Parts of a Knife



Parts of a knife illustration.

A. Point: The very end of the knife, which is used for piercing

B. Tip: The first third of the blade (approximately), which is used for small or delicate work

C. Edge: The cutting surface of the knife, which extends from the point to the heel. The edge may be beveled or symmetric.

D. Heel: The rear part of the blade, used for cutting activities that require more force

E. Spine: The top, thicker portion of the blade, which adds weight and strength

F. Bolster: The thick metal portion joining the handle and the blade, which adds weight and balance and keeps the cook's hand from slipping

G. Finger Guard: The portion of the bolster that keeps the cook's hand from slipping onto the blade

H. Return: The point where the heel meets the bolster

J. Tang: The portion of the metal blade that extends into the handle, giving the knife stability and extra weight

K. Scales: The two portions of handle material (wood, plastic, composite, etc) that are attached to either side of the tang

L. Rivets: The metal pins (usually 3) that hold the scales to the tang

M. Handle Guard: The lip below the butt of the handle, which gives the knife a better grip and prevents slipping

N. Butt: The terminal end of the handle



Contact Westside Sharpener

Laurence Segal
Telephone:
310- 266-5416
(10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday)

Email:
rhinoknives@msn.com


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