In general, it is the fixed blade knife that has the most advantages for the outdoorsman. Whether hunting or camping, fixed blades are available in larger sizes and can do more work. For example, if you were to skin a large animal after a kill or even birds and fish, it is the fixed knife that will make the job the easiest and quickest. A large blade of quality material will do many large jobs that are needed when there is nothing around to help you. A good fixed blade knife is a fundamental for survival in the wild.

A folding knife has the advantage of being more portable. Once folded it can be transported inside a pouch, or bag. They can be attached to a belt with a string or held in a sheath similar to a fixed blade knife. Their sizes are limited, but the largest ones can be big enough to do a good job of cleaning fish when outdoors, or any number of small jobs while camping. Smaller models of folding knives can be handy around the home for various jobs. For hunters, a folding knife can be used as well as the fixed blade. The latter for big jobs, while the smaller knife being used by a hunter in tactical ways for smaller needs.