Tangløsing

Tangløsing is a term used in Danish and Norwegian to describe the loosening of a tang—the portion of a blade or tool that extends into the handle or socket. The tang provides the mechanical connection between blade and handle, and tangløsing refers to the condition when this connection becomes unstable or fails, resulting in wobble, reduced control, or detachment.

Tangløsing can occur in various types of tools and blades, including kitchen knives, chisels, and other implements with fixed or hidden tangs. It may arise from several factors, such as moisture-induced corrosion at the tang–socket interface, wear of the handle or fasteners, improper assembly (for example, inadequate glue, epoxy, rivets, or pins), wood shrinkage, or cracks in the handle scales. Both riveted and hidden-tang constructions can experience loosening if the joint is compromised.

Common signs of tangløsing include blade wobble in the handle, movement of the blade relative to the handle, visible cracks or damage to the handle scales, or loose rivets or pins. If left unaddressed, tangløsing can worsen and may eventually lead to failure of the tool during use.

Diagnosis and repair typically involve inspecting the joint by removing the handle or securing elements, checking the tang for bending, corrosion, or wear, and assessing the fasteners. Repairs may include replacing or reattaching the handle scales, re-riveting, resealing with appropriate adhesive or epoxy, or, in some cases, replacing the blade or entire tool.

Prevention focuses on proper maintenance and storage: keeping tools dry, cleaning and drying after use, using suitable fasteners and adhesives, avoiding excessive force, and periodic inspection of joints to catch early signs of wear. The term tangløsing reflects a specific concern within blade and tool maintenance and is most commonly used in Nordic-language contexts.