The Peltonen M95 Ranger Puukko in review: simple, strong and surprisingly handy
M95 Ranger Puukko in test: Versatile outdoor knife with impressive performance. Learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of this Finnish product.
From Martin Gebhardt. Check out my “About me” page.
👉 The key facts from this guide
- The Peltonen M95 Ranger Puukko is a robust and reliable outdoor knife
- It features a high-quality carbon steel blade with an effective saber grind
- I was particularly impressed by the non-slip and weather-resistant handle
- The Peltonen M95 Ranger Puukko is versatile for various outdoor activities
- You will find a good price-performance ratio despite the higher price
Actually, I'm not into survival knives - too bulky, too long, unwieldy, heavy.
But then I had the M95 Ranger Puukko in my hand and yes, what can I say, it felt good.
It was not too long, but still robust and strong. The handle fits great in the hand, and it is simple - I like that a lot.
Let's go into detail today and take a closer look at the M95 Ranger Puukko.
My Experience with the M95 Ranger Puukko
As a long-time wilderness mentor, I have had the opportunity to handle and test many knives (see my equipment category and my knife reviews).
Therefore, I was particularly curious to see how the M95 Ranger Puukko would perform in everyday use.
Hardly had I unpacked it, it started right away: First off to the backyard for some wood chopping.
The next day, I took it to the forest, where it had to prove itself in building a camp, carving, and cooking.
I was surprised at how well the knife worked in all situations.
I was particularly impressed by the handle and the grind. Whether I was splitting firewood or doing fine carving work, the M95 Ranger Puukko mastered every task with flying colors.
But enough of the preamble, let's get into the details and see what this knife is really capable of.
Product facts at a glance - 15 cm long carbon steel blade with HRC 59
Here is an overview of the knife's data:
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Blade Length | 15.0 cm |
| Blade Material | 80CrV2 Carbon Steel |
| Blade Thickness | 4.25 mm |
| Hardness | HRC 59 |
| Handle Length | approx. 12.5 cm |
| Handle Material | TPV Plastic Alloy |
| Total Length | 27.3 cm |
| Weight | 200 g |
| Country of Manufacture | Finland |
My assessment:
The product data of the M95 Ranger Puukko shows a well-thought-out design for demanding outdoor applications:
- The blade length of 15 cm offers a good balance between manageability and performance. The used 80CrV2 carbon steel with a hardness of HRC 59 promises excellent sharpness and edge stability - important properties for intensive use in the wilderness.
- The blade thickness of 4.25 mm indicates a robust construction that should also handle tougher tasks like Batoning. With a total weight of 200 g, the knife is in the mid-range - heavy enough for powerful cuts, but not overly burdensome for extended use.
- The TPV plastic handle with a length of approximately 12.5 cm should allow for secure handling in various grips. The total length of 27.3 cm makes the knife versatile without being overly bulky.
- The manufacturing in Finland suggests high quality and durability, which is essential for an outdoor tool of this class.
Overall, the specifications suggest a powerful, versatile knife that should be suitable for both professional users and demanding outdoor enthusiasts.
The Blade: A Dream of Carbon Steel
The 15 cm long blade made of high-quality 80CrV2 carbon steel is the heart of this knife. As a fan of carbon steel, I was immediately excited. The steel is:
- Extremely sharp
- Easy to sharpen
- Very durable
The saber grind gives the blade additional strength and durability.
The grind is ideal for robust tasks like chopping and ensures a long edge life.
Tip: Carbon steel can rust. I regularly maintain the blade with a light oil film and recommend you do the same.
The handle: Surprisingly good
The handle made of TPV plastic alloy pleasantly surprised me:
- Length: approx. 12.5 cm - perfect for my average-sized hands
- Ergonomic design - feels like it was custom-made for my hand
- Non-slip in all weather conditions - even with sweaty or slightly damp hands, it stays firmly in place
At first, I was skeptical about the plastic - I'm more of a wood type. But after a few weeks of intensive use, I can say: This handle is more robust than my relationship with the gym!
What fascinates me the most is the unique texture of the handle. It is neither soft nor hard, but has this perfect blend of firmness and flexibility.
It almost feels like the handle is merging with my hand. With prolonged use, I don't feel any pressure points or signs of fatigue - a real plus for extended carving sessions.
The hole at the end of the handle has proven to be useful. At first, I thought it was just a fashionable detail, but it turned out to be a versatile feature:
- Perfect for attaching a wrist strap - gives me extra security during delicate cutting tasks.
- Convenient for hanging the knife in the camp - always within reach but out of the way.
- Useful for threading a paracord - this way, I can also use the knife as an improvised spear (yes, I actually tried this once when I needed to reach a particularly stubborn branch from a height).
After weeks of use in various situations - from downpours to sweat-inducing work assignments - I can say: This handle is great.
It combines the durability of plastic with a feel that is in no way inferior to natural materials.
Sheath options: Leather, Composite, Kydex - Something for everyone
The M95 Ranger Puukko offers three different sheath options:
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Premium Leather
- Handcrafted in Finland
- EasyLock System
- For right- and left-handed users
As an old hand in the outdoor field, I have a weakness for leather sheaths. This handcrafted Finnish beauty is like a tailored suit for the M95 - elegant and functional at the same time. The EasyLock system holds the knife more securely than a terrier holds its chew bone.
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Composite
- Molle-compatible
- Ambidextrous
- Highly temperature resistant
The composite sheath is the all-rounder among the three - so to speak, the Swiss Army knife of sheaths. Molle-compatible and ambidextrous, it adapts to my gear like a chameleon.
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Kydex
- TekLok-compatible
- Also available in Multicam version
The Kydex sheath is the high-tech enthusiast among the three. TekLok-compatible and available in Multicam - perfect for those who love the latest gadgets.
Each of these sheaths has its strengths and weaknesses. The leather sheath is my favorite for leisurely day trips, the composite sheath is my trusty companion for tough missions, and the Kydex sheath comes into play when I want to feel particularly tacticool.
Overall, it's like choosing the perfect marshmallow roasting degree - a matter of personal taste and the specific situation.
Areas of Application: From Tactical to Survivalist
The M95 Ranger Puukko is versatile:
Military Use: Originally designed for this purpose, the M95 also looks good in civilian "tactical cosplay." It has proven itself in an outdoor survival course:
- Cutting through ropes and straps went as smoothly as a knife through warm butter
- Improvised equipment repair? No problem for this all-rounder
- Even when building a makeshift shelter, it didn't falter
Survival: In the wilderness, the M95 is more reliable than my sense of direction. On a week-long solo tour, it didn't let me down:
- Bow drill set carving? Check!
- Paracord cutting? Done!
- Making an improvised hunting spear? Was a breeze!
- It even served well for digging up edible roots (not recommended, knife will obviously get dull)
Camping: When camping, the M95 is more useful than a can opener at a can festival:
- Perfect for carving marshmallow skewers (and yes, I ate them all)
- Preparing firewood was a breeze
- Even when gutting fish (Sorry, trout!) it proved itself
Everyday Use: In everyday life, the M95 is more versatile than my excuses for skipping the gym:
- From cutting through package tape to peeling apples - no problem at all
- During the garden project, it effortlessly cut through strings, plastic pots, and even small branches
- In the kitchen, it turned out to be a secret weapon for slicing pumpkins
In summary, the M95 Ranger Puukko is particularly suitable for:
- Experienced bushcrafters looking for a reliable all-round knife
- Survival trainers who need a versatile tool for training
- Hunters who need a robust knife for game processing
- Outdoor enthusiasts planning longer tours and wanting to save some weight by not carrying bulky survival knives
Less suitable for:
- Ultralight hikers who count every gram
- Professional wood carvers who need more specialized tools
- Beginners who might be better off with a cheaper entry-level model
Field Test: My Adventures with the M95 Ranger Puukko
In the past few weeks, I have repeatedly taken the M95 Ranger Puukko with me into the forest and to seminars.
During camp setup, it proved to be an all-rounder: from precise carving of grill skewers to cleanly cutting strings for the hammock. During shelter construction, it proved itself as a miniature splitting hammer and carving tool.
During the exploration tours, it effortlessly hacked through underbrush and split firewood in the evenings. During a backpack mishap, it saved the situation with surgical precision, and on the fishing trip, it was indispensable for preparing the equipment.
In the wilderness kitchen, the knife shone while filleting fish and slicing mushrooms paper-thin.
Even gnarled firewood and stubborn tin cans were no match for this versatile tool.
Conclusion: The M95 Ranger Puukko never let me down during my challenges. However, it did reach its limits with some tasks. When trying to split particularly hard woods, I noticed that a heavier blade would be advantageous.
Even with very fine carving work, I occasionally wished for a smaller, lighter knife. However, it is excellent for most outdoor tasks.
Compared to the popular KA-BAR Becker BK2 Campanion (here is my review), the M95 Ranger Puukko proves to be the more versatile all-rounder.
While the BK2 scores with its thicker blade and higher weight (453 g vs. 200 g) for very rough tasks, the M95 impresses with better handling during longer uses and more precise tasks.
The handle of the M95 also offers more grip when wet. For me personally, the M95 has proven to be the ideal companion for a variety of outdoor activities without faltering during tough tasks.
This is what I like about the M95 Ranger Puuko:
- High-quality, robust carbon steel blade
- Ergonomic, weather-resistant handle
- Versatile applications
- Various sheath options
- Made in Finland (quality you can feel)
- 10-year warranty
- Simple, straightforward, and made for work
- Excellent edge retention of the blade
- Good balance between blade length and handling
- Robust enough for tougher tasks like batoning
- Thoughtful design with a useful hole at the end of the handle
- Good control with various grip techniques
This caught my eye:
- At around 100 €, not the cheapest knife, but reasonable for the quality
- A bit heavy for ultralight gear
- Carbon steel requires more maintenance than stainless steel
- No finger guard on the blade for very intensive work
Conclusion: My New Best Friend Made of Steel
After weeks of testing, I can say: The Peltonen M95 Ranger Puukko is my new survival knife. It is not too heavy, yet simple and retains its edge well.
The handle is simply fantastic.
Yes, the price is not insignificant. But believe me: This knife is an investment for life. It will faithfully accompany you on camping trips, survival tours, and even when opening annoying package tape.
My conclusion: 4.8 out of 5 stars. The only reason I don't give the full 5 stars is the fact that it doesn't make coffee on its own. But who knows, maybe J-P Peltonen is already working on an update?
In the online shop of Peltonen Knife you will find the knife with all details and there you can customize your very own M95. Prices start at 64 € and with engraving on the knife and the Kydex sheath, you can spend up to 154 €.
Now I would have wishes for a future version of the M95 Ranger Puukko, which comes with a shorter blade and maybe even has a Scandi grind - but: These versions already exist - how cool!
- The M07 Ranger Puukko with an 11.9 cm long blade - more for bushcrafters and hunters, anglers, campers
- The M23 Ranger Cub with a 6.5 cm long blade in Scandi grind - usable as a neck knife, light and versatile for outdoor and EDC
So, dear knife friends and outdoor enthusiasts: If you are looking for a reliable companion for almost all situations in life, then the M95 Ranger Puukko is just your thing. It is, so to speak, the Bear Grylls among knives - just without the urge to constantly drink your pee.
And now, excuse me, I have to quickly head into the forest. My M95 Ranger Puukko and I have a date with a stubborn branch!
Author of the guide
Martin Gebhardt
Hey, I'm Martin. On my blog, you will learn the basics and numerous details about living in the wild. I think survival, bushcraft and the good life in nature are the keys to happiness. Find me here on Instagram or on YouTube. You can find more about my mission on the About Me page.
Since this is a gear guide, here ...
🤝8 reasons to trust my recommendation
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Practical Experience: I have tested most of the products I recommend under extreme conditions myself.
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Independence: As a wilderness mentor, I am not tied to any specific brands - this means my recommendations are unbiased.
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Expertise: My many years of experience allow me to understand the intricacies and details of various products that a layperson might overlook.
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Target group understanding: I understand the needs and challenges of outdoor enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned experts.
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Quality focus: I attach great importance to quality and longevity. These are characteristics that are crucial in the wild.
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Clear communication: I try to explain the pros and cons of each product clearly and understandably so that you can make an informed decision.
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Currentness: I always keep my guides up to date and adapt them to new findings or products.
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Community Feedback: I work in wilderness schools, teach courses myself, attend courses and am active in various outdoor and survival communities and therefore integrate the feedback and experiences of others into my recommendations.
So when I introduce the best survival knives or flashlights, you can be sure that every recommendation is based on solid experience and extensive knowledge.
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