I don't understand this handle shape!

[Dave B]

I'm unclear on the concept. What is the purpose/function of the handle shape (the cutaway?) on the illustrated knife:

Apologies to Bladeart for using their image, and to BD as well, but it's the only clear image I could find.

db

 

[markmarkmark]

this is a throwback to the days when knifemakers attempted to mitigate the ascension of the magafillatory response in post-operational edge deformation...nowadays, due to the rise of differential astenscoscopy it's no longer necessary, but some knifemakers prefer the traditional look...

or something...

 

[RJ Martin]

It's for a beter grip. The third and fourth fingers are shorter, hence, the need for a narrower handle.

RJ Martin

 

[L6steel]

It's purty!

 

[blade runner]

It's a good method to build a knife with a comfortable grip, however, if by method, we mean the logic of scientific procedure, or the conceptual structure of analytical investigation, the preponderant weight of distinguished thought on the subject warns us of the slight gains to be derived from talking about method in general, or from evaluating the belief postulates of conflicting logical or philisophical schools.
There you have it..........

 

[firkin]

I'd say that the shape gives a little something for the ring finger to grip and keep the hand from sliding down the handle, especially when the forefinger isn't strongly wrapped around the handle, say along the spine instead. Traditional khukuri handles have a quite extreme shape of this nature, and the ring or pinkie finger really gets a grip where the handle diameter suddenly changes. Those are big choppers, but looks like the same idea to me.

 

[A. Brett Schaller]

Bob Dozier's web site has a discussion board; if you post the question there he'll probably answer. www.dozierknives.com