As usual, Sal's philosophy is flawless. I used that same Gerber folder that JTD has to part out deer and elk over a couple of decades. Think it was $30-something back then. I'll hand it to the next generation when he's standing over his first deer....

The Dozier was a recent birthday gift from my love. Accordingly, it will likely join me on hunts for my remaining days. It is too robust in the belly for parting out grouse and boning/caping needs, so I added the Kershaw and Buck last summer for less than a C-Note. Gotta love ebay. I prefer fixed blades to folders for easy field clean-up. Had to soak the Gerber folder in the sink after returning home to be able to brush out the tallow and goo. Its Cordura sheath had the same fate...

I keep a dainty ceramic sharpening stick inside an equally dainty PVC pipe case in my pack. A quick lick on it now and again makes for light work.

Have also butchered my own critters for a number of decades. A 6" Giesser curved boning knife ($19) and 4" boning hook ($10, Link) make breaking down the pack loads easy, after getting home and hanging same at the local locker for a spell. Hope these perspectives help too....