First Impressions: Bear Forest Backstrap Fillet Knives

Precise, efficient and designed to last, this small-batch knife release is perfect for processing wild game.

by
posted on December 27, 2023
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Bear Forest Backstrap

Ask any deer hunter and they'll tell you: The backstrap is the best part of the animal. That's largely because the "backstrap" muscle is the same as the one we call "filet mignon" when it's beef on the table! Thing is, those prized cuts can be time-consuming to acquire, so if you're going to process and butcher your own deer, you need the right knife for the job. Bear Forest Knives has just the one: The Backstrap. This 10.187” long fillet knife is the perfect addition to any outdoor enthusiast’s collection and provides a unique cutting experience.

Why a Fillet?

A fillet knife is specialized to fillet, debone and skin fish and meat. Its long, thin, flexible blade can easily glide along the bones and separate the flesh from the skin. Some common uses of a fillet knife are:

  • Filleting fish: A fillet knife can cut and skin a whole fish into clean fillets. Cut along the backbone, slide the blade under the ribs and spine to remove bones, then flip and peel off the skin by sawing the blade.
  • Deboning: A fillet knife helps debone poultry, pork or beef. Cut around the joints and tendons, follow the bone's contour to separate it from the meat and trim excess fat or sinew.
  • Skinning game: Use a fillet knife to skin and trim game animals. Cut along the belly or back, peel off the skin and remove unwanted parts.

The engine behind this design is a 6" narrow, upward-curving blade with an ultra-sharp full flat grind. The Backstrap is crafted from high-quality, easy-to-sharpen 52100 high carbon steel, which provides exceptional edge retention properties.

The micarta handle has a finger groove that creates an integrated guard, ensuring a secure grip and reducing the risk of slipping when handling innards or blood. It comes with a black KYDEX sheath for protection and easy carry. Do note that these blades are made of high carbon steel and will stain/oxidize if not properly maintained with good oil and regular care. MSRP $179.99; BearForestKnives.com.

 

Latest

Usa Clay Target League Broken Record
Usa Clay Target League Broken Record

USA Clay Target League Student Athletes Break Clay Pigeons and Fall Records

Broken clay pigeon shards and autumn leaves are racing to the earth in this record-breaking 2025 season.

Throwback Thursday Through Today: LeMat Revolvers, Then and Now

The Civil War-era "grapeshot revolver" is getting a renaissance, courtesy of Pietta.

Smile: How to Age a Deer by Looking at Its Teeth

This great video from the National Deer Association demonstrates how to find out for sure how old your harvest really was.

Daniel Defense Named Official Stage Sponsor for 2025 NRA World Shooting Championship

Competitors will be tested with the precision-rich features on rifles designed by Daniel Defense as they aim to be crowned the "World’s Best Shooter."

Watch: Relaunching the NRA

We pledge that, no matter who you are, there will always be an NRA for you.

First Impressions: Chiappa Rhino 30DS X Stainless-Steel Revolver

It's not about nostalgia, but instead control, balance, and refinement born from mechanical evolution.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.