Even with all the gadgets available today, there’s no substitute for a shard knife for cooking, camping, hunting, etc. Hence, knives come in various shapes and forms, finding good use for various steel amalgams.
Nowadays, two of the most popular types are hunting and kitchen knives. However, should you use them interchangeably for the same tasks?
Here’s the summary of the hunting knife vs kitchen knife debate:
Hunting Knife vs Kitchen Knife: Comparison
There is a wide range of differences between a kitchen knife and a hunting knife. They differ not only in their builds but in almost any other aspect.
For example, they use distinct blade material, hinge, handle, blade length, etc. As a result, they each excel in their respective areas. Here are the details about these key features:
1. Composition of the Blade
The first difference between hunting and kitchen knives is their blade’s material. Since bushcraft and cooking are separate challenges, brands aim to provide for both hobbies. Hence, they carefully pick which materials comprise these types of blades.
Also, the shape of the blade indicates its purpose. Therefore, you’ll find hunting knives using a gut hook, clip point, tantō, etc. In general, the gut hook is optimal for skinning hunted animals.
On the other hand, kitchen cutlery comes with another set of qualities. For example, not all kitchen knives use pointy ends since you won’t use that part for slicing bread. Yet, kitchen knives are sturdy enough to cut through bigger chunks of meat.
Furthermore, a hunting knife’s spine is usually thicker than a kitchen knife’s. In addition, the steel used to make hunting knives is much more durable and shorter. As a result, you can use such a knife to split branches and start a fire.
2. Blade Length
The kitchen and hunting knives vary greatly in terms of blade length. A hunting knife typically features a 4” or 3” blade, and the short length makes it easy for the hunters to carry the knives around.
Kitchen knives come in many more shapes and sizes. For example, pro chefs often opt for knives with wider blades and sturdy handles.
However, the usual kitchen sets comprise mostly thin and easy-to-balance knives. In general, they come with blades long between 5” and 7”.
3. Hinge
Hunting or survival knives are usually foldable featuring a hinge. On the other hand, kitchen knives have fixed blades that can’t move or rotate.
Aside from that, you should always carry a hunting knife in its sheath when not in use. That’ll protect the coating from the elements and shield you from injuries.
Given their purpose, it’d be wise to always carry a hunting knife within hand’s reach, even on your belt. When you’re scouting a new area to start a camp there, it’s best to stay prepared to defend yourself.
One of the main reasons for hinges on hunting knives is to keep them sharp and rust-free, and this is because hunters cannot always get the chance to re-sharpen their knives and can also drop them when crossing a pond.
4. Purpose
Another significant difference between hunting and kitchen knives is their functions. Kitchen knives are used for cutting vegetables, fruits, and other common foods.
On the contrary, you should use hunting knives for clearing vegetation when outdoor or for skinning fish or animals.
However, you should keep both tools sharp at all times. In other words, no matter their prices, you should make a habit of learning how to maintain them. To that end, inquire about the best methods to keep them in tip-top shape.
Most notably, take some more time to check the condition of your hunting knife after a long adventure in the open.
5. Handle
The handle build and design is another significant difference between the two knives. As far as the hunting knife is concerned, the first portion of the handle is a bolster that prevents the fingers from slipping over the blade.
Also, hunting knives feature a finger groove allowing a tighter grip. In some models, it is possible to customize this finger groove to find the perfect fit for your palm.
Another vital part of a hunting knife’s handle is its tang, and knives with a full tang are the most durable models.
The handles of kitchen knives are usually simpler and smoother. Most of them follow similar molds and allow one to use them without much fatigue.
Sometimes kitchen knives also feature a bolster, but that is not a necessary part of this type.
6. Weight
The tool’s weight is something companies carefully measure before production. Hunting knives usually feature specific designs and textures for ideal grip.
However, since most kitchen knives are longer than a hunting knife, they often weigh more. Therefore, companies ensure to balance them correctly, making them easy to get used to.
As a result, you can learn how to quickly perform precise chops when making a salad or fruity dessert. Hence, the item’s weight won’t get in your way – instead, it’ll allow you to keep control and build momentum.
7. Assembly
You won’t have to disassemble a kitchen knife to wash or re-sharpen it. Plus, they’re often dishwasher safe and won’t damage your other utensils.
Hunting knives differ in this aspect as well, since some do allow a way to detach the handle for thorough cleaning. Yet, don’t resort to doing this until it’s necessary.
Afterward, be very careful when putting the knife back together. If you face issues, be sure to collect all parts and leave them to a professional.
Conclusion
While hunting knives and kitchen knives have a lot of differences, they do share some aspects as well. For example, they’re all properly balanced tools with a wide range of appliances.
Therefore, you should keep a set of both these types for dealing with the wilderness or for making dinner. Plus, maintaining them in good shape is a whole different challenge. Yet, that is not something daily usage won’t take care of.
