>>1068800For me it's the following:
-tempered carbon steel: stainless can't keep an edge as long, and I'm not going to resharpen my knifes daily
-Scandi grind for short knives, axe grind for longer ones (with a scandi portion close to the grip on my homemade ones): scandi grind is easy to sharpen, keeps an edge moderately well and cuts well, axe grind will never be razor sharp, but is impossible to damage, making it perfect for rough work (I'm one of those guys that use a large knife instead of an axe)
-pronounced pommel - while it limits the possible grips a bit, it prevents the knife from slipping out of your hand when slick.
-sheath fitting the purpose: long knives go on the pack or horizontal on the belt (scout carry), short knives have to be concealable (so I can also carry them in town) as well as comfortable on the belt or in the pocket
-pronounced guard on longer knives for hacking through thorny vines
-grip made of either oiled (not waxed) wood or soft, slick plastic to avoid blisters
-point suitable for stabbing: while german laws allow carrying a needlefire or flintlock gun, I rarely bother with it due to weight, making the knife my weapon of choice for self defense against humans (For animals, my walking stick usually is enough). might be unnecessary if you live in the states, but here in europe, it is sadly still common for small-time criminals to target campers or hikers.
