What do you use a gut hook for? We will tell you all about it!

The gut hook, also known as a cutting hook, is a feature you often see on hunting knives. But what is a gut hook? And what do you use it for? Knivesandtools explains!

What exactly is a gut hook or cutting hook?

A gut hook is best described as a 'wave' on the blade enhanced with a sharp part on the inside. It is, almost always, semi-circular shaped and sharpened on two sides. It is one with the rest of the blade. The advantage is that the gut hook has the same cutting capacities as the edge. It is, after all, made from the same steel with the same heat treatment.

What do you use a gut hook for?

The name already gives it away. The gut hook can be found on hunting knives and is used to gut game. From cutting through fur to removing the intestines. The hollow shape of the gut hook easily gets caught behind the fur after which you open the belly of the animal in one swift move. This is not only fast and efficient, you also make sure the primary edge of the knife does not hit the bone. Thick fur, like that of a deer, for instance, is very tough. A gut hook also ensures that you don't hit the intestines. Because the intestines contain a lot of bacteria that increase decay, you need to make sure you don't damage them.

So is a gut hook only relevant for hunters? Absolutely not! A gut hook can also be used to cut through rope, tie-rips and even seatbelts. Some outdoor enthusiasts use a gut hook as a hook to remove a hot grill or pot from the fire. In short: a gut hook can do more than just gut game.

Gut hook or cutting hook?

The name differs per brand. If the primary function is not gutting animals it is often called a cutting hook instead of a gut hook. You can often find cutting hooks on rescue knives. To save yourself, or someone else, from a car during an emergency situation. You can also find similar cutting hooks on multi-tools to open boxes.

Keep in mind that a gut hook also needs to be sharpened from time to time. Especially when you cut through rugged materials such as fur and rope. Read all about it in our topic: How to sharpen a gut hook?

Curious to find out which of the knives we sell include a gut hook? You can check them out here!