Category: Knife Mule - page 2

Choosing Ceramic Cutlery For Your Kitchen Knives

Posted on September 3, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

Top notch ceramic cutlery has become the latest obsession in kitchen accessories. If you watch cooking shows on television you will see many professional chefs using ceramic knives. In the culinary field ceramic knives are an essential accessory for all kitchens even novice cooks. As with all tools there is a special purpose for each knife. There are knives for cutting meat, dicing vegetables and slicing fruit. Ceramic cutlery is well known for retaining a sharp edge and is made from zirconium oxide. There are several advantages to purchasing ceramic knives as well as some disadvantages. Continue reading for more information to help you make an educated decision before investing in knives for your kitchen.

Ceramic Knives: The Advantages Of Ceramic Kitchen Cutlery

In comparison to steel kitchen knives, ceramic is known for retaining a sharp edge for months especially if cared for properly and used sensibly.
Another advantage is how user friendly, light weight and safe ceramic knives are in comparison to steel knives.
If you are looking for a non-corrosive option in cutlery that is stain proof these knives are the way to go. For chefs and cooks these two options make ceramic a no-brainer over steel for professionals throughout the industry.
Ceramic knives are easy to clean. Ceramic is easy provides a non-stick surface that is non-reactive making it easy to clean up after a long day of cutting, slicing and dicing.

Ceramic Cutlery: The Disadvantages Of Ceramic Kitchen Knives

Zirconium oxide is an expensive material therefore ceramic knives are a pricier option over there steel counterparts. If you are looking to buy ceramic knives purchasing a block set may be a way to cut the cost.
Another disadvantage of ceramic is that it tends to be a bit fragile. They are not a good choice when it comes to cutting bones off of meat or other hard materials. Just because ceramic knives are fragile does not mean they aren’t tough enough to do most any job you need them to do in the kitchen. They will not shatter but again caution should be shown when cutting tough bone.
Ceramic blades are breakable. This is another inconvenience of ceramic knives. Be careful when applying pressure to knife, handle them with care and use them for cutting softer foods.
It is also important to note that ceramic, once dull, is not easily sharpened. In order to sharpen ceramic knives you must send it in to the manufacturer as sharpening ceramic at home is difficult and not advisable.

When looking for cutlery, ceramic is a highly efficient, useable material for kitchen knives and accessories. Look online for deals that can make shopping for your kitchen knives affordable.

Choosing The Right Blade For Your Next Knife Purchase

Posted on September 3, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

There are several types of knife blades to choose from with advantages and disadvantages to both. There are blades for every purpose including skinning animals, opening boxes, cutting tree limbs and many more. Below we will look at the varieties of knife blade shapes and the different uses for each to determine which blade the best is for your needs.

Clip Point

The clip point blade is incredibly popular on knives that are sold today including pocket knives, fixed blade knives and bowie knives. The knife has one sharp side and one dull side that run from the handle of the knife down to the point. The point can either be straight or curved and is referred to as the clip. The advantage of a clip point blade is that the point is controllable and extremely sharp. They are good for piercing as well as for slicing. The one disadvantage of the clip point blade is that the pointy blade is narrow and tends to be weaker than on other types of knife blades.

Drop Point

Another all purpose knife that is popular for all types of knives including hunting knives. The drop point is more popular for hunting because the point is easily controlled and can be maneuvered around internal organs to avoid nicking them. The back of the knife is similar to the clip point in that the unsharpened edge runs the length of the knife with a slow curve. The disadvantage of the drop point blade is that it is not as sharp as the clip point therefore a less suitable option for piercing. The advantage however is that it is strong, controllable and offers a large amount of blade for slicing.

Tanto Point

A tanto point blade is comprised of a high point with a flat grind that leads into a strong point. The front edge meets the back unsharpened edge on an angle instead of a curve. There is no belly area on a tanto point blade which is a disadvantage but instead has a stronger tip. It is not necessarily the best option in knife blades for a general utility knife but if looking for a strong point that is really good for piercing hard materials the tanto blade is a perfect option.

Sheepsfoot Blade

A sheepfoot blade is a great option for cutting and slicing when a point is not needed. The sheepfoot blade shape is typical for santoku chef’s knives. The blade has a sharp front edge with a dull spine that curves to meet the straight edge creating a false point. For a controllable, clean slicing knife without a point the sheepsfoot is a great option. The fact that there is no point can be seen as a disadvantage.

Trailing Point

If you are looking for a lightweight knife that is good for use skinning and filleting the trailing point blade is the best option. The back edge of the knife curves upward and the blade has a large curved cutting area that works for slicing and skinning. The high point is out of the way which is an advantage of the blade is but the point on the trailing point is weaker than other blade options.

There are several other different blade types to choose from depending on what you are looking for. If none of the blades above fit the need consider looking into the spear point blade, gut hook blade or other options in knife blades.

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Supplies You Should Gather For Your Next Wilderness Adventure

Posted on August 6, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to gathering supplies for your next wilderness adventure one of the most important survival gear items you should pack is a solid knife. When it comes to choosing a solid survival knife there are seven key elements you should look into before making a purchase.

The first element to consider is the knife tang. A knife tang is the part of the knives blade that extends down into the handle. Knives that are full tang are considered the highest quality of knives. A full tang means that the tang goes to the base of the handle. Full tang knives offer support and extra strength to the knife. Be careful with cheaper knives that are not full tang as they have the potential to break off if too much strain is put on the knife.

Another important factor when it comes to purchasing a survival knife is the knives handle. Knife handles vary a great deal from hard rubber to bone. Avoid purchasing a survival knife that doubles as a storage container, compass, time piece or anything other than a knife. The knife handle should be solid, hollow knifes are not appropriate to carry when it comes to a knife that could possibly be needed in a life and death situation.

Consider the metal that the blade is made from. Popular options include stainless steel and carbon steel. Many survivalists have a preference but truly this comes down to what you are most comfortable with. Stainless steel is a nice knife blade metal option because it is basically indestructible. The main complaint is that stainless steel blades tend to lose their edge more quickly than their carbon steel counterpoints. Although the blade will stay sharper longer with carbon steel be sure to note that carbon steel is more volatile and is quicker to rust especially when used in the elements.

The blade design is another option that you will have a choice in when deciding what survival knife to pack in your outdoor survival kit. There are three options to choose from; straight blade, serrated blade or a combination of the two. This is a personal preference and will be best determined based on how you are going to use the knife. Straight blades are easier to sharpen however serrated blades are better at ripping through tough materials.

Look into different length blades when purchasing a survival knife. The average range will fall between six to twelve inches and is completely personal choice. This keeps the knife in an easy to use and carry size. Anything larger than this and it becomes difficult to carry and use effectively.

Purchase a knife blade that is between 3/16 and 4/16 thickness. Any less than that and you will have flexing in your knife blade. Purchase a knife that the blade is thick enough that it does not allow for flex and that will be solid enough to withstand the abuse it will take if it is needed to chop wood or be used for prying.

When looking for survival knives consider the knife sheath. There are three attachments to carry the knife on your person or that allow the knife and blade to be stored safely within a backpack. A lower attachment straps the knife to your leg or backpack via a hole or attachment piece. Survival knives can also be carried via a sheath that attaches around your belt or a lanyard attachment as well as a crossover strap. Consider the most comfortable method to carry your survival knife that also allows for ease of access. You never know what situation you will fall into when exploring on your next wilderness adventure.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives, outdoor survival gear and tactical gear including top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more. For more information or to purchase outdoor gear and knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

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Camping While Exploring The Great Outdoors

Posted on August 6, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

Great adventures find us throughout life. One of the most thrilling experiences that a person can have is to become one with nature. This experience is different for each individual person. Some find their adventure in the water, some on a trail hiking, others backpacking alone in the hills of foreign lands while some prefer to take in wilderness sitting in a flower garden in their yard. No matter how you choose to connect to the world around you it goes uncontested that connecting with nature is a personal experience unique to each of us.

One way many people choose to connect with nature while including time with family is through camping. The camping experience is once again something that varies from person to person, family to family and situation to situation. For some camping means really roughing it; slinging a backpack on their back and heading into the great outdoors with nothing more than a few essential survival tools to assist in the adventure. Some prefer modern camping in a luxury recreational vehicle where everything is at your finger tips as far as convenience. Some prefer something in between the two.

When it comes to middle of the row camping which is what most of us are familiar with there are a few basic things that are essential to creating a perfect outing for you and your family to explore the good ole outdoors. No matter what climate, terrain or environment you are exploring one necessity of camping is shelter. The most common form of camping shelter is in the form of a tent. A waterproof, sturdy tent will supply you a safe place away from the natural elements to allow your body to rest.

Along with a tent you will want to bring along some basic comforts such as sleeping bags and cooking supplies. Also consider some camping basics such as a pocket knife, boots to hike in, fishing and hunting supplies, flashlights, food, water purification, waterproof matches and a basic first aid kit. You really don’t need to go overboard in bringing supplies along because believe it or not the wilderness will provide you everything you need. Travel as light as possible so that instead of worrying about camping gear you can take the time you have to really soak in and enjoy what the natural world around us has to offer.

Whatever your next great wilderness adventure keep the focus on what is truly important. It isn’t the fancy camping gear but the thrill of exploration and enjoying your time with Mother Nature that is significant.

Essentials In Outdoor Survival Gear

Posted on August 6, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

With summer upon us the camping supplies come out! With the camping supplies come the adventures the warm sun and summer breeze brings out. With every camping trip and backpacking adventure the need to be prepared is always amongst us. When it comes to packing for your outdoor adventures one can never be too careful. Wilderness survival gear should be packed using great care; every adventurer should realize that there are extreme risks involved when it comes to the unknown that the outdoors brings with it.

When it comes to packing for an adventure the most important thing is that you are prepared for the unexpected. Make the right choices when it comes to survival equipment as it may be the difference between life and death on your next camping excursion. With the wide variety of survival gear available how does an inexperienced camper know what to bring on their first great adventure? What is important verse what becomes a waste of space within your backpack?

The first thing any outdoor adventurer should do is to create a list of what is needed on where they are going, what they are doing and how they are getting there. Different climates, as well as different terrains will call for a mix of different outdoor wilderness needs. This should be obvious; the desert needs different preparations than would a rain forest.

Some things that are needed no matter what the terrain or climate and should be in every pack include the basics such as fuel for a fire, a compass or other navigational tool, a way to purify water and a knife to assist in building a shelter.

Fire is needed for many reasons no matter what climate you are backpacking in. Not only is fire a good source of heat but it is also important for lighting, cooking and possible water purification. Consider purchasing slow burning fire sticks, magnesium fire starters, flint or waterproof matches. These are all great sources that will allow fire to be created and sustained in a variety of climates.

A compass or other navigational tools such as GPS or paper maps are important when exploring territory that is unknown or new to you. When looking to purchase a compass be sure it is easy to use. GPS systems are great tools that can be used to not only track the environment you are in but also used to track and identify where you are. This feature often requires a subscription. When it comes to a low tech gadget that will direction a compass is the best bet for backpacking adventures.

A system to purify water is also essential in outdoor adventures. The human body can only be without water for between three days and one week. Water is needed for the body to survive. When you are lost in the wilderness the last thing you need is to become sick and dehydrated from drinking contaminated water. Purchase water purification tablets and purification straws are without a doubt one of the most important items that should be contained within your survival pack.

For food and building shelter a knife is also an item that should be carried on any outdoor adventure no matter how long or short the adventure is scheduled to be. Even the shortest of trips have been known to take a wrong turn into unexpected territory. Be prepared for anything every time you camp or back pack into territory that is unique to you.

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The Road To Purchasing Quality Kitchen Cutlery

Posted on July 21, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

The road to finding the perfect kitchen cutlery is not one that has to be complicated or expensive. Buying quality kitchen knives isn’t about purchasing an expensive set of knives; it is all about the basics. The most important tip is to purchase knives that fit and feel right in your hand. It will not matter what the latest chef is endorsing or what celebrity name accompanies the knife block set, what matters most is how it feels when you are using it.

The basics are important when buying cutlery. When it comes to the assembly of a kitchen knife there are four basic components to every knife; the front of the knife, the tang, the bolster and the handle. Each component offers a unique benefit to the user.

The front of the knife contains the knife blade, spine, tip and heel. The part that cuts is the knife blade. This is the sharpest part of the knife and is incredibly important to the knife’s use. The spine of the knife is the area opposite of the blade. The spine is used to add stability and weight to the blade and is the area in which you can add pressure when cutting without the worry of slicing your hand. The knife tip is the area that comes to a point on the end of the blade. The tip is perfect for smaller cuts and for help in opening packages that are difficult to open.

The knife tang is the metal piece that extends from the knife blade that the handle attaches to. The tang, along with the spine are the pieces of the knife that offer balance and weight. Without the tang the knife would be too front heavy for proper use.

The knife bolster is the area on the knife that looks like a collar that separates the handle from the blade. The collar is an important part of the knife as it acts as a guard for your fingers against possible slipping when cutting with the knife. In knives the bolster can run all the way from the spine to the edge or on a partial way. Quality knives for the kitchen will have a bolster. Knives without bolsters are not a good choice for use in the kitchen.

Kitchen knives can be purchase with handles made out of several different materials. The importance when choosing a knife handle material is how it feels in your hand as you are cutting with it. Note that just because you choose a paring knife with a plastic handle this does not mean that all of your cutlery will feel best with plastic handles. In cutlery it is okay to mix and match to meet your preferences. Look at all the options in materials for your knife handles including wood, composite, stainless steel and plastic.

When seriously looking to purchase kitchen knives it is a good option to go to several department stores to test out the different options and to see what fits your needs. When purchasing kitchen cutlery look online. Many online knife specialty stores offer the same knives as department stores at a discounted price. Online shopping for knives is a great way to get the cutlery you are looking for without breaking the bank.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including kitchen cutlery and top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more. For more information or to purchase a variety of knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

More Options in Pocket Knives

Posted on July 21, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

Our series on pocket knives is coming to an end as we discuss blade steel, handle materials and opening mechanisms. In our series we have looked at the different size pocket knives that are available, blade numbers, blade types, blade sizes and prices. If you are considering the purchase of a pocket knife you will want to review the different options that have been discussed to find the perfect pocket knife for you.

When it comes to the blade steel options of pocket knives there are two main options to consider, stainless steel and carbon steel. There are advantages and disadvantages with each type of metal options. Stainless steel is easy to sharpen, resistant to rust, is great when being used in the rain and an ideal choice for survival knives. If you are going to use the pocket knife in survival situations stainless steel is a perfect choice. The disadvantages of stainless steel are that it quickly dulls, is more susceptible to stains and does not get as sharp as carbon steel.

Carbon steel is also a great material for pocket knives as well. With carbon the edge is held longer, the material is harder than stainless steel, is super durable when used roughly and is a great blade for use in hunting. The disadvantage is that is it more difficult to sharpen, is susceptible to rust and can stain. Choose the material for your pocket knife based on what options and advantages are the best options for your circumstances.

Pocket knives come in a variety of handle materials to choose from. Consider the look and feel that you desire when you choose a knife. Aluminum is a light weight pocket knife material choice. Celluloid is a material that can be turned into any color and fabricated to resemble natural materials. Bone, wood, steel, stag, titanium and more make up modern day pocket knife handles.

There are three types of opening mechanisms available for the blade when you purchase a pocket knife. Manual-opening is the most common. With manual pocket knives there is often a groove on the knife that makes it simple to open using the tip of your nail. An automatic/switchblade is another option in pocket knife opening mechanisms. This type of blade automatically opens with the push of a button. A newer option in pocket knife opening mechanisms is the assisted-opening option. An internal device engages the blade when pressure is employed upon the knife blade.

Locking mechanisms are also important on pocket knives. Liner lock, lock back, mid lock, frame lock, ring lock and lever lock are all options available the only real difference is the location of the lock and the manner in which it is released. Once the knife is locked in place no matter what type the blade is as stable as with any other lock.

Shopping for the perfect knife, whether it is a pocket knife or fixed blade knife is never simple. There are many variables and options to consider. Be prepared to test a few knives and top knife brands out before settling on a favorite. Top knife brands can be purchase through online retailers at deeply discounted prices over those of retailers. Consider this when looking to purchase survival gear and specialty knives.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including pocket knives and top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more. For more information or to purchase a variety of knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

Choosing The Perfect Hunting Knife

Posted on July 21, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

Hunters and fisherman alike all know that having a solid knife in their arsenal of tools is essential. Having a good knife is essential however when it comes to finding one that meets all of your needs the choices can become quite overwhelming. Below are some tips to help you find a solid hunting knife for your outdoor adventures.

The first thing that you will want to consider and decide upon when it comes to choosing a knife to carry with you on hunting adventures is between a fixed knife and a folding knife. For the heavy duty tasks involved in hunting a fixed knife offers the best stability. A fixed blade knife is rugged, reliable, sturdy and simple to clean. The main drawback is that fixed knives are bulky and take up more space than a folding knife. To transport a fixed blade knife can be made simpler when using a sheath attaching the knife to a belt or boot.

If you do choose to use a folding knife instead because of the easy to carry feature a lock-back folding knife is a solid choice for a hunting knife. A lock-back knife allows the blade to be locked in place using a locking mechanism creating a solid knife to assist in all of your hunting needs. With the technology present in knives that are currently produced there is little risk involved in the locking mechanism to fail. With any hunting accessory be aware of the risks and rewards.

The length of the blade is also important when seeking out a knife to use in hunting. Choose a hunting knife that is between three and four inches long for the best results. This is the perfect size knife blade for control and maneuverability. Consider the size of the animal that is being hunted as well. Smaller animals can easily be skinned and gutted with a three inch blade as a four inch blade makes for an easier job on larger game.

The blade point is equally important on hunting knives. There are three popular options in hunting knives today including a clip point, drop point and modified clip, drop, spear point. A clip point blade offers a concave back with a fine point. This blade is perfect for making small punctures like ones needed for removing deer rectums. A drop point blade offers a convex back. This type of blade offers more maneuverability for skinning game and tends to reduce the risk of puncturing the animals hide. A modified blade can be found on lock-back style hunting knives and offers the advantages of both blades.

The handle on your hunting blade is as important to your hunting knife as the blade length as well as type. Both wood and bone handles are popular options when choosing a knife to carry with you while hunting. They tend to be warmer to the touch then a metal handle on those cool autumn and winter mornings. The problem with wood and bone is that they are often adorned with metal inlays which can feel quite cold. Knife handles made from polymer and nylon are the best options as they offer a combination of a solid grip, warmth and tend to lessen the overall expense of a hunting knife. Find a handle that fits your hand, is easy to grip and contours to your thumb and fingers.

A solid hunting knife is like a best friend that accompanies you on all of your outdoor adventures; be sure to find one (or two) that are perfect for your next hunt.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including hunting knives and top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more. For more information or to purchase a variety of knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

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Learning More About The Perfect Pocket Knife

Posted on June 18, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

In the latest pocket knife installment we talked about the different blade types available on pocket knives including the plain edge, the serrated edge and the combo. When it comes to choosing a pocket knife the sky is the limit when it comes to combining your favorite aspects into one perfect knife. Today we will talk more about the blade lengths available for pocket knives.

There are a wide range of pocket knife blade lengths from big, seven and a half inch blades to small, two inch blades. It may seem insignificant when talking about a few inches but when it comes to a pocket knife blade it can make a colossal difference in what it can do for you.

A small pocket knife is classified by a blade that is less than 2.75 inches in length. A small blade is advantageous for many reasons. The first is that they are small and not cumbersome to carry. They are also widely acceptable to carry without having to worry about knife laws. The problem with the small blade is that it can tend to be a bit weaker than larger blades. Another issue is that due to their small size the locking mechanism is often left off of these knives. Small pocket knives are perfect for everyday light use.

A pocket knife with a medium blade ranges between 2.75 inches in length and 4 inches. This is where the average length of pocket knives most Americans carry falls. A medium size pocket knife is easy to carry and provides the benefits of a versatile larger knife blade. The blades in this range also have the best options in locking mechanisms when it comes to pocket knives. The locking mechanism promotes safety when doing more strenuous activities; helping to assure the blade doesn’t accidentally shut. Knives this size is more difficult to find than their smaller counterparts due to restrict knife laws that ban their use in certain areas.

Larger pocket knives with blades over 4 inches are also available. Larger blades in pocket knives are more convenient to carry than their larger counter, the fixed blade. A large pocket knife is mainly used for self-defense and tends to be impractical for everyday. The large blade tends to make the knives heavier which can make them cumbersome to carry in your pocket all the time. You will also need to look into local knife laws that regulate the size of a knife blade that can be concealed within your pocket.

In our series so far on the pocket knife we have taken an in-depth look into the number of blades, the edge of the blade and now the blade length. In our next edition we will look into the cost of pocket knives and the differences between the knives and brands at each price point. We will also look in greater detail into the blade type and what each is used for. From there we will look at the different options in materials to create the ideal knife blade. Be sure to check it out.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including top brands such as Zero Tolerance, Boker Tree Knives, W.R. Case Knives and more. For more information or to purchase a variety of knives online find us at https://www.knifemule.com.

Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Pocket Knife Prices and Blade Types

Posted on June 18, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

In our series on pocket knives so far we have explored a great deal about the common pocket knife; the number of blades, the pocket knife edge varieties, and the different blade lengths available. In this installment we will talk about the different price point options available as well as the different blade types and their ideal uses.

When it comes to price point and pocket knives they can range anywhere from a few dollars upwards into the hundreds. Pocket knives that are in the price point under thirty dollars are considered to be economical pocket knives. Some common brands in economical pocket knives include Colt Knives, Schrade Old Timer and Gerber Knives. Economical pocket knives are limited in some of the extra bells and whistles of more expensive brands however they are good enough to get the job done.

Knives that fall in the thirty to seventy dollar range where you will find most anything you want when looking for a pocket knife. The sky is the limit and the variety is plentiful. The majority of pocket knives will fall into the price point. Although the dent in your pocket book will be small the jobs that can be done with these knives is not. When looking for a mid range knife to purchase look for top brands such as Buck Knives, SOG Knives and Ka-Bar Knives.

Between seventy and a hundred dollars you are looking at top brand name pocket knives such as Spyderco Knives and Kershaw Knives. The higher end price tag comes with better materials than the mid-range price point. You can find a deal of knives at this price point. The difference between these knives and the ones at the price point above is that these will cost you more to replace when they are in need of replacement. The better materials are really the only difference besides the price.

Pocket knives upwards of a hundred dollars are considered premium knives. The blade may be etched with a design; the details will be more intricate. These knives are more of a piece of art then other pocket knives. Boker brand knives carry a great deal of high end quality knives.

There are a number of blade types to choose from including: clip point, drop point, tanto point, spear point, trailing point, hawkbill, straight back, sheepfoot, wharncliffe, needle point, pen and spey. The most popular options in blade types is the clip point, the drop point and the straight-back blade. These are all ideal for everyday uses including piercing, skinning and slicing.

A needle point is really only useful for piercing, spear knives are good for piercing and slicing and the tanto point blade is the perfect design for piercing tougher materials and push cuts. Sheepfoot blades are good for carving wood and cutting where as the spey point is great for skinning and gets its name from old times and being used to castrate animals.

The hawkbill is very distinct in design and is not a wonderful everyday pocket knife but is useful when opening boxes, stripping wires and cutting cords. The point in discussing the different blades available is that a blade type perfect for one person may not serve the needs of another. Consider what you are looking to do with the pocket knife before picking a blade type. A pen knife is not a good survival pocket knife.

When we continue on our series about knives we will look into the steel options for the blade, the knife handle materials, and the different option in opening and locking mechanisms.