Knife tips: Shapes with functions

Three shapes are distinguished:

High tip

The back of the blade is straight, the cutting edge curved, e.g. on a utility knife. This shape permits the blade to be raised from the cutting board with a rolling action.

Centre tip

Both the back of the blade and the cutting edge are gently curved, terminating in a point. With a pronounced tip like this (e.g. on a paring knife) the blade can easily be used to lard a roast with bacon or herbs.

Low tip

The back of the blade is curved while the cutting edge runs straight up to the point. This shape permits smooth, straight cutting on a cutting board without any chopping action.