A knife that can be used as a survival tool. The term "survival knife" was first coined in the 1982 movie - "Rambo" which stared Sylvester Stallone. The first survival knives had a hollow handle so that small amounts of supplies can be carried with the knife. Usually, fishing string, some hooks, sinkers and maybe some matches were stored in the handle. The hollow handled knives are usually weak were the blade attaches to the handle. These types of knives should not be considered real "survival knives" but a fad. A true survival knife is a very well and can hold an good edge. Bowie knives and survival knives are often mistaken for each other, as their appearance is similar. In the modern survival community, the classic "survival knife" is being replaced with a multi-tool.
by MAGNVS January 30, 2007
the knife that you have with you when the shit hits the fan.
by Chaz2015 September 26, 2015