If you’ve ever looked closely at a pocketknife, you’ll notice that each blade has a different shape and size. There’s a reason for this. Are you unfamiliar with the different types of knife blades? Continue reading to become familiar with some of the most popular blades you’ll find in the knife world.
Sheepsfoot Blade
A sheepsfoot blade has a straight edge and a spine that curves down to meet the point. This blade type is ideal for slicing with minimal accidental piercing. The original use for the sheepsfoot blade was trimming sheep’s hooves, which is how it got its name. Sheepsfoot blades are non-threatening, maneuverable, and work oriented.
Clip-Point Blade
Clip-point blades are common to find in the knife world. They gained massive popularity in the 1800s thanks to the introduction of the Bowie knife. Are you wondering how the blade type got its name? The front section of the spine looks like someone clipped it off. The clipped area of the spine can either be concave or straight, resulting in a fine-tip point. This sharp point makes it perfect for precision tasks and detailed work.
Tanto Blade
The inspiration behind this blade type comes from the short swords worn by samurai in Japan. Thanks to the curved belly, it has a prominent point that creates an angular edge transition. Tanto blades are tactical, strong, and piercing. They have incredible durability and can easily penetrate many materials. This blade will never let you down.
Wharncliffe Blade
The Wharncliffe blade has a rich history, dating back decades. It has recently become popular again because of its tactical uses and sleek design. This blade type has a similar look to the sheepsfoot blade. It has a straight edge and curved spine. But unlike the sheepsfoot blade, the curve gradually extends from the handle to the tip. It’s perfect for slicing with minimal possibility of accidental puncture.
Drop-Point Blade
It’s easy to identify a drop-point blade due to the convex curve from its spine to the tip. This blade type has a fantastic overall look with a flexible profile and refined design. The point is easy to control, and the big belly is ideal for slicing. It’s the perfect blade for hunters.
After reading through the different knife blade types, purchase the perfect option for your specific needs. Ensure you invest in a knife sheath to protect yourself and your knife when you’re not utilizing it. You may need a few blade types in your arsenal since each type tackles various tasks.
