There are as many best knifes as there are people and situations. It`s also a question of economy. A fixed blade will always be more solid unless you get a Darrel Ralph or, something like that.

The inexperienced(well the experienced too) will mostly do well with more than one knife. A small one for most stuff and a larger chopper where that`s more appropriate. It depends. A medium size one combined with a saw and/or axe might be more appropriate.

The personal thing is huge though. Some do everything with a huge ass bowie or tracker type thing.