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Types Of Knives
Exploring the world of knives opens up a fascinating array of designs, each serving different purposes, from the quick-opening automatic and assisted knives to the classic Bowie and handy multitools. This article showcases the unique traits, uses, and histories of various types of knives, appealing to both enthusiasts and those looking for practical tools.
Assisted
An assisted opening knife utilizes a spring or torsion bar mechanism to facilitate smooth and rapid deployment when triggered by the user. Engineered for one-handed operation, these knives are a great balance between automatic and manual openers.
Automatic
Automatic knives are characterized by a blade that automatically deploys from the side of the handle with the press of a button. Known for their swift and efficient one-handed operation, these knives offer ease of use and quick access to the blade.
Balisong/Butterfly
A balisong/butterfly is a folding pocket knife characterized by two handles that rotate around the tang of the blade. Known for its unique flipping action, the balisong/butterfly is both a practical and skillful instrument in the hands of enthusiasts who master its techniques.
Bowie
A Bowie knife is a large, fixed-blade knife characterized by a large clip-point blade and simple crossguard. Originally designed by Rezin Bowie in the early 1800s, the Bowie knife has become iconic for its versatility in almost every scenario.
Dive
A dive knife is crafted for underwater use, with a corrosion-resistant blade to cut through fishing lines or seaweed. Typically attached to the leg or a BCD (buoyancy control device), these knives are vital for divers to ensure their safety during underwater activities.
Fishing
Fishing knives are designed for anglers and feature a sharp and versatile blade suitable for cutting lines, as well as cleaning and filleting fish. These knives are typically equipped with a corrosion-resistant blade and grippy ergonomic handle, making them essential tools for fishermen.
Fixed
Fixed knives are a robust and sturdy cutting tool with a non-folding blade that is permanently attached to the handle. Known for its durability and reliability, the fixed knife is commonly used in outdoor activities such as camping, survival, and hunting.
Gravity
A gravity knife is a folding knife that opens its blade using the force of gravity, typically with a button or lever mechanism. This design allows for swift and easy one-handed deployment, making gravity knives popular for various tasks, especially in situations where quick access to the blade is essential.
Karambit
A karambit is a unique and curved-blade knife with roots in Southeast Asia, featuring a distinctive hooked shape resembling a tiger's claw. Originally designed as an agricultural tool for cutting roots, the karambit has evolved into a versatile utility and self-defense knife, known for its ergonomic design and efficient close-quarters use.
Kephart
A Kephart knife is a classic outdoor fixed knife design attributed to the renowned American outdoorsman Horace Kephart. Characterized by a simple, straight-backed blade and a comfortable handle, the Kephart knife excels in bushcraft and woodcraft tasks, making it a popular choice for outdoor and survival enthusiasts.
Manual
A manual knife refers to a non-automatic or non-assisted knife that requires manual manipulation for both deployment and retraction of the blade. Users typically engage the blade using thumb studs, a flipper, or other manual means, making it a straightforward and versatile cutting tool.
Multitools
Multitools are versatile devices that integrate various tools into a compact and portable unit, typically featuring a combination of pliers, knives, screwdrivers, and other functions. Designed for convenience and practicality, multitools are favored for their ability to assist with a variety of tasks in diverse settings, making them popular among outdoor enthusiasts, DIYers, and individuals seeking a compact toolkit
Neck
A neck knife is a compact and lightweight fixed-blade knife designed to be worn suspended from a cord around the neck. Valued for its portability and accessibility, the neck knife is often used for everyday cutting tasks and is a popular choice for individuals who prefer a discreet and hands-free carrying option.
Out The Front (OTF)
OTF knives have a retractable blade that extends and retracts through a front-facing opening in the handle, OTF knives come with three distinct opening mechanisms.
Single Action- the single-action opener rapidly deploys the blade through a button or slide push but necessitates manual retraction.
Double Action- the double-action opener seamlessly extends and retracts the blade with the push of a button or slide.
Slide- a slide opener deploys and retracts the blade into the handle through a manual sliding mechanism.
Written by Drew Clifton
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