Ever wondered what the difference is between a full tang and a partial tang knife? If you’ve been shopping for kitchen knives, you’ve probably seen these terms pop up. But what do they really mean, and does it actually matter? (Spoiler alert: It does!) Let’s break it down in a way that makes sense, so you can pick the right knife for your cooking needs.
What’s a Tang, Anyway?
Dynasty Series Santoku
Nope, we’re not talking about the powdered orange drink! In the knife world, the tang is the part of the blade that extends into the handle. It plays a huge role in durability, balance, and how the knife feels in your hand.
Full Tang Knives: The Heavyweights
A full tang knife means the blade runs all the way through the handle—yep, it’s one solid piece of metal. If you look closely, you can often see the tang along the sides of the handle.
Why You’ll Love a Full Tang:
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Built Like a Tank – Since it’s one solid piece, it’s super strong and way less likely to snap.
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Great Balance & Control – The extra weight helps you make cleaner cuts without feeling flimsy.
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Lasts Forever (Almost) – With good care, a full tang knife can be your kitchen BFF for life.
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Perfect for Heavy-Duty Chopping – If you’re slicing thick meats or tackling tough veggies, this is the way to go.
Rustic Hand Forged Serbian Cleaver
The Downsides:
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A Bit on the Heavier Side – Some folks find them a little tiring to use for long periods.
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Not the Cheapest Option – High-quality materials come at a price.
Partial Tang Knives: The Lightweights
A partial tang knife only extends partway into the handle, instead of running its full length.
Why You Might Like a Partial Tang:
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Light and Easy to Maneuver – If you like a lightweight knife, this is your best bet.
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Budget-Friendly – More affordable compared to full tang knives.
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Great for Precision Work – If you’re peeling fruit, cutting herbs, or doing light prep, a partial tang works just fine.
The Downsides:
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Not as Durable – They can loosen over time or even break under too much pressure.
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Less Balance and Control – If you’re making delicate cuts, this might not be the best choice.
So, Which One Should You Get?
Grizzly Serbian Cleaver
Honestly, it depends on your cooking style. If you want a knife that’ll last forever and handle anything you throw at it, go for a full tang knife. But if you need something lighter and more affordable for small tasks, a partial tang knife will do the trick.
At Cooking Guild, we’ve got some seriously amazing full tang knives, like the Grizzly Serbian Cleaver or the ONYX II Damascus Chef Knife. If you’re serious about your kitchen tools, you can’t go wrong with these.
Whether you’re a pro chef or just love cooking at home, picking the right knife can make all the difference. Full tang gives you power and durability, while partial tang keeps things light and easy. Now that you know the difference, you can choose wisely and chop like a pro!
