An Overview of Various Knives: Basic Knife Care

Series Summary

Knives of almost every form consist of sharp metal blades attached to handles for gripping. Evidence dating back to the Stone Age shows that humans and their ancestors have used knives as tools for cutting. Coming in a variety of shapes and sizes, knives perform many functions, such as cutting game meat, filleting fish, skinning animals, carving wood and even entertaining--throwing knives can worry even the most iron-stomached of audiences. Though dangerous, knives can be very useful in many situations, but only those versed in the different types of knives and trained to handle a knife should attempt to wield what many consider a harmful weapon.

In this free instructional video clip series, our expert teaches us how to identify various types of knives, such as a pocket knife, a Bowie knife, a steak knife a machete, a bayonet and even the traditional butter knife. Additionally, the expert talks about the functions and features of these knives as well as how to sharpen a knife and how to clean a knife. He also shows us methods for proper cutting and educates us on the importance of sheaths.

Video Transcript

" Hi! This is John on behalf of Expert Village. Today we are going to be talking about knives and what their particular uses are for, and the different types of knives that are available. I will be covering each different class of knives in detail. First let me give you a brief overview of what we have here. This is a copy of a bowie knife. It was designed back in the 1800’s. This is a skinning knife used for skinning. This is a combat survival knife. This is a diving knife. This is your average common kitchen knife used for cutting; you can see the serrated edge. This is your common butcher knife and last but not least, we have a lock blade pocket knife on a key chain. "