Blade Types

If you’re looking to buy a knife but aren’t sure which is the right one for you, you’ve come to the right page. Here we will help you find the exact material, blade and shape you want and need to have in your trusty tool.

The first step in choosing the right knife for you will be deciding exactly what you’ll be using it for. Each knife has its own specifications and ensuring you pick the right knife for the job is important. Below we have listed each blade shape and the type of job they’re most suited to.

Which Blade Shape Best Suits Your Hobby?

Drop point

Strong, thick, for heavy tasks but also happy to be used as a general work knife. Very versatile, strong and precise.

Skinner

Exactly what it says; best used for skinning with its secure grip, short, thin and curved to keep from puncturing the hide/spearing the meat.

Pen

Pen-knives are usually seen on pocket knives. An all-purpose, handy blade. Perfect for camping, fishing, first aid etc.

Coping

A narrow blade with a sharp angled point designed for cutting in tight spots or curved patterns.

Clip

With a thinner/sharper point it is good for detail work, cutting in tight places and intentional punctures (eg., new holes in a belt). Not as strong as blades with thicker points eg., drop points.

Caping

Very slim and light duty; used for delicate jobs so not always the right choice if you only plan on carrying one knife.

Serrations

Especially useful with cutting line or cables; huge cutting power.

Gut Hook

For hunting. Large belly is perfect for slicing and skinning. Careful attention has been paid to the angles, edge, shape and size to ensure a Buck gut-hook is the best.

What Type of Mechanism Suits You?

Fixed-Blade Knife

A solid blade in a fixed position. If you’re looking for a blade for tough jobs that you can trust, a fixed-blade is the best choice.

Folding Knife

combines safety with the convenience of a space saver. Not all folding knives lock, but those that do will always be referred to by their locking mechanisms.

Locking Folding Knife

will lock the blade into position when fully opened. Lockbacks generally require two-hand closing.

Assisted-Opening Knives

means the user initiates the opening and a built-in mechanism completes it. These knives are not legal in the UK.

Pocket-Knives

are non-locking, compact, typically two-hand open/close knives. Great to carry with you for everyday situations.