KPL Guide to Blade Coatings

KPL Guide to Blade Coatings

Blade coatings, simply stated, is a layer of material that is applied to the surface of a knife blade. Blade coatings have become a standard offering in the knife industry for both practical uses and aesthetic value. These coatings were originally designed to help prevent damage to the knife blade particularly from rust and corrosion on high carbon steels. Beyond just the ability to protect your blade, coatings also offer a variety of colors allowing knife makers and manufacturers the ability to customize the look of their knives. 
The Rise of EDC Fixed Blades

The Rise of EDC Fixed Blades

While we love all the variety and innovation of the folding knife market, we can’t ignore the unparalleled utility and reliability that fixed blades can provide. Fixed blades do not have any locking or deployment mechanisms that can fail during use, making maintenance much easier and allows for safer and more reliable use. The lack of mechanical parts also keeps production costs lower, which often keeps the price down for the end consumer.  Despite these benefits, fixed blades were traditionally larger than their folding knife counterparts, and relied on leather or kydex belt sheaths for carry. For those of us who live in rural environments that is not really an issue, but public perception and even local regulations have made it more difficult for the urban and suburban knife enthusiast to carry a fixed blade.
Collage of 5 knives with text "Custom Knives"

What Do You Get With a Custom Knife?

Custom knives are a large and often misunderstood sector of the greater knife community, so let's dive into the world of custom knives, alleviate misunderstandings, and feature some exceptional knife makers in the community.
8 Essentials for Maintaining Your Knives in the Wilderness

8 Essentials for Maintaining Your Knives in the Wilderness

Knives are probably the most important tool to bring on your adventures into the wilderness, with a wide range of functions including processing wood, starting fires, and more. With all this use comes the need for routine maintenance, so let's take a look at 8 of the most essential products to bring with you on your wilderness treks!

 

9 Popular Blade Shapes and What They're Used For

9 Popular Blade Shapes and What They're Used For

Blade shapes are more than just visually appealing, they also play a big part in the functionality and strengths of the knife. We believe in helping our readers find the right knife for the job, so we will go over some of the most common blade shapes today and discuss the intended functions of each of them!
The 8 Biggest Mistakes in Knife Maintenance (and What to Do About Them)

The 8 Biggest Mistakes in Knife Maintenance (and What to Do About Them)

Like any other tool, knives need maintenance to keep them running at peak performance. Unfortunately, many knife owners make mistakes when it comes to maintenance, but fortunately, KPL is here to help! Today we will discuss some of the most common mistakes and misconceptions when it comes to knife maintenance, and provide some helpful tips to keep your cutting tools safe and ready to work when you need them!
Star Wars meme, Palpatine saying he will make it legal

Are Balisongs Legal? 7 Reasons why Butterfly Knives are Illegal (in Some Places)

Butterfly knives have long had a negative stigma associated with them, which has led many to assume that they're illegal in most of the world. The reality is that they're perfectly legal in most places in the US, and are a great choice for an EDC with unlimited fidget potential!
BRS Alpha Beast balisong with a box of band-aids

11 Ways to Flip a Balisong Without Getting Cut

If you want to flip live blade butterfly knives there's simply no way to avoid getting cut. There are several ways to mitigate risk though, and decrease the frequency of injuries. Here we'll take a look at 11 different ways to flip a balisong without getting cut.
Blade Show 2022: The Community is Alive and Well

Blade Show 2022: The Community is Alive and Well

A quick recap of Blade Show 2022 in Atlanta! We discuss the amazing EDC and outdoor communities that came out in force, the amazing makers we got to meet, and the fun and exciting experiences we had.
Essential Knife and EDC Vocabulary

Essential Knife and EDC Vocabulary

This is a collection of some essential EDC and Knife vocabulary to help those newer to the hobby understand what the pros are talking about.  This will be a living document so please check back for updates!
The Best Double Edged Balisongs

The Best Double Edged Balisongs

Although they are more difficult to flip, double edged blades are highly collectible and offer a tantalizing challenge to even the best flippers. Let's look at some of the best double edged balisongs on the market!
January 31, 2022 — Derek Altstadt
The Best First Knife for a Child

The Best First Knife for a Child

It's important to teach kids about knife safety, knife features, and picking the right tool for the job. So what is the best knife for a child? Here are two of my favorite picks that will help you teach your kids good and safe knife habits without breaking the bank.
December 02, 2021 — Nicholas Italiano