In the world of thru-hiking and minimalist trekking, the best ultralight backpacking knife is a specialized tool weighing less than 2.5 ounces—though most purists aim for under 1 ounce. Unlike heavy survival knives, these tools prioritize weight-to-utility ratios, focusing on tasks like food prep, gear repair, and basic safety. In my 12 years of traversing … Read more
In the world of everyday carry (EDC), there is an old hiker’s adage that has become the golden rule for modern gear enthusiasts: “Ounces equal pounds, and pounds equal pain.” Whether you are trekking up a mountain pass or just trying to keep your khakis from sagging during a Tuesday morning meeting, the weight of … Read more
A lightweight backpacking knife is a specialized cutting tool designed specifically for the weight-conscious hiker or ultralight backpacker. Typically weighing between 0.5 and 3.0 ounces, these knives prioritize a high strength-to-weight ratio over heavy-duty durability. While a survival knife might be built to batoning through logs, a backpacking version is optimized for food preparation, cordage … Read more
I’ve spent years carrying various tools in my pockets, and if there is one thing I have learned, it is that weight matters. Carrying a heavy chunk of steel might make you feel like a survivalist hero in the woods, but for the average person walking through the city or hiking a trail, that extra … Read more
So, you’ve finally decided to shave those last few ounces off your base weight, haven’t you? I totally get it. There’s a certain kind of “trail zen” that comes with knowing your pack is as lean as a marathon runner. When you’re staring down a 20-mile day in the High Sierras, every single gram feels … Read more
