Glossary of Blade Shapes

Single Edge Blade
A single edge knife blade features a sharp curving edge and a dull, flat back. Some single edge knives have a false edge, a sharpened or serrated spine used for heavier cutting.

Double Edge Blade
A double-edged knife blade has the same sharpness on each end and can cut in either direction equally well.

Clip Blade or Clip Point Blade
A clip blade is a single edge knife in which the back of the blade has been clipped to accentuate and sharpen the point. The curve is typically short, and the remaining portion of the back may be a false edge or even a second edge. The result is a sharper but weaker blade.
There are numerous variations on the clip blade knife. Many are known as modified clip knives, but some regional variations exist, such as the California clip knife (which has a longer and gentler curve) and the Turkish clip knife (which features a very elongated clip).

Trailing Point Blade
The blade of a trailing point knife looks like it's bending slightly backwards at the point. This upward curve emphasizes the belly of the blade rather than its point, resulting in a knife best suited for slicing rather than jabbing.

Drop Point Blade
A knife with a drop point blade has a more convex curve than a clip blade. This results in a thicker point that increases the knife's strength but reduces its acuity.

Sheepsfoot Blade
A sheepsfoot blade knife has a straight cutting edge, rounded point, and curved, dull back. This knife design offers the advantage of a clean cut and a dull back surface for added grip.