Why can't I get into the Wharncliffe?

I'm particularly liking the wharnie blade on the new #48. It's a longer, narrower blade profile than other wharncliffes I have - talk about precise tip control!
 
this would be the one I would try.. buy it in the interest of research :-)

IMG_1137.jpg
 
Good thread... I've often had the same question.

I suppose it all depends on our frame of reference, as to how we feel about certain blade shapes. My particular frame of reference is as an outdoorsman primarily, since that is how I use most of my knives. The 'belly' is important in skinning and processing game.

But this thread has brought to light things I haven't considered until now. The strait edge is exceptional in tasks that might be more associated with every day carry in city life. Opening packages, letters, etc... Depending on where you live, it might be a very good choice. This is something I've not considered based on my personal frame of reference and how I use my knives. What is clear is that these blades seem to be gaining popularity. I'm OK with that. :)

.
 
for a wharncliffe you need to make sure the handle is out of the way of the cutting edge, otherwise that perfectly straight edge is wasted, this is obviously not a problem at the tip, but more towards the tang. I have a knife where the blade angle relative to the handle is such that cutting edge towards the tang is unusable except at certain angles, which I find pretty unpractical for a primary blade.

Personally, I find I need belly in blades, a Wharncliffe is best as a secondary blade - for the occasional things where I need a point, and since it is not used so often, I have a good straight razor sharp blade when necessary.
 
:)
Good thread... I've often had the same question.

I suppose it all depends on our frame of reference, as to how we feel about certain blade shapes. My particular frame of reference is as an outdoorsman primarily, since that is how I use most of my knives. The 'belly' is important in skinning and processing game.

But this thread has brought to light things I haven't considered until now. The strait edge is exceptional in tasks that might be more associated with every day carry in city life. Opening packages, letters, etc... Depending on where you live, it might be a very good choice. This is something I've not considered based on my personal frame of reference and how I use my knives. What is clear is that these blades seem to be gaining popularity. I'm OK with that. :)

.
ae1366f5497fe5f69a1e6624f159b3e3_zpsaff871d9.jpg
[/IMG]
;-) As an indoorsman primarily, I wouldn't feel prepared to skin or process game with anything less than a 14 inch, Pakistani made Bowie but for poking holes in the lid of my coffee cup this one's a humdinger!
 
Last edited:
As an indoorsman primarily, I wouldn't feel prepared to skin or process game with anything less than a 14 inch, Pakistani made Bowie but for poking holes in the lid of my coffee cup this one's a humdinger!



Sarcasm is not welcome in Traditional.
 
Apologies to all if I have offended, merely attempting to introduce a bit of levity. I have read this forum for years with great interest and have nothing but respect for the knowledge and experience of members like Kdstrick.
There's a fine line between humor and sarcasm, sorry if I inadvertently crossed it.
 
Best to make things clear, remembering that in English, much is conveyed by the tone of voice, which of course is missing when communicating in text. Emoticons can be a help in that regard.
 
bf08a53f70d35a9a048de8fa21e99d4d_zps94e150f4.jpg
[/IMG]
A picture of my French Bulldog, Tyson.....can never tell whether he's smiling or smirking.. I believe that's an emoticon in the left hand corner. I hope you will take this bit of drollery in the spirit in which it was intended.
Greg
 
Last edited:
I take that Houndstooth in great spirit Greg. :thumbup::cool: Very fine example that with some serious looking bone, I have the Tidioute version in Red with the 'Tooth' shield and it is just the right size & weight for most of my tasks. These are elegant & unusual knives with a good sized Wharncliffe.

Regards, Will
 
Huge fan of the Houndstooth by GEC as well, Greg. Before buying it I was a straight edge fan but was scared of breaking the tip on a wharnie so I shyed away. When I purchased the 55 my plan was to use it to its limits without abusing it, see what the tip can take. I have layed the spine on the ground and leveraged the tip up into some wood to trim what my saw could not touch. Pushed the tip into some cultured marble as I cut the caulking from the splash for demo. I will admit I dont twist it at all while cutting and have seen no ill effects at all. The point is still as thin and sharp as the day I recieved it. This little guy has been working on the job for atleast two months in my pocket, he has earned a perminant spot in my rotation.

 
Thanks Will. Are we talking about my knife or my dog? Love them both anyway.

:D

This small 'modified' wharnie by Bark River is a joy to carry, and with a full convex flat grind, it's a workhorse for its size:

c1dx.jpg


I don't have a #55 with a wharnie, but I really like that blade on it's fraternal twin, the #57:

img2656q.jpg
 
Great pics guys, showing the business end of this wicked little folder. The arc of the swedge on these is pure poetry.
I think it highly unlikely that mine will ever be challenged by anything more daunting than pumpkin carving but it's good to know it can be relied on. I have the liner-lock version with a very stout spring and half stop, it's taken some practice to close it one handed.
Great quote by a great composer, Smithhammer.
 
Last edited:
Back
Top