The Bowie knife, a symbol of true grit and the spirit of the wild, is more than just a cutting tool.
With its historical significance and versatile functionality, it has forged its place in the worlds of survival, hunting, and outdoor adventures.
Navigating the vast selection of Bowie knives on the market can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help.
We’ve carefully selected and reviewed the top 5+ Bowie knives available today, each excelling in its unique way.
Our Top Picks of The Best Bowie Knifes on The Market
How We Chose And Rate The Best Bowie Knives
Choosing and rating the best Bowie knives is a process that requires extensive research and consideration. Here’s a look at how we went about it:
Material Quality: We prioritized knives made with high-quality materials, such as high carbon steel or stainless steel for the blade, which offer excellent durability, sharpness, and corrosion resistance.
Brand Reputation: We considered products from reputable brands known for their craftsmanship and quality control. This helped ensure that the knives we recommended are reliable and well-made.
Customer Reviews and Ratings: We took into account the experiences of people who have used these knives in real-world situations. This gave us insights into each knife’s performance, durability, and overall value.
Price: We understand that our readers have different budgets, so we included options that offer good value for money at various price points.
Design and Features: We evaluated the design and features of each knife, considering factors like blade size, handle material, full or partial tang design, and whether it comes with a sheath.
Versatility: A Bowie knife should be versatile enough to handle a variety of tasks, from slicing and chopping to piercing. We looked for knives that live up to this standard.
We believe that our rigorous selection process has resulted in a list of the best Bowie knives that cater to different needs and preferences.
Whether you’re a collector, an outdoors enthusiast, or a professional, you’ll find a Bowie knife on our list that suits you.
The Best Bowie Knives: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall: Ka-Bar U.S. Marine Corps Bowie Knife
- Edge Angles – 20 Degrees
- Overall length 11.875 inches
- The most famous fixed blade knife design in the world
Product Description
The Ka-Bar U.S. Marine Corps Bowie Knife is an iconic piece of cutlery that has stood the test of time.
With a history dating back to World War II, it’s a trusted companion for many servicemen and women, as well as outdoor enthusiasts.
The knife sports a 7-inch straight edge blade made from 1095 Cro-van steel, known for its toughness and edge retention.
The leather handle provides a comfortable grip, while the full tang construction ensures durability and balance.
This knife isn’t just about functionality; it also carries a sense of nostalgia and tradition. It comes with a leather sheath featuring the U.S. Marine Corps emblem, making it a collector’s item in addition to a practical tool.
Key Features
- Versatile Blade: The 7-inch straight edge blade is perfect for a variety of tasks, including chopping, slicing, and piercing.
- Quality Material: Made from 1095 Cro-van steel, the blade is tough, durable, and holds its edge well.
- Comfortable Grip: The leather handle ensures a comfortable, secure grip during use.
- Full Tang Design: The full tang construction enhances the knife’s balance and strength.
- Leather Sheath: The knife comes with a protective leather sheath featuring the U.S. Marine Corps emblem.
- History and Tradition: As a knife trusted by the U.S. military, it carries a sense of history and tradition.
Biggest and Baddest: Condor Undertaker Bowie Knife
- Overall Length 16″
- Blade Length 10 3/4″
- Blade Thickness 4. 75mm
Product Description
For those who believe bigger is better, the Condor Undertaker Bowie Knife offers a formidable presence. With a whopping 10-inch blade made from high carbon steel, this knife is designed to handle heavy-duty tasks with ease. The walnut handle adds an element of elegance while ensuring a firm grip. Its full tang construction enhances its durability and balance, making it a reliable tool for any outdoor adventure.
The Condor Undertaker Bowie Knife comes with a handcrafted leather sheath for safe storage and transport. Whether you’re chopping wood for a campfire or preparing game in the wilderness, this knife delivers outstanding performance.
Key Features
- Large Blade: The 10-inch high carbon steel blade is perfect for heavy-duty tasks.
- Walnut Handle: The handle is crafted from walnut, offering a firm grip and a touch of elegance.
- Full Tang Design: The full tang construction lends the knife enhanced balance and durability.
- Leather Sheath: The knife includes a handcrafted leather sheath for safe storage and transport.
- Heavy-Duty Performance: This knife is designed to handle tough tasks in rugged conditions.
Best Budget: Buck Knives 119 Special Knife
- Razor Sharp Blade – 6″ 420HC steel blade has excellent strength, edge retention, and corrosion resistance for lasting durability. The blade is good for piercing, detail work, and cutting in tight places
- Comfortable Grip & Balance – Traditional black phenolic handle has palm swells for a comfortable grip. The aluminum pommel/guard provide the perfect combination of beauty and balance. Overall length 10-1/2″, Weighs 7.5 oz.
- Durable and Multi Use – Meant to withstand even the toughest conditions and stay sharp for long. Great for hunting, camping, bushcrafting, fishing, hiking, and overlanding
Product Description
The Buck Knives 119 Special Knife offers exceptional quality at an affordable price. This classic hunting knife features a 6-inch clip point blade made from 420HC stainless steel, renowned for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The black phenolic handle is both durable and comfortable, providing a secure grip in all conditions.
The Buck 119 comes with a leather sheath for protection and easy carry. Despite its budget-friendly price, this knife doesn’t compromise on performance or quality, making it an excellent choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts on a budget.
Key Features
- Clip Point Blade: The 6-inch 420HC stainless steel blade is perfect for a variety of tasks, including slicing and piercing.
- Durable Handle: The black phenolic handle is durable and comfortable, providing a secure grip in all conditions.
- Leather Sheath: The knife includes a protective leather sheath for easy carry and storage.
- Quality at a Budget Price: Despite its affordable price, the Buck 119 offers exceptional performance and quality.
- Corrosion Resistance: The blade’s 420HC stainless steel material offers excellent corrosion resistance.
Best with Damascus Blade: Bear & Son Cutlery Bowie
- DOUBLE-EDGED BLADE: Our Damascus knife is Double-edged blade so that it fits both left-handed and right-handed persons.Damascus Steel Fixed Blade Hunting Bowie Craft Knife With Sheath: Total Length 13 Inches Approx Blade Length 8 Inches Approx and Handle Length 5 Inches Approx With Beautiful Color Wood, Camel Bone, Handle.
Product Description
Known for its unique and beautiful patterns, the Damascus steel blade of the Bear & Son Cutlery Bowie is not only a sight to behold but also offers exceptional sharpness and durability. The 9-inch blade is balanced by a comfortable stag handle, creating a knife that feels as good as it looks.
This knife is perfect for those who value aesthetics without compromising on performance. It comes with a leather sheath for protection and easy carry. The Bear & Son Cutlery Bowie is an excellent choice for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship and quality of a Damascus blade.
Key Features
- Damascus Steel Blade: The 9-inch blade made from Damascus steel is known for its unique patterns, sharpness, and durability.
- Stag Handle: The handle is made from stag, providing a comfortable grip and a rustic aesthetic.
- Leather Sheath: The knife comes with a protective leather sheath for easy carry and storage.
- Aesthetics and Performance: This knife offers a combination of beautiful aesthetics and high performance.
- Collector’s Choice: The unique design and use of Damascus steel make this knife an excellent choice for collectors.
Best Made in The USA: Buck Knives 120 General Knife – Heritage Series
- RAZOR SHARP CLIP POINT BLADE- 7-3/8″ Clip Point 420HC steel blade has excellent strength, edge retention, and corrosion resistance. The clip blade makes the task of de-boning a lot simpler. This is an exceptional choice for a hunting knife, or simply as a collectible
Product Description
Proudly made in the USA, the Buck Knives 120 General Knife – Heritage Series is a testament to American craftsmanship. The 7.375-inch clip point blade is made from 420HC stainless steel, offering excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The handle is crafted from phenolic, providing a durable and comfortable grip.
This knife carries a sense of nostalgia and tradition, as it’s part of the Buck Knives’ heritage series. It comes with a genuine leather sheath for protection and easy carry. With its classic design and reliable functionality, the Buck 120 General Knife is a worthy addition to any knife collection.
Key Features
- American Craftsmanship: This knife is proudly made in the USA, showcasing excellent American craftsmanship.
- Clip Point Blade: The 7.375-inch 420HC stainless steel blade is perfect for a variety of tasks, including slicing and piercing.
- Durable Handle: The phenolic handle is durable and comfortable, providing a secure grip in all conditions.
- Leather Sheath: The knife includes a protective leather sheath for easy carry and storage.
- Heritage Series: As part of Buck Knives’ heritage series, this knife carries a sense of nostalgia and tradition.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Bowie Knife
Before you purchase a Bowie knife, there are several factors to consider:
- Material: The blade material is crucial as it determines the knife’s durability, sharpness, and corrosion resistance. High carbon steel and stainless steel are popular choices.
- Blade Size: Bowie knives come in various sizes. Choose a size that suits your needs and feels comfortable in your hand.
- Tang: Full tang knives are more durable and balanced than partial tang models.
- Handle Material: The handle should provide a comfortable grip and be made of durable materials. Some common handle materials include leather, wood, and synthetic materials.
- Price: Don’t compromise on quality for the sake of price. Invest in a good quality Bowie knife that will last.
FAQs
Q: What are bowie knives used for?
A: Bowie knives are versatile tools used for a variety of tasks, including hunting, skinning, chopping wood, and survival scenarios.
Q: What is unique about a bowie knife?
A: Bowie knives are characterized by their long, straight-edged blades with a clip point. They are also known for their size, strength, and versatility.
Q: What happened to the original bowie knife?
A: The whereabouts of the original Bowie knife, owned by Jim Bowie, remain a mystery. It’s believed to have been lost or destroyed.
Q: How long was the original bowie knife?
A: The original Bowie knife reportedly had a blade that was 9.5 inches long.
Q: How long should a bowie knife be?
A: The length of a Bowie knife depends on your personal needs and preferences. However, most Bowie knives typically have blades ranging from 6 to 12 inches.
Q: In what states are bowie knives illegal?
A: Knife laws vary by state in the U.S. Some states have restrictions on carrying Bowie knives, especially those with blades longer than a certain length. Always check local laws before carrying or purchasing a Bowie knife.
Final Thoughts on the Best Bowie Knives
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a hunter, or a knife collector, a high-quality Bowie knife can be a valuable tool.
Remember to consider factors like blade material, size, handle material, and price when choosing a Bowie knife.
With the right pick, a Bowie knife can be a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures or a stunning addition to your collection.
