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ThuAug 24

National Knife Day – August 24, 2023

On National Knife Day on August 24, we celebrate one of humankind’s very first tools. This is the day to appreciate the knives that we use on a daily basis. Knives have been made of bone, stone, and flint, and today, they are made using titanium, bronze, iron, and steel. We use knives for cooking, eating, fishing, hunting, and a host of other tasks. The day is celebrated by showing off your chopping skills, buying a new set of knives, and even comparing and swapping your knives with other like-minded people. Doesn’t matter if you are a skilled fisherman or a chef, National Knife Day is a celebration for everyone who’s ever used the tool.

History of National Knife Day

It is difficult to say who started National Knife Day or when they started it, but it seems like the celebrations have been in place since 2011. The knife is one of the earliest tools known to humankind, that was invented from the need for survival. Initially, knives were used as primitive tools for digging and construction, as weapons, and to hunt, fish, and gather food. Unlike today, it was common for prehistoric humans to carry a knife with them at all times. The first knives were made of stones as sharpened stone tools became more advanced during the late Lithic periods. During the Copper and Bronze Ages, metal blades appeared, which quickly replaced knives made of stone. However, these knives weren’t as durable as their predecessors.

During the Iron age, tools became stronger and more durable. Iron knives were followed by steel blades, and they have remained pretty much the same since then. Steel blades made of iron alloys are the most common today, while cobalt alloys and titanium are also popular choices. Early knives didn’t have a separate handle and blade. For decorative purposes and easy use, handles began being made out of carved bone, wood, and metal. Today, wood is one of the most popular materials used for knife handles. There’s also been an advent of a separate handle with the invention of folding knives. Knives serve a host of different purposes in the present day. We use knives to prepare and eat food, for medical purposes, and carving. There are various types of kitchen knives such as chef’s, utility, paring, and bread knives. Most knives are affordable to just about anyone, but there are high-end custom knives that sell for a whopping $400 or more!

National Knife Day timeline

1891
The Swiss Knife

The Karl Elsener Company makes the Swiss Army's Modell 1890 knife.

1920s
Modern Knife Combats

Two British members of the Shanghai Municipal Police develop modern tactics for knife combat.

1942
“Get Tough!”

The book outlines some innovative ways on how to win in a knife fight.

2019
“Knives Out”

Rian Johnson’s movie starring some of the biggest Hollywood actors becomes an instant hit.

National Knife Day FAQs

Why do we celebrate National Knife Day?

National Knife Day is the day to appreciate the knives that we use on a daily basis. This day is a celebration of this marvelous tool that has been with us since the dawn of time.

Is there a Knife Day?

National Knife Day is commemorated on August 24 of every year.

What is the use of a knife?

A knife is used for cutting and piercing. Different types of knives are designed for different uses. Kitchen knives are used for cutting, slicing, chopping, and dicing meat, vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Hunting knives are used in the field for killing, skinning, and dressing. Pocket knives can be used for various purposes, such as piercing tough materials, self-defense, cutting fruit, and others.

National Knife Day Activities

  1. Throw some knives

    Bring out your dartboard and practice some knife throwing on National Knife Day. Remember to be careful about it.

  2. Clean, oil, and sharpen your knives

    Shower your knives with affection today. Bring out all your knives to clean, oil, and sharpen them.

  3. Cut something

    Practice all safety measures and get started on cutting something. You could cut paper, ropes, cloth, or even learn a new chopping style.

5 Facts About Knives That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Pen knives are what the name suggests

    A penknife was used for sharpening a quill to make a pen nib.

  2. Swiss Army Knives are not entirely Swiss-made

    The corkscrew tool of a Swiss Army Knife is made in Japan.

  3. Knives made from extraterrestrial material

    King Tutankhamun’s dagger was made of meteoric iron.

  4. Carrying around some knives is legal

    An amputee can carry around a switchblade in the U.S.

  5. Some knives can be very expensive

    The Gem of the Orient knife was originally sold for more than $1 million.

Why We Love National Knife Day

  1. Knives are our useful companions

    On National Knife Day, we celebrate a tool that’s not just made life easier but has also protected early humans from mortal dangers. Knives are our old friends and this is the perfect day to celebrate the friendship.

  2. A day to show off our skills

    From chopping and slicing to fighting and throwing, knives can come in handy to show off a range of skill sets. Celebrate this day as a way of showing off some unusual skills.

  3. A day to celebrate history

    Over the centuries, knives have emerged into fine tools that aid in medical procedures and cutting paper-thin fillets. You can use the day to learn more about the incredible technologies that have shaped knives over the years.

National Knife Day dates

YearDateDay
2023August 24Thursday
2024August 24Saturday
2025August 24Sunday
2026August 24Monday
2027August 24Tuesday

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