The Hunting Knife Revolution in the UK: What to Look For in 2025

The hunting knife revolution in the UK is evident in the change in survival or bushcraft requirements, evolving fashion trends, and legislative changes. There has been a considerable rise in the popularity of hunting knives over the years in the country. The surge in popularity resulted in an increasing use of these knives in the UK, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries. This blog takes a deeper look at the various revolutionary changes in the context of hunting knives in the UK. 

Revolutionary Changes in Hunting Knives in the UK

Historical Significance 

Hunting knives hold immense historical significance and have been traditionally used for various purposes, such as skinning, butchering, hunting, and other outdoor activities.

Rise in Outdoor Activities Post-War 

The period after World War II marked the beginning of an era where a remarkable surge in camping, hiking, and hunting activities was observed in the UK. Subsequently, this fuelled the need for durable and sturdy knives specially designed for these purposes. The number of people showing interest in bushcraft and survival skills also increased remarkably, creating an increased demand for more such specialised knives or hunting knives in the UK. 

Media Influence 

How knives were showcased in the 1970s or 1980s period in cinema, art, fictional films, books, or popular television shows was a complete game changer in raising demand for hunting knives, taking the market by storm. Characters from these genres demonstrated the use of knives as a symbol of masculinity, frontier spirit, and gallant ethos, with the knife being an ultimate power weapon. The heroic depiction of knives in cinemas sparked their use in real life too.

Amendment in Knife Legislation 

With more people using knives in the UK and possessing ownership also inevitably led to an increase in crime rate. To control the same, laws were amended, strictly prohibiting carrying a hunting knife in the UK in public. Violation of the same is considered a punishable offense under the law of the country.

Buying Hunting Knives in the UK in 2025

If you’re looking for hunting knives in the UK in 2025, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration, apart from legal compliances, to ensure the best purchase.

1. Blade Type

Folding Blade or Fixed-blade knives are stronger and more resistant to activities like skinning or field dressing, making them a preferred choice for high-performance tasks over folding knives, which are compact, portable, and less sturdy.

2. Blade Shape

• Drop Point: The drop-point shape resolutely provides a strong tip and large belly for skinning, making it a good choice.
• Clip Point: It is superb for precision tasks; however, the tip can be more fragile.
• Skinner Blade: Meticulously designed for skinning purposes with a curved edge, this knife is an excellent pick.

3. Blade Length 

A blade between 3.5 and 5 inches makes for an ideal length for hunting activities. Any blade longer than this length is unhandy and cumbersome, whereas shorter blades may not be as versatile or all-purpose. 

4. Blade Material

• High Carbon Steel Knives: It is quite sharp and resharpening it is also quite easy; however, it may be more prone to rusting if not taken proper care of. 
• Stainless Steel Knives: It is more impervious and resistant to rust and corrosion, though it may not hold its edge.
• Tool Steel Knives: It is known for its durability; however, can be harder to sharpen.

5. Handle Material

• Wood: It is more prone to wear and tear and moisture damage but gives a strong aesthetic and traditional appeal.
• Synthetic: It is weather-resistant and provides a comfortable grip even in wet conditions.
• Bone or Antler: Quirky in design, it is quite durable but doesn’t provide a strong grip during damp or rainy weather.

Note: It is generally recommended to purchase a full-tang knive, rather than a partial tang one, as it provides more strength and durability. Additionally, a comfortable handle that fits your hand well is recommended for the perfect grip. 

Buy the Best Hunting Knives in the UK from Perkin Knives 

Perkin Knives, known for delivering high-quality custom knives in the UK, has a fabulous collection of hunting knives along with a variety of other types. Listed below are some of our top choices with their unique features: 

1. Handmade Damascus Pocket Knife - Hunting Knife Foldable

• Liner Lock Mechanism

• Razor Sharp

• Genuine Damascus Steel Blade 

• Buffalo Horn Handle

• Handmade Leather Pouch

2. Folding Hunting Knife with Sheath Damascus Steel Knife

• Genuine Damascus Steel 

• Files Work in Spine

• Leather Sheath

• 3-inch long blade, 7-inch-long knife when open, and 4 inches long when folded

• Walnut Wood and Buffalo Horn Handle

3. Perkin 7 Inches Damascus Steel Knife Hunting Knife With Sheath SK500

• Handmade Knife Real Damascus Steel

• Overall Length 7 Inches; Blade Length 3.5 Inches

• Wood Full Tang and Razor-Sharp Knife

• Hardness 56-58

• Leather Sheath   

If you’re looking for hunting knives for sale in the UK, Perkin Knives is the perfect destination, showcasing a wide array of the finest collections, each one of them one of their kind. Grab one for your hunting needs today!