Prepping On The Cheap: Budget Bushcraft Knife For Pennies On The Dollar

Published on January 18, 2024
Duration: 16:12

This guide details how to transform an inexpensive throwing knife into a functional bushcraft knife by creating a custom handle. The presenter demonstrates using readily available materials like 550 cord or 'rapid rope' and super glue to fashion a secure and ergonomic grip. The process emphasizes cost-effectiveness for budget-conscious preppers, highlighting that a capable tool can be made for under $20.

Quick Summary

Transform inexpensive throwing knives into functional bushcraft tools for under $20. This DIY method involves adding custom handles with materials like 550 cord or 'rapid rope' and securing them with super glue. Budget knives can be sharpened to a high degree using stropping techniques, making them viable for survival and prepping needs.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Prepping on a Budget
  2. 00:59The Backstory: Finding a Budget Knife
  3. 01:32Comparing to a High-End Knife (Shed Knife)
  4. 02:56Introducing the Budget Throwing Knives
  5. 04:33Examining the Budget Knife's Features
  6. 07:00DIY Handle Creation with Cordage
  7. 08:20Testing the Budget Knife's Sharpness
  8. 08:30Introduction to Stropping for Sharpening
  9. 09:30Stropping Technique Demonstration
  10. 10:00Post-Stropping Sharpness Test
  11. 10:50Final Thoughts on the Budget Knife
  12. 11:50Outdoor Field Test: Chopping Wood
  13. 13:00Conclusion: A Winner for Budget Preppers

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make a bushcraft knife on a tight budget?

You can create a functional bushcraft knife by repurposing inexpensive throwing knives, often sold in multi-packs. By adding a custom handle made from materials like 550 cord or 'rapid rope' and securing it with super glue, you can transform a cheap tool into a capable survival knife for under $20.

What materials are best for a DIY budget knife handle?

For a budget knife handle, consider using readily available materials like 550 cord or 'rapid rope' (a flat, high-tensile strength cordage). These can be wrapped tightly around the knife's tang and secured with super glue for a durable and grippy handle.

How sharp can a budget throwing knife be made?

Budget throwing knives can be surprisingly sharp. After creating a handle, you can significantly improve their edge by using a leather strop with honing compound. This technique, similar to barber sharpening, effectively hones the blade to a very sharp state suitable for bushcraft tasks.

What are the advantages of a budget knife compared to a high-end knife?

The primary advantage of a budget knife is its cost-effectiveness, allowing individuals to prepare for less. While a high-end knife offers superior materials and craftsmanship, a modified budget knife can perform essential tasks like wood processing and tinder preparation for a fraction of the price.

More from Alaska Prepper

View all →