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.
- 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
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.
- 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.
- LIGHT AS A FEATHER: And incredibly tough; Ideal for hiking, camping, and backpacking, and made for everyday use; A lightweight, go-anywhere tool
- AMERICAN MADE CPM-S30V STEEL: For first-rate edge retention and corrosion resistance; Precision drop-point construction for strength and versatility.
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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- FIXED BLADE KNIFE: Durable satin-polished D2 stainless steel construction handles various work tasks as a backup knife. Excellent balance of hardness and corrosion resistance ensures proper operation...
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.
- 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
- 【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.
- Blades: Stainless Steel Hawkbill
- Length Closed: 4 1/8 Inches
- Hawkbill blade is AUS 8 stainless-steel
- Slim and comfortable silver anodized-aluminum handle for corrosion-resistance
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.
- Brand Name: Firebird Ganzo
- Type: Folding Knife with Flipper Lock
- Superior Quality - The Yojimbo 2 is an evolved expression of its original Spyderco Yojimbo design. The refined Ergonomics of the Yojimbo 2 complement the natural contours of the hand, ensuring maximum...
- Versatile - A unique attribute of the Yojimbo 2 is the thumb forward grip. It allows the 3.2" CPM S30V blade to feel like a natural extension of the hand.
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.
- 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
- 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
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.
- RAZOR SHARP BLADE - 5.4” Trailing Point D2 steel blade has excellent toughness, edge retention and wear resistance for lasting durability. The trailing blade is good for peeling, food prep, and...
- COMFORTABLE GRIP - Ergonomic G-10 handle with even finish, for sturdy and non-slip grip. G10 is favored for its high strength, low moisture absorption, excellent shock absorption and chemical...
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- Knife with a 2.0 mm thick blade of Swedish cold-rolled special stainless steel with inside edge.
- Plastic handle.
![Gerber Vital Zip [31-002745], Orange](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31-M-3ivLLL._SL160_.jpg)
- 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.
