Introduction:
In the world of survival knives, the debate between full tang and partial tang designs has been ongoing for years. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice often depends on the intended use of the knife. One of the most critical aspects of a survival knife is its durability, especially when it comes to batoning. In this article, we will delve into a survival knife batoning test, comparing the durability of full tang and partial tang knives.
Background:
Batoning is a technique used to split wood by striking the end of a baton with a knife. This method is particularly useful in survival situations where you need to create firewood or other tools. A durable knife is essential for batoning, as the process can be quite demanding on the blade and handle.
Test Setup:
For our survival knife batoning test, we selected two knives: a full tang knife and a partial tang knife. Both knives were of similar size and weight, with the following specifications:
Full Tang Knife:
– Blade Length: 10 inches
– Blade Material: 1095 High Carbon Steel
– Handle Material: G10
– Overall Length: 15 inches
Partial Tang Knife:
– Blade Length: 10 inches
– Blade Material: 5160 High Carbon Steel
– Handle Material: Aluminum
– Overall Length: 12 inches
Test Procedure:
We conducted the batoning test by following these steps:
1. Cut a straight line along the length of a 12-inch wooden baton using both knives.
2. Attempt to split the baton in half by striking the end of the baton with the knife handle.
3. Repeat the process with the other knife.
4. Assess the durability of both knives after the test, focusing on the blade and handle integrity.
Results:
Full Tang Knife:
– The full tang knife successfully split the baton in half with minimal effort.
– The blade remained sharp and showed no signs of damage.
– The handle showed no signs of cracking or breaking.
Partial Tang Knife:
– The partial tang knife also split the baton in half with minimal effort.
– The blade remained sharp and showed no signs of damage.
– The handle showed some minor scratches but no signs of cracking or breaking.
Conclusion:
In our survival knife batoning test, both the full tang and partial tang knives performed well. The full tang knife, with its longer tang, provided a more solid feel and better balance during the batoning process. However, the partial tang knife still demonstrated good durability and performance.
The choice between a full tang and partial tang knife ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. If you prioritize a solid feel and better balance, a full tang knife may be the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a lightweight and versatile option, a partial tang knife could be more suitable.
In any case, it’s essential to invest in a high-quality knife that meets your survival needs and can withstand the demands of batoning and other survival tasks.
