Today, there are hundreds of blades shapes available to do a variety of tasks. Each one is a compromise combining differing degrees of efficiency and utility. Let's discuss some of the most common blade shapes.
One of the most common blade shapes is the drop point blade. Drop point blades do most everything well. The tip of the blade is narrow and has some curvature for fine slicing when doing chores such as cleaning game. The drop point also works well in gardening or in the kitchen.
Another popular blade style is the clip point. The clip point is also popularly known as the bowie-style blade. Clip point knives have a fine tip that is less ideal for fine cutting but penetrates well for poking holes in tough materials such as heavy nylon or leather. The clip point blade usually also has less curvature at the edge which makes it less useful for many everyday cutting tasks.
A less common blade shape is the sheepsfoot. The sheepsfoot blade has a blunt tip so is suited only for cutting. It is popular with botanists and gardeners for grafting because it makes a clean, straight cut. Sheepsfoot blades are usually only used in smaller sized knives.
A blade style that has gained in popularity during the last couple decades is the hawkbill. As the name implies, the blade is shaped like a hawk's bill or talon. Many times these blades are serrated for use in maritime environments for cutting ropes or other lines. There use is otherwise very limited.
The tanto is also a common blade shape. It is identified by the geometric shape of its' tip. Tanto blades are known for being able to take abuse due to maintaining their full blade thickness near the tip. That translate into a blade that can take heavy prying and stabbing without sustaining serious damage.
That covers the most popular blade shapes but there are a myriad of them. It is best to identify what activity the blade will be used for and then choose the shape that best meets your need.
| Price : $69.99 | Post Date : Jan 14, 2012 03:51:54
