◦ Hands-on review · Research-based · specifications, user reviews, and field reports
Morakniv

Morakniv Bushcraft Black review.

4.5Excellent
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◦ The verdict

The Morakniv Bushcraft Black is a genuinely capable knife at $35: the same exceptional scandi grind and carbon steel as the Companion, with a better sheath and a more refined everyday carry setup. The $13 premium over the Companion is worth it if the sheath matters to you.

Best forAnyone who wants the Mora scandi system with a better sheath and daily carry setup than the CompanionNot forHeavy batoning of large hardwood rounds, get the Garberg (full tang) for thatMethodResearch-based · specifications, user reviews, and field reportsPrice$35
◦ Specs at a glance

The numbers.

Blade length
4.3 in / 109 mm
Blade thickness
3.2 mm / 0.125 in
Steel
High carbon (HRC 59)
Grind
Scandi (flat single bevel)
Coating
DLC black (Diamond-Like Carbon)
Handle
High-friction rubber
Sheath
Polymer with fire steel slot and snap-clip
Weight
4.2 oz / 120 g (knife only)
Country of origin
Sweden
Warranty
Manufacturer defect
+ What works
  • +Scandi grind sharpens on any flat stone, the easiest field-sharpening grind available at any price
  • +Rubber handle is extraordinarily secure in wet, cold, or gloved hands, does not absorb water or swell
  • +Sheath includes a fire steel slot and snap-clip belt attachment, better than the basic Companion sheath
− What doesn't
  • Partial tang limits aggressive batoning of large hardwood rounds, the Garberg fixes this at $85
  • Simple handle shape causes some fatigue during extended fine carving sessions, shaped wood handles are more comfortable for hours of whittling

Morakniv has been making knives in Mora, Sweden since 1891. The Bushcraft line is their purpose-designed outdoor series, heavier spine than the budget Companion, better sheath, and a more refined everyday carry setup. At $35, it remains one of the most practical fixed-blade knives available at any price.

Who it's for

Anyone who wants the Mora scandi system, the same steel and grind that makes the Companion the default recommendation, with a better sheath and a fire steel slot. The $13 premium over the Companion is worth it if you want the sheath to do more work. For a full comparison across all bushcraft knife options, see the best bushcraft knives guide.

How we assessed

This assessment is based on published specifications, manufacturer data, user review analysis, and consensus from experienced bushcraft practitioners. Not personally tested by our team, see our methodology for how we approach research-based recommendations.

In the field

The blade

The 4.3-inch carbon steel blade is 3.2mm thick at the spine. The scandi grind starts at roughly the midpoint of the blade and runs flat to the edge, no secondary bevel. This geometry practically self-guides when sharpening: lay the bevel flat on a stone and push forward. RC 59 is appropriate for this application, takes a very sharp edge and holds it well through normal tasks. High carbon steel will rust if stored wet. Dry and apply a light oil before long-term storage. The DLC black coating on the Bushcraft Black provides light corrosion protection and reduces reflections, but wears in the areas of heaviest use.

The handle

The high-friction rubber handle is one of Mora's genuine advantages. It is not comfortable in the same way a shaped walnut handle is, it is more utilitarian. But it is extraordinarily secure in wet, cold, or gloved hands, and it does not absorb water, swell, or require maintenance. The simple pinch-waist shape and flat spine work well for most grips. Extended fine carving sessions over two or more hours can cause some fatigue, the handle lacks the palm swell that shaped wood or micarta handles provide.

The sheath

Significantly better than the standard Mora plastic sheath. Includes a fire steel slot (fire steel not included), snap-clip belt attachment, and secure blade retention. Not as refined as leather or Kydex, but functional and practical for everyday carry.

FIELD PHOTO · /img/reviews/morakniv-bushcraft-review/in-use.jpg
The scandi grind at work, sharpening by laying the bevel completely flat on a double-sided stone. No angle to maintain, no guesswork. This is why the Mora system is the field sharpening benchmark.

Compared to alternatives

Versus the Mora Companion ($22): same steel, same grind, same performance. The Bushcraft Black offers a better sheath with fire steel slot and snap-clip. If the sheath does not matter, save the $13 and buy the Companion. Versus the Mora Garberg ($85): the Garberg is full tang, significantly stronger for aggressive batoning. Same steel and grind as both Companion and Bushcraft Black. If you baton regularly, the Garberg is worth the premium. See the full budget knife comparison for the complete picture.

Should you buy it?

Yes, if you want the Mora system with a better sheath than the Companion provides. No, if batoning large hardwood rounds regularly, get the Garberg. No, if you want a wood handle for extended carving comfort, look at the Hultafors or Condor options instead.


Affiliate disclosure: Some links in this review are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Affiliate revenue does not influence our rating. Read our methodology.

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