When it comes to bushcraft, your knife isn’t just a tool—it’s an extension of yourself. Whether you’re whittling a shelter stake, striking a firestarter, or processing kindling, the knife you choose must handle these tasks reliably. One critical factor often overlooked by new bushcrafters is the tang of the knife. What’s a tang, you ask? Let’s dive in and find out.
What Is a Tang?
The tang is the part of the knife blade that extends into the handle. It provides structural integrity and directly impacts the knife’s strength, durability, and balance. Not all tangs are created equal, and understanding the differences will help you choose the best knife for your bushcraft adventures.
Types of Knife Tangs
Here’s a breakdown of the most common tang styles and their pros and cons for bushcraft use:
1. Full Tang
A full tang runs the entire length and width of the handle, often visible on both sides. The blade and tang are usually made from a single piece of metal, making it the sturdiest design.
Pros:
- Extreme durability and strength
- Can be used for heavy-duty tasks like batoning wood
- Even weight distribution for balance
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than other tang types
- Often more expensive
Best for: Serious bushcrafters and survivalists who demand a rugged, reliable knife for a wide range of tasks.
2. Partial Tang
A partial tang extends only partway into the handle. These knives are lighter but less robust than full tang designs.
Pros:
- Lighter weight, which is useful for ultralight packers
- Usually less expensive
Cons:
- Weaker under stress (e.g., batoning or prying)
- Can break more easily over time
Best for: Light-duty bushcraft tasks, such as carving or food preparation.
3. Rat-Tail (or Stick) Tang
The rat-tail tang tapers into a narrow “tail” that runs through the handle. It’s popular in traditional Scandinavian knives like puukkos.
Pros:
- Lightweight design
- Easier to repair or re-handle if damaged
Cons:
- Less durable for heavy-duty tasks
- Prone to loosening under stress
Best for: Campfire cooking, light carving, and heritage-style bushcrafting.
4. Skeletonized Tang
Skeletonized tangs are full tangs with cutouts in the metal to reduce weight. The handle is typically wrapped in material like paracord or fitted with minimalist scales.
Pros:
- Lightweight yet strong
- Can double as a survival tool (e.g., paracord wrap)
Cons:
- May compromise comfort and grip
- Less suited for extreme heavy-duty tasks
Best for: Ultralight backpackers and minimalist survivalists.
5. Hidden Tang
A hidden tang is similar to a partial tang but is fully enclosed within the handle. It’s common in traditional knives where aesthetics and ergonomics are priorities.
Pros:
- Sleek and comfortable handle design
- Offers some weight savings
Cons:
- Less durable under extreme stress
- Harder to repair if damaged
Best for: Craftsmen, hobbyists, and those who prioritize comfort over ruggedness.
How to Choose the Right Tang for Your Needs
- Consider Your Activities: If you’re going to be batoning firewood or building shelters, a full tang is your best bet. For lighter tasks, a rat-tail or partial tang may suffice.
- Prioritize Durability: Your knife should be able to handle unexpected challenges in the wild.
- Weight Matters: If you’re carrying multiple tools, a lighter tang might balance your pack better.
Recommended Bushcraft Knives
Check out these robust options available at Crib Goch Outdoor:
- Morakniv Garberg: A full-tang beast known for its reliability.
- Helle Temagami: A hidden tang beauty for traditionalists.
- Benchmade Bushcrafter 162: A premium skeletonized tang knife for modern adventurers.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a bushcraft knife, the tang is as important as the blade itself. It’s the backbone of your tool, influencing how well it performs and holds up over time. By understanding the differences between tang styles, you’ll be better equipped to select the perfect knife for your adventures.
Before you Check Out a knife you should check out this article A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Knife or Axe and especially this article You Need To Know UK Knife Laws: Helpful Bushcraft Guide. Happy bushcrafting, and don’t forget to visit Crib Goch Outdoor for all your outdoor gear needs!
