Complete guide: How to choose your knife based on usage?

1. Choosing a knife for the kitchen?️

Essential knives

• Santoku: Ideal for slicing, chopping, and mincing. Perfect for meat, fish, and vegetables.
• Fruit knife: Small and handy, it is perfect for precise cuts and peeling.
• Paring knife: Versatile, it allows you to cut everything in the kitchen.

Criteria to consider

• Blade material: Stainless steel for easy maintenance, carbon steel for a more durable edge, sintered steel to have the advantages of both without the drawbacks.
• Handle: Ergonomic and non-slip for maximum comfort.
• Sharpness: Smooth for clean cuts, serrated for hard foods.

2. Choosing a knife for outdoor?

Must-have knives

• Survival knife: Robust blade for bushcraft, wood cutting, and extreme situations.
• Folding knife (EDC - Every Day Carry): Compact and practical for everyday use.
• Dagger: Double-edged, used for self-defense or collection.
• Hunting knife: Curved blade for skinning and dressing.

Criteria to consider

• Resistance: A robust steel blade (sintered steel, carbon or high hardness stainless steel) to withstand extreme conditions.
• Sharpening: An adapted angle (30° - 40° total) allows for a durable edge that is easy to sharpen without risking scratching the blade.
• Attachment: Non-slip and sturdy handle (G10, wood, micarta, 3D printed textured plastic) for optimal grip.
• Sheath: Leather or Kydex for protection and secure transport.

3. Choosing a collector's knife?

Knives prized by collectors

• Damascus knives: Blades with unique patterns, appreciated for their aesthetics and sharpness.
• Historical knives: Reproductions of daggers, period hunting knives, forged blades.
• Custom knives: Engraving, rare materials (precious woods, horn, titanium).

Criteria to consider

• Finish: Mirror polish, Damascus patterns, anti-oxidation treatments.
• Authenticity: Handcrafted, limited series.
• Presentation: Storage box, display stand.

4. Conclusion: What is the ideal knife for you?

• Kitchen?️: A good Santoku or chef's knife for precise cutting.
• Outdoor?: A survival knife or sturdy folding knife for adventurers.
• Collection? : A damascus model or a unique piece for enthusiasts.

Tip : Consider maintenance and storage to extend the life of your knife!