Convex Grind vs Hollow Grind vs Flat Grind

Convex Grind vs Hollow Grind vs Flat Grind

Much like the type of steel we choose for a knife, there are choices in knife grinds.  Convex grind, hollow grind, and flat grind.  Each of these grinds have their own strengths and weaknesses, so we’ll take a look at each.

Convex Grind - A knife with a convex grind has a very strong edge that can take a lot of abuse.  There is more mass behind the cutting edge of a convex grind than other grinds that gives it this attribute.  A convex grind also works great for splitting wood or skinning.  Knives with a convex grind aren't the best slicers but that isn’t to say they can’t.  Japanese swords have a convex grind that can cleave a two or four legged wild animal pretty easily.  If you need a tough edge this is a great option.

Hollow Grind - A knife with a hollow grind is a great slicer.  Typically, a hollow grind has a keener edge than knives with a convex grind and has less mass behind the edge which creates less drag.  This lets knives with a hollow grind to move through material easier.  A hollow grind isn’t as strong as a convex grind knife or a flat grind knife though.  If you don’t need your knife to take a ton of abuse then a hollow grind might be what you want.

Flat Grind - A flat grind knife is a middle-of-the-road type blade.  A flat grind is pretty good at taking some abuse like a knife with a convex grind but a knife with a flat grind can slice similarly to the hollow grind. Flat grind knives won’t be as tough as the convex grinds, nor will they slice better than knives with a hollow grind, but they make a great all around option if you require more from a single knife.

There are variations of each grind but generally speaking these are their basic design features.  Hope this helps when choosing your next knife!

Look up, seek wisdom, and God bless-