What are the parts of a marking knife?

2nd March 2020


	What are the parts of a marking knife?


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			Blades
			The blade is used to scribe a piece of wood, producing a guideline which can then be followed by the woodworker using a chisel or saw. The two types of blade available are single-bevel and double-bevel. See What are the different types of marking knife? for further information.

			Single-bevel blade A single-bevel blade only has a single cutting edge. The blade is bevelled on either the right or left side, which limits the direction in which the knife can be pulled, as the bevel must always face away from the guide. Having two knives with bevels on opposite sides means you can scribe in any direction.

			Single-bevel blade (curved) This type of blade contains a slight curve, making it ideal for freehand marking and marking out circles and arcs. The curve in the blade will follow the shape of a circular or arc-shaped guide.

			Double-bevel blade (spear shaped blade) This blade has a bevel on both sides, so the knife can scribe a workpiece in any direction.

			Blade guard
			Some types of marking knives come with a guard that is placed on the blade when it is not in use. The guard protects the blade from becoming dull or damaged and can also protect you from accidentally cutting yourself. Some blade guards come with a hanging hole so they can be hung on a nail or string when stored away.

			Handles
			The handle allows the user to grip and hold the marking knife comfortably with one hand. Marking knife handles come in several different designs.

			Tapered handles (flat) A tapered handle provides a comfortable grip and has an indent in which to place your fingers and thumb.

			Indent The indent protects fingers and thumb from slipping onto the blade, which could cause injury.

			Tapered handles (rounded) Some tapered handles come with a thicker base near the blade end of the handle. This provides the user with more handle to grip and a tighter hold when using the knife.

			Shank (handle) A shank-handled marking knife has its handle and blade forged as one piece. The shank provides the user with a thin and flat handle.

			Some types of shank handle come with a slight curve for a comfortable grip suitable for freehand marking and marking out circles and arcs. The ergonomic handle allows you to manoeuvre your hand into a more comfortable position while marking a circle or arc. The handle will comfortably accommodate the curve in the palm of your hand. Ergonomics is the relationship between the user and a product. It is how comfortable the design is for a user without them having to adapt or be limited.

			Flat handles Flat wooden handles allow a comfortable grip for the user and also hold the blade in the centre with two pins. The flatness of this type of handle ensures the knife won’t roll off the workbench.

			Plastic handle The plastic handle offers the user a comfortable grip when scribing.

			Indent
			Certain plastic marking knives come with a thumb scallop (indent) in the handle to make gripping more comfortable and prevent your hand from slipping.

			Hanging hole
			Hanging holes are available on certain types of marking knives. The hole is to hang the marking knife on a nail, hook or piece of string so it can be stored away and avoid any damage.

			Screws
			Some types of marking knives have screws in each end of the handle, to keep the blade and handle together. The screws allow you to tighten or remove the blade.

			Pins
			The pins located on the handle on certain marking knives keep the blade and handle together.

			Ferrule
			The ferrule is attached to the handle on some marking knives. It holds the blade of the knife in place. A ferrule is a small circular metal ring that fastens two objects together.