Benchmade Blade Shapes

  Understanding how blade profile affects performance and everyday use 

    Blade shape plays a major role in how a knife performs. From slicing and piercing to control and safety,     each profile is designed with a specific purpose in mind. While some shapes are highly versatile,     others excel in more specialized tasks.  

    This guide provides a clear overview of the most common blade shapes used by Benchmade.     If you’re comparing knives or narrowing down options, understanding blade profile is an important step.  

Common Benchmade Blade Shapes     

A display of benchmade knives showcasing the different blade shapes.

(Left to Right: Clip-Point, Trailing Point, Tanto, Opposing Bevel, Drop-Point, Reverse Tanto, Spear-Point, Wharncliffe, Sheepsfoot)

                                                 

Blade Shape

Primary Characteristics

Typical Uses

Drop-Point

Gently sloping spine with a strong, controllable tip and large cutting belly.

Everyday carry, outdoor tasks, hunting, general utility.

Clip-Point

Concave cut near the spine creating a finer, sharper point.

Piercing tasks, tactical use, traditional and heritage-style knives.

Sheepsfoot

Straight cutting edge with a rounded, lowered tip for enhanced control.

Rescue work, push cuts, safety-focused applications.

Tanto

Angular profile with reinforced tip and minimal belly.

Hard-use tasks, tactical applications, strong piercing performance.

Reverse Tanto

Lowered tip aligned with the cutting edge for improved strength.

Versatile everyday carry with enhanced tip durability.

Wharncliffe

Straight cutting edge with spine tapering sharply to the tip.

Precision slicing, controlled utility work.

Spear-Point

Symmetrical blade with centered point for balanced performance.

EDC designs, tactical styles, balanced cutting and piercing.

Dagger

Dual-edged, symmetrical blade optimized for penetration.

Tactical or ceremonial applications.

Scimitar

Sweeping belly with raised tip emphasizing slicing power.

Powerful slicing tasks; inspired by traditional fighting blades.

Recurve

Inward and outward curves forming an “S” shaped cutting edge.

Aggressive slicing, draw cuts, processing tasks.

Trailing-Point

Upward-curving tip with extended belly.

Skinning, slicing, fine cutting with control.

Blunt Tip (Opposing Bevel)

Reinforced flat tip with offset bevels.

Prying, utility work, strength-focused tasks.

Trainer

Rounded, dulled blade profile designed for safety.

Training and practice without injury risk.

Hook

U- or V-shaped notch with sharpened interior edge.

Emergency cutting of cord, webbing, or clothing.

 

Choosing the Right Blade Shape

  Blade shape affects how a knife feels in use more than many people expect. A versatile profile can handle a wide     range of everyday tasks, while specialized shapes excel in specific situations.  

  If you’re comparing knives, blade shape is best considered alongside steel type, handle material, and intended use. Our Benchmade Knife Guide helps connect these factors when narrowing down your options.  

    To explore available models and see which blade profiles are currently offered, visit our Benchmade knife collection.