The Most Common Pocket Knife Blades, and How to Use Them

Now that you know about the best knife sharpeners, it is a good time to look at the three most common types of pocket knife blades.  There are lots of different types of pocket knives and of course just as many types of blade types. 

However, there are three commonly popular pocket knife blade types in use today.  The drop point, tanto, and serrated blades are the most common blades you’ll find on pocket knives for sale in today’s market.  Although there are plenty of other types like the clip point, straight back, spear point, penknife, and even the talon/hawkbill.

Before you buy a pocket knife know what your local laws are.  In Nebraska, any pocket knife blades over 3-1/2″ is considered a weapon and thus can not be concealed.  There are other places that assisted opening knives are illegal so check local laws first.  Many states have laws about pocket knife blade types also.

A Little History on the Pocket Knife

Pocket knives didn’t come into play until the 17th century because there were no pockets until then.  The first pocket knife blades were nothing more than a blade with an attached sheath that would pivot out of the way when using the blade.  You had to hold the blade to keep them open as the “handle” had no way of staying open.  Over the centuries the pocket knife has become much more advanced.  So much so that modern pocket knives not only lock open but will assist you in opening them also.

Different Types of Pocket Knife Blades

When it comes to folding style pocket knives there are a few basic styles of pocket knife blades.  There are always exceptions and oddballs, but these are the most popular pocket knife blade types.  When looking for your basic pocket knife to carry everyday, stick with the basics.

Drop Point

The most common pocket knife blade type is a drop point blade.  Like in the picture the edge of the blade is sharp on one side curving up to a point.  The other side is flat and drops to the point.  The Drop Point blade is a general-purpose blade good for control and strength.  It’s a great all-purpose blade good for most things. Perfect for everyday carry.

Clip Point

The clip point is a very common pocket knife blade type. It’s called a clip point because the back of the blade is “clipped.” They can be either straight or concave. The clip point has a sharp tip that’s good for cutting straight in, on top of the fine point is had lots of straight blade for cutting. The one downside side of the clip point is the tip. Since the tip is so narrow it doesn’t have a lot of strength and can break off isn’t very strong because it’s so narrow.

Pen

The Pen blade is often found on Swiss Army knives. They are smaller and not as sharp as other blades. Originally meant for sharping quills for writing. They are great for small detail work and small tasks.

Tanto Point

The Tanto Point blade has a straight blade than an angled tip.  This blade is designed for strength.  It’s also good for push cuts and piercing cuts.  If you are cutting tough material and not looking at slicing cuts, this is the knife for you.  The two angles make sharpening the blade simple with a wet stone.

 Serrated

Most of the time serrated blades are combined with another type of blade.  You rarely see a pocket knife blade that is only serrated.  They are normally half and half.  The serrated blade is great for pull cuts(like sawing) through tough material.  They are good for things like rubber hoses, and other materials that don’t cut well with a standard knife blade.  EMT’s carry them to cut through seat belts and heavy-duty straps.  A serrated blade can be very hard to sharpen as you need around stone.

 Not a Pocket Knife.

Many people carry a folding utility knife like a pocket knife.  The great thing about these is that they use a standard utility knife blade.  Instead of sharping the blade you flip the blade around or replace it.  These are great when cutting a lot of cardboard or other materials that are hard on blades.  They are not considered a pocket knife even though many people carry them in their pockets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, only you can make the final decision on what pocket knife works best for you.  Pick the one that is best for the jobs you’ll be doing the most.  If you cut a lot of boxes get a utility knife.  Cutting ropes, webbing, or rubber get the serrated blade.  When you just want an all-around good knife then your standard drop point pocket knife is perfect.  The biggest thing to remember is to use the right tool for the right job and always keep your knife sharp.