Many pocket knives have multiple blades for a variety of purposes. For example, one blade may be a “toothy” utility edge for cutting twine and strapping while another has a chisel grind for shaving leather and wood.
Typically, these blades have different styles and can be sharpened differently so they complete a wide range of tasks. They also help you save on materials as each blade is less likely to break during extreme use.
The main blade
Whether you’re a knife enthusiast or not, there are many different blade types to choose from. Each has a specific purpose, and you need to know which one is best for your needs before you buy.
The main blade is usually one of the larger ones on a multi-blade pocket knife. It’s great for skinning, slicing and general use.
Another popular blade is the drop point. This style has a straight spine until it gets near the tip and slopes slightly down to meet the cutting edge at a sharp point.
Originally used for spaying livestock, this blade is very popular with hunters and trappers. It’s a bit duller than the clip point, which helps to prevent cuts and snagging during skinning.
The serrated blade
The blades of pocket knives come in several varieties, including plain edge, serrated edge and curved blades. The edge type you choose will be largely influenced by your personal preference and the tasks you expect to use the knife for.
Most people prefer a blade with a plain edge, especially for everyday carry and use. A serrated knife, however, is a better choice for survival situations and for hikers, climbers and mariners because it’s stronger and can cut tough materials.
The blade of a serrated knife is made up of small, notched or toothed edges called serrations. This makes them stronger and more resistant to breakage than a straight blade. But serrated blades are also more difficult to maintain. It takes a lot of time and effort to sharpen all the small edges when they get dull.
The curved blade
The curved blade is a common feature found on many pocket knives. It’s a design feature that makes sense for a variety of uses and tasks, especially for cutting rope or thick belts.
The blade’s curve is a good choice for these types of jobs, since the hooking motion makes it easy to slash through anything. The hooking motion also carries the force of the cut along the entire length of the blade, making it easier to penetrate the target without losing too much power.
It’s no wonder that this style of blade is favored by military and first responders, who often need to cut seat belts or clothing close to the body. It’s also popular among river guides and kayakers, who may need to cut through ropes or even thick fabric in an emergency.
The saw blade
One of the main reasons pocket knives have multiple blades is because they can be used for many different tasks. This is especially true when you are out in the woods or on a camping trip.
A saw blade is designed to cut through wood, sheet goods and metal. It is usually made from a hardened steel or alloy to give it longer life and better performance.
Most saw blades have teeth, which protrude from either side of the cutting edge. There are several different tooth designs, including ATB, ATB+R, HiATB, TCG and HR (see below).
The tooth design also determines how smooth the cut is. ATB+R blades tend to leave fuzzy edges, while TCG blades are more precise and smoother. Some ripping blades also have a high alternate top bevel, which reduces the amount of pitch in the cut. This geometry is helpful in minimizing fuzzy edges and reducing blade vibration.