Handle shape

[Nathan Dewey]

How important is the handle shape on a pocket knife? Is it absolutely necessary to have different handle shapes for different blade styles/patterns or is it merely for aesthetic reasons? I ask this because of knives like the swayback jack that could easily go without the added bulge in the back of the handle. Or maybe I'm missing something...what do you think?

 

[Will Power]

I think it's vital. But, it's entirely subjective. If a knife doesn't feel right in my hand, however good or expensive it is, it doesn't get used.

 

[Voltron]

If you can't grip it securely or comfortably, chances are, ya ain't gonna carry it, no matter how great the steel, the scale material, or the name of the maker.

 

[jackknife]

A pair of 500 dollar Tony Lama boots ain't as good as a pair of 50 dollar cheepie work boots if they don't fit right. Same with knives. If it don't fit your hand comfortably, it won't work for you when there's cutting to be done.

Carl.

 

[waynorth]

How important is the handle shape on a pocket knife? Is it absolutely necessary to have different handle shapes for different blade styles/patterns or is it merely for aesthetic reasons? I ask this because of knives like the swayback jack that could easily go without the added bulge in the back of the handle. Or maybe I'm missing something...what do you think?

Form generally follows function, as implied by those who have answered before me, but there is a touch of art to be considered also. Who doesn't like to see a pleasant sculptural form? Maybe one so good it includes braggin' rights!!
A regular jack straight or swell end, is very useful, and will hold almost any blade and be useful. But put it in a gunstock handle pattern, or a graceful teardrop, or maybe a serpentine, congress or swayback, and it becomes a pleasure to look at, or to fondle!
Tools through the ages have been decorated by their proud owners, and different patterns, besides being useful, fill that human need for the aesthetic.

 

[SAKsRCool]

Aren't many slipjoint styles designed with a partcular use in mind?
So for instance, the swayback is optimized for the backwards cut so the handle is shaped that way?
adam

 

[waynorth]

Aren't many slipjoint styles designed with a partcular use in mind?
So for instance, the swayback is optimized for the backwards cut so the handle is shaped that way?
adam

Adam, I agree with that analysis. Swayback, Congress and pruner (hawkbill) knives all are designed for that backward or "squeeze" cut motion.
Makes it easy to slice bananas, do certain whittling cuts, and cut off some chaw. Pruning is obvious. And they will serve other uses as well.