Folded vs. Fixed Blades Knives for Anglers

Which Style Is Most Suitable?

Jan 16, 2024

Often time I get asked alot at ramps or out on the water about my knives or at the very least why I use more outdoor oriented knives or tactical ones versus the ones that may be marketing by fishing companies.

Quality knives and a Byrna (if you live in states like MD with ridiculous gun laws) are a standard these days given alot of the issues we face at times both from individuals and also in the event of emergencies on the water.

Most of us will spend hours on end researching rods and reels and other fishing gear but then not really spend much time on things like PFD’s or safety items especially things like knives but its always good to have a dependable knife.

Just like our rods there are great quality knives, good knives and well lets face it cheap ones. I look at knives as more of an investment really because barring actually losing the knife while out on the water or walking through the woods along the river we basically are going to have these purchases forever.

That being said it is probably harder for most of us to spend the same amount of money on a quality premium knife as we do a rod but then I have never heard of a rod saving anyone’s life.

Many anglers especially kayak bass fishing anglers are likely familiar with this style knife from NRS which is a popular option for recreational and rescue uses and there is certainly nothing wrong with these style knives that have a blunt tip and single side edge. Typically these styles run anywhere from around fifty bucks to about hundred but if we look to the next level pricing point like we often do our rods we are likely to find much better quality and durability for the price. (See video at bottom for Brands and Styles of quality knives)

However, it is important to really dive into the differences between styles of knives in order to really make a determination as to the knife to meet your overall comprehensive needs. I carry mine more times than not off the water as well so that is always a factor for me when evaluating knives at expos or for purchases. Trust me when I say it has come in handy more than once.

Folding knives and Fixed blade knives are two primary categories of knives, each designed for specific purposes and situations.

Here are some key differences between Folding and Fixed blade knives, along with their designed uses and functions:

Folding Knives:

Design:
- Foldable Blade: Folding knives have a blade that can be folded into the handle, making them more compact and portable. The blade is typically housed within the handle when not in use.
Versatility:
- Everyday Carry (EDC): Folding knives are popular choices for everyday carry (EDC) due to their compact size and convenience. They can easily fit into pockets, making them suitable for daily tasks and general utility.
Deployment Mechanisms:
- Opening Mechanisms: Folding knives have various opening mechanisms, including manual opening (using a thumb stud or hole), assisted opening (spring-assisted), and automatic opening (spring or button deployment).
Locking Mechanisms:
- Locking Mechanisms: Folding knives often feature locking mechanisms that secure the blade in the open position, enhancing safety during use. Common types include liner locks, frame locks, and lockback mechanisms.
Common Uses:
- Utility Tasks: Folding knives are suitable for various utility tasks, such as opening packages, cutting ropes, and performing everyday cutting chores. They are not typically designed for heavy-duty tasks.
  Folding Knives offers much more discretion for the user but quality may vary especially in the quality of the materials used in a many folding knives.
  T.Kell Knives is a producer I have really preffered.
  Other than T.Kell, I also like SOG Knives which is part of GSM Outdoors many may be familiar with because they own brands like Bill Lewis, Yamamoto, Buckeye Lures, Big Bite Baits and now Phenex Rods.
  T.Kell Knives offers a unique lineup of fixed knives that are premium knives of the highest quality especially if you are former military and are used to having access to knives made of premium quality materials.
  See here: http://tinyurl.com/4csrb4uc
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  Fixed Blade Knives:
  1. Design:
    - Rigid Blade: Fixed blade knives have a solid, non-folding blade that extends from the handle. The blade is permanently fixed in place.
  2. Strength and Durability:
    - Robust Construction: Fixed blade knives are generally more robust and durable than folding knives. The absence of moving parts makes them sturdier and well-suited for heavy-duty tasks.
  3. Deployment:
    - Always Ready: Fixed blade knives are always ready for use since there is no folding mechanism. They can be quickly deployed and are often preferred in situations where speed is crucial.
  4. Tang Types:
    - Full Tang: Many fixed blade knives have a full tang, where the blade extends through the handle. Full tang knives are known for their strength and balance.
  5. Carrying Options:
    - Sheaths: Fixed blade knives typically come with a sheath for carrying on belts, backpacks, or other gear. The sheath provides protection for both the user and the blade.
      Check out these sheaths:
      http://tinyurl.com/arbkn876
  6. Common Uses:
    - Outdoor and Tactical Tasks: Fixed blade knives are commonly used for outdoor activities such as camping, survival, bushcraft, and tactical situations. They excel at tasks like wood processing, food preparation, and self-defense.
      Fixed Knives have the one up on folding knives in large part because they have no moving parts like folding knives thus eliminating alot of risks with failure and this to me because the preferred option because of the various outdoor conditions and elements.
      Maintenance is also easier for the fixed knives.
  Choosing Between Folding and Fixed Blade Knives:
  1. Portability vs. Strength:
    - Portability: If portability and everyday carry are primary considerations, a folding knife may be more suitable.
    - Strength: For heavy-duty tasks and situations where durability is critical, a fixed blade knife is often the preferred choice.
  2. Task-Specific Needs:
    - Versatility: Folding knives are versatile for everyday tasks.
    - Specialized Tasks: Fixed blade knives are designed for specific tasks in outdoor, survival, and tactical scenarios.
  3. Deployment Speed:
    - Quick Deployment: Fixed blade knives are quicker to deploy, making them advantageous in situations requiring immediate action.
  4. Legal Considerations:
    - Legal Restrictions: Be aware of local laws and regulations regarding the carrying of folding and fixed blade knives.
  5. GRIPS- One of the most important components outside the blade itself is the grips. T. Kell offers a ton of options for grips in various colors to suit just about anyone. Grips come in various styles as well.
    Grips - http://tinyurl.com/acdc74ru
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  Ultimately, the choice between a folding and fixed blade knife depends on individual preferences, intended use, and the specific requirements of the task at hand.
  Many individuals choose to own both types, selecting the one that best suits their needs for a particular situation and T. Kell is a premium quality producer. Some may prefer to opt for lessor quality but in the end they will end up buying additional knives over time especially if you are using them out on the river camping and hiking.
  There are certainly other brands out there of course. Here are some options: