Tactical Knives – Horizontal Side and Scout Carry Options | Survival, Bushcraft, and Survival Knives
The horizontal carry method is often associated with tactical choices, yet it primarily serves as a comfortable way to carry a knife. Personally, I have found the horizontal belt carry to be the most practical option while seated at the dinner table.
There are two main points against the notion that knives can be fashionable: firstly, it is generally easier to access a knife secured to my left hip than to retrieve a folding knife from my right pocket, which requires a more cumbersome motion of shifting my right hip.
This article is updated regularly as we discover and evaluate additional fixed-blade knives suitable for horizontal and scout carry styles. Knives will be removed from our selection once they become unavailable at major retailers or are discontinued.
We welcome your suggestions for exceptional knives that should be included. Please share your thoughts in the comments below. As the trend of horizontal carry continues to grow, we anticipate a surge of new offerings from knife manufacturers in 2024.
Best Horizontal Carry Fixed Blade Knives Reviews
1. Gerber Gear Principle Fixed Blade Knife
The Gerber Gear Principle is a standout choice for outdoor enthusiasts, blending functionality, durability, and versatility into a compact and reliable tool. Designed for a range of activities from hunting to camping, this fixed-blade knife offers several features that make it a go-to companion for survival situations.
The Principle is equipped with a 3.1-inch full-tang stainless steel blade, ensuring exceptional strength and resistance to corrosion. Its drop-point design provides a balance of precision and durability, making it ideal for slicing, carving, and heavy-duty tasks.
The blade’s spine is specifically engineered for fire-starting, allowing you to use it with a ferrocerium rod to ignite sparks with ease. This feature is invaluable for camping or emergency scenarios.
The Gerber Gear Principle excels in various survival tasks, including batoning wood, feather-sticking for kindling, and food preparation. Its robust build and sharp edge retain their integrity even after rigorous use. The firestriking spine proves its worth in survival situations, eliminating the need for carrying additional fire-starting tools.
The Gerber Gear Principle is perfect for outdoor adventurers, survivalists, and anyone who values a reliable, all-in-one knife. Its combination of utility and compactness makes it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned outdoorsmen alike.
The Gerber Gear Principle offers impressive performance in a compact package. Whether you’re heading into the wilderness for a camping trip or preparing for an emergency, this knife is a dependable tool you’ll be glad to have by your side. Its firestriking spine and adaptable sheath system set it apart from many competitors, making it a worthwhile investment for outdoor gear enthusiasts.
2. SENCUT Waxahachie Fixed Blade Knife
The SENCUT Waxahachie Fixed Blade Knife is an excellent blend of performance, durability, and practicality, making it a versatile tool for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts alike.
The knife features a 9Cr18MoV stainless steel blade, known for its excellent corrosion resistance and edge retention. The clip-point blade design offers precision and versatility, ideal for tasks like slicing, piercing, and detailed cutting. The satin finish adds a sleek touch, making it visually appealing and resistant to wear over time.
The full tang construction ensures maximum strength and stability, making it reliable for heavy-duty tasks. Whether you’re camping, hunting, or tackling survival situations, the solid build gives you confidence in its performance.
The G10 handle is ergonomically designed for a comfortable grip. G10 is lightweight yet rugged, providing excellent traction even in wet conditions. The textured surface prevents slipping, which is crucial for safety during intensive use.
The knife comes with a Kydex sheath and a waist T-clip, offering multiple carry options. The sheath secures the blade firmly, while the T-clip allows for easy attachment to your belt or gear. This setup is ideal for everyday carry and ensures the knife is always accessible when needed.
In the field, the SENCUT Waxahachie excels at various tasks, including batoning, food prep, and crafting. Its sharp edge slices through tough materials effortlessly, and the sturdy tip handles puncturing tasks with ease. The blade’s size and weight strike a balance between portability and functionality, making it equally suitable for camping, hunting, or survival scenarios.
The SENCUT Waxahachie Fixed Blade Knife is a reliable, well-designed tool suitable for a wide range of outdoor and everyday activities. Its robust materials, ergonomic design, and versatile sheath make it a fantastic option for anyone needing a dependable fixed blade knife. Whether you’re an adventurer, hunter, or just someone who appreciates a high-quality knife, the Waxahachie delivers exceptional value.
3. Ottoza Tracker Knife
The Ottoza Tracker Knife is a rugged and dependable choice for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and campers alike. With its high-carbon 1095 steel blade and expertly crafted Micarta handle, this knife is a powerhouse tool that performs exceptionally well in demanding situations.
The 1095 high-carbon steel blade is the star of the show. Known for its strength and edge retention, this steel ensures the knife can handle tough tasks like chopping, slicing, and batoning. The blade design is versatile, with a wide and slightly curved profile, making it suitable for various outdoor and survival applications.
The Micarta handle is another highlight. It offers a sturdy grip, even in wet conditions, thanks to its textured finish. The ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue during extended use, making it ideal for those long camping trips or survival scenarios.
The Ottoza Tracker Knife excels in bushcraft and survival scenarios. Its sharp blade easily handles tasks like cutting rope, processing firewood, and preparing food. The robust spine allows for striking against a ferro rod, making it a reliable companion for fire-starting.
Though designed for outdoor activities, the knife’s size and horizontal carry sheath make it a viable option for EDC enthusiasts who appreciate robust tools.
The horizontal carry sheath is a fantastic addition. Crafted from durable leather, it securely holds the knife while allowing for quick access. The horizontal carry design is comfortable for most users, making it an excellent choice for hiking, camping, or everyday outdoor tasks. The stitching on the sheath is solid and built to last.
The Ottoza Tracker Knife is a premium choice for outdoor adventurers seeking a reliable, durable, and stylish knife. Its 1095 high-carbon steel blade, coupled with the Micarta handle and versatile sheath, makes it a must-have for camping, hunting, and survival tasks. While it demands proper care, its performance and design justify the investment.
4. Schrade Wolverine Mini Fixed Blade Knife
The Schrade Delta Class Wolverine Mini Fixed Blade is a compact yet robust tool, designed with outdoor survival and everyday carry in mind. Its craftsmanship and practical design make it a noteworthy addition to any adventurer’s gear.
The Wolverine Mini features a blade crafted from 65MN high carbon stainless steel, known for its exceptional toughness and edge retention. The blade is highly resistant to wear and tear, making it ideal for heavy-duty outdoor tasks like cutting rope, whittling wood, and even food preparation. The black oxide finish adds an extra layer of corrosion resistance while giving the blade a sleek, tactical appearance.
This fixed blade knife is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for portability. The ergonomic handle is designed with a textured grip, providing excellent control and reducing hand fatigue during extended use. Its size is ideal for detailed tasks, yet it remains sturdy enough to handle larger cutting chores.
The combination of high carbon content and stainless properties ensures the knife is both durable and easy to maintain. This balance is essential for survival situations where tools need to perform consistently in harsh conditions. Additionally, the knife comes with a durable sheath for safe and convenient storage.
Whether you’re camping, hiking, or in a survival scenario, the Wolverine Mini excels in various tasks. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your backpack, attach to your belt, or store in a small survival kit.
The Schrade Delta Class Wolverine Mini Fixed Blade is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and anyone needing a reliable, compact fixed blade for everyday use. Its high-performance blade and ergonomic design make it a versatile tool for various scenarios.
The Schrade Delta Class Wolverine Mini Fixed Blade is a well-designed, durable knife that offers excellent value for its price. If you’re looking for a compact, dependable tool for outdoor adventures or emergency situations, this knife deserves your consideration.
5. Gerber Gear Ghoststrike Fixed Blade Knife
The Gerber Gear 30-001005N Ghoststrike Fixed Blade Knife is a versatile and compact tactical tool that excels in both performance and portability. Designed with self-defense, utility, and everyday carry in mind, this knife offers several features that make it stand out.
The Ghoststrike features a skeletonized handle that reduces weight without compromising durability. Made from 420HC steel, the blade is coated with a black ceramic finish for corrosion resistance and added stealth. The minimalist design ensures easy concealment, and the knife weighs only 3.6 ounces, making it exceptionally lightweight for all-day carry.
The 3.3-inch drop-point blade is razor-sharp and versatile, ideal for slicing, cutting, and light-duty tasks. While compact, the blade offers excellent control and precision, making it suitable for self-defense situations as well as practical utility.
One of the Ghoststrike’s standout features is its modular sheath system. The thermoplastic sheath allows for multiple carry configurations, including waistband or ankle carry, making it highly adaptable to personal preferences. Its low-profile design ensures it remains discreet, which is crucial for tactical use.
Despite its skeletonized frame, the handle provides a secure grip, especially with the addition of the rubberized overmold. The textured grip ensures reliable handling in wet or dry conditions, enhancing safety during use.
The Ghoststrike is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, tactical users, and those looking for a reliable self-defense knife. Its discreet design and customizable carry options make it an excellent addition to any everyday carry kit.
The Gerber Gear Ghoststrike Fixed Blade Knife is a well-designed, high-performance knife that delivers on both practicality and portability. Whether you’re using it for tactical purposes or as part of an EDC setup, the Ghoststrike is a reliable companion that won’t weigh you down.
Final Word
It is crucial to conduct thorough research prior to selecting the horizontal carry fixed blade knife that best aligns with your preferences and requirements. While numerous companies offer a variety of options, a select few among the top manufacturers distinguish themselves by producing exceptional fixed-blade knives.
You will find choices available with both serrated and straight blades, along with various finishes, and warranties that typically range from three to five years, depending on the brand. Understanding your specific needs from a fixed blade knife is the initial and most vital step in the purchasing process.
Ultimately, it is important to recognize that individual preferences vary significantly when it comes to fixed blade knives. For some, a classic Bowie-style blade is the only acceptable choice, while others may prefer smaller or tanto-style blades.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of your quest for the perfect knife will largely depend on your personal preferences. If you know someone who regularly uses a fixed blade, consider asking them about their choices and the rationale behind them.
