When you’re miles from civilization, every ounce in your pack needs to serve a purpose. Through years of trial and error, we’ve identified eleven pieces of gear that consistently perform in the backcountry. These aren’t trending items or social media favorites — they’re field-tested tools that have earned our complete trust.
MKC X Dixxon Pearl Snap Western Flannel
In the field, your gear needs to work as hard as you do. Our collaboration with Dixxon brings together Montana toughness and classic Western style in a flannel that’s ready for dawn patrol or late-night processing.
The heavyweight cotton blend stands up to brush and briars, while the dual button-down flap chest pockets keep your essentials secure on the move. What sets this flannel apart is the attention to detail — reinforced stitching, custom MKC-branded snap buttons, and a cut that allows full range of motion, whether you’re drawing a bow or field dressing your harvest.
We’ve added utility slit pen pockets because we know having a pen handy can make the difference between remembering or losing that GPS waypoint.
MKC Field Knife Sharpener
When you’re miles deep in the backcountry, a dull blade isn’t just an inconvenience — it’s a liability. That’s why our Field Knife Sharpener has earned its permanent spot in our packs. Designed in collaboration with Work Sharp, this compact sharpener gives you a reliable working edge in seconds.
The 20° angle guides take the guesswork out of maintaining your blade, while the diamond plates handle everything from quick touch-ups to breathing new life into a well-used edge. At just 2.6 ounces, it’s a lightweight solution that delivers professional-grade results wherever your adventures take you.
MKC X YETI Rambler 12 Oz. HotShot – Blaze Orange With MKC X Black Rifle Coffee Signature Dark Roast
Your pre-dawn ritual deserves more than lukewarm coffee in a flimsy cup. We’ve paired our signature dark roast collaboration with Black Rifle Coffee with YETI’s most intelligently designed vessel for serious coffee enthusiasts. The 12 oz. Hotshot Rambler in blaze orange keeps your coffee piping hot during those long sits in the stand, while the 360° HotShot cap means you can sip from any side without taking your eyes off your surroundings.
The coffee itself is no compromise either — a carefully crafted dark roast blend that delivers bold flavor and the right kick of caffeine when you need it most. Whether you’re starting your morning on a backcountry ridge or need a reliable pick-me-up for the long pack out, this duo works as hard as you do. And with that distinctive blaze orange finish, you won’t lose track of your Rambler when you need it most.
MKC X Tactile Turn – EDC Mini Pen and MKC X Tactile Turn – EDC Pen
When you need to mark a waypoint or jot down coordinates in any weather, our collaboration with Tactile Turn has you covered. Available in both standard and mini sizes, these American-made bolt-action pens are built with the same attention to detail as our knives. The precision-machined bolt mechanism provides smooth, one-handed operation even with gloved hands, while the machined texturing ensures a secure grip in any conditions. The standard EDC pen rides comfortably in your pack or shirt pocket, while the mini version offers a more compact option for those who prefer to travel light. Both feature our signature blaze orange accents and are machined from premium materials that are ready to work as hard as you do — whether you’re documenting field notes or signing your tag after a successful hunt.
Cutting Boards
From field to table, this isn’t your average cutting board — it’s a six-pound testament to American craftsmanship. Handcrafted from solid maple and cherry right here in Montana, this heavy-duty board features nearly two inches of edge grain construction that’s ready to handle everything from delicate herbs to the toughest game processing tasks. The thoughtfully designed juice groove contains the mess when you’re breaking down your harvest, while the rubber feet keep it planted firmly in place and allow proper airflow to preserve your investment.
Each board is unique, showcasing the natural grain patterns that make hardwood such a beautiful material. And like all our gear, it’s built to become a legacy piece — the kind of essential tool you’ll eventually pass down to the next generation of hunters in your family.
MKC COPPER FLASK
Some traditions are worth keeping alive. Our copper flask pairs time-tested materials with American craftsmanship to create something that gets better with every use.
Each 6-ounce flask is wrapped in hand-tooled leather from the Horween Tannery, featuring our iconic bison skull design that deepens in character as the leather ages. The food-grade 18/8 stainless steel core is copper-coated to give it that classic look, while the leather wrap from American tanners adds both protection and personality.
Whether you're celebrating a successful hunt or sharing stories around the campfire, this flask is built to be part of those memories. Each leather wrap is handcrafted here in the USA, making every flask as unique as the stories it'll help tell.
First Blood to Last Bite Bundle
From field harvest to final plating, these three game-changing seasonings elevate every step of your wild game preparation. Our collaboration with Tacticalories brings together a powerhouse trio: the versatile Big Horn Basecamp Blend with its perfect balance of hickory and heat, our cult-favorite Fire Forged Sea Salt that adds intense depth with real sea salt and habanero, and the bold Montexican Taco Blend that transforms any protein into a south-of-the-border feast.
This isn’t your standard spice rack lineup — each blend is crafted with the same attention to detail you expect from MKC, designed specifically to enhance the natural flavors of your harvest while adding just the right kick of personality to every dish.
If you’re looking for inspiration on how to put these seasonings to work, head over to our recipes page, where you’ll find dozens of field-tested recipes from our brand ambassadors and outdoor chefs that showcase these blends in everything from camp meals to holiday feasts.
MKC Logo Hoodie
From dawn patrol to evening campfires, our signature hoodie combines warmth and durability in a package that’s ready for any adventure. This heavyweight 13.5 oz. pullover is built from premium ringspun cotton blend fleece that fights off the chill while resisting pilling and wear. The kangaroo pocket keeps your hands warm and essentials close, while the lined hood and tonal drawcord add extra protection when the weather turns.
With our bold MKC logo screen-printed front and center and a subtle sleeve detail, it’s the kind of essential layer that looks as good as it performs, whether you’re glassing a hillside or gathering around the fire pit. Globally sourced materials, screen-printed right here in the USA, because we believe in putting our mark on quality gear that works as hard as you do.
MKC Leather Belt – Black
When it comes to everyday carry, details matter. Our collaboration with Francesca at Teton Leather Company brings together Montana grit and artisan craftsmanship in a belt that’s built to last generations. Made from premium cowhide leather, this 1.5-inch-wide workhorse features a full-grain topside and buffalo stamp detail that develops more character with every wear.
Each belt is handcrafted in the USA with meticulous attention to detail, from the clean saddle stitching to the polished hardware. At 3/8-inch thick, it’s substantial enough to support your EDC gear while remaining comfortable for daily wear. Whether you’re in the field or heading to town, this belt delivers the perfect blend of function and style that you’ve come to expect from MKC collaborations.
MKC Headlamp 2.0
When your adventure extends past sunset, you need illumination you can count on. Built with input from seasoned hunters, our Headlamp 2.0 delivers a powerful 800 lumens of focused light in a rugged, weatherproof package. Whether you’re tracking in low light, field dressing after dark, or setting up camp, the adjustable focal spot puts light exactly where you need it.
The red light mode preserves your night vision and won’t spook wildlife, while the IPX4 waterproof rating means rain and splashes won’t slow you down. We’ve thought through the details that matter — from the comfortable topographic band to the dual power options (USB-C rechargeable or three AAA batteries), and we even added a locking feature to prevent accidental activation in your pack. At just 3.32 ounces, it’s light enough to forget it’s there until you need it.
MKC Bison Skull Patch – Camo Trucker Snapback
More than just another camo hat, our bison skull trucker carries a piece of Montana heritage. The genuine leather patch features a petrified bison skull discovered in the Bob Marshall Wilderness — a relic from the ice age that tells a story of both ancient history and American craftsmanship. Found near Brandon’s family cabin in the 1940s, complete with tool marks from early inhabitants, it’s a symbol of resilience and legacy that perfectly represents our commitment to American manufacturing.
The curved mid-pro design and cotton-poly mesh construction deliver all-day comfort, while the adjustable snapback ensures a custom fit. Like a well-used hunting knife or a favorite leather sheath, the leather patch will develop its own unique patina over time, making each hat as individual as the story it represents.
The Bottom Line: Purpose-Driven Gear That Delivers
After spending countless days in the field, we’ve learned that the best gear isn’t always the most expensive or the flashiest. It’s the stuff that works when you need it, holds up over time, and makes your time outdoors better. These 11 pieces have earned their keep in our packs because they solve real problems we face as hunters and outdoorsmen. From early morning coffee to late-night processing sessions, this is gear we trust and use ourselves — simple as that.
by Josh Smith, Master Bladesmith and Founder of Montana Knife Company
