Looking for a single source (book) that discusses knife design - for example, historical trends, what designs/profiles work best for what functions, material type (kind of steel) dimensions and scale, grinds best for different designs/functions, relationships between function and handle/bolster/guard design and material and so on. I have been reading several excellent books on the craft of knifemaking and learning muchas cosas from all y'all (right Gene, In South Carolina more than two is "all y'all", same in Texas?) but most start with "Pick a design you like and . . . " Anybody who has spent some time with knives has a reasonable sense of what they are looking for and can probably draw a servicable, if not too attractive profile. But I wonder if anybody has put down in one place a pros and cons discussion of knife design. I have found some brief, very interesting opinions by certain makers and a few discussions of historical trends, but am looking for something more comprehensive.

Thanks,
John

Yep- like a moth to a flame I am being drawn in, no thanks to this great group of folks!

John, although neither is specifically a 'design' book, I would recommend two sources for inspiration: Jim Weyer's "Knives: Points of Interest" books, and the "Knives ****" annual digest books. Both are filled with pictures of an enormous variety of knives, materials, and techniques. If you can't find some ideas there, you probably can't find them anywhere.

Hi John,

This may not answer your whole question. The following is a link to the designs that the late Bob Engnath offered when he was grinding. www.knives.com/frameset.html (http://www.knives.com/frameset.html)

I go there to find designs and to basically find out what patterns, sweeps, handle proportions worked when Bob was making knives. I think its a pretty good reference for knife designs.

Take care,
Tom

John,

Here's the link I meant to put in...... www.engnath.com/public/drwframe.htm (http://www.engnath.com/public/drwframe.htm)

Tom

Thanks Don - I have spent hours looking at the photos in the "Knives 2001" annual. Will pick up various "Points of Interest" as my budget permits. This gives a great exposure to the "what" of knife design - a million and one variations on two dozen (?? or so) general themes. The "why" does not really matter I suppose as long as a design works aesthetically and functionally for the maker and the person who will use the knife.

And many thanks Tom. WHAT A SUPER SITE! As close to what I was looking for "on-line" as I think I will come. Design styles set out and then illustrated by variations on the stye with comments on dimensions, materials and utility.

Again the CKD community comes though fast with solid, helpful information.

Thanks guys!
John