The Ultimate Guide to Knife Blade Types for EDC, Self-Defense, and more!

Aside from being very useful kitchen tools, knives are also handy outdoors. They’re great for hunting, EDC, and self-defense tools, especially for close combat. But, there are so many blade types it’s hard to know which to go with. So, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of the popular knife blade types to help you decide on your next blade.

Knife Blade Types

Normal Blade/Straight Back Blade

A normal blade or straight back blade has a curved edge and a dull, flat spine. This kind of knife is great for chopping or slicing because you can apply pressure to the spine for more leverage.

KA-BAR Full Size US Marine Corps Fighting Knife, Straight,...
  • Edge Angles - 20 Degrees
  • Overall length 11.875 inches
  • The most famous fixed blade knife design in the world

Last update on 2023-03-21 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Drop-Point Blade

Kershaw scallion drop point blade knife

A drop-point knife is usually used for hunting. A drop-point blade slopes on the spine from the handle to the tip with the curve on the top in a convex style. The spine is also stronger and thicker to continue forward to the tip of the blade. This way the point is also aligned with the center axis of the knife, eliminating any pitch momentum when stabbing.

This is a good all-purpose shape that excels at stabbing and can still cut and skin well also.

Bestseller No. 1
Zero Tolerance 0308BLKTS, Drop Point Pocket Knife, 3.75-in. Blade,...
  • The ZT KVT G10 is an exceptionally hard 3.75-inch blade made with CPM 20CV Steel, offering remarkable edge retention for repeated use.
  • The handle features black G10 on the front scale with a titanium back. Both the front and back are heavily 3D machined for a secure grip.
Bestseller No. 2
Benchmade - 533BK-2 Mini Bugout Knife, Drop Point Blade, Plain Edge,...
  • LIGHT AS A FEATHER: And incredibly tough; Ideal for hiking, camping, and backpacking, and made for everyday use; A lightweight, go-anywhere tool
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Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Clip-Point Blade

A clip-point blade has its front part “clipped” off. The clipped part can be straight or concave. A clip-point blade can usually be found on knives used for tasks that require precision but not on tactical knives. 

Bestseller No. 1
Benchmade - Mini Crooked River 15085-2 EDC Manual Open Hunting Knife...
  • BUILT FOR THE HUNT: Simplicity and style meets unmatched function, no matter the application; An ideal hunting knife capable of countless tasks in the field.
  • AMERICAN MADE CPM-S30V STEEL: For first-rate edge retention and corrosion resistance; Clip-point construction for easily controlled cuts.
Bestseller No. 2
Buck Knives 112 Ranger Sport Folding Pocket Knife, Aluminum...
  • Razor Sharp Clip Point Blade - 3" S30V stainless steel clip-point blade has excellent strength, edge retention and is corrosion resistant. The crescent tip makes the blade thinner with a sharper...
  • Easy and Safe to Use - Simple to open with thumb studs. The lock back design locks the blade open for reliable strength and safety while you work

Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Needle-Point Blade

A needle-point blade or a dagger blade has a weak point that can break on tough targets and has no cutting edge for slicing. It has an extremely thin and sharp point that pierces soft targets effectively.

Spear-Point Blade

A spear-point blade is almost similar to a needle-point blade but with a more defined and sharper edge that’s great for slicing. Both edges of the blade are symmetrical and can both be sharpened. Spear-point blades are often found on throwing knives. 

Tanto Blade

The tanto blade is designed based on the sword used by samurais during Japan’s feudal period. The word “tanto” is a Japanese sword that means “short sword.” A tanto blade has a flat grind and a sharp, reinforced point, resulting in excellent penetrating power. These features make the tanto good for stabbing and therefore effective in combat.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Cold Steel Recon Tanto Fixed Blade Knife with Sheath, SK-5 Steel, 7.0"...
  • DEVELOPED AND REFINED: Through our pioneering research, this blade shape has proven the value of the "American Tanto" style reinforced point beyond question
  • TRUSTED: Having seen active military application in numerous conflicts, it is on its way to becoming the preferred fixed blade for special military units and SWAT teams
Bestseller No. 2
MADSABRE Handmade Samurai Custom Full Tang Classic Japan Katana -...
  • KNIFE DIMENSIONS: Overall length: 26cm 10.2 inches” inches; Blade length: 14cm 5.51'' inches'; Handle length: 12cm 4.72 ” inches; Weight of Knife: 12.1 Ounce
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Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sheepsfoot Blade

A sheepsfoot blade comes with a straight, sharp edge and a dull spine. These sides run parallel with then sharply curve down towards the point, creating a 60° to 90° blade tip. Because of its dull spine, a sheepsfoot blade is great for slicing and cutting tasks that require better control of the blade. These blades can be fixed or folded and can be single bevel or double bevel. 

These are great for campsite food prep.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Benchmade - Proper 319-2 Knife, Sheepsfoot Blade, Plain Edge, Satin...
  • HIGH-QUALITY: The CPM-S30V stainless steel blade is extremely well-balanced, offering superb edge qualities and rust resistance. The Micarta handle features rich color and a quality finish.
  • WELL-DESIGNED: The Proper 319 is a slip-joint knife with a simple, classic design that harkens back to the m
Bestseller No. 2
OKNIFE Gaur Folding Pocket Knife with Deep Carry Pocket Clip, EDC...
  • 【Stonewashed D2 Blade】D2 steel offers excellent edge retention and good toughness. The stonewashed finish helps hide scratches and fingerprints.
  • 【Firm Grip】Ergonomically contoured, textured paper micarta handle offers a comfortable, secure grip. Large forward finger choil and dimples facilitate controlled cutting.

Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Hawkbill Blade/Talon

A hawkbill blade is shaped in a sharp downward curve like a hawk’s bill. The blade’s outer curve is dull while its inner curve is the cutting edge. Hawkbill knives are often used as tactical weapons because their extremely sharp point makes them great for piercing even if the spine isn’t sharpened.

Bestseller No. 1
CASE XX WR Pocket Knife Hawkbill Pruner Black Canvas Laminate Item...
  • Blades: Stainless Steel Hawkbill
  • Length Closed: 4 1/8 Inches
SaleBestseller No. 2
Klein Tools 44006 Pocket Knife, Electricians Knife with 2-5/8-Inch...
  • Hawkbill blade is AUS 8 stainless-steel
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Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Wharncliffe Blade

A Wharncliffe blade is short but very thick and durable with a highly defined point. It has a straight edge and its spine is convex-shaped and slopes down from its apex halfway along the blade towards the point.

SaleBestseller No. 1
Firebird GANZO FH31 Pocket Folding Knife D2 Wharncliffe Steel Blade...
  • Brand Name: Firebird Ganzo
  • Type: Folding Knife with Flipper Lock
Bestseller No. 2
Spyderco Yojimbo 2 Specialty Tactical Knife with 3.2" CPM S30V Steel...
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Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Recurve

A recurve blade has an edge that curves inward like an elongated S. Recurve knives are excellent for cutting objects with rounded surfaces, for cutting sticks or branches, and for cutting rope.

Bestseller No. 1
Smith & Wesson Black Ops Recurve 8in S.S. Assisted Opening Knife with...
122 Reviews
Smith & Wesson Black Ops Recurve 8in S.S. Assisted Opening Knife with...
  • DIMENSIONS: 8 inch (20.32 cm) overall length with a blade length of 3.5 inches (8.89 cm) and a weight of 4.8 ounces
  • DURABLE: Blade is made of reliable 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel with a black, G10 handle
SaleBestseller No. 2
Gerber DoubleDown Folding Machete 6.75" 420HC Stonewashed Recurve...
  • 420HC recurve blade with a plain edge and baton jimping for a firm, non-slip grip
  • Machete can easily stow in a pack, on a belt, or attached to MOLLE

Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Reverse Tanto

Gerber multiplier reverse tanto knife
This Gerber blade is nearly a sheepsfoot with a slightly lower pitch at the point (or an elongated Wharnfliffe blade)

As the name implies, a reverse tanto is a flipped version of the tanto blade. Its spine meets the edge in a straight, downward manner, while the edge is curved upwards. This design gives it better penetration, making it more effective for stabbing.

As you can see in the picture above, knife designers often mix and blend styles to achieve benefits from multiple types.

Trailing Point Blade

The trailing point blade has a tip that curves upwards and higher than the knife’s spine. The tip is also significantly thinner than the blade’s body so it breaks easily when used on hard objects. Trailing point blades are used for skinning, slicing, and other delicate cutting tasks.

SaleBestseller No. 1
KUBEY Scimitar KU231 10.4in Fixed Blade Hunting Knives with 5.4in...
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Bestseller No. 2
Ugly Stik Ugly Tools 7 Inch Serrated Knife, Fishing Fillet Knife for...
32 Reviews
Ugly Stik Ugly Tools 7 Inch Serrated Knife, Fishing Fillet Knife for...
  • UGLY STIK UGLY TOOLS SERRATED FILLET KNIFE: A rugged and dependable serrated blade with a line-cutting notch on the spine. Designed for anglers and suitable for easy use out on the water. Covered by a...
  • TRAILING POINT BLADE STYLE offers high utility and dexterity to begin - and end - cuts exactly where you want to.

Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Spey Point Blade

A spey point blade was originally designed to neuter farm animals. It features a blunt point that prevents the user from accidentally jabbing the surface. This type of blade is great for making clean cuts.

Bestseller No. 1
Old Timer 8OTY Yellow Senior 6.9in S.S. Traditional Pocket Knife with...
  • DIMENSIONS: 6.9 inch (17.5 cm) overall length with blade lengths of 3 inches (7.6 cm) and a weight of 2.8 ounces
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SaleBestseller No. 2
Old Timer 8OT Senior 6.9in S.S. Traditional Folding Knife with 3in...
  • DIMENSIONS: 6.9 inch (17.5 cm) overall length with blade lengths of 3 inches (7.6 cm) and a weight of 2.8 ounces
  • DURABLE: Blades are made of reliable High Carbon Stainless Steel to maintain a sharp edge and to withstand rugged outdoor use

Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Gut Hook

A gut hook blade is usually used by hunters to skin downed game. It has a sharp and curved tip that resembles a hook. This hook is extremely helpful in making long, straight cuts while opening an animal’s body without piercing the lining of the tender belly.

Personally, I do this work with a skinning or caping knife instead of switching to a special blade just for convenience. But for bigger jobs, these can really come in handy.

Bestseller No. 1
Morakniv Belly Opener with Stainless Steel Hook Blade, 2.6-Inch
  • Knife with a 2.0 mm thick blade of Swedish cold-rolled special stainless steel with inside edge.
  • Plastic handle.
Bestseller No. 2
Gerber Vital Zip [31-002745], Orange
  • Highly visual, orange rubber handle is easy to spot + grip.
  • Nimble razor blade ideal for the hunt, worksite, or rescue situations.

Last update on 2023-03-25 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Conclusion

Consider each blade type carefully especially if you’ll be using it for your EDC because there might be instances when your task or even your life will depend on it. Always keep your blade clean because no matter how sharp it is, it will get dull or rusty if not cared for properly.

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