We are often asked How to Sharpen a Tanto Knife. A tanto has essentially two edges that need to be sharpened separately.

We sent one of our Tanto knives with G10 scales to Jerad Neeves , the sharpening maestro and he produced this great video explaining the technique that he uses.

Tanto Blade

A tanto blade is a distinct and easily recognizable type of knife blade characterized by its unique shape and design. Tanto blades have a flat grind with a straight edge that meets the spine at a sharp angle, creating a strong and durable tip. The name “tanto” is derived from the Japanese word for “short sword” or “dagger,” and the tanto blade design has its origins in Japanese swordsmithing. Here are some key features and aspects of tanto blades:

1. Shape: The primary characteristic of a tanto blade is its angular shape, which includes a straight edge followed by a dramatic, almost 90-degree angle or shoulder that leads to a secondary point. This design results in two distinct edges, a front edge (the primary cutting edge) and a secondary edge (the tip or point).
2. Chisel Grind: Tanto blades often have a chisel grind, which means that one side of the blade is flat, while the other side has a beveled edge. The flat side makes sharpening easier, and the beveled edge enhances cutting performance.
3. Strong Tip: The angular shoulder and reinforced tip of the tanto blade make it exceptionally strong and capable of penetrating tough materials. This design was originally intended for piercing armor and other obstacles.
4. Versatility: While the tanto blade is known for its piercing capabilities, it can also be effective for general cutting tasks. The straight edge near the tip is suitable for slicing and fine cutting, while the reinforced point excels in tasks that require strength and precision.
5. Utility and Tactical Use: Tanto blades are popular choices for tactical and survival knives due to their robust design and versatile cutting abilities. They are also used in some everyday carry (EDC) knives for those who appreciate their unique aesthetics.
6. Western Tanto vs. Japanese Tanto: There are two primary variations of the tanto blade design. The Western tanto features a more angular shoulder and often has a secondary edge with a distinct angle, while the Japanese tanto has a smoother curve transitioning from the main edge to the tip.
7. Materials: Tanto blades are made from various materials, with stainless steel and high-carbon steel being common choices. The handle material and overall construction can vary depending on the knife’s intended use and quality.
8. Aesthetics: Tanto blades are known for their striking and distinctive appearance, making them a favorite among knife enthusiasts. The design is characterized by its sharp angles and clean lines.

Tanto blades have a rich history and are still highly regarded today for their combination of strength, piercing ability, and versatility. They have found applications in both traditional Japanese swords and modern tactical and utility knives. Whether for practical purposes or aesthetics, tanto blades continue to be appreciated by knife enthusiasts and users around the world.