Conclusion

T he creative explosion in the development of tactical knives than began in the seventies continues today. Now there is a virtual river of steel made up of good quality knives to choose from. This book provides you with the knowledge you need to pick the right knife for your purposes, but you should also pick the knife that’s right for you. To do that, when you’ve narrowed your choice down to just a few knives, direct all your attention to them and really see each knife; pick them up, heft them. Is there one that seems to attract you more than the others? Ask yourself if the attraction you feel for a particular knife is due to its flashy appearance. If so, and if you’re looking for a working knife rather than one to add to your collection, put that one down and continue searching. As you pick up each knife, focus your attention on how it feels in your hand. Imagine using the knife for your purpose. Does it feel balanced, comfortable, right? When you find the knife that feels right, you’ve found your knife.

I don’t have a crystal ball and cannot predict what the future will bring. I don’t know if a new material is about to emerge from the laboratories that will render all knife steel obsolete or if the practitioners of the ancient art and craft of forging by hand and fire will continue to make amazing knives. My guess is that whatever the future of knife making, it will be interesting.