Crafters and woodwork enthusiasts can both relax and enjoy whittling as a creative, relaxing hobby. It is also relatively affordable-all you need are a piece wood and the right type of whittling knives.
Are you searching for the best knife to begin or grow your collection? This is the place for you! We’ll be reviewing 5 of the most popular whittling knife on the market right now, as well as providing helpful tips, tricks and FAQs for every whittler.
The Best Whittling Knives
The right tools can make all the difference, no matter if you are an experienced whittler or just starting out. A whittling knife is an affordable, versatile tool that can be used for any type of project.
Here’s our honest review on the top 5 whittling knives available in 2022 to help you make a decision.
1. Best Overall Knife: Morakniv120 Wood Carving Knife
You want a whittling tool that lasts for many years at a reasonable price? The Morakniv120 is a great choice.
This tiny whittling knife weighs in at just 6 cm and is rust-resistant. It’s also lightweight and very durable. The knife has a laminated 6 cm steel blade and an oil birchwood handle. The knife measures 10 cm in length and weighs only a few ounces. It is lightweight enough to be carried in a craft or tool box.
The blade’s high-carbon steel core is what makes the Morakniv knife different from the rest. This core gives the blade long-term durability and light weight. To keep the core light and useful, it is covered with softer, more resistant steel.
This knife is also extremely affordable, making it affordable for any whittler. The Morakniv120 is a great addition to any collection.
Things we like:
- It has a high carbon core that makes it strong and long-lasting
- Rust-resistant steel alloy coating
- Quality at an affordable price
Things We Don’t Like:
- A little more expensive than other options
- Plain birch handle without grip
2. BeaverCraft Sloyd Knife – C4s Are The Best Budget Option
This BeaverCraft knife is a great choice for woodworkers who are on a tight budget. The knife is compact and easy to use, while still maintaining excellent quality.
BeaverCraft Sloyd Knife is 8 cm in length and has a long cutting edge. This makes it ideal for deep cuts in larger pieces of wood. To provide a comfortable grip, the solid oakwood handle has been ergonomically designed. Natural linseed oil has been applied to the handle to prolong the knife’s life expectancy and prevent rot.
This knife’s blade is made from high-carbon steel. It is more durable than steel alloy knives, and it is slightly heavier. To prevent corrosion, it must be regularly sharpened and cleaned.
The BeaverCraft Sloyd Knife also comes with a genuine leather sheath, which will look great in any craft kit. This knife makes an excellent gift or starter knife for anyone who is interested in whittling.
Things we like:
- Solid oak handle made with a sturdy, durable design.
- A long blade is available for wood carving projects of all kinds
- Belt loop attachment for a stitched leather sheath
Things We Don’t Like:
- A high carbon steel blade could rust
- It is heavier than other options, which makes it less suitable for beginners.
3. Best Knife For Beginners: BeaverCraft Wood Carving Detail Knife C15
This knife is a great way to learn how to whittle. BeaverCraft Detail Knife is a lightweight, compact knife with a comfortable handle. It’s great for beginners of all ages.
This knife measures 11 cm in length and is easy to use. It is just 3 cm in length and can make precise cuts with lots of room for error. This is a great way to get started with whittling and to learn how to use a knife.
This knife’s blade is made of high carbon steel and will last many years with proper care. It should be sharpened and cleaned regularly. The lightweight ash handle makes it easy to grip with any hand size. This knife is a great tool to teach children how to whittle.
Things we like:
- The blade is short and allows for precise carving.
- Comfortable grip prevents cramping of the hands
- This product is great for both children and adults.
Things We Don’t Like:
- It is not ideal for long, broad cuts
- It doesn’t come with a sheath
4. Opinel No.08 Folding Knife Is The Best Folding Knife
This small knife is 8 cm long and has a carbon steel blade that is longer than any other on the list. You can use it to make large, flat cuts or for precise whittling thanks to the curved tip. The durable beechwood frame folds down to allow for easy storage and transport.
The Opinel Pocket Knife, made of hard carbon steel is slightly heavier than other knives. It is extremely durable and can last years without any maintenance. It is easy to use and ergonomically designed.
Things we like:
- Compact, foldable design
- The long blade is able to tackle any whittling and carving project
- It is easy to hold and can be used for a long period of time
Things We Don’t Like:
- It is heavier than other portable knives
- It is not a great choice for beginners.
5. Best Multi-Blade Knife: Old Timer 24OT Splinter Carvin Knife
The Old Timer 24OT is last on our list. This multi-blade knife can handle any task.
The handle measures 11 cm and includes a variety of tools that can be folded. The knife’s longest blade measures 4 cm. This is ideal for cutting intricate pieces in your whittling projects. You will also find a hook blade, straight gouge and V-score.
The knife has a nail-pulling tool that allows you to remove screws and nails from wood. This feature is great for whittlers who enjoy working with reclaimed wood and dismantling old projects. This knife’s blades and tools are made from tough, high-carbon steel for precision and durability.
This Old Timer knife is a great addition to any tool or craft kit at a very affordable price.
Things we like:
- Multipliple blades and tools are available for precise whittling
- This tool is ideal for working with reclaimed timber.
- It is comfortable to hold due to its sturdy grip
Things We Don’t Like:
- The blade’s longest length is 4 cm. This is not great for making large cuts.
- You can carry heavy items in your pocket
How To Find The Best Whittling Knife
Before you begin shopping for the best whittling knives, it is important to understand what you are looking for. The whittling knife is a simple and affordable tool. There are many factors that could influence your decision.
These are some tips to help you choose the right whittling knives for you.
The Blade
When shopping for a new whittling blade, the first thing you’ll notice is its shape. The most important feature of your knife is the blade. It will dictate the types of cuts you can make as well as how long it will last.
The following factors are important when choosing the right blade:
1. Blade Length
The blade’s length determines the types of cuts it can make. For large cuts in larger wood pieces, longer blades (8 cm or more) are ideal. For small details, shorter blades (5 cm or less) are more suitable.
Although a skilled whittler will be able to use any knife, beginners are better served by shorter blades. These knives are simple to use and you won’t ruin your artwork by using a wide cut.
2. Steel Type
Next, think about the steel used in your knife blade. High carbon steel blades are common in pocket knives and whittling knifes. This steel is tough and durable. It’s also easy to sharpen.
Carbon steel can rust easily, however. A stainless steel or alloy steel coating will protect your knife from corrosion and prolong its life expectancy.
3. Blade Shape
You can find small knife blades in many different shapes and sizes for various purposes. This is especially true for whittling knives.
The belly is an area you should pay close attention to. The belly of a knife is the part that curves just below the tip. A smaller knife is easier to use and more suitable for beginners. As your skills improve, you’ll be able make large cuts with a larger knife.
Specialty whittling knives can come in unusual shapes like a hook knife. These blades are great for your crafting toolkit, but they should not be your primary whittling knives.
4. Folding Blades
You might have seen in our list the top whittling knives that some knives have folding blades, similar to pocket knives. Others have fixed blades and handles.
Fixed blades are generally better for smaller, more detailed designs. These knives are easy to hold and use for long periods of time thanks to their large wooden handles. Folding blades, on the other hand are more portable and convenient.
Make sure your knife has a locking mechanism if it is a folding blade. This will stop the knife’s opening on your fingers when you are using it.
5. Multi-Blade Whittling Knives
Multi-blade knives can be useful for whittlers looking to have several options without having to buy a complete set. These knives typically come with five to ten attached blades and tools.
The blades of multi-blade knives are not always of high quality. These blades are often short and fragile. The majority of skilled whittlers prefer full sets.
A multi-blade knife is a great option if you’re learning how to whittle or want multiple options.
The Handle
The blade is most important, but a whittling knives is incomplete without the handle.
Your knife’s handle should be strong, comfortable, and easy-to-hold. An ergonomic grip is better for keeping your hand steady as you work. This reduces the risk of your hand cramping.
It is up to you to decide what material is best, but there are a few options. The most popular choices include wood, steel, and plastic.
The knife’s wood handles have a rustic, authentic look. They are comfortable to hold and can adapt to your hand shape over time.
Wood can develop cracks and mold if it is not stored in a dry, safe place.
Although plastic handles might not be as attractive, they are also mold-free and inexpensive. If you want your knife’s durability to withstand outdoor conditions for many years, steel is the best choice.
No matter the handle material, ensure it is sturdy. Poorly made knives can have handles that crack or detach as you use them.
Types Of Wood
You should also consider what type of wood you will be using. Different wood types require different tools and have different degrees of softness.
Pre-cut pieces are what most whittlers use to cut wood. These pieces are usually made from softwoods such as cedar or pine. Because it is soft and easy to shape, basswood is the most popular wood for whittling.
Pre-cut woodblocks are not recommended for beginners. It is a great way of learning by practicing on any piece of wood or stick you find. You should begin with a simple, straight-forward whittling blade.
You can upgrade your skills by purchasing specialty whittling tools or hook blades as you learn more. These will allow you to create intricate details in softer woods.
FAQ
We have all the answers you need to any questions you may have about whittling or which knives to choose!
What Is Whittling Different From Wood Carving?
Whittling is basically wood carving done on a smaller scale. Carving takes a lot of work and a lot of heavy tools. Whittling, a passive activity, only requires one or two small knives.
The final product is what makes the difference. The final product is the most important difference. Wood carving can produce large sculptures, pillars and other works of art. Whittling projects, however, are usually small enough that you can put it in your pocket.
Is It Possible To Whip With A Pocket Knife?
Yes! Yes! A pocket knife can do a lot of things, including whittling. Many pocket knives have multiple blades or tools that can be used to whittle.
Some skilled whittlers prefer specialty knives. For wood carving, pocket knives cannot be shaped or sharpened. You might consider investing in a whittling blade to create intricate and detailed projects as your skills improve.
How Do You Sharpen A Whittling Knife?
You can’t sharpen whittling knives blades with your kitchen knife sharpener because they are too small. Sharpening stones are the best way to sharpen your knife blades.
The flat side of your blade should be pressed against the stone. Next, push the stone away at a slight angle. The sharpening stone will not damage the knife. You can also use pressure on the blade to sharpen it and then rub the stone in a circular motion. This is safe and won’t cause you to cut yourself or drop the knife.
Which Is The Best Way To Learn How To Whip?
Practice is the best way to improve your whittling abilities. Whittling is an artistic hobby that has been practiced for many generations. You don’t need expensive tools or classes to improve your skills.
Last Thoughts
Whittling can be a creative, inexpensive, and fun hobby that anyone can do. All you need to be a whittler is a piece wood and the right knife.
The Morakniv 120 Wood Carving Knife, out of all the whittling knife options reviewed in this article is our top choice. The knife is sturdy, simple to use, and will last a lifetime. Get it today to start your whittling journey!
The BeaverCraft Sloyd C4s and BeaverCraft C15 are great options for beginners if the Morakniv is not within your budget. If you are looking for a versatile knife, the Opinel Pocket Knife or Old Timer 24OT might be a good choice.
After you have chosen the right whittling knives for you, you will only need a piece wood and time to practice. In no time you will be a skilled whittler!
You want more? You can find more information at our tool reviews.
