
Choosing the right knife is a far more complicated process today than it was a century ago. The knife is the oldest and most adaptable tool mankind possesses. Throughout history, knives have changed and evolved along with humanity's needs. Not all knives are suitable for every task anymore, which is why our knife buying guide begins with a purpose.
The Knife: A Specialized Tool
The specialization of the modern knife is what makes a knife buying guide necessary. Many knives are designed for the specific needs that no doubt led to the knife's invention thousands of years ago: hunting, fishing, skinning, boning, and gutting.
But the heavy-duty knives that procure wildlife for our kitchens are no longer the knives used to prepare that wildlife for consumption. Cutlery knives and specialized kitchen knives have blades and features specially created for the more delicate duties of the contemporary cook. Still other knives are designed for those who enjoy outdoor activities besides hunting, such as camping, hiking, or rock climbing.
Choosing the Right Knife Features
With those diverse purposes in mind, our knife buying guide offers some tips on the qualities and features to look for when choosing a knife:
As for knife handle size, a good rule of thumb (literally) is to choose a handle about 1/2-inch larger than your grip.
There are several different types of folding blade knives: pocket knives(i.e. Swiss knives), lockback knives, and one-handed knives that can be closed and opened with one hand. A folded blade knife is safe, compact, and convenient, but more conducive to lighter duty tasks.
Most knife blades are made from stainless steel, a material with sufficient strength and resistance for most basic tasks. Some heavy-duty knives use carbon steel, which is easier to sharpen, but is also higher maintenance.
General Knife Tips