Knives come in different shapes and sizes. You will come across many choices when choosing a knife for any purpose. The Bowie knife is one of them. It has a long history, stretching back two centuries ago. Bowie knives became extremely popular in the early 1900s. It has been named after the legendary knife fighter James Bowie. Even after so many years of its introduction, it remains a versatile option and has stood the test of time well.
It is believed that Bowie used this knife to subdue his assailants even after having been stabbed and shot. Since its inception, many variations of the Bowie knife have developed over the years.
In general, Bowie knives for sale will appear like a large knife with a long fixed blade of 12 inches or more, fitting into the sheath. The versatile nature of these knives makes them a perfect candidate for different purposes – chopping trees, fishing, hunting, gardening, and self-defense.
Here is how to shop for the best Bowie knife.
Look at the Blade Material
The blade material of the knife plays a role in defining its use and versatility. In general, carbon steel is the most preferred material for the Bowie knife blade. But as it keeps evolving, modern Bowie knives use other materials such as advanced stainless steel alloys too.
In some cases, stainless steel proves better than carbon steel. Both options are strong. They make the knife durable enough to take any abuse.
Buy the Right Size
The size of the blade should be defined by your purpose of using a Bowie knife. Its blade could be as short as 5 inches or as long as 15 inches, depending upon the type you want to bring home. Large blades feature a more cutting edge. They are perfect for heavy-duty tasks such as hunting or chopping wood.
Smaller blades of a Bowie knife are best suited for high-precision tasks such as skinning. Consider a medium-length blade if you are buying this knife solely for self-defense.
Check the Material of the Handle
A handle made using poor-quality materials will never stand the test of time. Thus, always be careful while choosing the material of the Bowie knife. Opt for a durable material that comes with a comfortable grip.
For instance, wood, bone, and antler may look attractive and are comfortable to handle the knife, but they are not durable. Choose sturdy options such as synthetic blends and micarta, if you want to use the knife in the long run.
Buy the Right Design for the Handle
Besides the material, the handle’s design also affects the knife’s usability. An ergonomically designed handle is considered easier to hold. It also provides a firmer grip for more control.
To provide you with a better grip, Bowie knives come with contoured handles. Some of them may also include a hook at the end of the handle. Buying them is a good idea.
Check the Tang and the Sheath
Tang refers to the shank connecting the blade to the handle. A full tang blade will never break, even if you use the knife for heavy-duty tasks.
A sheath is also an essential addition to your knife. Apart from protecting you from harm, its plastic lining helps you keep the blade sharper for a long time. The strap further allows you to attach the sheath to your pants or belt for safe handling and easy access. A nylon sheath does not last long. A leather one does.
Takeaway
Bowie knives are sturdy, more versatile, and last a lifetime. All you need to do is to consider this buying guide while shopping for them. Explore the many types and options and choose the right one.
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