Best Throwing Knives (2021)– High-Grade Stainless Steel, Custom, No-Spin, Beginner & Advanced Choices Tested & Reviewed With Buying Guide
- Robert Stevens
There are many styles of throwing knives and their uses vary from being a sport to combat skills or for just entertainment by various organizations. Knife throwing is an art to many that a master knife fighter should possess in perfection. But this requires a long and painstaking exercise, starting from learning how to grip the weapon securely to maintaining the correct flow while throwing.
The Ranger Expert team will show you how to choose the best throwing knives from a myriad of options whatever the purpose you need them for. Our buying guide will also help you learn what makes a good throwing knife. So, read on and make an informed buying decision.
What You Will Get Here
- Best Throwing Knives Comparison Chart (Updated 2021)
- Why You Should Trust Us
- How Did We Pick These Knives?
- Our Top 10 Best Throwing Knives
- Top Pick: Smith & Wesson SWTK8CP
- Budget Buy: Avias Knife Supply 6.5 Inch Throwing Knife set
- Beginner's Choice: Perfect Point RC-179 by BladesUSA
- Top Custom Model: SOG Throwing Knives (F041TN-CP)
- Top No-Spin Choice: Perfect Point PAK-712-12
- A list of 5 other products we reviewed
- Other Tested Products
- Why Throwing Knives Are Different From Other Regular Knives
- Throwing Knife - Buying Guide
- How to Throw a Knife?
- Safety tips
- FAQs
Best Throwing Knives Comparison Chart (Updated 2021)
| Product | Name | Read Review | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Smith & Wesson SWTK8CP Read Full Review | |||
Avias Knife Supply 6.5 Inch Throwing Knife set Read Full Review | |||
Perfect Point RC-179 by BladesUSA Read Full Review | |||
SOG Throwing Knives (F041TN-CP) Read Full Review | |||
Perfect Point PAK-712-12 Read Full Review | |||
QEONIX Cold Steel 9733 80PGTK GI Tanto Read Full Review | |||
Smith & Wesson SWTK8BCP 8-Inch Read Full Review | |||
Ace Martial Arts Supply Ninja Stealth (Black) Read Full Review | |||
United Cutlery Gil Hibben Small Competition Triple Thrower Set Read Full Review | |||
United Cutlery GH2033 Gil Hibben Large Set Read Full Review |
Why You Should Trust Us
This question might come in your mind – who are these guys reviewing such weapons? In case you’re not familiar with the Ranger Expert team, we’re a bunch of outdoor enthusiasts that love shooting and hunting. Few of our members have been using different styles of throwing knives for years for sports, combat skills, and entertainment purposes.
Not only do we use this platform to share our expertise with people from all corners of the world, but we review a range of hunting gear according to our practical user experience. We do this because we know it’s hard to find reliable and unbiased product reviews in this world of the Internet, whether that’s a crossbow or a gun cleaning kit.
We have no financial connection with any of the manufacturers. So, we’re here to offer honest and unbiased product reviews based on our years of experience with such products. We do this so you don’t have to make the same mistake that we made when we were a novice like you. And you’ll realize the depth of our expertise when you’ll be done going through this review.
How Did We Pick These Knives?
Here at Ranger Expert, we followed a thorough research process to find the finest models from a large number of choices. At first, after spending 22 hours online, my team and I listed down 26 throwing knives and decided to test all of them.
So, we called in our volunteers to give us a hand. We gathered all those models of throwing knives and checked their features like the type of materials, handles, blades, weight, speed, and level of balance. It took about 20 days to test each one of them and while comparing each product, we had to pay painstaking attention to the details. Our volunteers conducted the test under our close supervision.
Based on the data gathered, we were finally able to make this top 10 list for you. We also contacted the other knife-throwing experts in our locality and sought their valuable suggestions. We made adjustment where needed to arrange this list in the right order to ensure we made the right choice. We alotted these ten spots to the most deserving models so that you can make a well-judged decision after reading our reviews and comprehensive buying guide.
Our Top 10 Best Throwing Knives
There are hundreds of models for sale and our in-depth review unveils the facts behind the claims from manufacturers of throwing knife sets and single knives. Go through each product review to make an informed buying decision
We all know Smith and Wesson is a world-famous weapons manufacturer. It's not a surprise this six-piece set of 8-inches stainless steel throwing knives set are well-designed. Like firearms from Smith and Wesson, this product has straight-edge blades and a nylon belt sheet. Here are other amazing features of this awesome product.
Lightweight & Sturdy: Lightweight models are the perfect self-defense tools that anyone can conceal. The concealable fixed blade of each knife and ergonomic grips are well-balanced for throwing. Smith & Wesson SWTK8CP has a sturdy construction of stainless steel material. Its sturdiness means the blade can't easily bend or chip when the knife hits a rock-hard surface after a missed throw. Moreover, it features an effective double sided design.
Nylon Sheath: The nylon belt sheath is weatherproof, and it can be used for winter practice. Also, you don't have to worry about the weight of this sheath because it has a lightweight even while holding all six knives.
High Quality: Apart from the even balance, these tactical knives are good for any throwing range. These pro choices have unusual designs and are ergonomically enhanced with engravings of the manufacturer's logo. These features reflect the prestige that Smith & Wesson has.
Durability: Its stainless steel metal is well-refined and rust-proof. This set is designed for rugged use, and they will maintain their shiny appearance year after year.
Specifications
- Stainless steel type: 2Cr13
- Design: Double Edged & Well-balanced
- Belt sheath type: Nylon
- Length: 8 inches (20.3 cm)
- Weight: 4.7 ounces
Our Verdict
With a grade 2Cr13 high carbon stainless steel material, Smith & Wesson SWTK8CP is a premium choice that suits professionals and beginners alike. However, throwers will need more force to send this lightweight weapon at targets. With the unusual design, the blade's dual-edge spear point fits perfectly in its nylon sheath. Get the Smith & Wesson 8-inch set if you are looking for tactical throwing knives with an even balance.
The Avias Supply 6.5 inches set is made of stainless steel materials. Their corded handles and rings at the end make these steel crafts look like ninja weapons. Apart from knife-throwing activities, you can use this Kunai knife for self-defense, and hunting games. These sharp knives are aesthetically detailed with anodized rainbow coatings. You can place this in the list of your fantasy knives. Let's see what makes it a great buy.
Nylon Sheath: Outdoor throwing knives are protected from wear and tear by keeping them in a moisture-proof sheath. The Avias Knife Supply manufacturer has included a fabric sheath with a belt loop (Velcro closure) to hold each of these high end weapons. They will last longer when you clean the blades after using them and also stack them in the nylon sheath.
For All Throwing Styles: Both experts and beginner throwers can take advantage of these 6.5-inch small knives and display different throwing techniques. However, these types are perfect for near-distance throws.
For Self-Defence: These small cord-wrapped knives allow easy concealment for self-defense. When your attacker comes at a close range; apply a panic throw with this super sharp weapon. It will spin fast and sink on the target.
Sturdy Build: Stainless steel is synonymous to sturdiness. These knives have great tensile strength and can stay sunk on hard surfaces after a successful throw.
Specifications
- Length: 6.5 inches
- Material type: stainless steel
Our Verdict
This Avias Supply set comes with cord-wrapped handles and rainbow-colored steel blades. They are very durable and the nylon sheath is an added feature. Unlike other kunai knives, they are reliable and ideal for expert throwers. This is recommended for those who need well-balanced models with blades that can keep their shine for a longer period.
Small knives are ideal for beginners to practice. The Perfect Point RC-179 Series is a three-piece set with black blades and steel handles. The build quality is high that helps the blade strike wooden boards without bending. The impact force of the 8-inch throwing knife is impressive.
Precision and Lightweight: This set is easy to throw with great precision at targets because it has a nearly perfect weight. The lightweight body gives more speed, making the knife ideal for a close-range throw.
Low Cost: The price-to-quality ratio is good and it belongs to the category of low-cost throwing knives. This 3-piece set also comes with a black nylon sheath for safe transport. It offers great value to those on a budget.
Stylish Design: The black stainless steel blades are decorated with spider prints. Also, the handles have laser cut-out holes for ribbon attachments. It allows users to keep the knives safely while they are outside the nylon sheath.
Tip Thickness: With an average tip thickness of 2 mm, the Perfect Point RC-179 has a balanced weight and center of gravity. Usually, cheaper models with this thickness are not reliable. However, this set has a great penetrating power and can stay firmly in woods and targets.
Specifications
- Tip thickness: 2mm
- Length: 8 inches
- Material: Black stainless steel
- Quantity: 3-piece set
Our Verdict
The Perfect Point RC-179, manufactured by Master Cutlery LLC, is made of high-quality stainless steel. It comes as a three-piece set with spider-printed decorations on its handles. You get two different color variants--silver and black, which is pretty nice. We think this is the best throwing knife set for beginners and if you're one of them, just go for it!
The custom design of paracord on each of the 3-piece set of SOG throwing knives is held by the laser cut-out holes at both ends of the handle. Cord-covered handle styles are common, but this paracord handle design is highly aesthetic. It also makes SOG F041TN-CP look like martial arts knives while inspiring a wide variety of knife-throwing styles. Here are some features that make this box of knives a high-end product.
Ballistic Nylon Sheath : As a high-quality product, the knife box comes with a tough ballistic sheath of three compartments. The sheath has a Velcro strap attachment via belt loop to hold the knives securely. The ballistic nylon sheath offers much ease of use during knife-throwing training, and competitions.
Removable Paracord Wrap : The removable paracord material is lightweight and doesn't add extra mass to the handle. While providing a firm grip for users, the nylon paracord can be stripped carefully to allow the use of a bare steel handle.
A 10-inch Stainless Steel: The SOG ultra-sharp straight edge blade is a full-tang 420-grade hard-cased black stainless steel metal. While the blade measures 4.4 inches, the knife's overall length is 10 inches.
Well-balanced SOG Throwing Knives : The set of three corrosion-resistant knives allows you to practice throwing with ease. Each piece has a central balance design that allows you to try a wide range of throwing techniques out. With the even distribution of weight, throwers can target the bulls-eye with precision.
Specifications
- Weight: 19 oz
- overall Length: 10 inches
- Blade Length: 4.4 inches
- Blade Design: Ultra-sharp straight edge
- Handle Design: Cord-covered
Our Verdict
The skeleton-styled handles wrapped with black cords make the SOG F041TN-CP unique. The paracord design has been used to customize each knife and allows for easy identification. However, corded handles need maintenance to make them last longer than expected. The full-tang 420-grade hard-cased black stainless steel is ideal for those looking for a set with a sturdy build.
The twelve piece set of throwing Knife by Perfect Point is lightweight. They are in two categories; six black stainless steel and silver stainless steel respectively. However, here are some exciting features that beginner throwers will benefit from this product.
A Well-balanced Craftsmanship : The Perfect Point PAK-712-12 is reliable for knife-throwing practice. Its 2mm blade thickness reduces the chance of bouncing off targets during throws. Also, the knife's impressive center at the gravity will help novice throwers learn new techniques and improve their skills.
Concealable Size : With an overall length of 8.5 inches, each of the knives can be concealed easily since it is portable. Apart from knife-throwing competitions, this knife set can be used for other outdoor purposes. Also, the knives are versatile tools for self-defense, hunting, and camping.
Crafted to Enhance No-Spin Technique : The stainless steel handle and blade are stylishly cut to allow a firm grip. Also, at the end of the handle is a laser cut-out lanyard hole that allows users to enjoy the no-spin throwing technique. Instead of flipping in the air, the knife flies straight when thrown.
Ballistic Nylon Sheath : Both set (silver and black) of laser-cut knives are stored in a foldable black nylon sheath for safe transport. The wide nylon sheath is more like a bag because it has a zipper for safe storage.
Specifications
- Weight: 3 3/8 oz.
- Length: 8.5 inches
- Set Quantity: 12-pieces (black and silver)
Our Verdict
Earlier in our review, we discussed why lightweight knives are ideal for practice. Apart from their 8.5 inches size, the Perfect Point PAK-712-12 set is well-balanced. It falls within our category of cheap and reliable throwing knife set. So, this is the right product if you are looking for a throwing knife that will fly straight to the bullseye.
A list of 5 other products we reviewed
The handle of the Cold Steel GI Tanto is aesthetically designed with polypropylene scales. This ruggedly looking tactical knife comes with a broad, seven-inch carbon blade. The appearance indicates a sturdy construction that's durable, and a great knife for all throwing competitions. Let's discuss other features that make this product a preferred brand.
Durable : Before spending hard earned money on throwing knives, it's wise to confirm the material that makes them durable. The all-black carbon (1055-grade) steel is rust-resistant and durable. Its five-inch long handles are covered in polypropylene scales, firmly held by rivets and integral quillion guards.
Razor-sharp : The razor-sharp edge of the blade and the pointed tip are crafted to give the knife an undercover appearance. With a blade length of seven inches, there's a guarantee of better penetrating power when much force is applied during knife-throwing competitions.
Reliable : Apart from knife-throwing events, the Cold Steel GI Tanto is designed for practical use like camping, self-defense, and hunting. It might be heavy, but well-balanced in the hands of professionals.
Alternate Throwing Style : Due to its central balance, throwers can grip it from its handle or blade. When thrown with the right technique; it offers speed and accuracy with ease and holds an edge without denting the tip.
Specifications
- Weight: 10.6oz
- Blade Steel: 1055-grade Carbon.
- Overall Length: 12 inches
- Blade Length: 7 inches
- Handle Length: 5 inches.
- Blade Thickness: 4 millimeters
Our Verdict
The QEONIX 9733 80PGTK comes with a sturdy Secure-Ex sheath for safety. More so, their cold steel builds are scratchproof and rust-resistant. It will serve intended buyers longer years of use because every part of the knife is easy to clean. However, you should only consider buying this product if you have better knife-throwing skills.
This set of three throwing knives from Smith & Wesson comes with a protective polyester sheath and a belt loop attachment. The set of three premium knives are made of high-quality black (2Cr13-grade) stainless steel. Also, they have characteristic features of blunt blades. Here are other features that make this knife set by Smith & Wesson unique.
Stainless Steel Design : The dual-edged spear point blades are thick and strong stainless steel metal. The tip of the have stronger penetration powers, and you can be sure they'll stick well enough on the target after a successful throw.
Fabric Sheath : High-quality blades need protection from moisture to make them more durable. This Smith & Wesson knife set comes with a black polyester belt sheath. The fabric pouch has three compartments that allow each knife to be stacked on top of each other.
Sturdy Construction : Smith & Wesson is a reputable manufacturer of weapons with sturdy construction. Usually, their crafts have high-end designs. On each of this knife are three laser-cut designs and the manufacturer's logo. This black stainless steel set has a central balance, making it great for professionals and beginners alike.
Easy Throw : This solidly built yet lightweight stainless steel knife can be thrown either by gripping both ends. The well-balanced 0.31 lbs weight makes it easy to throw the knife. However, novice throwers will find it challenging to use these knives. A few of our team members were so crazy that they used archery targets to try these Smith & Wesson products.
Specifications
- Weight: 0.31 lbs
- Overall length: 8.00
- Blade length: 4.26 inches
- Handle length: 3.42 inch
- Metal type: Black (2Cr13-grade) stainless steel
Our Verdict
With high carbon stainless steel duel edged spear point blades, Smith & Wesson offers a craft that delivers precision. The manufacturer has created a three-piece knife set that is well-balanced for long throws. If you need professional throwing knives, it's time to buy the Smith & Wesson SWTK8BCP 8-INCH set.
The Ninja Stealth Black by Ace Martial Arts is a great choice with cord-wrapped handles. It has a superb Kunai 12-piece set craftsmanship that you can use for throwing weapons competition. Flinging this knife in the air is enjoyable because it fits close-range and long-range throws. Here are the features that put this knife set in our list of top throwing knives.
Kunai 12-Piece Set: The Ninja Stealth craft is a three-piece set of multi-purpose kunai knives. Each of them has a sword-like appearance, and they are good for throwing competitions, hunting, and self-defense.
High-grade Material: The use of a single-forged 440-grade stainless steel makes a sturdy Kunai throwing knife. Stainless steel materials are tough, and they don't easily bend. Also, these knives deliver target impact force and can hold onto targets for a longer period.
Secure Grip: The black corded handle with a finger hole creates an appealing design like medieval swords. It's the cord that adds more balance to the handle. However, the holes enhance the drawing and control technique during close-quarters combat.
Nylon Sheath Protection: In Japan, Kunai means throwing knives and its proper to preserve these crafts if you are a collector of these items. These Ninja Stealth knives come in a well-packaged black nylon sheath. Also, the protective case has a zip for easy transport and storage.
Specifications
- Blade length: 4 inches
- Handle length: 3 inches
- Overall length: 7 inches
- Material type: 440-grade stainless steel
Our Verdict
This Ninja Stealth set's High grade 440 stainless steel is a heavy metal. So, there is a satisfaction from the sturdiness and impressive construction when you buy this product. You don't have to be an expert thrower to own Kunai knives. Instead, it will make a good addition to your rare collections of knife sets.
This Gil Hibben knives have exceptional quality and are ideal for competitions. They are ergonomically crafted with unusual handles for easy grip. The concept behind this high quality is the use of a single-forged 420-grade stainless steel to create a well-balanced throwing knife. Let's share the features that make owners of Gil Hibben knives display different throwing styles.
Rust-proof High-Grade Steel: The set is made of high-grade 420 stainless steel. This shiny forged metal is rust-proof and beveled on both sides. As we would expect knives from United Cutlery to be ergonomically enhanced, the silver handle has a standard hammer grip. Also, there are seven round laser cut-outs between the blade and handle.
For Long Throws: With a weight of 13oz and an overall length of 8.5 inches, experienced throwers can aim for long throws with great precision. The Gil Hibben knife also offers maximum consistency and accuracy in throwing.
Well-balanced: They allow you to display a slow, lazy spin technique at targets. The central balance design keeps throws from rotating too fast.
Protective Leather Sheath: This set comes in a leather sheath with three compartments. It's protective cover prevents these corrosion-resistant knives from scratches and allows for easy transport.
Specifications
- Length: 8.5 inches
- Weight: 13 oz
- Metal type: 420 stainless steel
Our Verdict
If you think only centrally balanced knives come ergonomically designed handles, think again. These knives are attractive and suited for long throws by expert users. The GIL Hibben knife set is a good choice if you’re serious about knife-throwing or a keen collector of knives. But don’t forget to keep it sharp for prolonged use.
The Gil Hibben Competition knife set by United Cutlery is a well-balanced set of handle-less throwing knives. Each ergonomic handle is designed with small laser cut-outs and the manufacturer's logo. Also, the knife set has been fabricated with a single piece 420 stainless steel. So, durability is a core feature of this product.
Sturdy Build : Gil Hibben GH2033 has a sturdy and well-balanced construction. It can be thrown from either side of the steel craft. Usually, knives made with high-grade 420 stainless steel have firmly pointed tips, and they hold onto wood or concrete targets longer than other metals.
Suits All Throwing Styles : Expert throwers will be happy to own knives that allows them to display different techniques with precision and consistency. With the Gil Hibben GH2033, throwing styles like over the shoulder, and underhand is easy. Also, throwers can use the standard hammer grip, and cross-body maneuver techniques to entertain their fans.
Built for Professionals : This pro-grade United Cutlery triple knife set was designed for advanced throwers. These highly skills enthusiasts understand the technique of using a no-handle grip. Without the polished steel knife slipping out of their fingers, expert throwers will enjoy its maximum grip and ergonomic build quality.
Protective Leather Sheath : After your practice, clean and stack them in their triple compartment leather sheath. However, they are rust-proof; but the leather sheath is necessary to prevent their 420 stainless steel from scratches and dullness.
Specifications
- Weight: 12 oz
- Overall length: 12-1/8 inches
- Material type: 420 stainless steel
Our Verdict
Do you want to try all throwing techniques out there with the best throwing knives? However, beginners will need to build their skill level before choosing Gil Hibben GH2033 for competitions. Usually, an expert thrower predicts the number of rotations and spins while using a knife that has great central balance. This brand is for throwers that need flexibility and maneuverability with throwing knives.
Other Tested Products
- 1Perfect Point RC-595-3 Thunder Bolt Throwing Knife Set
- 26PC 5.5" Throwing Knife Set With Pouch - BLACK WIDOW SPIDER
- 3Avias Knife Supply 9 Inch 3 Piece Stainless Steel Throwing Knife Set
- 4United Cutlery GH2011 Gil Hibben Gen. 2 Large Triple Throwing Knife Set
- 5SOG Classic Throwing Knives Set with Sheath
- 6Smith & Wesson 3 Piece 10" Throwing Knives with Nylon Sheath
- 7GH5030-BRK Gen-X Throwing Set
- 8Aeroblades 6" 3 Pcs Set Punisher Skull Head Throwing Knife
- 9United Cutlery Gil Hibben Cord Grip Triple Thrower Knife Set
- 10Perfect Point PP-028-3BK Throwing Knife Set
- 11Avias Supply 9 Inch 6 Piece Stainless Steel Throwing Knife
Why Throwing Knives Are Different From Other Regular Knives
A throwing knife has a piece of steel like kitchen knives, but it's purposely weighted and made to be thrown effectively. There are two types; balance and off-balance throwing knives. Knife-throwing is like a game of darts where the blade of the knife goes through a range of distance to strike targets. The target might not be at a close range, but the act requires techniques, skill, and practice.
A lot has changed in modern times, as throwing knives are used for competitions, hobbies, and self-defense. Regular knives are commonly used in kitchens. Chefs use chef knives for slicing, peeling, chopping, and cutting during food preparation. Unlike kitchen knives, the weight of throwing knives determines their speed, impact, and level of penetration. There are both cheap and expensive throwing knives. You must consider certain factors before buying a suitable one.
Fairly small knives for self-defense are easy to conceal. There are different types of craftsmanship used for throwing daggers and knives, but they all have the blade and the grip segments. A throwing knife's size, blade, and handle are other factors used for choosing the right product.
The weight of your chosen model must align with your desired throwing style. You must get the facts right if you want to indulge in the art of knife-throwing. Read on further to learn how to choose the type of knife that fits your throwing style or purpose.
The most popular types of throwing knives
Do you want to know which models stick well on wood or concrete targets? Or, what is the best throwing knife for beginners? Before learning how to choose a throwing knife, let me show you the different types available today.
- Blade Heavy Knife: The weight distribution of this type is more on the blade. Its handle is lighter and the design supports throwers that want to entertain spectators while using the hammer technique. Most beginners prefer it because it makes practice easy. You can throw with precision by gripping the lighter handle. Blade-heavy knives can be crafted in different shapes like the foldable ones.
- Handle-Heavy Throwing Knife: A handle-heavy throwing knife falls in the off-balance category because its handle carries more weight than the blade. You need to be highly skilled if you want to throw this knife at targets. Also, it requires more power to grip, and control the efficiency of this knife while throwing it. I don’t recommend handle-heavy throwing knives for beginners.
- Balanced Throwing Knife: A balanced and nice throwing knife is designed with its center of gravity in the middle of the craft. Unlike off-balance throwing knives, this type can be tossed from either the blade or handle. If you are looking for more flexibility, the balanced throwing knife fits the purpose. Beginners and professional throwers can use this type. According to military and weapon experts, balanced models display in-flight near circular trajectory. It means the thrower can predict the number of rotations before hitting targets.
- Kunai Knife: Like a samurai’s sword, the blade of a kunai is tough and can bore holes on thick walls. The Japanese kunai knives serve dual purposes – as a weapon and a farming tool. The kunai throwing knife’s blade has a geometric shape with well-aligned edges. In medieval times, ninjas and Asian tribe fighters also used this tool as a grappling hook. These knives are also associated with traditional Chinese rope dart weapons.
Apart from these, there are some other popular types of throwing knives such as folding, curved, pocket, double sided, EDC, ceramic, and circus knives.
Throwing Knife - Buying Guide
1. Sharpness
You will find throwing knives with dull edges and sturdy tips, but some come ready and sharp. You should remember that they are not meant for cutting but piercing and sticking on to targets. Knives with good construction should have super-sharp points and thick blades. So, it's not the sharpness of its edges that matter, but a tip that penetrates well so that it hangs on the surface or targets. You can even use a high-quality electric knife sharpener to keep your knives sharp.
2. Weight & Length
Finding the right balance between weight and length of a throwing knife is the first thing to do while shopping. Generally, longer knives are heavy. The craftsman ensures the weight propels a longer throwing knives across a distance, and gives it consistent penetrating power. Usually, shorter knives spin faster.
3. Material
The material strength of throwing knives determines the build quality. Most knives are made of forged metals like stainless steel. Knives with low-quality metal might snap in half or bend when they hit the target board.
4. Safety
Beginner knife throwers should be careful while handling knives by their blades. Holding a knife safely and then throwing it require skills and techniques, but aggressive novice throwers are prone to safety risk. The edge of the blade isn't the right place to hold a throwing knife. It's the side of the handle of the blade that you should hold with the fingers.
5. Handles
Handles can screw up your throwing technique if you don't understand the concept of center of gravity. Handling is a technique in knife-throwing that helps you to gauge the spins. When you're set to throw, grip the handle if you need the knife to make two spins before hitting the target. It doesn't mean knife-throwers always hold the handles of knives. Instead, the handling is a style of grip. Normally, it's not all throwing knives that come with handles. Some blades of stainless steel throwing knives have the same material as their handles. Well, reading this buyer's guide will help you learn the type of throwing knife handles.
- Wooden Handles: Usually, wooden handles are polished; not only to make them appealing but to ease release during a throw. However, these handles come with rivets that increase the weight of throwing knives. There’s also the risk of cracks on wooden handles when throwers miss their targets.
- Cord Covered Grip: The cord is a common embellishment for covering the steel handles of throwing knives. Usually, the stylish design of handles with ropes gives customized to appeal to owners of these knives. Unfortunately, cord-wrapped grips wear and tear because of they’re not weatherproof. Also, too much grip on cord-covered handles might affect your throwing style.
- Plastic or Rubber Handles: Normally, a plastic handle doesn’t make a sturdy material for throwing knives. Low-end knives come with carefully riveted handles; it’s a manufacturing strategy that reduces the cost of production.
- Custom Handles: One of the most highly aesthetic handle design of throwing knives is custom handles. Any material can be customized to serve as grips for knives. Usually, these custom handles come with decorations, engravings, and stylish cuts. These pretty throwing knives with custom handles are more of rare collectibles than game tools.
6. Aerodynamics
A single sheet of stainless steel metal with streamlined blades will have much resistance to air. During in-flight throws, the protrusion of a knife handle and uneven distribution of weight might make it not fly well. It's every thrower's dream to hit the target at every attempt. However, slim design will boost the aerodynamic factor of a throwing knife and send it straight to the bull's eye.
7. Effects of length and weight on throwing a knife
A heavy throwing knife has more balance in their flight, and the weight to length ratio is important. If you want a throwing knife that hit targets harder, it must be heavy. Usually, mini throwing knives require more practice before they can be effectively used. The evenly distributed weight of balanced knives allows you to toss them quicker with more speed than other knives.
However, lightweight knives are difficult to control because they lack buoyancy in the air. You'll need the ideal weight to make throwing knives fly well. Heavy throwing knives that are longer have a limited range of distance, and they penetrate deeper on targets with more impacts. For beginners, it's easier to practice with longer knives because they turn more slowly.
Generally, you can measure a throwing knife's weight by multiplying its length by a value of between 1 to 1.5 ounces per inch. Without balancing the weight of a throwing knife with its length, you risk ruining the knife when it hits a target.
How to Throw a Knife?
Knife-throwing is an outdoor activity where people take turns to aim at targets from a range of distance. Usually, good models are needed to ensure consistent spins. In this section of the buyer's guide, you will learn safe and precise methods of knife-throwing games.
Step 1 : Choosing a knife
An ideal throwing knife weighs 7.5 ounces (200grams) on average with a strong, sharp tip. Using a well-balanced knife with dull edges are ideal for safety. Also, ensure the sharp point of throwing knives are thick; solid blade tips prevent bending and breakage. A fanciful cord-wrapped grip doesn't enhance the quality of your throwing knife.
Step 2 : Throwing basics
Before you grow into an expert thrower, it's important to learn what our goal is, and how to achieve it. The target and knife are the basic components of knife-throwing events.
Usually, a large target like a rectangular wooden board on a tree's trunk is ideal for beginners and experts alike. Instead of propelling the knife with much power, you should focus on the correct rotations a spinning knife needs before hitting the target. Additionally, you should ensure safety measures like wearing the right gears, and maintaining ample throwing space that doesn't put pets and humans at risk.
Throwing stance and knife grip
If you are set to throw, then assume a throwing stance and take a deep breath! A throwing stance is the footing and body posture that prepares you for a successful throw. Here are some indicators of good throwing postures.
- Relax your body to avoid inconsistent throws. Stand uprightly to avoid inaccurate throws
- Right-handed throwers should keep the right foot outward and the left foot slightly behind the right foot. However, reverse the steps if you are a left-handed thrower.
- Holding the knife like a hammer is a great technique. Also, note that your fingers can distort the trajectory of your throw.
Once you are set to throw; put on your shoes, assume a throwing stance and take a deep breath! Knife-throwing requires a continuous practice that helps beginners build their skills.
Safety tips
Nobody needs a throwing knife with sharp blades, but one with a strong pointed tip. In the sport of knife throwing, safety is everyone's business. If anyone intrudes in your knife-throwing space, stop the throw at once! Usually, unsuccessful throws lead to several dangers and that a bouncing knife might hit bystanders and onlookers is just one of them. However, spectators must maintain at least 3 to 4 meters behind throwers. Also, a line can be drawn as a caution for spectators not to overstep it.
Wrapping It Up
Hopefully, you found our elaborate reviews quite useful and you have already made up your mind regarding which one to purchase.
You should consider the important factors I shared because they will help to save money for the purchase of other accessories. The knife's price to quality ratio, material type, weight, length, and its blade's tip sharpness are essential factors. These are not the only factor that determines a good set of throwing knives, but they are important.
The 6-piece Smith & Wesson stainless steel is a set of well-balanced knife that allows you to use different knife-throwing techniques. Also, they are versatile and can be used for self defense. Get the 3-piece set of 8-inch Perfect Point RC-179 model if you need to buy cheap throwing knives that align with your tight budget. Though Gerber is a reputed company, no model from them could make it to our top 10 list.
You can share your experience with us using the comments section below. The Ranger Expert team is looking forward to this!
FAQs
Q: Can throwing knives kill?
Ans: Death by throwing knives depends largely on the location of the hit. The knife’s weight should add to the mass velocity to it causing more damage and deeper penetration. However, you need skilled knife throwers to effectively cause an injury which is rare. This is why you hardly find deaths caused by knives.
Q: What is the best knife for throwing?
Ans: Our team did extensive market research and rigorous hands-on testings to sort the top 10 models for your readers. By the end of our research, we’ve found Smith & Wesson SWTK8CP to be one of the best knives out there. Check out our top list to find yours.
Q: What are throwing knives used for?
Ans: Throwing knives have been historically used as weapons and as sports equipment by different groups of people in different continents. In African regions these knives are known by Onzil,Trombash, Mambele, Kulbeda, and Pinga. Some of the shapes have multiple blades added to one body. They also have been used by the European extensively as part of their hunting weapon and sports kit.
Q: What knives do the Navy SEALs use?
Ans: Navy SEALs of the United States use the Ontario MK 3, it’s the standard knife they are officially supplied with.
