A fixed-blade knife, a folding saw and a compact shovel cover most of the cutting and digging you'll need — building shelter, processing firewood, clearing a path or digging a latrine. They're also some of the most-reached-for items in any well-used kit, so it pays to buy tools that hold an edge and won't fail under load.
We've picked a full-tang survival knife that's tough enough for batoning wood, a folding saw that outcuts a knife on anything thicker than a wrist, and a folding shovel with a pick head for digging in stony UK ground.
A fixed-blade survival knife is the single most versatile tool you can carry — for food prep, cutting cordage, making fire feathers, and countless field tasks. Choose a full-tang blade you can rely on when it matters.
A fixed blade with the steel running the full length of the handle is far stronger than a folder and won't fail under load. Avoid flimsy folding knives for serious use.
A moulded rubber or textured handle keeps its grip when wet or cold — essential in UK conditions. A guard helps stop your hand sliding onto the blade.
A firm sheath that holds the knife safely and clips to a belt or pack means the blade is always to hand and never rattling loose in your kit.
Huge hollow-handle survival knives are heavy, unbalanced and often poorly made. A modest 10cm blade from a reputable maker will out-perform them for real tasks.
A blunt knife is dangerous — it slips and needs more force. Learn to strop and sharpen it, and keep a small sharpener in your kit.
A tough Swedish fixed-blade knife with a grippy handle and hard-wearing stainless steel blade. A bushcraft favourite that punches well above its modest price.
A compact folding saw that cuts green wood, dry timber, plastic and bone with ease. A bushcraft favourite for processing firewood and clearing obstacles.
A heavy-duty carbon steel folding shovel with a pick head, locking mechanism and carry pouch — built for digging out vehicles, camp chores and winter driveways.