a multitool built specifically for camping, packing 11 practical functions into a slim, 3.32-ounce frame. Its integrated carabiner makes it easy to clip to a pack or belt, keeping it within reach at camp or on the trail. Unique to this tool is the dedicated tent stake puller, which makes breaking camp faster and less frustrating when stakes are set deep. A 2.2-inch plain-edge blade handles meal prep and quick cutting tasks, while scissors, an awl, a file, and a ruler expand its day-to-day utility. A wood saw and ferro rod striker cover fire prep and ignition, rounding out its camp-ready features. Built from stainless steel with a graphite finish, the Gerber Stake Out is both durable and weather-resistant. Compact, lightweight, and highly specialized for outdoor use, it’s an excellent companion for campers who value smart, functional design.
Victorinox
Huntsman
The Victorinox Huntsman is one of the most versatile Swiss Army Knives for camping, packing 15 functions into a compact 3.5-inch frame that weighs just 3.5 ounces. Built from corrosion-resistant stainless steel with the classic red handle scales, it combines the essentials for camp life in one easy-to-carry tool. The large and small blades cover food prep and general cutting tasks, while the wood saw makes quick work of branches for kindling or shelter building. Scissors, screwdrivers, can and bottle openers, a reamer, a corkscrew, and a hook add even more day-to-day utility. Toothpick and tweezers slide neatly into the handle, and a keyring attachment ensures it’s always close at hand. Durable enough for extended use yet light enough to ride unnoticed in your pocket or pack, the Victorinox Huntsman has earned its place as a trusted camp companion.
Leatherman
Signal (Coyote Tan)
The Leatherman Signal is a multitool designed with camping and survival in mind, combining 19 functions into a compact 7.5-ounce package. Built with coyote tan DLC-coated stainless steel handles and 420HC stainless tools, it’s rugged enough for trail work, camp chores, and emergency situations. Needle-nose pliers, regular pliers, and replaceable wire cutters cover essential gripping and repair needs, while the partially serrated blade, saw, and hammer handle fire prep, shelter building, and gear adjustments with ease. Outdoor-focused additions set this Leatherman apart, including a ferrocerium firestarter rod, emergency whistle, and diamond-coated sharpener to maintain your edge in the field. Other camp-ready features, like the can and bottle openers, awl, hex bit driver, and box wrenches, ensure it’s ready for daily use as well as unexpected challenges. Measuring 4.5 inches closed, the Signal clips securely to your pack with its carabiner, keeping preparedness close at hand. Made in the USA.
Fire Starters
Zippo
Emergency Fire Kit
The Zippo Emergency Fire Kit is a compact, camp-ready tool designed to make fire-starting fast and reliable in any conditions. Inside its waterproof, floatable ABS plastic case are five paraffin wax-coated spark tinders, each capable of burning for up to five minutes, plenty of time to ignite kindling or start a cooking fire. Ignition comes from Zippo’s flint spark wheel, a proven design that can generate up to 1,700 sparks and works even when damp or windy. The rugged case is built with a textured grip and an O-ring seal to keep moisture out, while a lanyard hole makes it easy to attach to packs or emergency gear. Measuring about four inches long and weighing just 1.6 ounces, it disappears into a pocket yet provides the reassurance of dependable fire when you need it most. Proudly made in the USA.
Wazoo
Bushcraft Necklace
The Wazoo Bushcraft Necklace keeps fire-starting close at hand in a wearable, discreet design that doubles as survival gear. It features a genuine mahogany leather cord with an adjustable Sliding Double Fisherman’s Knot, allowing it to fit comfortably from 14 to 26 inches. Hanging from the cord is a black zirconia ceramic pendant that doubles as a scraper, paired with a 1-inch ferro rod sized for emergency use. Despite its small size, the rod produces sparks hot enough to ignite natural tinder, such as the included tinder nest, giving campers a reliable backup method for starting a fire. Lightweight and easy to wear every day, the necklace ensures that even if other gear is lost or left behind, you’ll still have the ability to make fire. Rugged, functional, and unobtrusive, it’s a clever addition to any camper’s or bushcrafter’s kit.
Black Beard Fire Starters
Ultimate Fire Kit
The Black Beard Ultimate Fire Kit is an all-in-one fire-starting system designed to keep campers prepared in any conditions. Housed in a compact organizer case, the kit includes a Ferro Rod, a rechargeable Plasma Arc Lighter, and nine Black Beard Fire Starters, giving you multiple ignition methods and dependable tinder in one package. The Ferro Rod throws hot sparks even in wet or windy weather, while the Plasma Arc Lighter provides modern convenience, producing a reliable electric arc that ignites tinder instantly and recharges via USB. The included fire starters are waterproof, easy to light, and burn hot and long, making it simple to get a campfire going no matter the environment. Lightweight and portable, the kit slips easily into a pack or emergency kit, ensuring you always have a dependable way to spark warmth, cook food, or signal for help.
Written By
Drew Clifton
Drew is the lead writer for SMKW's Knives 101, crafting informative and engaging content for the world’s largest knife store. With expertise in knife history, design, and functionality, Drew delivers articles and product descriptions that educate and inspire knife enthusiasts at all levels.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.









