Knife

10 Best Whittling Knives of 2021

Photo: Morakniv

Whittling is a taxing and energy consuming task. But what makes it easier is the best tool in your hand. That is why you need a good whittling knife that can help in giving seamless cutting of the wood.

In the whittling process, you have to give shape to the wood. It is not a hobby but an art. So, having the right tool is a necessity.

Finding the best whittling knife that is a combination of sharpness, durability, and strength is complicated. This is especially because there are plenty of amazing options in the market.

So, let’s take a look at the leading whittling knives in the market and help you sort the right options for your needs.

10 Best Whittling Knives - Review

Image

Product Name

Blade Length

Blade Material

Weight

Current Price

1. Morakniv 2.4-Inch Whittling Knife

2.4 in

Carbon Core Steel

2.4 oz

Check here

2. Morakniv Hook 2-Inch Whittling Knife

2.0 in

Swedish 12C27 stainless steel

2.1 oz

Check here

3. Morakniv Wood Carving Junior Whittling Knife

3.0 in

Carbon Steel

2.8 oz

Check here

4. Flexcut 1-1/4-Inch Whittling Knife

1-1/4 in

High Carbon Steel

3.52 oz

Check here

5. Flexcut JKN88 2-Inch Whittling Knife

2.0 in

Hard Carbon Steel

3.0 oz

Check here

6. Flexcut Carvin’ Jack Whittling Knife

N/A

High Carbon Steel

10.4 oz

Check here

7. Old Timer 44OT Pocket 2.2-Inch Whittling Knife

2.2 in

7Cr17 High Carbon Stainless Steel

3.52 oz

Check here

8. Opinel Carbon Steel Folding Whittling Knife

2.76 in

High Carbon Steel

N/A

Check here

9. Rough Rider RR282-BRK Whittling Knife

N/A

Stainless Steel

4.8 oz

Check here

10. BeaverCraft 3.15-Inch Whittling Knife

3.15 in

High Carbon Steel

1.6 oz

Check here

For One Purpose

Clearly from its name, for one purpose knives are the speciality knives that are meant to solve a certain purpose only. These are unique and mostly equipped with a fixed blade.

The blade is quite study and strong and suitable for carving and tackling the stubborn woods. Also, the handle of these knives is mostly curved and offer best comfort for prolonged usage.

These knives are ideal for the buyers that are whittling with a specific agenda. These are not suitable for multiple tasks.

1. Morakniv 2.4-Inch Whittling Knife with Laminated Steel Blade

Photo: Morakniv

  • Blade Length: 2.4 inches
  • Blade Material: Carbon Core Steel
  • Overall Length: 9 inches
  • Weight: 2.4 ounces

This knife from Morakniv is one of the leading models in our list. Equipped with 2.4 inches long blade and pointed edge, it is suitable for all kind of detailed carving tasks.

The material used in the making of the knife is laminated carbon core steel which makes the blade super efficient and lethal to handle the wood.

As far as the width of the blade is concerned, the sharp edge makes all kind of tasks effortless. Also, the overall length is suitable for people with larger hands while giving everyone good control.

About the handle, the knife has got oil birch wood handle which is strong and slip resistant. It is so shaped that no matter how long you hold it, this will not tire the hand at all.

Overall, this is a great product for detailed whittling.

Pros:

  • Superior quality steel blade
  • Extremely sharp blade
  • Comfortable handle
  • Very well crafted knife

Cons:

  • Not ideal for versatile tasks
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2. Morakniv Hook 2-Inch Whittling Knife

Photo: Morakniv

  • Blade Length: 2 inches
  • Blade Material: Swedish 12C27 stainless steel
  • Overall Length: 6.3 inches
  • Weight: 2.1 ounces

We have got another model from Morakniv with a curved, hook like blade, ideal for detailed relief carving of spoons, cups, bowls, etc. This model is crated with push cuts.

The single edged blade is made of Swedish stainless steel which feature excellent edge performance, great corrosion resistance, high hardness, and razor sharpness.

The blade is quite versatile and great in overall performance. Also, the overall length of 6.3 inches make it comfortable for all kind of users to carry and use the knife.

As far as handle is concerned, following the footsteps of the former model, this one is also equipped with ergonomic oiled birch wood handle that provide utmost comfort and control.

If you are looking for an ideal whittling knife to detail the curved shapes of wood then this knife is the perfect product.

Pros:

  • Exceptional for detailed carving
  • Lightweight
  • Durable
  • High quality handle

Cons:

  • Stainless steel blade may lose the edge soon
  • Difficult to sharp
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3. Morakniv Wood Carving Junior 3-Inch Whittling Knife

Photo: Morakniv

  • Blade Length: 3 inches
  • Blade Material: Carbon Steel
  • Overall Length: 6.8 inches
  • Weight: 2.8 ounces

If you are new to whittling and wants to buy a safe knife then this one from Morakniv is the right product for you. It has got 3 inches long straight edge blade without any serrations.

The blade is made of carbon steel which makes it pretty sharp too give you seamlessly cutting of the wooden plank. Also, there is a finger protection guard to give you best security against the accidents.

Since this knife is “For One Purpose” knife, you can only do basic whittling with it. The length is pretty good and so as the blade size, especially for the novices.

The oiled birchwood handle is big enough so that users with large hands can also hold the knife comfortably. Also, the groove on the handle makes it pretty easy to hold.

This is a best whittling knife for kids and the new users because everything about their safety and protection is ensured in this model.

Pros:

  • Safe knife
  • Great design
  • Cost effective
  • Ideal for new users

Cons:

  • Only for basic whittling
  • Can corrode soon
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4. Flexcut 1-1/4-Inch Whittling Knife with High Carbon Steel Blade

Photo: Flexcut

  • Blade Length: 1-1/4 inches
  • Blade Material: High Carbon Steel
  • Overall Length: 5 inches
  • Weight: 3.52 ounces

This is a unique and certainly the top rated whittling knife from Flexcut. The design is different from the other whittling knives as it has got a small blade of 1-1/4 inches.

The high carbon steel material is used in the making of the blade. That is why, you can expect razor sharpness and efficient cutting of the wood piece from the knife.

Basically, this knife is for detailed carving. With the overall size of 5 inches, it is not recommended for the people with no or less experience of whittling because they may hurt themselves with the knife.

The ergonomic ash hardwood handle is a great combination with the knife. It increases the overall durability and make the knife extremely comfortable to hold. You can do hours of continuous carving.

You will like this product a lot if you are in detailed carving.

Pros:

  • Powerful design
  • High quality steel
  • Durable
  • Lightweight
  • Very economical

Cons:

  • Overall size is too small
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5. Flexcut JKN88 2-Inch Whittling Knife

Photo: Flexcut

  • Blade Length: 2 inches
  • Blade Material: Hard Carbon steel
  • Overall Length: 8 inches
  • Weight: 3 ounces

We have got you another knife from Flexcut. This is a different model from all the above mentioned ones because it has got 2 blades.

Whittling can be done in a lot more easier way with this knife because it can do the detailing as well as this one has got roughing blade to further enhance the performance of the knife.

Both the blades are made of hard carbon steel which is spectacular in performance and razor sharp to provide excellent cuts. The blades are already assembled and ready to use as soon as you take it out.

The length of the knife is good enough for all kind of users. About the handle, this one has got walnut inlay handle with a subtle groove to boost comfort of the knife.

If you don’t mind spending a little extra on your whittling knife then this is a suitable product.

Pros:

  • Hard carbon steel
  • Efficient cuts
  • Multiple blades for versatility

Cons:

  • May corrode or rust soon
  • Expensive
Check Price on Amazon

6. Flexcut Carvin’ Jack Whittling Knife

Photo: Flexcut

  • Blade Material: High Carbon Steel
  • Weight: 10.4 ounces

Now, this model from Flexcut is a perfect knife for professional users because it has got around 6 different blades to provide you different whittling tools in one knife.

The different blades attached to this knife can do carving, shaping, V scorp, gouge scorp, and straight gouge. All the tools are made of high carbon steel which is quite sharp in nature.

The knife is equipped with high quality blades and the performance is commendable. Other than that, the sharpening strop and Flexcut gold polishing compound for the maintenance of the knife.

The handle is also made of compound materials to make sure that your hand stays at ease while you use the knife. Available with this is a leather pouch to keep the tool handy and transportable.

Pros:

  • Versatile
  • Durable
  • High quality steel

Cons:

  • Not suitable for new users
  • Expensive
Check Price on Amazon

For Multipurpose Pocket Knife

These are just the multipurpose pocket knives that can be for survival purpose also, as hunting tool, or whittling, etc.

The knife comes with multiple tools to increase the productivity. With the features of flexibility, portability, and versatility, these knives are quite common among the buyers.

7. Old Timer 44OT Pocket 2.2-Inch Whittling Knife

Photo: Old Timer

  • Blade Length: 2.2 inches
  • Blade Material: 7Cr17 High Carbon Stainless Steel
  • Overall Length: 5.4 inches
  • Weight: 3.52 ounces

So, now we will discuss the multipurpose knife in which, the first model is from Old Timer. It is a simple pocket knife with a unique design that consist of 4 different blades.

The material of all the blades is high quality carbon steel with stainless coating to protect the knife from corrosion and rusting.

The four blades in the knife are sheepsfoot blade, wharncliffe blade, clip pen blade with nail pulls. The overall size is 5.4 inches which can be easily placed in the pocket.

The handle is equipped with nickel silver bolsters, brass pins, and heat treated back springs to make using the knife really easy.

This is a great multipurpose knife that you can consider buying.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Lightweight
  • Versatile
  • High quality blade
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Not ideal for new whittlers
Check Price on Amazon

8. Opinel Carbon Steel Folding 2.76-Inch Whittling Knife

Photo: Opinel

  • Blade Length: 2.76 inches
  • Blade Material: High Carbon Steel
  • Overall Length: 9.8 inches

When it is about multipurpose foldable knife, you cannot really look past this great model from Opinel. This one is a simple design with a lethal blade that is versatile enough.

The blade is made of high carbon steel that ensure durability and performance of the knife. You can rest assured because the knife is safeguarded for long lasting performance and it will not rust.

The 2.76 inches long blade is capable of doing different tasks and the handle is also perfectly size so that all kind of users can hold it comfortably.

Also, the material of the handle is wood which will not let the knife slide away from the hand. It is a perfect knife for you to carry along with on travel and for basic whittling.

Pros:

  • Heavy duty
  • High quality construction
  • Lightweight
  • Portable

Cons:

  • No lock to safeguard the usage
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9. Rough Rider RR282-BRK Whittling Knife

Photo: Rough Rider

  • Blade Length: 2.76 inches
  • Blade Material: Stainless Steel
  • Overall Length: 5 inches
  • Weight: 4.8 ounces

This product from Rough Rider is a best budget whittling knife in our list which is highly suitable as a multipurpose knife and is available at unbelievably small price.

The blades are made of stainless steel which make sure that no corrosion or rusting can touch the blades. Other than there, there are three different blades attached to the knife for versatile performance.

Nickel silver bolsters and inlay shields are used to keep the blades intact with the handle. This is a perfect folding knife for everyday usage.

The red jigged bone handle is a perfect match to the overall knife. It keeps the grip as comfortable as possible so that the user doesn’t feel the fatigue.

Pros:

  • Versatile knife
  • Great design
  • Rust resistant blades

Cons:

  • The handle is slippery
Check Price on Amazon

10. BeaverCraft 3.15-Inch Whittling Knife with Durable High Carbon Steel

Photo: BeaverCraft

  • Blade Length: 3.15 inches
  • Blade Material: High Carbon Steel
  • Overall Length: 8 inches
  • Weight: 1.6 ounces

Last in our list is this brilliant knife from BeaverCraft which make whittling super easy. The strength of the knife is really appreciable.

The high carbon steel blade is extraordinary in performance and a perfect spoon carving tool with thin blade. This is highly suitable for professionals as well as new whittlers.

The overall size of 8 inches make it suitable for carrying the knife along as you commute. Other than that, this one is easy to store.

Handle is made of superior quality hardwood oak and processed with natural linseed oil to give comfortable holding. This is an extremely appreciable product.

Pros:

  • High in performance
  • Lightweight
  • Economical
  • High quality handle

Cons:

  • Overall quality could have been better
Check Price on Amazon

Type of Cuts on Whittling

Whittling knifes are available in different types of cuts. These cuts help in doing whittling easily. We are here to inform you better on these cuts and how different ones can help you with better performance.

The whittling knife is more comfortable to be used by right hand. That is why, it becomes difficult for the left handed people to use the knife effectively.

1. Straight Away Rough Cut

The straight away rough cut is the most common type in the whittling knife. This is used to give shape to the wood. The process is to run the blade along the grain of the wood.

The difference is that with this type, you have to move the blade away from your body. The common reason for this direction of cut is to avoid any possible injury happening with the blade.

Also, the carving with this knife has to be done very carefully because if you apply extra force in the process then it may ruin the whole masterpiece.

2. Pull Cut

The Pull cut type is also recognized as Pare Cut knife which is another very common form of whittling knife in the list. This one gives better control to the knife holder for precise carving.

To use the knife, you have to hold the wooden block in left hand and place the right thumb against the wooden piece while pulling the cuts towards your body.

Just make sure that the cuts are shallow and small. You can also flip the position with the left hand, as per the demand of your craft.

This knife has to be very carefully operated because the pulling strokes can cause accidents. However, the pare cuts are most detailed and carved in the best way.

3. Push Stroke

Push stroke type is also quite common among the buyers as it also gives you the best control over the knife. The only difference between both the types is of the motion direction.

In this case also, you will have to hold the wooden plank in your left hand and using right hand thumb, simply push the blade on the knife against the wood.

The left handed people may find it a little difficult to hold and use the knife but with some practice, they will be able to do the task effortlessly.

Also, you have to keep flipping the wood according to the shape you want to carve. The best part of these planks is that you can apply extra force to get rid of stubborn wood. Also, it helps in preventing injury.

How to Buy the Best Whittling Knives

It does not matter how many styles in whittling knives are there in the market, one should always purchase the product that suit their needs.

So, you first need to determine the need of whittling knife and then buy the best one in the market. Even from the recommended tools, not every knife is suitable for all kind of buyers.

Therefore, to help you in the process of buying the best whittling knife, we have narrow down some of the significant features that you must check:

1. Blade Material

All kind of whittling knives are available in two prime materials:

  • Stainless Steel : These are cheaper and readily available in the market. However, the only drawback with these knives is that the blade loses the edge too soon. At the same time, the bright side is that these do not corrode, rot or rust at all. Also, the knives are available at pretty economical price.
  • High Carbon Steel: This type is known to hold the edge for the longest. Also, the blade is pretty sharp and does the job of carving splendidly. You may find the blade expensive than the former type but it is easy to sharpen and stays with you for the longest time. Also, if it is coating with anti-rust material than this one stays away from rusting and corrosion as well.

If we compare both the types, with minimal maintenance, you can prevent high carbon steel knives from getting corroded or rusted. They are more successful when it comes down to whittling.

But the stainless steel blades are not as efficient and very difficult to sharp as well. So, if given the choice, we will suggest you to buy high carbon steel blades only.

2. Number of Blades

These days, you can find best whittling pocket knives with as many as 20 blades. All these blades give you different options of whittling.

While purchasing a knife with multiple blades, just make sure that the one you will be using the most is located near to the handle. If not, then this will make the whittling process really challenging.

We recommend to buy a knife with not more than 3 blades to ensure efficient performance.

3. Lockable

Safety of the user is the prime concern. Considering the fact that there is folding whittling knife as well so evident in the market, you must select a knife that comes with perfect locking mechanism.

4. Handle

While selecting the right knife to whittle, you must give total significance to the handle as well. Make sure that it is sturdy, strong, and made to provide utmost comfort to the holder.

While whittling, your hand will sweat as well. Therefore, the handle should be such that it does not accidently slips away and cause accident

Also, most of the handles in whittling knives are made of wood, which is also one of the finest materials. Be very careful about the handle of the knife.

Before you settle on any product, we highly insist to go through all the important features and buy the finest one in the list.

Conclusion

In this whittling knife review, we have mentioned all kinds of products that are super strong, sturdy, and help you with the routine whittling tasks.

Whether you are an artist or just like to whittle to pass time, all these products mentioned in our list will help you with your routine endeavours.

They have got best features, affordable prices, high quality blades, and extremely comfortable handles to prevent hand fatigue as you hold the knife for a long time.

So, do not waste your time searching for the best models because we have already done that for you. Thoroughly read the finest whittling knives and make your purchase.

Happy Shopping!

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