What are the Different Parts of a Knife?

Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a world-renowned chef, one of the most essential tools on your counter is the kitchen knife. Mastering basic knife skills can enhance your cooking experience by reducing prep time, ensuring uniform cuts, and minimizing the risk of injury.
But before you start chopping, let’s break down the anatomy of a kitchen knife and explore the function of each component. Knives are an investment, and understanding their construction will help you choose the best tool for your needs.

The Anatomy of a Kitchen Knife

ButtThe butt, also known as the pommel, is the very end of the knife’s handle, opposite the tip. On well-crafted knives, the butt is sturdy, helping to balance the tool in the user’s hand. A full-tang knife extends all the way through the handle to the butt, ensuring greater stability and durability.

Handle/Scales

A knife’s handle plays a crucial role in comfort and control. It consists of two pieces—called scales—typically made from wood, plastic, or metal to provide a secure grip. A well-designed handle considers ergonomics and intended use. While high-quality knives focus on function, some collector’s knives feature decorative scales made from materials like bone or exotic wood.

Handle Fasteners

Handle fasteners, such as screws or rivets, secure the scales to the tang. Knives with screws allow for easy handle replacement but require occasional tightening. Rivets, on the other hand, provide a more permanent solution, making them a cost-effective and low-maintenance option.

Tang

The tang is the portion of the blade extending into the handle, anchoring it for added strength. Knives come in two tang types:
Full Tang: Runs the entire length of the knife, from tip to butt, offering superior strength and balance.
Partial Tang: Extends only partway into the handle, making the knife lighter but less durable.
Pro Tip: Some knives, known as "hidden tang" knives, conceal the tang for aesthetic purposes. Check the packaging to determine the tang type.

Bolster

The bolster is the thick, weighted section between the blade and handle, enhancing balance and finger protection. It provides extra leverage, making it particularly useful when working with meat or fish. A well-designed bolster encourages a secure pinch grip for precision cutting. However, keep in mind that some bolsters may prevent compatibility with electric knife sharpeners.

Heel

The heel is the widest part of the blade, located closest to the handle. Some knives have a bolster covering the heel, while others leave it exposed. The heel is ideal for cutting through tough ingredients like squash or dense meats.
SpineThe spine is the unsharpened, upper part of the blade, providing structural integrity. A thicker spine adds strength and reduces resistance when chopping. Some knives, such as fillet knives, have a thinner spine for added flexibility when maneuvering around delicate bones.

Edge

The edge is the knife’s sharpened section, responsible for all cutting tasks. Different edge types cater to specific needs:
Serrated Edge: Jagged teeth help slice through bread and tougher textures without tearing.
Straight Edge: Found on knives like the Santoku, this ultra-sharp blade is ideal for clean, precise cuts.
Granton Edge: Features dimples to prevent food from sticking to the blade.

Point & Tip

Often confused, the point and tip serve distinct functions:
Point: The very end of the blade where the edge and spine meet. Primarily used for piercing or scoring.
Tip: The sloping section just behind the point, perfect for delicate slicing tasks, such as cutting soft vegetables.

Ready to Choose the Perfect Knife?

Now that you understand the key components of a kitchen knife, you’re equipped to make an informed decision. Whether you’re butchering a whole chicken or slicing delicate tomatoes, choosing the right knife will elevate your culinary skills.
High-quality knives incorporate all of these elements, while budget options may compromise on features like a full tang or durable fasteners. At Knivorà, we take pride in provide premium knives trusted by home cooks and professional chefs alike.
Our collection includes everything from comprehensive knife sets to individually sold options tailored to every kitchen task. With ergonomic designs, a variety of handle materials, and durable full-tang construction, Knivorà knives are built to last.
Explore our selection today and experience the precision of a truly exceptional knife.