As I introduce new people to hunting, what edge to have on your knife soon comes up. I prefer a plain edge, but am curious to k

[OutdoorEnvy]

As I introduce new people to hunting, what edge to have on your knife soon comes up. I prefer a plain edge, but am curious to know what you think is best, plain or serrated edge?

[DSMbirddog]

A straight edge will serve you better when working with game. Serrated knives have their place but I don't think it is field dressing game animals. I have a SOG that has a section of serration near the hand guard but the rest is straight. I can use it okay but the serrations are a waste.

[pineywoods]

I have no use for a serrated edge except, maybe, on a steak knife. For those who are unable to sharpen a knife, a serrated edge may help, but I don't have that problem.

[30-CAL]

I really like a straight edge for hunting. Its easier to sharpen and keep sharp.

[Johnnie]

I believe a plain edge blade is best. I've tried both and the plain edge seems to slide through skin and meat easier.
I use a very sharp BUCK 313 knife (I sharpen my own knives, for over 34 years now) for fish, small game and for skinning and butchering deer. I've seen people using bigger knives and they struggle to get the job done.

[6phunter]

I ;VE been carrying a small ,wide blade str8 edge ,that folds for field dressing. I keep a variety of knives,and other tools for processing.

[huntfishtrap]

For butchering game, a plain edge wins hands-down, it is a lot easier to sharpen and it will do a much cleaner, neater job. Serrated knives are best for survival type uses, where you're cutting lots of tough stuff, like branches, vines, rope, etc. The serrated edge holds up better under that kind of use, and usually works better too.

[Smitty18]

I use a straight edge while handling game but i also carry a serrated knife for cutting rope or whatever else needs cut.

[Pathfinder1]

If you only have one knife, my recommendations would be either a completely straight edge, or one partially serrated, at the rear of the blade only.

And, incidently, a serrated blade can usually be sharpened with regular straight-blade sharpening devices, as it is the bottom (pointed) part of the serrations that does most of the cutting/sawing.

Bob Hansen/Pathfinder1