About Damascus Pocket Knives
Before talking about damascus it is important to know about the pocket knives. Pocket knife is an essential tool for a wide range of tasks. It is highly used for simple everyday use, outdoor adventures or self defense. Due to its compact shape and folding style, it can fit into a pocket or a bag. It is convenient to carry for daily use.
With the advent of Damascus steel, damascus folding pocket knives gained popularity. Damascus steel has greatly improved the sharpness and ability to hold the edge of a folding knife.
Benefits of a Damascus Folding Pocket Knife
Pocket knife is a very handy tool in day to day activities. It is commonly used for opening letters, cutting ropes, preparing food etc. That’s why it has become an essential for everyday carry. Due to its compact style and folding blade it can fit into a pocket. Whenever needed it comes handy in hiking, camping, hunting or other survival situations.
Quick History of Folders
The folding knives have been used for thousands of years. There is evidence of its usage in the reign of the Roman Empire. The basic design has evolved over time. With the modern techniques, materials and tools, the functionality and locking systems have greatly improved. Today’s Damascus steel pocket knives are a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern engineering.
Most Popular Opening Styles
There are the following common opening mechanisms in the damascus steel folding knives:
Nail Nick
Nail nick is an indent in the blade. It is used for opening the blade with the help of a fingernail. It is the most common, simple and classic opening way. It requires both hands to open the blade.
Thumb Hole
Thumb hole is another method of opening a blade. According to this technique, there is a hole on the blade. It can be used to open with the help of your thumb. It facilitates opening the blade single handedly.
Flipper
Flippers feature a small tab that protrudes from the blade’s spine when folded. By pushing this tab with your finger, the blade “flips” open quickly and easily. This opening style is popular for its smooth, one-handed operation and fast deployment.
Thumb Stud
In a thumb stud, a stud is placed on the blade near the pivot. It is more convenient than a thumb hole. It is also operated single handedly, but it is faster and easier than the thumb hole. It is widely used in modern folding knives.
Which Damascus Folding Pocket Knife Should I Buy?
Choosing a real damascus folding knife depends on your intended use and budget. There are different knives designed for every purpose. It depends if you want for everyday carry or for specific outdoor adventure. There are some other factors to consider such as blade material, handle, brand opening mechanism, functionality, locking systems and ergonomics. As per your needs, you must get a high quality folding knife that suits your needs.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Pocket Knife
Handle Ergonomics and Material
It doesn’t matter whether the knife is extremely sharp, if it doesn’t fit in your hand, it is not a good knife. It’s one of the important factors to consider. The handle must feel good in your hand. The grip must be comfortable. It depends on the shape of the handle and the material. The shape must be the one that fits perfectly in your hand. The handle material also plays an important role in it. Materials like wood, bone and horn offer strong grip and durability. However, make sure to choose handle material that feels good in your hand and provides good grip.
Locking Mechanisms
Locking mechanisms are used for the safety purposes. It holds the blade to close or open positions. You know, the blade must not close while you are using the knife. You may get a serious injury. Secondly, it must stay close while in a pocket or bag. There are two popular locking mechanisms, liner lock and back lock. These are crucial for safety and ease of use. With the evolution of modern techniques, these two are further used into automatic or button-style folding knives.
Size and Portability
Pocket knives usually range from 3 inches to 5 inches (closed handle). Smaller knives are more popular due to their light weight and ease in portability. On the other hand bigger knives offer more strength.
Importance in Everyday Life
The choice of the knife depends on its useability in everyday life. At the very least, a knife is often used for opening letters and amazon boxes. However, it takes on a totally different approach once you get out of the house. You will require a more rugged and high end pocket knife. Imagine going on a trip and being stuck to cut a rope or a piece of wood.
How to Maintain and Care for Your Damascus Steel Pocket Knife
Most tools require some maintenance to function properly and to last longer. A damascus steel pocket knife also requires maintenance to store and use it for a long time. Lack of maintenance may result in complete damage. It is required evenly for most expensive and high end folding knives.
Sharpening Techniques
A knife may become dull with the usage. To keep it in usable condition, it must be sharpened sometimes. It is better to use a sharpening stone to sharpen it fully. It is the most recommended and efficient method. You will get a razor sharp cutting edge. However, it is slightly difficult and requires some time. At the minimum you can simply rub the blade edge against other blade or steel material.
Cleaning and Storage
Cleaning is recommended for most knives even if it says stainless steel. It doesn’t mean rustproof. It may rust if you don’t clean and store it in a proper way.
I’d suggest that after every use, you must clean the damascus steel knife with water and soap. Then immediately use a dry cloth to clean the water. Don’t let the knife get wet for a long time. Then use any vegetable oil. Now it is good to store. Make sure to store in a dry moisture-free and dust-free place. This way you can store your precious knife for a long time.
Traveling with Pocket Knives
You must be aware of the local laws regulating knives. There are some states that allow the carrying of knives. You may carry any suitable knife there. On the other hand, there are some restrictive states. You can use the small knives but make sure it is not displayed in public. Also make sure to put it in a locked bag.
After the thorough guide, I hope it is now easier for you to choose your best knife. If you need any particular advice, you can contact us.
