Folding vs. Fixed Blade

Folding blade knives and fixed blade knives each have their advantages and disadvantages, but which you choose is often just a matter of personal preference.

One of the major drawbacks to folding knives is that meat and animal residue will get stuck in the cracks & crevices of the knife. For that reason, I prefer fixed blade skinner knives.

The knife just to the left is an example of a skinning knife with an added gut hook. A gut hook is very useful when skinning or gutting animals, as it helps you rip open the skin without puncturing the guts.

The Handle If you've ever tried skinning a deer is pouring down rain or snow with the mercury plummeting, you know how important the knife handle can be. You want somthing that gives you a good grip and also protects you from the blade. If you look at the Buck Skinner Knife to the right, you'll see that the handle is designed to keep your hand from slipping down onto the blade. Believe me, that is very important! As far as what the handle is made of, I prefer a rubber handle, as it gives a superior grip.