For someone who wants to carry a fixed-blade knife that’s not easily visible, a boot knife is a popular option. This knife’s sheath attaches to a boot or to the ankle, allowing the wearer to conceal it.
Because of the way the wearer must attach it, the boot knife usually will have a shorter blade than a Bowie knife. The short blade limits some of its versatility, but its portability is a significant advantage versus larger knives. The Buck Knives 0616BKS Tactical Boot Knife carries a high-quality blade that rivals longer fixed-blade knives.
What to know before you buy a boot knife
Boot knife blade length
The length of the blade will be a matter of personal preference. Some people want a shorter-than-average boot knife blade that is convenient to carry, especially those who also carry a longer hunting knife. The small boot knife then serves as more of a backup. A boot knife with a longer blade may be tougher to conceal or carry comfortably.
An average boot knife blade will be around 2.5-3 inches in length. Some states have limitations on the length of the blade of a concealed boot knife.
Boot knife weight
A low-quality boot knife will have a bit of extra weight, which makes wearing it less comfortable. Smaller knives also should weigh less than boot knives with longer blades.
An average boot knife will weigh around 3-4 ounces.
Boot knife blade material
High-carbon steel and stainless-steel alloys are the most common materials for boot knife blades. Both are highly durable. Stainless steel is easier to clean and sharpen than high carbon steel, which has extra durability.
Boot knife features
Ability to conceal the boot knife
The majority of boot knives will ship with a sheath. The blade of the knife slides into the sheath, contributing to the concealment aspect of the knife, while also serving to protect you from making unwanted contact with the blade. Smaller sheaths and knives are easier to hide inside a boot pocket or underneath the pants leg.
Some boot knives have a design that requires affixing them to the outside of the boot, which eliminates concealment options.
Boot knife blade design
Some boot knives will have a single-edge design, where one edge of the knife is dull, so you can press on it safely. Others have a double-edge design, meaning both edges are sharp, which increases the cutting ability.
Boot knife handle material
The boot knife handle often will consist of fiberglass, which delivers a nice mix of durability and grip. Rubber handles have the maximum grip, which is helpful when you can’t really see the handle as you’re grabbing for it. However, rubber is not as durable as some other options.
Boot knife tang
Tang refers to the length of the blade that you don’t see, because it connects to the inside of the boot knife’s handle. The highest-quality boot knives will have a tang that matches the length of the handle. A shorter tang could snap when placed under pressure.
Boot knife cost
A boot knife does not carry a high price tag like many other fixed-blade knives. The average boot knife will cost $15-$50, but you can find high-quality boot knives for a price tag as high as $200 or more.
Boot knife FAQ
Is there a special way to wear a boot knife so I can grab it quickly?
A. To gain quick access to the boot knife, it’s important to attach the sheath to the boot as securely as possible. If you are trying to grab the knife and the sheath is loose, it will probably pull upward with the knife. You also should practice removing the knife from the sheath to become more proficient in pulling it loose quickly.
Do I need special boots to make use of a boot knife?
A. Some people will select a pair of boots that has a built-in pocket to hold the knife and sheath in place. However, you also have the option of placing the sheath in the interior of the boot and securing it to the boot by using an extra shoelace or by sewing the sheath to the boot. Some people will attach the sheath to the ankle instead, using a holster or a Velcro strap.
Which boot knife should I get?
Best of the best boot knife
Buck Knives 0616BKS Tactical Boot Knife: available at Amazon
Our take: This is a high-quality blade that is lightweight and durable, justifying its high price point.
What we like: With a blade of 3 inches and a total length of 6.25 inches, this is a comfortable knife to carry. The nylon handle includes finger grooves for a sure grip. The stainless-steel blade is durable and corrosion-resistant.
What we dislike: This is a very expensive boot knife, so it may not fit into the budget of everyone.
Best bang for your buck boot knife
Smith & Wesson High Carbon Fixed-Blade Boot Knife: available at Amazon
Our take: It is unusual to find such a long-bladed boot knife at such a low price point, creating a great value for people who need a larger knife.
What we like: This blade measures 3.5 inches in length, making it one of the longer boot knife blades on the market. With a sure-grip rubber handle, you easily can grab the knife and pull it loose.
What we dislike: The high-carbon stainless-steel blade is tough to sharpen. The rubber handle will not last as long as some other materials.
Honorable mention boot knife
SOG Instinct Mini Boot Knife: available at Amazon
Our take: With a blade of only 1.9 inches and a total length of 4.8 inches, this mini version is easy to carry anywhere.
What we like: This knife’s stainless-steel blade is easy to care for and maintain. The fiberglass handle has finger grooves, giving users a sure grip. It has a total weight of 1.4 ounces, so you’ll hardly know you are carrying it.
What we dislike: With such a small blade and handle, this boot knife will not work for all use cases.
Kyle Schurman is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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