Two knives share the same length, steel and grind. One opens a parcel cleanly, and the other digs into the corner of the box. The difference is blade shape. This post sorts eight common shapes. For a detailed look at the parts of a knife, see Anatomy of a knife.

One variable: where the point sits

Blade shapes differ mainly in how high the point sits relative to the spine, and how much belly leads into it. The dashed line in each drawing marks the centre of the blade, and the orange dot marks the point.

A point near the spine line has little steel behind it and suits fine detail, but it breaks more easily. A point nearer the edge line has more steel behind it and stays clear of the work.

Drop point and clip point

The drop point slopes the spine gently down to the point. The tip is strong and the belly is broad, so it is the safe all-rounder for camp.

The clip point removes a concave section from the spine. That thins the tip and makes it good for detail work, but a thin tip bends and snaps under load.

Sheepsfoot, Wharncliffe and straight back

These shapes have little or no usable point. The sheepsfoot curves its spine down to meet a straight edge, and the Wharncliffe does the same over a longer slope. A slip with either shape scrapes where a pointed blade would stab. The straight edge gives control for push cuts.

The straight-back blade keeps the spine flat to the tip and curves the edge up to meet it. The flat spine takes thumb pressure well and the simple belly is easy to sharpen.

Tanto, spear point and hawkbill

The tanto has a reinforced tip with an angled front edge, built to pierce hard material. The spear point is symmetrical, with the tip on the centreline, and is often double edged.

The hawkbill curves downward and cuts on the pull. It handles cord, vines and pruning well. None of the three suits general camp tasks.

Choosing a shape for camp

For scouting and cub use, pick a drop point or a sheepsfoot. Both have tips that resist breaking and rarely stab on a slip.

Pair either with a scandi grind, as covered in Knife Grinds and Their Main Uses.