Tag: Pocket Knife

Getting To Know And Understand A Variety Of Knife Styles

Posted on September 3, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

Knives have been a part of our society from the very beginning of time. Stones were made into knife blades by our early ancestors. A knife is a tool that is diverse and that is used for a variety of functions. Now a day’s knives are made from a variety of different metals but their uses remain the same. A knife is a hand-held piece of equipment that serves different purposes. What knife you choose is dependent on what you purpose the knife needs to serve.

Common All Purpose Knives

The most commonly purchased knife is one that can serve a variety of purposes. One type of all purpose knives is a pocket knife. Pocket knives are great all-purpose tools and store within themselves for ease of use and carrying. It works on opening boxes, cutting ropes, slicing apples, opening letters or for a weapon if needed.

Switch blade knives or knives with retractable blades are another common option in commonly carried all purpose knives. With retractable blades the knife blade retracts into the handle so that it is safely stored when not in use. Most knives with retractable blades or even switch blade knives are good for any typical cutting jobs. The knife handle can be made from an assortment of materials including plastic, wood, bone or more.

Fixed blade knives also are common for all purpose knives. A blade that is fixed is typically more stable than a retractable or folding blade. As with switch blades and retractable knives the handle can be made from a diverse selection of materials.

Kitchen Cutlery and Cooking Knives

All kitchen knives serve their own purpose. Cutlery is designed to take on specific job in the kitchen. There are knives for all different purposes such as bread knives, fillet knives, paring knives, chef knives and more. Most cooking knives have thinner pliable, longer blades. The blade is not nearly as strong as the blade on a utility knife. Cutlery is thinner and allows for easier use to slice meat and work within the kitchen.

Combat Knives

Knives used for combat are larger and made from a variety of strong metal alloys. They are suitable for cutting tough objects and are often used by the military as a general tool to carry as well as extra weaponry. The larger, longer blade with the heavier handle is incredibly difficult for precise cutting or for cutting on small objects. They are better used for heavy duty needs.

A knife is handy no matter what you do in life. They are used for a variety of purposes and depending on what you need the knife for will depend on which type of knife you choose to purchase. It is important not to limit yourself when it comes to buying a knife.

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.

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.

Buying a Pocket Knife Part Two

Posted on June 18, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

We left off our last installment on choosing the perfect pocket knife looking at the options available in blades for your new pocket knife. As mentioned pocket knives are sold with single blades, two blades and multi-blade often referred to as a Swiss Army Knife. In this installment on the pocket knife we will look deeper into the edge of the blade you are looking for in a pocket knife.

The great debate continues on the edge that makes up the perfect pocket knife. There are three main types of blades to choose from including: fully serrated, partially serrated as well as plain. In understanding the type of blade that you will use the most it is important to also be familiar with the two basic cuts that a knife will perform; the push cut and the pull cut. A push cut is used to shave wood or peel an apple where as the pull cut is used for cutting rope or bread.

First we will look into the plain edge pocket knife. The advantage of owning this type of blade is that is performs clean, precise push cuts. The sharp edge allows you control and accuracy within your cuts. The plain edge is also easier to sharpen and can be done at home. With a plain edge blade you will not be able to perform any pull cuts which makes it unable to use it to saw. If you are in need of a knife to cut through wood or rope a plain edge is not for you. If you will be using the knife to shave or skin this is perfect for you.

When it comes to the fully serrated edge of a pocket knife you will find it is perfect for cutting through the tough materials that a straight edge blade would never be able to get through. A fully serrated edge gives strength to the blade from the serrations. All of this working together provides a pocket knife that functions well as a saw blade. This blade however does not provide clean, precision cuts and requires sharpening that can only be done through the factory.

Another option in pocket knife blades is the partially serrated edge, partial straight edge. This blade offers you both options in one. The combo knife blade is growing in popularity because it gives you the advantages of both knives. The one thing to consider is the placement of the serrated edge on the blade to ensure the tasks you need it for can be accomplished. The other thing to consider is that you will have to send it in to the factory to have the serrated edge sharpened. Pocket knives with the combination straight edge and saw are becoming more and more popular every day. It is the perfect tool for camping, hiking and is an all around solid survival pocket knife.

In our next installment on pocket knives we will explore the different blade size options along with the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Buying A Pocket Knife Part One

Posted on May 13, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

A pocket knife is one of the most efficient tools that you can carry around with you every day. For thousands of years knives have helped people cut food, hunt for dinner, open boxes, cut seatbelts in emergencies and a number of other tasks. This could be why choosing a pocket knife may be so hard. It also could be so hard because the variety of options available to consumers. This is a start on a series all about pocket knives. Each aspect of the pocket knife will be examined. Finding the perfect pocket knife is a bit overwhelming but hopefully this series will help you out.

The first part of the pocket knife that we will explore is the number of knife blades. There are three different variations including the single blade pocket knife, the multi-blade pocket knife and the multi-tool knife. The single blade pocket knife can come in a variety of shapes and sizes; it is the epitome of everything a pocket knife is. If you are looking for a simple a single blade pocket knife is a good option to look into. A single blade knife focuses on the design of one large blade. Most include a spring loaded mechanism that easily opens the blade and a locking device that makes the knife sturdy. The lack of variety in the blade might be the only disadvantage of the single blade pocket knife.

Multi-blade pocket knives enable you to have the benefits of different style blades all tucked in to. You can have anywhere from two to four blades that can range in variety from traditional blades to drop point blades. This style knife is good for those people who wish to have options. The one difference between a single blade and multi-blade knife besides the obvious is the strength of the blades. Multi-blade knives tend not to be as durable as one blade knives.

A multi-tool knife, also known to many as the Swiss Army Knife, is a pocket knife with several different knife blades as well as a multitude of different tools. If you may need it the multi-tool knife has it. They can come equipped with small saws, tweezers, tooth picks, can openers, scissors, wine openers, nail files and magnifying glasses. It is originally a knife that was carried by soldiers in the field as they needed a tool that could perform more than one task like the single blade knife. Many people who consider themselves jacks of all trades carry a multi-tool knife in their pocket. It is a tool that can be carried when you aren’t sure what you are going to need.

In our next installment on pocket knives we will look deeper into the different types of edges that pocket knife blades can come with. We will look into the different size blades that are available as well. There is so much to the pocket knife. It is amazing that something so small can have such a rich history as well as such variety.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in pocket knives from top brands such as Case, Boker, Cold Steel, Ka-bar and more. For more information on brand name knives, cutlery and specialty gear visit https://www.knifemule.com.

Camping In Minimalist Form

Posted on May 13, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

I love camping as it allows us to get away from all the things that keep us in our materialistic lifestyles. The problem is that those materialistic things are marketed to us, the minimalists. Think about the last time you have gone camping and actually roughed it? That is what I thought, NEVER! Fact is most of us go camping and end up lugging all the “necessities” with us. We end up setting in the great outdoors surrounded by all of the luxuries we were hoping to escape. The truth is when it comes to the minimalist camping lifestyle allow yourself space to explore what it is like to go without. Prove to campers that over-packing is over rated and with the great outdoors being a minimalist is the only way to explore nature.

First things first, it is important that you remember camping is all about roughing it. When exploring the great outdoors consider adapting what nature offers to you and make so with it. The comforts of home are increasingly cumbersome when it comes to exploring nature. Don’t become the camper only interested in the latest gear. Be the camper that doesn’t get overwhelmed when they walk in to the camping retailer outlets. When camping camp with minimalistic expectations. Minimalist never consider walking around with more than they absolutely need. Extra gear to a camper who is truly in it for the experience is just clutter and waste.

Being a minimalist camper allot yourself a ten pound bag. More than that is an overkill. Your bag should only carry the bare minimum that is needed for you to be comfortable. In it pack clothing, extra shoes, bathing needs and anything you absolutely require. The basic rule in minimalist camping is that if you can’t pack it up in five minutes and carry it more than five minutes without wanting to set it down you have packed too much and you must lighten your load.

The next thing you need to consider is what you will need to survive comfortably at a campsite. Remember you need to keep in mind what you are able to carry in. As far as sleeping accommodations consider the size of the tent that you absolutely need. Only take what you need to sleep comfortably. You don’t need space for living and eating etc. As well as a tent to support the number of people sleeping you may also want to consider bringing a tarp along for incidentals. Keeping supplies dry is as important as keeping yourself dry.

When it comes to sleeping you will need one sleeping bag per person. If you are considering packing only a lightweight sleeping bag make sure that you have packed layers for sleeping clothing. Speaking of clothing, consider the fact that camping is about the experience and not what you are wearing. Consider wearing the same outfit more than once. When utilizing this technique it is important to use deodorant as well as layers of clothing to change as the temperatures change. Underwear can be reused with a quick cleansing using the soap and water or a river and they can dry in the sun.

Cooking and finding food is a bit more complex with minimalist camping. One small stove burner, propane and pan is really all you need to survive in the great outdoors. This along with a survival knife, some paracord and fire starter will prepare one heck of a meal. Consider packing some dry food goods as well as some cans of food, this along with the food that you hunt or fish for is the perfect combination for camping.

It is amazing what you don’t need when you camp. Camping is all about the experience and enjoying everything nature has to offer. It is important that you realize that survivalists have lived years without the conveniences that we now enjoy. Consider the minimalist approach on your next camping trip.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in outdoor survival gear including paracord, fixed blade knives, water purification and waterproof matches. For more information on brand name knives, cutlery and specialty gear visithttps://www.knifemule.com

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Necessities To Help Survive The Great Outdoors

Posted on May 13, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to surviving in the wilderness there are a few essential items that you must carry with you. Whether you are planning a day hike or an overnight excursion, mishaps occur. This list of supplies will help to ensure that you are never without the necessities that will make it possible to survive until you can get where you need to be or can be rescued safely.

It is important no matter how long or short your intended adventure you take along a carry all such as a backpack. The pack will allow you to safely store the necessities. Let’s face the facts; carrying everything you need in your hands and pockets is just not feasible. A pack will allow you to carry in the necessities as well as provide storage for items you may find along the way.

The first item to put into the pack is a knife. A knife has so many different uses from general everyday camp activities to finding food in a survival situation. A pocket knife along with a fixed blade survival knife is your best options. Sheaths for carrying knives around your leg or waist are available and will free up space in your pack. A knife increases your chance of survival ten-fold. They are useful in cutting rope, creating weapons, building shelter, creating fire starter and so much more; all that assist in your survival if the need arises.

Paracord is also important to bring with you on all outdoor adventures. Paracord bracelets have become a popular option to carry and are readily available for purchase online at knife outlets and survival websites. 550 paracord bracelets are lightweight and take up little space. You can wear one on your wrist as well as add one to your camp pack. They can be used to make emergency shelter, splints for injured bones, fishing line, and help with securing food out of the reach of wildlife as well as trapping.

When it comes to camping a water canteen and purification tabs are absolutely needed. When you go without water you dehydrate. If you dehydrate you will die. Enough said. Water is a must and finding clean water in the wilderness or a way to purify water by boiling it is pretty impossible. A water canteen will give you a place to store water that is purified using purification tabs or a purification filter.

Signaling tools are also important to carry in your pack. A flashlight with a solar power charger is important as well as emergency whistles and waterproof matches. A fire can provide a signal to those trying to find you as well as heat and an area to cook fish or wildlife that is caught.

A compass, tarp and first aid kit are all important pieces to add to your backpack before you leave on any adventure. Make sure you are familiar with the basics in using a compass as well as basic first aid. A tarp is important to provide shelter from the elements.

Last but not least, something that can’t be carried in your pack, bring along a friend. If this is not possible and a solo adventure is planned leave behind a detailed plan of your endeavor just in case you don’t arrive home when you are expected. A detailed plan will give rescuers an estimate on where to begin searching for you. When minutes can mean the difference between life and death it is important that people start looking in the right direction from the start.

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Choosing A Solid Folding Knife

Posted on April 3, 2014 by Creative Programs and Systems

Folding knives are perfect for any man or women. They are practical and can function as a tool and for security. A folding knife can be easily stored in a pocket or backpack. The blade folds perfectly into the handle of the knife for safety. When using this invaluable tool you will find it practical to carry at all times no matter what you are doing. A folding knife is good for inside functions such as opening boxes and cutting off tags and outdoors for cutting rope and fishing line. This is the only type of knife that is practical for all people from laborers to politicians.

When it comes to choosing the right folding knife there are several characteristics that are important to note. Take some time to learn and research different brands and components available in a quality knife. The more you know about exactly what you are looking for in a pocket knife the easier it will be to narrow down your choices. Below are some key characteristics to consider before making a folding blade knife.

Blade Material

Steel: A steel knife blade is one of the sharpest blades available. Steel is simple to sharpen and holds an edge well. The major disadvantage to a steel blade is the wear and tear; steel blades tend to rust, stain and corrode over time and use.

Laminate: Laminate folding knife blades are popular because they use a combination of metals layers together to create your blade. The use of multiple metals layered together gives you the benefits of each type while alleviating the major pitfalls.

Titanium: Folding knife blades created out of titanium are the most expensive available. Although they are expensive you will find that titanium is incredibly resilient, wears well and tends to give more than steel does.

Ceramic: If you are looking for a lightweight knife to carry in your purse or pocket one with a ceramic blade will be desirable. Ceramic is highly fragile however can be easily maintained for years with proper care.

Forged vs. Stock Removal

Forged: A knife blade that is forged is made with one piece of metal. It is shaped using a press or hammer while the metal is very hot.

Stock Removal: This method creates a knife blade by shaping the blade using grinding away the metal. Stock removal is a simpler method of making knife blades and therefore knives made from this method tend to be less expensive than forged knife blades.

Knife Handle Material

Wood: A wooden knife handle provides a stable grip that stays warm in the user’s hand. The one disadvantage of wooden handles is that they tend to wear quickly when not properly maintained.

Plastic: Plastic handled knives tend to be slippery but offer the benefits of being easy to care for and inexpensive.

Rubber: If you are looking for highly durable knife that offers a cushion a rubber handle may be right for you.

Stainless Steel: For durability, reliability and low maintenance a stainless steel knife handle is your choice. The one thing to be careful about though is when using the knife around heat. A metal handle will conduct heat and become too handle if exposed to heat for a fair amount of time.

Opening/Locking/Closing Mechanisms

The mechanics of the knife are one of the most important points involved in folding knives. You must determine how easy or difficult you want the knife to be to open and close. Do you want the knife to lock in place when open or be held in place by a spring mechanism? When closing the knife do you want to press a button or slide the blade into position? Carefully examine the different option mechanisms available for opening, locking and closing your folding knife blade.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including folding knives made from a variety of materials. More information on brand name knives, cutlery and specialty gear can be found by visiting https://www.knifemule.com/category.php?cat=Folding+Hunter+Pocket+Knives

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