Profiles
When searching for a knife, one of the key considerations is its grind, which determines the blade’s shape and sharpness. There are many different grind profiles for various tasks however in this article, we’ll explore two different grinds — the Scandi grind and the micro bevel — and distinguish their unique features.
In the image to the left the Micro bevel is described as the flat grind due to its long flat primary grind, the micro bevel edge is in the final sharp section on in the last couple of millimeters.
What is Scandi Grind:
A Scandi grind, also known as a Scandinavian grind or a zero grind, features a flat primary bevel extending all the way to the blade’s edge. This results in a straight, flat grind from the blade’s spine down to the cutting edge without additional secondary bevels.
Benefits of Scandi Grind:
The simplicity of the Scandi grind lies in its flat primary bevel, making it easy to maintain and sharpen with tools like a sharpening stone. The absence of extra angles on the blade ensures consistent sharpening, particularly advantageous for beginners. Its sharpness is a standout feature, making it suitable for tasks like wood carving, woodworking, and general outdoor use.
Drawbacks of Scandi Grind:
However, Scandi grinds may be prone to chipping or rolling when used on harder materials due to the thin bevel. The lack of a secondary bevel can impact durability and longevity when the knife is pitched or twisted against hard surfaces, however even with the drawbacks of durabiliy some hunters do prefer the unparalleled sharpness the scandi offers knowing to avoid bones and pitch points like the atlas joint. Keeping up with daily stropping will all massively increase the edges life span.
What is Micro Bevel:
A micro bevel grind features a small secondary bevel along the edge of the blade, a few degrees wider than the primary bevel. This secondary bevel provides added strength and support to the blade’s cutting edge, enhancing durability and edge retention.
Benefits of Micro Bevel:
Micro bevel grinds offer increased durability and edge retention, making them resistant to chipping, rolling, or dulling. Their versatility allows them to be added to various primary grinds, making them suitable for a wide range of knives, including chef’s knives, hunting knives, and axes.
The micro bevel can be adjusted to different angles based on the knife’s intended use, allowing for customization and control over the cutting edge.
Drawbacks of Micro Bevel:
The sharpening process for micro bevel grinds is more complex and time-consuming due to the presence of two angles. Increased durability and edge retention may come at the cost of some sharpness or slicing ability, however there are alot of modern sharpening options that offer set angles although they can be overly aggressive and not optimised for more refined steels.
Differences:
- Scandi grind has a flat primary bevel extending to the cutting edge, while micro bevel features a small, secondary bevel at the edge.
- Scandi grind is known for sharpness and ease of sharpening with strops and stones, while micro bevel excels in durability and edge retention.
- Scandi grind is typically used for wood carving, while micro bevel is suitable for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
- Scandi grind can be sharpened at a broader range of angles compared to the typically narrow angle of micro bevel.
Conculsion
In conclusion, Scandi and micro bevel grinds cater to different preferences and tasks. The Scandi grind is favored for its sharpness and simplicity, while the micro bevel grind is chosen for durability and edge retention. However its ultimatley down to personal preferance and your own knowledge / ability.