If you are looking for a small bushcraft knife which has a strong pedigree in terms of its manufacturer, which can back that up with exceptional performance in the field, then the Morakniv Kansbol Fixed Blade Knife fits the bill.
Morakniv Kansbol Fixed Blade Knife
The pedigree we mentioned in the intro refers to Morakniv who have been producing high-quality knives for over 120 years, and we’re sure they wouldn’t have been doing so for that long unless their knives were among the best.
This particular knife is called the Kansbol, which manages to combine being lightweight, with robustness and strength. It is a knife most suited to bushcraft activities such as carving and stick feathering, and it also makes a very good hunting and camping knife.
It has been on sale since late 2016 and is available with two sheath options, which are a basic plastic sheath, or for more serious users there is a MOLLE multi-mount sheath.
Who is this product for?
This is a knife that is going to appeal to a wide range of users, which signifies it has uses in a number of fields. The most likely of these is in bushcrafting, so any bushcrafters who want a strong knife for tasks like wood preparation and carving, this knife is more than capable of these and more.
For those outdoor types who like camping, this knife will have a number of uses which can range from the simple cutting of tinder for a campfire to sharpening wooden tent pegs.
Those who like to hunt or fish and like to either skin or prepare their catches there and then, will be able to use this knife. Followers of outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, or hill climbing to name but three, where a sharp, tough and reliable knife might be needed will also benefit from this knife.
What’s included?
It is fair to say that bushcraft knives are relatively simple products, so in most cases they don’t come with a lot of additional parts. However, there is one important piece of equipment they should have, and that is a sheath. The Morakniv Kansbol has a choice of two sheaths, which you select when purchasing.
The plastic sheath is simple and designed for all weather conditions. The more advanced sheath is a MOLLE Multi-Mount sheath which gives you the maximum options in terms of how you carry your knife.
Overview of features
The fixed blade is made from durable, and very strong stainless steel, so it is going to make easy work of cutting, carving and stripping wood and other materials. Stainless steel means it is going to resist corrosion, so it can be used in all weathers.
To light fires, you’ll need a separate fire starter tool which is sold separately, however, it can be used with the spine of the blade to spark tinder for example.
Grip from the handle is excellent and this greatly contributes to the stability of the knife when it is being used for really tough jobs. We’ve previously mentioned the sheaths, but if you wish to use a lanyard with this knife, there is a lanyard hole at the top of the handle.
How to use it
As the blade on the Morakniv Kansbol is machine sharpened during its manufacturing process, the knife is ready to use immediately out of the box.
Unless you have extra-large hands, you should be able to grip the knife’s handle within its length. This then allows you to hold the knife securely for whatever tasks you plan to use it for.
The uses of the knife are almost limitless as it can be used in any scenario where you need to cut, hack, carve, or slice, something. This is likely to be wood although bear in mind it can also be used for hunting and fishing, so we need to add animal or fish skin and bones to that list.
Whenever you are finished with the knife, always ensure you wipe off any moisture, such as rain, from the blade, as a precaution against corrosion. Thereafter, whenever the knife is not being used, it should always be placed into its sheath, to protect the blade, and to ensure there is no risk of the blade cutting you or anyone else.
Pros:
- Comfortable handle
- The sheath is light to carry
- Great for hunting, fishing, and camping
Cons:
- Doesn’t look attractive
Alternative
As an alternative fixed blade knife, you might want to consider the ESEE Knives 5P Fixed Blade Knife. It is slightly longer than the Morakniv Kansbol, which will appeal to those of you who prefer larger knives. It is extremely tough and durable, with a handle whose grip and comfort are excellent. It also comes with a Kydex sheath.
Conclusion
This is a top-quality bushcraft knife that is a real toughie. When you are in the wilds of the countryside and need a knife that you can rely on, this is going to be your faithful companion.