When hunting big game I carry my sheath knife in my pack. I've made and purchased sheath knives without belt loops. I carry a pocket knife in addition to the sheath knife. The pocket knife is used to cut fur and the sheath knife does the boning work. I won't tolerate banging my rifle stock against a knife and I have never been able to avoid it while wearing a blade on my belt.
I have experienced two folding knife failures in the field, both Japanese Kershaw knives. I was able to complete the task with a broken lock mechanism. I see no reason to carry more than 2 knives but always have extra knives back at the truck or in camp. My brother field dressed a buck with a broken piece of glass, I should be able to get by with 2 quality knives.
