Hunting knives, Butterfly, and Switchblade

Since prehistoric times knives have been constructed and used for protection and for hunting. The first knives were constructed from bone and wood and sharpened by rough rocks and stones. Unfortunately wood decomposes very quickly so there are no actual artifacts remaining, although many bone knives from prehistoric times are still in existence. As metals began being discovered and their various characteristics understood better knives began being made in much higher qualities and quantities. The knife and sword quickly became owned by every man who valued their freedom and protection. It was just as important to have a knife, as home food storage is today.

Time has specialized knives into many different shapes, materials and sizes and many knives have very specific purposes. The most widely used knife throughout time has been the hunting knife. There have been many designs, most of them involving a long sharp blade that is connected to a durable handle and stored in a sheath. The bowie knife which is characterized with a long blade that curves slightly to the tip and is sharpened on one side completely and partially on the other. It also has a hilt to protect the hand and a durable handle. It is the most popular design today, and can be used for hunting as well as combat and self defense.

Cutlery knives are used in the preparation of food and can be made from many different materials. The most popular are chef knives made from carbon steel for its superior sharpness and functionality. Steel is the most common material used in knife construction because of its harness, availability and durability. There are many alloys that can be created which affect the blades characteristics. Stainless knives are easy to clean, but are often made from less expensive alloys which are soft and don’t hold an edge well, necessitating regular sharpening which can lessen the life of a blade.

Folding knives are usually steel knives that have a pivot and lock integrated into the handle of the knife. One popular manufacturer is Buck Knives Inc. Butterfly knives are also considered to be folding knives, but they can also be spun around in elaborate ways in what is called “flipping”. Their association with crime, as well as switchblade knives, has made them illegal in many western countries, although these criminals were portrayed in movies and many knife advocates argue that any weapon is dangerous in the wrong hands, but governments should not restrict every weapon because someone might use it illegally or dangerously.

Throwing knives are used for sport and entertainment. They are an all metal handle-free design that is precisely weighted and balanced to be thrown accurately. They are often custom knives built to the throwers exact specifications, a small slip up can entail disastrous results for the charming assistant that is tied up to a rotating target if a knife is unbalanced.

Regular sharpening and cleaning of a knife will keep it looking good, working well and increase its life. A wet stone is the most popular method of sharpening and can be done by any knife owner with very little skill. Professional knife sharpeners can often get a much sharper and more consistent blade, but wear down the edge more than hand sharpening.

 

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