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Boot knives have experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity over the past few decades. While they were once favoured in an era when firearms were less reliable, allowing individuals to defend themselves with a concealed weapon swiftly, they have recently become a coveted item among those interested in equipping themselves with utility and survivalist gear, gadgets, and accessories. Knives, in general, have long served as indispensable tools, offering more than the ability to inflict wounds on others. Campers, hikers, mountain climbers, divers, and individuals engaged in various activities requiring quick cutting of materials, fabrics, and ropes rely on the versatility of a blade.
However, boot knives possess a certain allure and romanticism. The concept of having a covert weapon accessible within seconds can instil a sense of confidence and empower one with a touch of badassery, evoking visions of iconic characters like John Rambo, the A-Team, or even Bear Grylls.
If you find yourself in the market for boot knives, whether for self-defence or practical utility, you’ve likely encountered an overwhelming array of options on platforms like Google or Amazon. The challenge lies in discerning which choices are worth further investigation and which are better left untouched. In such situations, you can always rely on the dependable team here at Men’s Gear.
Without further delay, let’s dive right in.
Kershaw Secret Agent Boot Knife: Editor’s Choice
While playfully addressing the idea of “wannabe secret agents” donning boot knives, the Kershaw Secret Agent lives up to its name with its sleek and purposeful design. The knife features a slim, single-edged blade crafted from non-reflective black 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, prioritizing user safety. With a 4.4-inch blade and a 4.3-inch handle, it offers a comfortable grip both in hand and when stowed in a boot.
The included hard moulded sheath is highly impressive. It provides versatility with a belt or boot clip and offers slots on both the right and left edges to accommodate ankle straps. The blade locks securely into place, ensuring confidence in its retention. However, this secure retention can pose a challenge when attempting to draw the blade single-handedly.
Product Specifications:
- Blade Steel: 8Cr13MoV
- Weight: 3.1 ounces
- Length: 4.4-inch blade, 8.7 inches overall
Pros
- Textured rubber over a synthetic polymer handle for a reliable grip
- Oxide coating enhances corrosion resistance
- Moulded sheath with dual-carry capability, including the option for an ankle strap
- The sleek and slender design fits comfortably in a boot or on a belt
Cons
- Difficult to extract the knife from the sheath using just one hand
The Kershaw Secret Agent Boot Knife earns the coveted Editor’s Choice title, combining style, functionality, and reliability. Its textured handle, corrosion-resistant coating, and versatile sheath design make it a top contender for those seeking a dependable boot knife.
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Smith & Wesson SWHRT98 Fixed-blade Knife: The Best Boot Knife Overall
Regarding boot knives, the Smith & Wesson SWHRT98 stands out as a top contender. Renowned for its name and remarkable design, this knife offers nearly everything one could desire. With excellent balance and a superb sheath included, it truly completes the package.
The SWHRT98 features a 4.7-inch dagger blade made of high-carbon stainless steel, ensuring its effectiveness for everyday carry tasks. Its black oxide finish adds a stylish touch and serves functional purposes. It minimizes reflection, strengthens the steel, and helps maintain a sharp edge. The thermoplastic elastomer handle, measuring 4.3 inches, also ensures a solid grip.
While the HRT might appear substantial at nine inches overall, it has gained popularity as a boot knife due to its exceptional sheath. Crafted from black leather, the sheath boasts heavy-duty stitching, a reliable clip, and a thumb snap. Although it may pose challenges when worn in hiking boots with limited space, it can be comfortably carried on a belt.
Product Specifications:
- Blade Steel: 7Cr17MoV
- Weight: 7.68 ounces
- Length: 4.7-inch blade, 9 inches overall
Pros
- Longer 4.7-inch blade size
- Thermoplastic elastomer handle for a secure grip
Cons
- The 9-inch overall size may be less ideal for certain boot types, though this is rarely mentioned.
The Smith & Wesson SWHRT98 Fixed-blade Knife, with its impressive features and overall performance, earns its place as the best boot knife.
SOG Instinct Boot Knife: Best Compact Boot Knife
The SOG Instinct Boot Knife is one of the finest small-sized boot knives featured in this list. With an overall length of less than six inches, it offers a comfortable fit as a boot knife while providing practical functionality. Its compact size makes it a reliable companion for various tasks. For a detailed review, you can find more information here.
Designed to fit snugly in your palm, the Instinct Boot Knife features a textured G10 handle with finger grooves, ensuring a secure grip. Adding jimping on the back and in the foremost finger groove further enhances blade control, making it a pleasure to handle.
A high-quality, hard-moulded sheath accompanies the knife. One notable feature is the rotating spring clip, which offers versatility in connecting it to your boot, belt, or other gear, allowing for convenient and flexible carry options.
Product Specifications:
- Blade Steel: 5Cr15MoV
- Weight: 2.3 ounces
- Length: 2.3-inch blade, 5.9 inches overall
Pros
- The small and lightweight design of the Instinct is ideal for boot or ankle wear
- The G10 handle with finger grooves and jimping ensures a reliable and comfortable grip
- The rotating spring clip on the sheath provides flexibility in carrying options
Cons
- The 5Cr15MoV stainless steel may not maintain its edge for an extended period under constant use.
The SOG Instinct Boot Knife is the best compact boot knife, offering excellent portability and grip without compromising performance. It’s small size and rotating spring clip sheath make it ideal for discreet and versatile carry options.
Reapr Tac Boot Knife: Best Long Boot Knife
The Reapr Tac Boot Knife is the best long boot knife on this list, featuring an impressive 4.75-inch blade. It bears a striking resemblance to the Smith & Wesson HRT, our top overall pick. The dagger-style blade boasts a black oxide finish, offering easy maintenance and corrosion resistance. However, the most notable difference lies in the sheath. The Tac Boot Knife is accompanied by a durable ballistic nylon web sheath with an injected moulded plastic insert made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) for secure retention. While it may not be ideal for boot wear, it serves exceptionally well when carried on a belt or pack.
Product Specifications:
- Blade Steel: 420 stainless steel
- Weight: 8.8 ounces
- Length: 4.75-inch blade, 9 inches overall
Pros
- Black oxide finish facilitates easy cleaning and enhances corrosion resistance
- It provides a good grip for secure handling
- It comes sharp out of the package, ready for use
Cons
- The sheath can be complicated to use without clear instructions
- The large size may limit comfortable wear options
The Reapr Tac Boot Knife is the best choice for those seeking a longer blade. Its black oxide finish, reliable grip, and sharpness make it a versatile tool. While the sheath may pose some challenges, the knife excels when carried on a belt or pack, offering a dependable option for various outdoor activities.
Schrade SCHF19 Small Boot Knife: The Best Value
With a rich history spanning over a century in knife-making, Schrade brings us the SCHF19 Small Boot Knife—a testament to their expertise. Reminiscent of their early designs, this compact boot knife is seven inches long and equally suitable for leg or belt carry.
In many ways, the SCHF19 resembles our best overall pick, the Smith & Wesson HRT. It features a black, double-edged spear point blade and a textured thermoplastic elastomer handle. The knife comes with a quality leather sheath, adding to its appeal.
In terms of performance, the handle guard enhances maneuverability, particularly for a knife of this size. With a sheathed length of 8.1 inches and a weight of approximately four ounces, it offers comfort to carry regardless of placement. The standout feature, however, is the affordable price tag of around $13, making it an excellent value for your money.
Product Specifications:
- Blade Steel: 7Cr17MoV
- Weight: 2.1 ounces
- Length: 3.6-inch blade, 7 inches overall
Pros
- Double-edged blade
- Textured thermoplastic elastomer handle for a secure grip
- Great price point
Cons
- It may not be suitable for individuals with large hands
- 7Cr17MoV blade steel, while sufficient for most boot knives on the market, is not the strongest available.
The Schrade SCHF19 Small Boot Knife offers exceptional value, combining affordability with quality design and performance. Its compact size and versatile carrying options make it a reliable companion.
What to Look for in a Boot Knife
- Weight: Consider the weight of the boot knife, as it affects maneuverability and may be subject to legal restrictions in your area. Lighter knives are generally easier to use.
- Size: Choose a knife size that fits well with your hand and is compatible with your boots or shoes. Avoid selecting a too-big knife that sticks out, compromising concealment or causing discomfort.
- Blade Length: Pay close attention to the blade length, considering local regulations to ensure compliance. Verify the actual blade length upon receiving the knife to avoid any surprises.
- Handle: The grip on the knife is crucial for effective usage. Ensure the handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, allowing you to handle the knife quickly.
- Materials: Most boot knives are made from alloy blends or stainless steel. Alloy blends provide swift action and affordability, while stainless steel offers reliability and durability. Consider the materials based on your preferences and requirements.
- Blade Point Design: Boot knives come in various blade point designs, such as trailing point, spear point, straight back, tanto point, drop point, and clip point. Each design has its pros and cons. Consider a trailing, spear point, or clip point for self-defence purposes.
- Edges: The type of edge (flat, serrated, or hybrid) determines the cutting capability of the knife. Any sharp knife can be effective if used skillfully.
How to Wear a Boot Knife
- Craft a Holder: Obtain a leather sheath suitable for your boot knife’s size and specifications. Place the sheath into your boot at the most comfortable location. Create a small hole in the boot edge and sheath, then use durable leather strips or twine to secure the sheath to the boot.
- Insert in Boot: Insert the sheath into your boot, using the cuff to hang it. This method works well with mid-calf or ankle boots. Remember that some sheaths may not be compatible with thicker-cut boots due to the material’s thickness and the cuff.
Choose the method that suits your preference and boot type, ensuring the boot knife is secure and easily accessible when needed.