We all know that a survival knife can be one of the most-valuable tools to have with us in the field. Not only can they cut through almost anything, but they can also be used for anything from gouging out foreign objects in wounds (and cauterizing them when finished) to hacking away at a branch to make a spear tip. However, the butt-end can also be quite useful in a lot of situations as well, and here are a few examples that illustrate this point, no play on words intended.
Hammer
A good survival knife with a sturdy handle can be an excellent choice for an improvised hammer. However, it’s important that you have a good sheath that will allow you to get a strong grip on the blade so that you can hit whatever you’re hammering with as much force as possible. This is one of the reasons that people who are looking for a good survival knife should avoid getting one that has a grip and heel that is too-soft. You never know when you’ll need to whack small prey on the head to kill them, make repairs to your bug out shelter or whack loose a stuck bolt, and a quality knife can be just what you need to get the job done.
Window Breaker
The butt of a knife can be used to break through glass and plexiglass in emergencies. All it takes is a couple of strategic whacks to crack windows at their weakest points, and this quick solution can mean the difference between life and death in emergencies when time is of the essence. There are even some that have been designed with a little nub at the end of the handle for this very reason, and this is worth considering when you’re shopping around for your next knife.
Head-Butter
We all know that the sharp end of a survival knife can be a great deterrent during an attack, and it’s also a reliable way to stab someone who poses an immediate threat. However, knowing how to whack someone in the right places with the butt of the knife can neutralize said threat just as easily. Between the eyes, against the temple, in the gut, pressure and reflex points or joints are just a few examples of places to target.
Grinder
We can easily find ourselves needing to break something into small pieces or grind it into a powder, and the handle of a knife can be an easy way to get the job done. However, taking advantage of this option will most-likely require a hard handle instead of one with a soft grip, and this is another reason to consider function over form when choosing the best knife.
Bayonet
You can use some cordage or duct tape to tie the handle of your knife to a sturdy branch, pole or other object that can be used as a spear. Not only can this give you more options while hunting, but it can also help you to keep some distance between you and an attacker as well.
Take some time to think of other ways that you can put your survival knife to good use in the field, and you’ll quickly discover how this basic essential is also a valuable multi-tool. Just remember that the knife that you choose will determine how well it can be improvised in the field, so make sure to shop for one that is built-tough in addition to having a design that meets your needs and expectations.
