Well, I dunno. What is the knife for? Whittling tiny wooden camping companions? Stabbing a bear thats chasing you on your mountain bike? Performing minor surgery?
Swiss Army Explorer
Swiss Army ExplorerIts safe to say that the handiest all-around knife and tool remains the trusty Swiss Army-style knife, such as the Swiss Army Explorer ($44; www.swissarmy.com). I regard these things as indispensable. True, the knife blade isnt fabulous, but its OK for most everyday tasks such as making kindling or cutting cord. And it has useful tools such as a screwdriver, can opener, bottle opener, and so on. So its very handy for the many odd jobs one encounters, such as working on stoves, repairing packs, opening food pouches, and so on. Whats not to like?
If its really a blade-only knife that youre after, then I like folding models with a fairly short blade. Spydercos Delica 4 Lite ($68; spyderco.com) is such a knife, with a compound blade (straight edge and serrated) that folds snugly into a textured nylon handle. Its very, very sharp and light. Gerbers Armor Serrated Knife ($48; www.gerbergear.com) has a slightly shorter combination blade with a very comfortable handle. Nice knife as well.
Youve got your winter gear, now get outside and use it. makes it easy to find nearby slopes just begging for fresh tracks.