Cutting & Punching
Head Knife
The traditional saddler blade with a round end and a point for cutting and skiving.
Head Knife · schematic
| Blade length | 95 mm |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 200 mm |
| Blade shape | Round and point |
| Blade material | High-carbon steel |
| Handle | Two hardwood scales |
| Weight | 165 g |
| Material | Carbon steel, 59 HRC |
|---|---|
| Blade thickness | 1.4 mm |
| Suitable leather | 1 to 6 mm |
| Cutting action | Rocking |
| Sharpening | Honed on both faces |
| Compatible processes | Cutting and skiving |
Overview
The head knife is the full traditional form of the saddler blade, with a rounded end for sweeping cuts and a pointed end for tight work and skiving. It is heavier than a modern round knife and is often favoured by makers who do a lot of hand cutting on heavy veg-tan.
The round end rides through long cuts and curves, while the point lets you start a cut in the middle of a piece or shave a tapered skive. Because the blade is large and exposed, it demands a clear bench and careful handling.
Choose a blade of around 95 mm with a well-balanced handle. High-carbon steel takes a keener edge than stainless, but it must be dried and oiled after use to stop rust.
Safety
Hazard. Both the curved edge and the sharp point are exposed; keep the knife sheathed when it is not in your hand.
How to use it well
- Oil the carbon blade after every session to prevent rust spots.
- Use the round end for long cuts and the point for starting interior cuts.
- Keep the blade flat to the mat so the cut stays square to the surface.
- Reserve this knife for heavy veg-tan where its weight is an advantage.
Compatible leathers and materials
Head Knife is suited to the following leather types. Anything outside this list is worth testing on an offcut first.
At a glance
| Category | Cutting & Punching |
|---|---|
| Stage | Cut |
| Suitable leather | Veg-Tan, Chrome-Tan, Oil-Tan |
| Beginner priority | Rank 17 of 28 |
Educational use only. Hide & Stitch is an independent, non-commercial reference. Nothing here is for sale and nothing here is a substitute for competent in-person instruction. Edged tools, dyes, solvents and adhesives can cause serious injury — read and follow the manufacturer instructions and safety data sheets, and work with ventilation and appropriate protection. Specifications are typical values for this class of tool and vary between makers.
Related
Works well with
Round Knife
A half-moon blade for long sweeping cuts, traditional and satisfying once it is sharp.
Leather Knife
The main cutting blade for straight lines and skiving, and the first tool most makers buy.
Rotary Cutter
A roller blade for long straight cuts and light leathers, fast but easy to wander.