It is hard to believe that hunting season is upon us because it is still hot out and it feels like we were in peak summer just yesterday, but that's Virginia for you. I for one am excited about getting out there with my bow this year and the woods are so much more livable once the weather cools and the bugs aren't so bad. Fall is really the best time for camping and hiking as well so no matter how you like to experience the outdoors, it is time to make sure you have a good blade.
Actually one just isn't enough. I find that I need a small knife like the Fieldmate that's easy to carry, a heavy bushcraft knife for camp chores and wood processing, something good for skinning and a boning knife with a nice upswept curve. Now I can feel the vibrations through my keyboard of the purists out there screaming at their screens that all you need is ONE KNIFE and nothing else, not even clothes. But if you swivel the camera away from most YouTube bushcraft experts, the rest of their backyard will most likely come into view. The point is (besides offending dirty influencers) most of us leave gear at camp or the cabin or our truck and just take a compact knife for field dressing or small tasks when we go into the bush or climb a treestand.
I have a knife roll that I use for processing game that includes a butcher's saw. The needs that I have as a hunter who handles all my own meat from field to table inform the knife designs that I offer. Not only what types of knives but the geometry of the bevels, overall blade thickness and handle ergonomics. My experience camping has helped me understand the needs that come with wood processing, food prep and camp setup. Any outdoor scenario teaches you that two is one and one is none - so always have a backup.
For me, the Fieldmate is my go-to for ease of carry but I do like a bit of a larger knife for back at camp. Our bushcraft blade is made from a hefty 3/16" thick high carbon steel so it is great for batoning through wood. The best thing about knives for the outdoors is that they can be as basic or fancy you like. Many people who get a lot of use out of their knives eventually end up with a collection. If you have been hacking away with a basic knife for a long time and want to upgrade, why not spring for a hand forged blade with a integral bolster? Maybe go for Damascus steel! Whatever you choose, now is the time for getting back in the woods so make sure your blades are sharp.