fulltang

Fulltang is a blade construction term describing knives whose steel runs the full length and width of the handle. In a full tang knife, the tang is a single piece of metal that extends from the blade through the handle butt, with handle scales or side plates attached to both sides. This contrasts with partial tang designs, where the tang does not extend through the entire handle.

Construction and appearance: The tang is usually forged or milled as part of the blade, then the handle scales are fastened with rivets or screws. The tang provides the core grip surface and, when visible, creates a continuous steel line along the edges of the handle.

Advantages: Full tang provides greater strength and rigidity, better torque resistance, and improved balance for many users. It is less prone to twisting or snapping under heavy use, and it allows easier field inspection and maintenance because the structural core is exposed along the handle.

Limitations and considerations: Full tang knives can be heavier and more costly to manufacture. The added length and width of metal may affect ergonomics in some designs, and not every user prefers the resulting handle feel. Some manufacturers describe variations such as through tang or hidden tang, which differ in how the tang sits inside or beyond the handle while maintaining the same core principle.

Variants and terminology: A through tang is often used interchangeably with full tang, describing a tang that runs completely through the handle and may be visible on one or both sides. Hidden tang or partial tang designs extend only partially into the handle and are typically paired with scales or a sheath. The exact construction varies by maker and model.

Use: Full tang is common in outdoor, survival, and many kitchen knives where strength, durability, and stability are valued.