Hiking pocket knife: 5 things to consider when choosing your companion
To help you make up your mind, here are the five key criteria for choosing a high-performance hiking pocket knife.
1- Blade type: the balance between sharpness and durability
When hiking, versatility is key. You’ll need your knife to prepare a meal, whittle a peg or cut a piece of cord.
- Stainless steel: This is the preferred choice for outdoor use. It offers excellent sharpness whilst being highly resistant to corrosion and the damp conditions encountered on the trails.
- Hardness: A quality blade must have optimal hardness (measured in HRC) to ensure long-lasting cutting performance without becoming impossible to sharpen in the field.
2- The locking mechanism: safety first
A good pocket knife should stay open when in use and closed when stored. Two approved locking systems stand out for their reliability:
- The forced notch: A traditional, smooth and robust mechanism, ideal for everyday use and picnic breaks.
- The back lock: A mechanical locking system that locks the blade in the open position, offering increased safety for tasks that place greater strain on the blade.
3- The ergonomics and material of the handle
A comfortable grip is essential to prevent fatigue or blisters after prolonged use.
- Natural materials: Wood (olive, juniper, ebony, boxwood, etc.) or horn tips offer a warm feel and a timeless aesthetic. Wood does not slip in the hand and makes each piece unique, just like your journey.
- Shape: Choose a handle that fits the size of your hand and moulds to the palm. This will allow for precise control of your movements.
4- Weight and dimensions
When hiking, every gram counts.
A knife that’s too heavy will eventually become a burden and weigh you down at the bottom of your rucksack.
An ideal pocket knife for hiking usually weighs between 80g and 120g. It should be flat enough to slip into a trouser pocket or belt without restricting your movement, whilst still sitting comfortably in your hand for a secure grip.
5- Manufacturing quality: the importance of expertise
Choosing a handcrafted knife is an investment in durability. A knife handcrafted to the highest standards in Thiers, the cradle of French cutlery, is hand-finished and comes with a warranty, ensuring that your pocket companion will last a lifetime, despite temperature fluctuations and knocks.
Extra tip: Don’t forget the pouch!
To protect your knife from knocks and the elements and extend its lifespan, we strongly recommend using a leather pouch. Whether slipped into a pocket or attached to your belt or bag strap, it ensures your knife is immediately to hand when you need it.
Why choose a Goyon-Chazeau knife for your hikes?
Building on the exceptional craftsmanship of Thiers, Goyon-Chazeau workshop creates pocket knives that combine tradition with technical excellence. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek design of the 750 model, the signature style of the Le Thiers Pirou knife, the elegance of the Stylver or the versatility of the Pionnier, you’ll be carrying with you a piece of French cutlery designed to last a lifetime of walking.
