Pocket knives have so many uses and there are many different types of pocket knives available. Hikers, hunters, tradesmen, and farmers all use pocket knives for a whole range of applications and so buying the right knife is crucial. Choosing the best knife for your needs can be difficult with so many options but if you make the right choice, the knife will last for years and years. From choosing the best handle to the sharpest blade, every element of the knife must be considered before you make a purchase.
Here is what to look for when buying a pocket knife.
1. The Style
The first thing you will need to decide when buying a pocket knife is whether you want a traditional style or a more modern, contemporary style of knife. Traditional pocket knives have heavy handles usually made of varnished hardwood with brass, steel, or some other metal and a thick, sharpened blade that curves slightly to a point. They have a classic, timeless look and make a great gift for people who like sophisticated items. Modern pocket knives come in a variety of different styles and use various metals and materials for the blades. The knife enthusiasts at Deejo explain that these pocket knives combine function with ultimate modern style. These knives are perfect for people who like to stand out and have something a little different.
2. The Blade
The blade is the most important part of any knife, and once you have decided on what style you want, the first thing you need to look at is the blade. Pocket knife blades come in a range of shapes from Wharncliffe to hawkbill and which shape is best for you really depends on what you plan to use the knife for. The most common blade shapes are clip point, drop point, and tanto point and if you are looking for a good all-round knife that is strong and versatile, those are the blades to go for. For more specialized uses such as hunting or fishing, you may want to consider a spear point knife. Whichever blade you choose, just make sure you keep it sharp.
3. The Handle
The handle is another very important element of a pocket knife and it is crucial that you don’t just choose a knife based on how they handle looks. Women may have different requirements based on their lifestyle and activities. For example, if the knife is primarily for everyday carry, then the best pocket knife for women must be having a versatile blade handle. The knife should feel good in your hand and, most importantly, it should never slip as you cut or stab with it. A well-made handle will be easy to grip and won’t cause and wear or blisters to your hand. As long as the handle feels good, you can choose any material and design that you like. As noted above, traditional knives usually come with beautiful hardwood handles while modern pocket knives may use brushed steel, titanium, or some other metal for their handles.
4. The Weight
Whether you are buying a pocket knife or a kitchen knife, weight is extremely important as it is a major factor in the usability of a pocket knife. Hold the knife and feel the balance between the blade and the handle. If the blade is too heavy, it won’t feel comfortable, while if the handle is too heavy, it will be difficult to cut. While the blade to weight ratio is important for cutting, the overall weight is also a consideration as you don’t want to be carrying around a knife that is too heavy all day. If you do choose a particularly heavy knife, consider investing in a sheath that can attach to your belt, rather than carrying the knife in your pocket.
5. The Price
Once you have considered all of these factors and narrowed your choice down to a few options, the last thing you will need to decide is your budget. The price of pocket knives varies widely based on materials, brand, and design. While you don’t want to overspend, the quality will last you a lifetime so don’t walk away from your favorite knife just because it is a little more expensive than your other choices.
With so many factors to consider, choosing a pocket knife may seem like a difficult decision. The best thing to do is to break it down and look at each factor one at a time. Decide whether you want a traditional style or a more contemporary knife and then pay careful attention to the quality of the blade and the handle. The knife should feel comfortable in your hand and should never slip. When it comes to price remember that the better the knife, the longer it will last, so don’t sacrifice quality for a few dollars.