Fulltang construction
The full tang construction of the knife is a solution where the blade and handle are made from a single piece of steel, with the metal core running the entire length and width of the handle. This creates a compact unit in which the forces are evenly distributed across the entire axis of the knife during use. No cavities or narrow joints between the blade and handle restrict energy transfer, so there is no risk of the knife neck breaking when chopping, prying, or cutting with force.
The handle in this design is usually made of two liners of materials such as micarta, G10, wood, or composites. These are firmly riveted or screwed to the steel core. The metal is visible on the sides, which emphasizes the robust character. Another advantage is the possibility of repairing or replacing the liners without compromising the functionality of the blade.
A knife designed in this way is heavier than models with a blade embedded in the handle, but it is precisely this additional weight that promotes stability and control of movement. The balance is shifted closer to the hand, which improves performance when cutting hard materials. In outdoor and tactical conditions, where reliability without the possibility of failure is expected, full tang is the most durable option.
The design also allows the rear part of the handle to be used as a hammer or striking point, as the steel extends to the end. With proper heat treatment, the result is a tool that can handle long-term stress and minimizes the risk of destruction in critical situations. Full tang is therefore considered the standard for fixed knives designed for bushcraft, survival, and military use, where reliability outweighs low weight.
