Buying a hunting knife? Here’s what you need to know about steel, handles, blade design and fixed vs. folding

HANDLES

For years, wood and bone handles were the most popular, but synthetic and rubber handles are now common, making for a greater selection. I’ve found them to be both durable and economical, but more importantly, they offer a surer grip than bone or wood in wet and cold conditions. For added confidence when handling a knife in slippery or otherwise difficult conditions, I like the handle to sport a guard separating it from the blade. Not all quality hunting knives have a guard, however, and I’ve learned to accept that trade-off.