Shieldon knives have only recently burst on to the scene for me. And ever since I discovered them, I’ve been hooked!
I want to let you in on a few considerations I make when choosing an Everyday Carry (EDC) Pocket Knife.
A Survival Knife Guide for Hunters and Campers
When considering what is on offer from Shieldon knives, I find that I’m drawn to the following knives based on a number of factors (not based on the awesome Pokémon character names):
- Shieldon Tranchodon
- Non Slip Handle Design
- Sheep’s Foot Blade
- Shieldon Barraskewda
- Reverse Tanto Point Blade
- Carbon Fiber Inlay
- Shieldon Colibri
- Double Layer G10 Contoured Handle
- Nested Liner Lock
- Shieldon Charkos, and
- Acid Etched Blade Finish
- Shieldon Relicanth
- Contoured Grip
But these don’t seem to stack up to the Bulbasaur Folding Pocket Knife (Sandvik 14C28N) by Shieldon in my opinion.
This isn’t purely based on technical specifications of the blade, or price for me. Aesthetics and feel are important too. Fore me, I’ve gotta go with what feels right.
The drop point blade is my preferred option in an EDC pocket knife, and with the ceramic ball bearing setup, I can’t see how this could get much better.
What is a Drop Point Blade?
Drop point blades are a popular choice for a variety of applications because of their versatility and durability. They are characterized by a spine that slopes downward to meet the cutting edge at a “drop” point, resulting in a broad, strong tip that is suitable for a range of tasks.
Drop point blades are often used for hunting, as the broad tip is strong enough to skin and field dress game. They are also popular for EDC pocket knives because of their versatility and ability to handle a variety of cutting tasks.
Drop point blades are also well-suited for tactical and rescue applications, as the broad tip allows for precision cuts and the strength of the tip allows for prying and other heavy-duty tasks.
In general, drop point blades are a good choice for anyone looking for a strong, versatile knife that can handle a range of tasks. They are suitable for both general and specialized use, and their broad tip makes them well-suited for both precision and heavy-duty cutting tasks.
Why Choose a Drop Point Plain Edge Blade?
A plain edge refers to a type of blade edge that is smooth and straight, without any serrations or other decorative patterns. Like drop point blades, plain edge blades are versatile and can be used for a wide range of tasks.
Plain edge blades are often preferred for an EDC pocket knife because they are easier to sharpen and maintain when compared to serrated blades. They are also well-suited for precision cutting tasks, such as slicing and carving, because the smooth edge allows for cleaner cuts.
There are several reasons why someone might choose a drop point blade with a plain edge:
- Tip 1 – Versatility
- Drop point blades are known for their versatility and are suitable for a wide range of tasks, including skinning, carving, and general utility work. A plain edge (also known as a “straight edge”) makes the blade even more versatile because it can be used for both fine and rough cutting tasks.
- Tip 2 – Ease of use
- A plain edge is easier to sharpen than a serrated edge, making it easier to maintain and keep sharp. It is also generally easier to control than a serrated edge, which can be more difficult to guide when cutting.
- Tip 3 – Clean cuts
- A plain edge can produce cleaner cuts than a serrated edge, especially on softer materials like rope or cardboard.
- Tip 4 – Aesthetics
- Some people prefer the look of a plain edge because it has a more traditional, classic appearance.
It’s worth noting that a plain edge is not as effective at cutting through materials that have a tough outer layer and a softer interior, such as bread or tomatoes. In these cases, a serrated edge may be more effective because it can bite into the material and saw through it.
However, for most general cutting tasks, a drop point blade with a plain edge is a good choice.
Consider also: