what's the point of a swedge?

Midget

Midget

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Jun 1, 2002
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other than decreasing the tip strength, what's the point of a swedge on a knife blade? aesthetics? i'd imagine it lightens the blade, but it seems like it's pretty negligable. improve penetration? i can't remember the last time i've stabbed anything in a productive manner.

any thoughts?
 
I think you listed most of the reasons for having a swedge. Sometimes having a narrow tip can facilitate cutting/hole poking. Of course, if you are trying to use your knife as a screwdriver, the swedge probably won't help anything.
 
I think it also helps for slicing due to the fact that if the blade were wider where the swedge was it would make it harder to cut through stuff. I don't know this and I am only guessing.
 
You guys are missing the most important reason for a swedge.....looks, it looks good. If you like the swedge I mean, most people think its for penetration as do I I dont use my knives as screwdrivers like previously mentioned so if it has a swedge thats cool, if not cool too.
 
the swedge improves penetration, looks cool :), reduces the weight and helps to balance a knife.
 
It not only helps penetration, but it helps slicing. Not much for, say, cheese, but it definitely hels with detail work with the tip.

Think about it. The thinner the blade, the better it slices. If you swedge a blade, you're making the thickest part of the blade thinner. The tradeoff is, of course, strength.
 
The swedge frequently lowers the point also, I find that this improves handling characteristics. YMMV
 
A swedge can also help "bypass" in a multi-blade, such as a cattle knife. There's nothing more amazing than seeing 3 or 4 blades all nestled into a nice slim folder without touching each other.
Aesthetically, a swedge gives the blade a nice balanced appearance, as well as the other benefits. An unswedged blade looks much cruder.
 
Midget said:
i can't remember the last time i've stabbed anything in a productive manner.
any thoughts?
Click to expand...
YOU CAN'T??!!!??? :eek:
I stab things ALL the time. Like everytime I open a cardboard box or plastic package. That's why I like swedges. Yes, they help with penetration.
 
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