The Definitive Guide to
Knives & Blades
Expert reviews, knife law breakdowns, maintenance tips, and buying guides — everything a knife enthusiast needs, in one place.
Latest Articles
Are Butterfly Knives Illegal in Colorado?
Colorado doesn't specifically ban butterfly knives statewide, but local ordinances can restrict carrying them. Here's a full breakdown of the law.
Are Gravity Knives Legal in California?
California has specific laws targeting gravity knives and switchblades. Find out what's legal, what's not, and what the gray areas look like.
Are OTF Knives Legal in Arizona?
Arizona is one of the most knife-friendly states in the nation. Here's the full picture on OTF knife legality in the Grand Canyon State.
Are OTF Knives Legal in Illinois?
Illinois has some of the strictest knife laws in the Midwest. Learn the truth about OTF knife legality in the Land of Lincoln.
Are OTF Knives Legal in Maryland?
Maryland has specific restrictions on switchblades and automatics. Discover whether OTF knives are legal to own and carry in Maryland.
Are Out-the-Front Knives Legal in California?
OTF knives fall squarely in California's switchblade definition. Here's exactly why they're prohibited and what legal alternatives exist.
Are Throwing Knives Legal in California?
California doesn't specifically ban throwing knives, but the way you carry and use them matters enormously. Here's the full breakdown.
Are Microtech Knives Good? An Honest Review
Microtech is synonymous with premium OTF automatics, but are they worth the $200–$500+ price tag? We break down quality, performance, and value.
Are Case Knives Good? A Deep Dive into America's Heritage Brand
W.R. Case & Sons has been making knives in Bradford, PA since 1889. Are they still worth buying in 2025? We examine quality, value, and heritage.
Are Dalstrong Knives Good? The Truth About This Popular Brand
Dalstrong knives look stunning and market heavily. But does the quality match the hype? We cut through the marketing to give you an honest assessment.
Are Misen Knives Good? Review of the DTC Knife Brand
Misen disrupted the kitchen knife market with direct-to-consumer pricing and Japanese geometry on German steel. Here's whether they live up to the promise.
Where Are CIVIVI Knives Made?
CIVIVI is a sub-brand of WE Knife Company. Find out where they're manufactured, what quality standards they follow, and how they compare to competitors.
Where Are QSP Knives Made?
QSP is a rising star in budget and mid-range pocket knives. Learn about their manufacturing location and how they've earned respect in the knife community.
Where Are Hogue Knives Made?
Hogue is best known for firearm grips, but their knives are built to the same high standards. Find out where they're manufactured and what makes them special.
Where Are J.A. Henckels Knives Made?
J.A. Henckels is one of the oldest cutlery brands in the world, but their manufacturing has changed. Here's the full truth about where their knives come from today.
How to Remove Rust from Stainless Steel Knives
Even stainless steel knives can rust. Learn the most effective methods for removing rust without damaging your blade's finish or edge.
How to Clean and Care for Damascus Steel Knives
Damascus steel is beautiful but requires specific care to maintain its distinctive pattern and prevent rust. Here's the complete care guide.
How Often Should You Sharpen Japanese Knives?
Japanese knives hold their edge longer than German knives but require specific sharpening techniques. Here's a complete guide to timing and frequency.
How to Sharpen Serrated Steak Knives
Serrated knives can be sharpened at home with the right tools and technique. Here's a step-by-step guide to restoring your steak knives to their former glory.
Is 420 Stainless Steel Good for Knives?
420 stainless is the most common knife steel in the world. Is it actually good, or is it just cheap? We break down the honest truth.
Is 440C Steel Good for Knives?
440C was once the benchmark of premium knife steel. Does it still hold up in 2025 against modern super steels? An honest, detailed assessment.
Is D2 Steel Good for Knives?
D2 is a high-carbon tool steel that's polarizing in the knife community. Is its edge retention worth the extra care requirements? Full breakdown inside.
Is High Carbon Stainless Steel Good for Knives?
'High carbon stainless steel' is a marketing term that can mean many things. Here's how to decode it and what it actually tells you about a knife's quality.
Are Steel Cutting Boards Bad for Knives?
Steel cutting boards are having a moment on social media, but knife experts are alarmed. Here's the definitive answer on whether they'll destroy your knives.
Does Smith & Wesson Make Good Knives?
S&W is legendary for firearms, but do their knives hold up? We take an honest look at their knife lineup, quality, and who they're actually designed for.
Are Knives Made of Iron?
A common question with a fascinating metallurgical answer. Modern knives aren't made of pure iron — here's why, and what they're actually made of.
What Are Fixed Blade Knives? A Complete Guide
Fixed blade knives are the oldest knife design in human history. Learn what makes them distinct, why they're preferred for certain tasks, and how to choose one.
What Does EDC Mean for Knives?
EDC stands for 'Everyday Carry' — but the knife world has developed a rich culture and specific standards around what makes an ideal EDC blade. Here's everything to know.
What Is Hollow Grinding on Knives?
Hollow grind is the most common blade grind type, but understanding exactly what it does — and when it's the right choice — requires understanding blade geometry.
Where Can I Sell Knives Online? The Complete Guide
From eBay to dedicated knife forums, there are more places than ever to sell knives online. Here's where to sell, how to price, and how to avoid getting burned.
How to Start a Knife Review Blog (Complete Guide)
Knife review blogs can be profitable with the right strategy. Here's how to build one from scratch in 2025.
How to Photograph Knives for Your Blog (No Studio Needed)
Great knife photos dramatically increase your blog's professionalism. Here's how to shoot sharp, clean knife photos with any camera.
Best Knife Affiliate Programs for Bloggers in 2025
Amazon isn't the only option for knife affiliate marketing. Here are the best-paying programs specifically for knife content creators.
Are Kershaw Knives Good? An Honest 2025 Review
Kershaw is one of America's best-selling knife brands. But are they actually worth buying? Here's an honest breakdown.
Are Spyderco Knives Worth the Money?
Spyderco knives are pricier than most. Here's whether the premium is justified and which models deliver the best value.
Are Benchmade Knives Made in the USA?
Benchmade proudly claims American-made status. Here's what that actually means for each of their product lines.
Where Are Cold Steel Knives Made?
Cold Steel has a complicated manufacturing story. Here's where their knives are actually made and what that means for quality.
Where Are Gerber Knives Made?
Gerber has American roots but a global supply chain. Here's where different Gerber knives are actually manufactured.
How to Strop a Knife: The Complete Beginner's Guide
Stropping is the secret to a truly razor-sharp edge. Here's how to do it correctly and what strop to buy.
How to Oil a Folding Knife (And What Oil to Use)
A dry pivot is a slow, rough-opening knife. Here's how to properly oil and maintain your folding knife.
How to Remove Patina from a Carbon Steel Knife
Patina on carbon steel can be beautiful — or ugly. Here's how to remove it if you want a clean blade.
Is S30V Steel Good for Knives?
CPM S30V is one of the most popular premium knife steels. Here's an honest breakdown of its strengths and weaknesses.
Is AUS-8 Steel Good for Knives?
AUS-8 is a Japanese mid-range stainless steel used by brands like CRKT and Cold Steel. Here's what it's actually like to use.
Is VG-10 Steel Good for Knives?
VG-10 is the favorite steel of Japanese kitchen knife makers. Here's why it's so popular and whether it's right for your knife.
Best Knife for Camping and Survival (2025 Guide)
The best camping and survival knife needs to handle wood processing, fire prep, food, and emergencies. Here's what to look for.
What Is a Tanto Blade? Uses, Pros & Cons Explained
Tanto blades look aggressive and different. Here's what they're actually designed for and whether one is right for you.
What Is a Clip Point Blade? Everything You Need to Know
The clip point is one of the most common blade shapes in the world. Here's what makes it so popular and versatile.
Honing vs Sharpening: What's the Difference?
Most people confuse honing and sharpening. Here's exactly what each process does and when you should use each one.
Best Kitchen Knife Brands in 2025 (By Budget)
From budget picks to professional-grade blades, here are the best kitchen knife brands for every budget in 2025.
How to Choose a Chef's Knife: The Complete Guide
A chef's knife is the most important tool in your kitchen. Here's exactly how to choose the right one for your cooking style.
Japanese vs German Kitchen Knives: Which Is Better?
Both styles have passionate fans. Here's an objective comparison of Japanese and German kitchen knives to help you choose.
How to Start a Knife Review Blog (Complete Guide)
Knife review blogs can be profitable with the right strategy. Here's how to build one from scratch in 2025.
How to Photograph Knives for Your Blog (No Studio Needed)
Great knife photos dramatically increase your blog's professionalism. Here's how to shoot sharp, clean knife photos with any camera.
Best Knife Affiliate Programs for Bloggers in 2025
Amazon isn't the only option for knife affiliate marketing. Here are the best-paying programs specifically for knife content creators.
What Is a Paring Knife Used For?
The paring knife is the most overlooked essential kitchen tool. Here's everything it excels at and how to use it properly.
What Is a Boning Knife and Do You Need One?
Boning knives are specialized tools for breaking down meat. Here's what they do, when you need one, and which to buy.
Are Self-Defense Knives Legal? What You Need to Know
Carrying a knife for self-defense is legal in most US states — but with critical restrictions. Here's what the law actually says.
How to Use a Whetstone: Step-by-Step for Beginners
Whetstone sharpening produces the best edge possible. Here's a complete beginner's guide to sharpening any knife on a whetstone.
What Is CPM Steel? Crucible Particle Metallurgy Explained
CPM steels show up on premium knives everywhere. Here's what the CPM process actually does and why it makes better knives.
How to Build a Knife Collection: A Beginner's Guide
Knife collecting is a rewarding hobby. Here's how to start intelligently without wasting money on knives you'll regret.
Are Knives Good Gifts? The Complete Gift Guide
Knives make thoughtful, practical gifts — if you choose correctly. Here's how to pick the right knife for any recipient.
Are Butterfly Knives Illegal in New York?
New York's knife laws have changed dramatically. The 2019 gravity knife reform and 2023 bail reform affected how butterfly knives are treated in the Empire State.
Are Knives Legal in the United Kingdom?
The UK has some of the strictest knife laws in the Western world. Here's a complete breakdown of what's legal, what's not, and how UK knife law differs from the US.
What Is a Santoku Knife Used For?
The santoku is one of Japan's most popular kitchen knives, but many home cooks don't know how to use one properly. Here's the complete guide.
Is Magnacut Steel Good for Knives?
Magnacut is the newest super steel taking the knife world by storm. Here's an honest assessment of whether it lives up to the hype.
Is S35VN Steel Good for Knives?
S35VN is the upgraded successor to S30V. Here's a detailed comparison and honest assessment of whether the upgrade is worth it.
How to Store Knives Properly: The Complete Guide
Improper knife storage damages edges, causes rust, and creates safety hazards. Here's how to store every type of knife correctly.
Are Zero Tolerance Knives Worth the Money?
Zero Tolerance makes some of the most aggressive and premium EDC knives. But do they justify the $300-$600+ price tags? An honest assessment.
What Is a Balisong Knife? A Complete Guide to Butterfly Knives
Balisong knives are one of the most fascinating knife designs in the world. Here's everything you need to know about their history, mechanics, parts, and culture.
Types of Pocket Knife Lock Mechanisms: The Complete Guide
The locking mechanism is the most important safety feature on a folding knife. Here's every major lock type explained, how they work, and their pros and cons.
Best Steak Knives in 2025 (By Budget)
Great steak knives make a huge difference at the dinner table. Here are the best options at every price point, from budget to premium.
Are Switchblade Knives Legal in Florida?
Florida's knife laws are among the most permissive in the country. Here's a complete breakdown of switchblade legality in the Sunshine State.
Are Butterfly Knives Illegal in Texas?
Texas dramatically reformed its knife laws in 2017. Here's the complete picture of butterfly knife legality in the Lone Star State today.
Are Knives Allowed on Planes? TSA Rules Explained
TSA rules on knives in carry-on and checked luggage are surprisingly specific. Here's everything you need to know before flying with any blade.
Are Chris Reeve Knives Worth the Money?
Chris Reeve Knives command premium prices of $400-$700+. Here's an honest examination of whether the legendary American maker justifies the investment.
What Is a Nakiri Knife? The Vegetable Specialist Explained
The nakiri is a Japanese vegetable knife unlike anything in Western cutlery. Here's everything you need to know about this specialized cutting tool.
Is M390 Steel Good for Knives?
Bohler M390 is one of the most respected premium knife steels. Here's an honest, comprehensive analysis of its performance, applications, and whether it justifies the premium.
Is 8Cr13MoV Steel Good for Knives?
8Cr13MoV is the most common steel in budget folding knives. Is it actually good, or are you better off saving up for premium steel? An honest assessment.
How to Sharpen a Pocket Knife: A Complete Beginner's Guide
A sharp pocket knife is safer and more useful than a dull one. Here's a complete guide to sharpening any folding knife with various tools.
What Is a Drop Point Blade? The Most Versatile Knife Shape Explained
The drop point is the most popular blade shape in the world for good reason. Here's everything you need to know about why it dominates EDC, hunting, and outdoor knives.
Are Cold Steel Knives Good? An Honest Brand Review
Cold Steel is famous for extreme toughness testing and bold marketing. But are the knives actually good? An unbiased look at the brand's strengths and weaknesses.