Is a drop point really that much more useful than a tanto?

[AmadeusM]

Hey people,

I'm considering getting my first axis lock and I'm looking at either the Benchmade HK series 14200 or the 14250. I can't help it, I just really like the look of the 14250. Would it be that much of a difference for me to go tanto? And while I'm at it, how do these models compare to the Griptilian series?

If self-defense is a factor, nothing will do more damage than thrusts with a blade having the Americanized, geometric tanto configuration.

 

[Siggyhk]

Why is that the case? -More steel up front?

I would still say that, yes, other designs will give you a significant advantage for utility uses. But you should also take into account what Joe Dirt said too.

 

[tleger]

Try sticking a tanto up to hilt in something and then try to make a precision cut. I'm not trying to knock tantos, they can be great for some jobs but it is a stretch when you try and say they make a great utility blade. The extra angle will make cuts that are really jagged. Every one gets so offended when the knife they carry isn't thought of as great by someone who needs a different kind of knife. Carry and use the knife you like, It's a free country,for now.

 

[Kaizen1]

Self-defense? Possibly. According to some statistics I read a few weeks ago, I'm from the 21st most dangerous city in the country. But in reality, I could stick someone with a screwdriver if I really needed to. This would be for my own entertainment and random cutting jobs more than anything. I'm going to try to see these knives in person before I decide.

 

[Holierthanthou]

While I agree with the other posters that the drop point is alot more useful, I had a real cheap tanto folder one time that I didn't mind using for all kinds of jobs, I never would have used a more expensive blade for. One of the things I found the tanto is really nice for and Im not joking around or trying to be a wiseass, was as a camp fire spatula, for scaping up eggs in the frying pan and things like that. Not so cool but I liked it alot for that.

 

[Golbat]

Redguy.....things cut different in Hungary.

I think it isn't true. I used a tanto CRKT M16 for years, and it was usable for slicing cardboard and thin wires, but never used it e.g. for precision cutting and carving! :thumbdn: I bought it because of the strenght of it's tip (and it was rather cheap ), but after all I never used to stab or pry hard materials.
Now I EDC a flat grind Mini Manix, and totally happy with it. :thumbup:

 

[kalis]

Tantos were invented to pierce armour, which they do very well. Any carving or slicing uses were definitely not considered. They are a specialized type of knife in the same way that a commando dagger is a specialized knife, created to take out sentries. They can be used for other purposes, but won't perform those functions as well as a more generalized type of knife.

 

[Pete1977]

I think what is more important than the blade shape is the handle shape, how easily it is carried, and the ease of opening. I absolutely love the shape of the cold steel voyager's blade, and it's handle is very very comfortable, however, it was one of the most uncomfortably opening knives I've held. The clip on these knives were too small for my liking and put the knife in an uncomfortable position in my pocket. The mini-griptilian I picked up in 2002 w/ a thumbstud and a CE blade was another that wasn't so much difficult to open as dangerous. the pad of my thumb came dangerously close to the serrated portion of the blade when i opened the knife on every occasion.

handle the knives. if both are comfortable in your hand, and are easily opened for you, then decide on the blade shape. it won't really matter if drop point or tanto, if you never carry the knife because it isn't comfortable to carry, hold or open.

that said, I would avoid the chisel grind personally. I don't find it very versatile for mundane cutting chores.

pete

 

[Pete1977]

The tanto shape as we know it is an "americanized tanto" popularized by,and invented by IIRC bob lum. the traditional japanese tanto (correct me if i'm wrong) was a knife with an upswept profile from pommel to tip.

I could be wrong.

Pete

 

[Gringogunsmith]

Tanto is all about rough work or killing.
It's a great stye for removing epiphytic plants from their host tree or digging, chopping, prying oysters off of rock, chiseling plaster around electrical boxes, opening paint cans.
Beat'er up kinda knives.

I imagine it'd split a skull or sternum pretty well too.

I'm thinking of trying a Razel, just for kicks.