Using stock knives takes practice, patience, and a clear idea of what the tool can do.
What is a Stock Knife?
A stock knife is a fixed-blade knife traditionally used in leather working to cut and trim leather hides. The blade is straight and thick, which allows it to stay rigid under heavy use. The stock knife features a wood handle, but synthetic counterparts are made today with the vision of creating an easier grasp for long hours of fatigue.
Stock knives were commonly used traditionally in leather and tanning industries, where the users employed them to trim, cut, and finish the leather to create various products such as saddles, boots, and bags.
In this context, the design of the stock knife grew to meet the heavy-modifications demands that established it in traditional leathercraft.
Anatomy of a Stock Knife
A stock knife typically consists of a blade, a tang, and a handle.
- Blade. The blade is typically straight and heavy, constructed for heavy cutting and shaping. It is often made of stainless steel or carbon steel for its strength and sharpness.
- Handle. The handle is made ergonomic so that it is easy to hold throughout continuous use. Wood (oak or walnut), plastic, or micarta are the typical construction materials for strength and comfort.
- Tang. Tang is the portion of the handle that goes into the blade to provide strength and stability. It is usually full tang, which means it goes through the entire handle length to make it stronger.
Modern Woodcarving Techniques
Today’s artisans have taken to adapting stock knives into woodcarving by employing them in a wide variety of carving techniques. The straight, thick blade allows for controlled precision cuts, and it is well-fit for rough shaping and final-detail work.
Stock knives commonly work for shaping larger pieces and the quick removal of material in spoon, bowl, or fine sculpture carving.
The use of a knife stock provides several benefits: a thick blade, ergonomic design, and increased options. Straight, clean increased control while shaping corners or flats. The stock knife boasts a strong body and stable full tang, and it provides less strain to hands during long working hours.
Thus, the stock knife is a good tool for beginner carvers and experienced drivers. The stock knife provides the precision and durability for any woodcarving project they undertake.
Top Stock Knives on the Market
Some of the top-of-the-line stock knives in the market are those from Forged Steel Tools. This wood carving shop is well known for manufacturing great stock knives that are known for their sharpness and high quality. Their knives normally have ergonomically designed handles and full-tang blades well-suited for heavy woodcarving activities.
If properly taken care of, the lifespan of the stock knife is dramatically extended. The blade ought to be sharpened at regular intervals with a sharpening stone or with a honing tool so it stays sharp.
The blade must also be wiped clean after each use and lubricated so it does not corrode. The knife must also be kept in a dry place so it is not ruined by water.
