All About Knives Tangs, Handmade Knives, Louis Martin Custom Knives
Quick Answer
The tang is the unsharpened part of a blade that extends into the handle, and it defines a knife's balance, strength, and durability. Full tangs offer maximum strength, while encapsulated tangs resist corrosion and add visual appeal.
The art of crafting knives has been a tradition passed down through generations. Each aspect holds significant importance but today, let’s explore all types of knife tang. The tang is the unsharpened part of the blade that extends into the handle. It’s critical in defining a knife’s balance, strength, and durability. Different types of tangs offer varying degrees of these essential qualities.
Each type has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Knowing the differences can significantly influence your choice depending on your needs. From encapsulated tangs for those seeking extra protection and aesthetic appeal to full tangs for the utmost strength and durability, the options are abundant. Each tang type serves a purpose, finding its place in the vast and diverse universe of knives. For a side-by-side comparison, see full tang vs partial tang knives.
Each tang type suits different uses. The encapsulated tang, for instance, adds an extra layer of resilience against corrosive elements like water and salt. For fishing and other wet outdoor work, an encapsulated tang is a practical choice.