BPS Raven Knife Review
Ukraine-based BPS Knives have made a big impact in the bushcraft world in the last couple of years. This company has earned a reputation for making some of the best affordable and simple-yet-effective fixed blade knives for camping, bushcraft and survival.
I myself have been won over by the BPS Adventurer, which I reviewed last year. Today we’re taking a look at the BPS Raven, which shares quite a bit of DNA with the Adventurer, although it definitely has a few modifications (and a higher price tag to match). Let’s see how the Raven stacks up.
BPS Raven: First Impressions
The BPS Raven looks an awful lot like the Adventurer, especially in regards to its blade shape and overall dimensions. The handle is made of black plastic in place of BPS’ typical walnut wood handles, and the interchangeable leather sheath that comes with most BPS knives has been replaced by a black plastic model as well.
Both of these modifications give the Raven a more tactical, military-inspired look. Still, the ‘bones’ of this knife are classic BPS, and like all of their other knives I’ve used, it feels well-balanced in my hand and cuts like a razor right out of the box.
Measurements & Specs
Measuring 9.8 inches in total length, the BPS Raven has a 5.1-inch blade and a 4.7-inch handle. The blade is 1.2 inch wide, and 0.1 inch thick at the spine.
All of these dimensions, for what it’s worth, are very similar to the ever-so-slightly larger BPS Adventurer, which is 10 inches long in total. That being said, the Raven is actually a little bit lighter thanks to its plastic handle, tipping the scales at 5.4 ounces without the sheath.
Blade Shape & Grind
The BPS Raven Knife has a full tang—the tang actually extends visibly past the butt end of the scales, leaving no doubt—and it’s a drop-point blade with a squared-off spine. It makes a decent spark with a ferro rod, though carbon steel generally makes a better spark than the stainless used here.
The Raven’s drop point makes it good at piercing, while the cutting edge is perfectly sharp and works well for all manner of cutting, shaving and slicing. It has a Scandi grind, which is a great choice for a bushcraft knife because it offers great control for finely detailed work while also giving you plenty of splitting power for heavy-duty chores.
Sharpness & Steel
Again, the Raven comes sharp enough to pass a good old-fashioned paper test right out of the box, so I won’t dock any points for sharpness. The blade is made of 5Cr14MoV stainless steel, a cheap grade of steel that comes with a few trade-offs.
One of those trade-offs is that it doesn’t have the best edge retention in the world. It rates somewhere around 56 to 58 on the Rockwell Hardness Scale, which is not especially hard by knife steel standards. So if you use this knife a lot, you’re going to see it dull quickly.
On the plus side, 5Cr14MoV stainless steel is pretty easy to sharpen, so if you have a good sharpening stone, you should be able to put a keen edge back on it in no time. This steel is also corrosion resistant, which is a huge step up from a lot of other BPS knives, which are made of some particularly rust-prone carbon steel.
Handle & Grip
I’ve compared the BPS Raven to the Adventurer a couple times now, partly because the latter is one of the better-known BPS knives, but also because these two have some obvious similarities. But the handle is where the two knives diverge, and where I have to say I like the Raven a bit better.
Whereas the Adventurer has a very basic meat-and-potatoes wood handle with little effort put into its contouring or grip, the plastic handle of the Raven is much more thoughtfully designed. The scales and the tang beneath are beautifully contoured to fit one’s hand, including four finger grooves on the belly of the handle.
The top side of the handle has a gentle swoop to it, with an indentation where one’s thumb can rest. The black plastic offers solid grip, and there’s also some jimping toward the rear of the blade’s spine, a feature lacking on the Adventurer, and which provides some extra grip as well.
Sheath & Carry
The sheath of the BPS Raven is another area where this knife stands apart from the majority of the BPS lineup. Most of their knives come with natural leather sheaths, but this one is made of Kydex plastic, a type of hard ABS plastic that is frequently used for both knife sheaths and gun holsters.
It has its pros and cons. Kydex is durable, impervious to water damage, and will keep its shape pretty much forever. The knife snaps into the sheath snugly, and the hard material provides good protection.
Is it better than leather? Hard to say. I don’t necessarily consider it an upgrade worth paying more for, but I also wouldn’t say it’s necessarily worse either. Kydex certainly has a more tactical look, which is in keeping with the Raven’s overall aesthetic. The belt clip is rock-solid, and is also available in both right- and left-handed configurations.
Final Thoughts on the BPS Raven
Comparisons aside, the BPS Raven stands on its own as a solid bushcraft knife, albeit one with a bit of a tactical vibe to it. I took mine camping, and it handled every job I asked it to do.
The Raven is great for debarking, shaving tinder, feather sticking, whittling and cutting notches in wood. It chops small branches effectively on its own, and with the help of a baton can also be used to split modest-sized logs.
BPS is mostly known for making budget bushcraft knives. The Raven costs between $10 and $15 more than the Adventurer, and whether you consider it to be worth the extra scratch really comes down to your personal preference when it comes to type of steel, handle material and sheath type.
The grip of the Raven is, I must say, a true step up from the Adventurer. Also worth noting is that the scales are easily removed and replaced, so there’s plenty of customization potential there.
More BPS Knife Choices:
- ✅ SHARP BLADE: Full Tang Bushcraft Knife made of Carbon Steel with Leather Case Razor-sharp durable Fixed Blade has a true scandi grind. The Camp Knife is sharp out of the box
- ✅ HIGH QUALITY: Fixed Blade Knife made of high 1066 carbon steel. Hardened to 56-57 HRC and holds an edge well. Well balanced. The handle of the knife is made of walnut wood, coated with Danish oil, which allows this tourist knife to be resistant to moisture and dirt. The handle is fixed with ties, it can be easily unscrewed in order to clean the knife
- ✅ CHRISTMAS GIFT: Needed thing for those who keen on fishing, hunting, camping and spending time actively. A great gift for true connoisseurs of knives. Stocking Stuffers
- ✅ DIMENSIONS: Total length – 10 inches(255 mm). Blade length – 5 1/3 inches(135 mm). Handle length – 4 2/3 inches(120 mm). Blade width – 1.2 inch(30 mm). Blade thickness – 0.1 inches(2,8 mm). Weight without sheath – 5.7 oz(160 grams). Weight with sheath and Ferro Rod – 10.2 oz(290 grams)
- ✅ SAFE CARRYING: Camp knife Adventurer CSHF is equipped with a leather sheath with ferro rod, which allows you to conveniently carry the knife on a belt or in a backpack or bag. And the ferro rod will be relevant in the most diverse situations
- ✅ DESIGNED BY DBK: The Bushmate knife is a collaborative creation between BPS Knives, a renowned Ukrainian camping and bushcraft knife manufacturer, and DBK (Dutch Bushcraft Knives) – a dynamic duo of best friends and famed YouTube bloggers who are passionate about changing lives with knives. Both teams bring their expertise and cool vibes to this remarkable design
- 🔪 MULTIFUNCTIONAL USAGE: Bushmate Camping Knife is designed for use in bushcrafting, hunting, fishing, hiking, in the garden or just on a picnic. This knife has a neat blade shape, which makes it versatile in use, and the convenient shape of the handle allows the knife to lie confidently and securely in the hand
- 📏 DIMENSIONS: Total length – 8.7 inches(220 mm). Blade length – 3,9 inches (98 mm). Handle length – 4.8 inches (122 mm). Blade width – 1 inch (26 mm). Blade thickness – 0.11 inches(3 mm). Weight without sheath – 5.22 oz (148 grams). Weight with sheath and fire starter – 8.8 oz(250 grams)
- 🏕️ SHARP FOR LIFE: Bushmate knife has been designed to take on camp chores and fieldwork in the wild. This fixed blade knife with sheath features a razor-sharp durable carbon 1066 steel blade, ensuring a sharp edge for life
- 💪 STRONG AND STURDY: The handle is made of walnut wood and covered with Danish oil. The survival bushcraft knife is ideal for batoning wood, cutting on logs and sticks, and fishing, hiking, survival training, EDC, camping expeditions or outdoor sports
- ✅HIGH QUALITY: The BPS Finn Lite Knife is made from Carbon Steel 1066. Has a true Scandinavian grind and razor-sharp out of the box.
- ✅PUUKKO KNIFE: Inspired by a traditional Finnish utility knife, the BPS Finn Lite Knife features a sharp, straight blade and a comfortable wooden handle. It is ideal for carving and outdoor tasks, combining durability and precision for versatile use.
- ✅SAFE STORAGE: Includes a handmade genuine leather sheath for easy and safe carrying. Designed for vertical carry on a belt or strap.
- ✅MULTI-PURPOSE: Suitable for cutting, carving, processing wood for fire and shelter, starting fires, food preparation, self-defense in emergencies, minor medical needs, and general utility tasks like opening packages or repairing gear.
- ✅DIMENSIONS: Overall length: 178 mm (7 inches), handle length: 98 mm (3.8 inches), blade length: 80 mm (3.2 inches), blade thickness: 1.8-2 mm (0.08 inches).
- ✅HIGH QUALITY: The BPS Finn Lite Knife is made from 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel. Has a true Scandinavian grind and razor-sharp out of the box.
- ✅PUUKKO KNIFE: Inspired by a traditional Finnish utility knife, the BPS Finn Lite Knife features a sharp, straight blade and a comfortable wooden handle. It is ideal for carving and outdoor tasks, combining durability and precision for versatile use.
- ✅SAFE STORAGE: Includes a handmade genuine leather sheath for easy and safe carrying. Designed for vertical carry on a belt or strap.
- ✅MULTI-PURPOSE: Suitable for cutting, carving, processing wood for fire and shelter, starting fires, food preparation, self-defense in emergencies, minor medical needs, and general utility tasks like opening packages or repairing gear.
- ✅DIMENSIONS: Overall length: 183 mm (7.2 inches), handle length: 99 mm (3.9 inches), blade length: 84 mm (3.31 inches), blade thickness: 3mm (0.12 inches).
- ✅HIGH QUALITY: The BPS Aurora Knife features a VG-10 stainless steel blade (58–59 HRC), a proven Japanese alloy known for long edge retention, clean cuts, and stable performance in everyday and outdoor use. The 80 mm blade length and 3 mm spine provide a balanced combination of precision, control, and confidence in cutting
- ✅FIXED BLADE: The Aurora knife is a fixed blade EDC knife designed as a practical tool for different conditions, where control, predictable performance, and comfort in hand matter most. Its shape follows to the classic principles of Finnish puukko
- ✅DIMENSIONS: Total length: 178 mm (7.0 inches); Blade length: 80 mm (3.15 inches); Blade thickness: 3 mm (0.12 inches); Handle length: 98 mm (3.86 inches)
- ✅MULTI-PURPOSE: The BPS Aurora Knife is a compact outdoor and universal camping knife perfect for cutting, carving, processing wood for fire and shelter, starting fires, food preparation, emergency self-defense, minor first-aid needs, and general utility tasks like opening packages or repairing gear
- ✅SAFE STORAGE: comes with a lightweight Kydex sheath that securely holds the knife, resists moisture, and allows quick access. A lanyard hole improves control and safety
- ✅ MULTIFUNCTIONAL USAGE: HK4 Fixed-Blade Stainless Steel Knife is a versatile bushcraft knife for various outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, hiking, gardening, or picnics. A must-have camp knife for every adventure enthusiast
- ✅ SHARP BLADE: Experience exceptional performance with our camping knife, featuring a sharp 5Cr14MoV Stainless steel blade designed for camp chores and fieldwork. The knife outdoor is your reliable partner in the wild
- ✅ DIMENSIONS: Total length – 225 mm (8.85 inches). Blade length – 100 mm (3,93 inches). Handle length – 120 mm (4.72 inches). Blade thickness – 0.11 inches (2, 9mm). Weight without sheath – 4,9 oz (140 g). Weight with sheath – 6.7 oz (190 g)
- ✅ QUALITY: Our Outdoor knives boast a 56-58 HRC hardness, ensuring a well-balanced knife for bushcrafters that holds an edge well. The Fixed Blade Knife with Sheath is made of premium materials for longevity and durability
- ✅ STRONG AND STURDY: The walnut wood handle of our Fixed-Blade Stainless Steel Knife is coated with Danish oil for added strength and resilience. The leather sheath adds a touch of sophistication, making it an ideal gift for every outdoorsman
- ✅ FIXED BLADE KNIFE WITH SHEATH: B1 Stainless Steel Bushcraft Knife features a razor-sharp 5Cr14MoV stainless steel blade, hardened to 56-58 HRC, ensuring a reliable and durable hunting knife for all your outdoor adventures
- ✅ VERSATILE CAMPING KNIFE: A good camp knife for bushcrafter, boasting a true Scandinavian grind, drop point blade, and walnut wood handle covered in Danish oil, this knife wood handle offers exceptional grip and balance for various activities
- ✅ IDEAL KNIFE FOR BUSHCRAFTING: This knives design is not only functional but also stylish, making it an excellent knife for people who value quality and performance. The ideal camping, fishing, and hunting knife, it’s a must-have for any outdoorsman
- ✅ HIGH-QUALITY SHARP BLADE: Our camping knife features a sharp 4.3″ blade made of 5Cr14MoV steel, providing excellent cutting performance. The knife wood handle ensures a comfortable grip, making it a good knife for bushcrafter
- ✅ DIMENSIONS: 9 1/4 inches overall length with a blade length of 4 1/3 inches and a weight of 5 2/3 ounces
- ✅ SHARP BLADE: Full Tang Bushcraft Knife made of Stainless Steel with Leather Case Razor-sharp durable Fixed Blade has a true scandi grind. The Camp Knife is sharp out of the box
- ✅ HIGH QUALITY: Fixed Blade Knife made of high Stainless steel. Hardened to 56-57 HRC and holds an edge well. Well balanced. The handle of the knife is made of oak wood, coated with Danish oil, which allows this tourist knife to be resistant to moisture and dirt. The handle is fixed with ties, it can be easily unscrewed in order to clean the knife
- ✅ PERFECT GIFT: Needed thing for those who keen on fishing, hunting, camping and spending time actively. A great gift for true connoisseurs of knives. This camp knife makes an excellent present for Christmas, birthdays, Father’s Day, and other special occasions. Stocking Stuffers
- ✅ DIMENSIONS: Total length – 10 inches(255 mm). Blade length – 5 1/3 inches(135 mm). Handle length – 4 2/3 inches(120 mm). Blade width – 1.2 inch(30 mm). Blade thickness – 0.1 inches(2,8 mm). Weight without sheath – 5.7 oz(160 grams). Weight with sheath and Ferro Rod – 10.2 oz(290 grams)
- ✅ SAFE CARRYING: Camp knife Adventurer CSHF is equipped with a leather sheath with ferro rod, which allows you to conveniently carry the knife on a belt or in a backpack or bag. And the ferro rod will be relevant in the most diverse situations
- SHARP BLADE: Full Tang Cooking Knife is incredibly sharp. We use micro bevel to extend the lifespan of the blades, ensuring they remain sharp for longer
- DIMENSIONS: Total lengths 13 inch (330 mm), blade lengths 7.7 inch (195 mm), handle lengths 5.3 inch (135 mm), weight 6,2 oz (175 gr)
- MODERN DESIGN: BPS Kitchen Knife blends functionality with aesthetics. A pattern on the blade adds a touch of elegance to its design. Performs to complete its primary task and feels comfortable in the hand
- STURDY MATERIAL: Chef Knife made high quality stainless steel 5Cr14MoV, handle made of natural walnut wood. Comes with leather sheath for storage and travel convenience.
- PERFECT GIFT: Ideal gift for anyone who loves cooking, whether they’re a seasoned chef or an amateur enthusiast. Culinary Knife is perfect for birthdays, holidays, housewarmings, or any occasion where you want to give a thoughtful and practical gift that enhances their culinary experience
- HIGH QUALITY: BPS Beta Camping Knife boasts a high-carbon D2 steel blade with a hardness range of 60-61 HRC, it offers aggressive, clean cuts and remarkable edge retention for extended use. A handle crafted from premium micarta, a sheath made of ABS plastic included in the set reliably protects the knife from external factors
- DIMENSIONS: BPS Beta Survival Knife total length: 218 mm (8.6 in), blade length: 100 mm (3.9 in), blade thickness: 3 mm (0.1 in), weight: 175 g (4.9 oz), handle length: 118 mm (4.7 in)
- DURABLE TACTICAL KNIFE: Beta Knife’s micro-bevel edge ensures precision cutting for various tasks, from campfire cooking to survival situations. Micarta offers immunity to environmental influences like temperature fluctuations, humidity, and UV radiation, making it resistant to chemicals and mechanical damage
- AMBIDEXTROUS SHEATH: The Beta Knife set includes a sturdy ABS plastic sheath for reliable protection. The Tek Lok attachment enables easy belt or MOLLE system securing, ensuring quick access. Its versatile design allows effortless rotation and repositioning for both right-handed and left-handed users
- IDEAL GIFT: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, campers, hikers, and survivalists. Its durability, comfort, and precision cutting make BPS Beta Knife a thoughtful gift for anyone who enjoys outdoor exploration and adventure
Blair Witkowski is an avid watch nut, loves pocket knives and flashlights, and when he is not trying to be a good dad to his nine kids, you will find him running or posting pics on Instagram. Besides writing articles for Tech Writer EDC he is also the founder of Lowcountry Style & Living. In addition to writing, he is focused on improving his client’s websites for his other passion, Search Engine Optimization. His wife Jennifer and he live in coastal South Carolina.