{"id":5600,"date":"2019-07-15T14:33:14","date_gmt":"2019-07-15T14:33:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kooxdiving.com\/en\/?p=5600"},"modified":"2020-07-18T06:52:20","modified_gmt":"2020-07-18T06:52:20","slug":"what-is-a-dive-knife","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kooxdiving.com\/en\/what-is-a-dive-knife\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is A Dive Knife?"},"content":{"rendered":"
A dive knife is a tool that divers may need to use to cut fish lines that have become entangled around marine life \u2013 or to knock on tanks to get a buddy\u2019s attention. They\u2019re essential for wreck diving as tangled ropes and underwater plants are often encountered and need to be released. They\u2019re never used as a weapon or to harm the underwater environment.<\/p>\n
What is a dive knife? Do you need to have one? Find out more here\u2026<\/p>\n
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Modern dive knives are made from different blade materials \u2013 either titanium or stainless steel. Titanium knives are lightweight and very strong. They\u2019re also corrosion resistant making them more expensive to buy.<\/p>\n
Stainless steel knives are easy to sharpen but do need more maintenance to keep them from rusting. They can weigh twice as much as titanium knives.
\nKnives range in size from compact to large. On larger types, a metal handle butt can also act as a hammer. Smaller designs may be foldable.<\/p>\n
A sheath with retainer enables you to attach it to your equipment \u2013 on the back of your console or your BCD. Or you can strap it inside your wrist or leg.<\/p>\n
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Your dive knife will reflect the type of diving you do. Here\u2019s a brief guide of the options available:<\/p>\n
Blades \u2013 can be fixed or folding \u2013 a fixed blade can be easily removed from the protective sheath and used with one hand. A folded blade can be harder to open with one hand but is more convenient and safer to carry.<\/p>\n
Blade Edges \u2013 straight or serrated \u2013 a straight blade will slice and cut nylon and plastics. A serrated edge will saw through kelp and natural fibres. Choose a knife that has both edges \u2013 and look for a blade notch that specifically cuts fishing line.<\/p>\n
Blade tips \u2013 can be blunt, sharp, or tanto. Blunt tips are safer and prevent puncturing. Sharp tips are suitable for spiking fish when spearfishing. And tanto tips are a mix of the other two with a high point and a flat grind making them extremely strong.<\/p>\n
Size \u2013 a more compact knife is often the preferred option. And a 7-10 cm blade will be enough to cut through netting. Bigger knives are suitable for spearfishing and kelp diving.<\/p>\n
Comfort \u2013 make sure your hand rests comfortably in the grip. And allow for a good grip even when wearing gloves. Practice sheathing and unsheathing the knife so it becomes second nature.<\/p>\n
Is a dive knife necessary?<\/b><\/p>\n
A good dive knife is essential. You can free yourself or your buddy should you get entangled in fishing line or sea kelp. You can use it to anchor yourself to the sea bed during a heavy current to prevent drifting. Helping trapped marine life is another bonus. And your knife can also be used as a tank-knocker to get attention.<\/p>\n
Why are dive knives blunt?<\/b><\/p>\n
Sharp tips can cause punctures in your wetsuit, regulator, or your skin. Pointed knives are more often used for spearfishing. The edges of the knives are smooth, saw-sharp, or serrated \u2013 so the tips can be blunt to make the knife safer \u2013 and can be used for chiselling, hacking, and digging.<\/p>\n
Do I need a dive knife for snorkelling?<\/b><\/p>\n
If you\u2019re snorkelling in areas where old fishing nets or sea kelp can cause a problem then a dive knife can be a good idea. Chose a compact type that can simply be attached to your lower leg.<\/p>\n