The boot knife dates back to the early 19th century, primarily designed as a last-resort weapon for self-defense. Popularized in the American West, they were often carried by frontiersmen, lawmen, and soldiers. These small, easily concealable knives were designed to be tucked into boots or strapped to the ankle, offering a discreet yet accessible defense tool. Over time, boot knives became a staple for civilians and law enforcement alike, providing a reliable self-defense option in a small package.

Typical Use: Self-defense and concealed carry
Average Blade Length: 3 to 4 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Dagger, spear-point
Common Handle Materials: Rubber, polymer, G-10

The Bowie knife traces its origins to early 19th century America, named after the legendary frontiersman Jim Bowie. The knife became famous after the Sandbar Fight in 1827, where Bowie allegedly used the blade in a notorious duel. Known for its large size, clip-point blade, and exceptional durability, the Bowie knife was designed for hunting, survival, and combat. Over time, the knife gained a reputation as a symbol of rugged American survivalism and was widely used during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. It remains one of the most iconic fixed-blade knives today.

Typical Use: Survival, hunting, and combat
Average Blade Length: 9 to 15 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Clip-point
Common Handle Materials: Wood, bone, and horn

Bushcraft knives gained prominence in the 20th century with the rise of outdoor activities and survival training. The term "bushcraft" was coined by Mors Kochanski, and popularized by Ray Mears; who emphasized the importance of a good knife for tasks like carving, fire-starting, and building shelters. Bushcraft knives are designed to perform various tasks essential for outdoor survival, and their evolution has led to modern versions made from advanced steel and synthetic handle materials.

Typical Use: Woodworking, fire-starting, and small game processing
Average Blade Length: 3.5 to 4.5 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Drop-point, clip-point
Common Handle Materials: Wood, G-10, Micarta, and carbon fiber

Camp knives evolved from the large, versatile blades used by early pioneers and explorers. These knives were designed to perform a wide range of tasks in the wilderness, from preparing food to chopping wood. The term "camp knife" was coined in the late 19th century as more people began venturing into the outdoors for recreation. Today, camp knives are a staple for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a reliable and versatile tool for camping and survival situations.

Typical Use: Camping, chopping, and food preparation
Average Blade Length: 5 to 9 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Drop-point and clip point
Common Handle Materials: G-10, Micarta, and rubber

The caping knife was developed as a specialized tool for hunters who needed precision when processing game animals, particularly around delicate areas like the face and hide. Originally used by big game hunters in the 20th century, caping knives became essential for trophy hunting, where preserving the quality of the animal's hide is critical. Over the years, these knives have been refined to offer better control and sharpness for detailed work.

Typical Use: Hunting and Taxidermy
Average Blade Length: 2.5 to 4 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Drop-point
Common Handle Materials: Bone, wood, and Micarta

Combat knives have existed in various forms for centuries, but the modern combat knife emerged during World War I and World War II. The U.S. Marine Corps issued the famous KA-BAR combat knife during World War II, which quickly became a staple for military personnel. These knives were designed for close-quarters combat and utility, serving as essential tools for soldiers in the field. The legacy of combat knives continues today, with various tactical designs used by military and law enforcement agencies around the world.

Typical Use: Military, self-defense, and tactical applications
Average Blade Length: 5 to 7 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Clip-point, spear-point
Common Handle Materials: Metal, Rubber, G-10, and Micarta

The dagger has a long history dating back to ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Romans, where it was used as both a tool and a weapon. Traditionally double-edged, daggers were designed for thrusting and stabbing in close-quarters combat. Over the centuries, various cultures adapted the dagger for military use, ceremonial purposes, and even assassination. In medieval Europe, daggers were often carried by knights and soldiers as a secondary weapon.

Typical Use: Combat and self-defense
Average Blade Length: 3 to 12 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Dagger (double-edged)
Common Handle Materials: Metal, wood, G-10, and Micarta

The karambit knife originated in Southeast Asia, with historical ties to Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Initially used as a farming tool to harvest crops, the karambit evolved into a formidable weapon due to its curved blade, which mimics the claws of a tiger. By the 11th century, the knife had gained popularity in Southeast Asian martial arts, particularly Silat. The karambit’s ergonomic design and curved blade make it highly effective in combat, allowing for powerful slashing and pulling motions.

Typical Use: Martial arts, self-defense, and agricultural work
Average Blade Length: 2.5 to 5 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Hawkbill, curved blade
Common Handle Materials: G-10, Micarta, and wood

The machete is a versatile tool with deep roots in agriculture, particularly in Latin America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Originally used for clearing brush and harvesting crops like sugarcane, it evolved into a symbol of rural life and a tool for both self-defense and combat. Machetes typically feature long, broad blades (12 to 18 inches) that are ideal for chopping and slashing tasks. Today, they remain essential in agriculture, survival situations, and are still used by military forces in some regions.

Typical Use: Clearing vegetation, agricultural tasks, and cutting
Average Blade Length: 12 to 18 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Straight-back, curved
Common Handle Materials: Rubber, wood, and plastic

Neck knives originated from indigenous cultures, where small blades were worn around the neck for quick access during hunting or survival tasks. In modern times, neck knives have gained popularity among survivalists and outdoor enthusiasts due to their convenience and ease of carry. These knives are typically lightweight, with compact blades that are suitable for basic utility tasks and self-defense.

Typical Use: Self-defense and concealed carry
Average Blade Length: 1.5 to 3 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Drop point, spear-point
Common Handle Materials: G-10, polymer, and Micarta

The push dagger has its roots in 19th-century America and Europe, where it became a popular self-defense weapon due to its compact design. With a “T” handle that allowed it to be gripped with the blade extending between the fingers, it offered maximum thrusting power with minimal effort. Push daggers were favored by gamblers, soldiers, and those who needed a discreet, easily concealable weapon. Their compact size made them an ideal tool for close-quarters self-defense, and they were often carried in a small sheath for quick deployment.

Typical Use: Self-defense and concealed carry
Average Blade Length: 2 to 4 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Dagger (double-edged, symmetrical)
Common Handle Materials: Rubber, G-10, and polymer

Throwing knives have been used for centuries by various cultures for hunting, combat, and sport. The art of knife throwing can be traced back to African tribes, who used specially designed knives as weapons. In more modern history, throwing knives became popular in Japan and Europe, where they were used as a method of combat training. In the 20th century, knife throwing transitioned into a recreational sport, and today, it is practiced by enthusiasts around the world. Throwing knives are designed with balanced weight distribution to ensure accuracy and precision.

Typical Use: Target sports and recreational throwing
Average Blade Length: 6 to 12 inches

Typical Blade Shape: Spear-point, straight-back
Common Handle Materials: Steel and polymer