The knife--a staple in every household and long considered one of mankind's most important tools. Despite our long history, in today's fast-paced world many no longer know how to recognize a good knife or the characteristics that define one. This book details the differences between types of knives, the characteristics a capable knife must have, the different locking systems for folding knives, and more! A must-have reference for anyone who uses their knife on a daily basis.

The fourth edition of Big Books of Pocket Knives continues a tradition of excellence. It enables collectors to examine knife and cutlery products as they were originally advertised and promoted. Both the serious and curious can look directly at the way manufacturers described and promoted their products. Target markets can often be found in the descriptions of the 2,000 illustrated knives and knife products. Companies and brands include collectibles such as Case, Remington, Russell, Cattaraugus, Winchester, Robeson, as well as less studied brands such as Aerial, Holley, Golden Rule, Mahrer & Grosh, Marbles, Miller Brothers, Pal, Napanoch, Shapleigh, Schrade, Camillus, and Western. There are more than 50 brands in this edition with each illustrated knife having a 2010 collector value listed. This book is a must have for collectors who are interested in studying antique cutlery collectibles as they were described to merchants and customers. 2010 values.

PACKED WITH OVER 50 POCKET KNIFE TRICKS, IDEAS, AND ACTIVITIES, FROM FUN GAMES AND PROJECTS TO BADASS FIGHTING MOVES AND SURVIVAL TIPS.You should never be without a trusty pocket knife, nor should you lack the skills to wield it properly and with purpose. The Guy’s Guide to Pocket Knives is sure to sharpen your skills and hone your appreciation for the pocket knife with nostalgic, humorous and informative sections on:• History and Evolution• Blade Types and Uses• Sharpening Guides• Games and Pastimes• Whittling Projects• Outdoor Survival Skills• Throwing Techniques

Meld your mind with your palate with this in-depth look at the culinary ventures of many great chefs and restaurants, and an examination of some of the most current megatrends in dining and wining experiences.

The whittler extraordinaire, Chris Lubkemann, is back with 31 fun and rewarding new whittling projects in his latest guidebook, Big Book of Whittle Fun. These detailed, photo-illustrated projects are quick and easy to make. Chris offers clear instructions for creating a wide variety of useful and entertaining objects with almost no expense or training, and gives tips and techniques that make whittling accessible and enjoyable for both novices and experienced carvers. With helpful advice on choosing wood, basic whittling techniques and safe knife sharpening, you'll be able to make practical projects like recipe holders and whimsical objects like a rooster. Many playful sports and game-oriented projects are also included such as tic-tac-toe and a bowling set complete with a lane and pins. You'll find the projects in this book truly make whittling fun.

An in-depth exploration of the effects of different steels, heat treatments, and edge geometries on knife performance. This book provides ratings for toughness, edge retention, and corrosion resistance for all of the popular knife steels. Micrographs of over 50 steels. Specific recommended heat treatments for each steel. And answers to questions like: 1) Does a thinner or thicker edge last longer? 2) What heat treatment leads to the best performance? 3) Are there performance benefits to forging blades? 4) Should I use stainless or carbon steel? All of these questions and more are answered by a metallurgist who grew up around the knife industry.

Refugees flee to the castle of Whitetree, where, it is foretold, the White Veshta will rise again. But the evil sorceress queen Tiyy, who wears the mantle of the Black Veshta, seeks the Jewels of Light, and the death of the mortal host of the White Veshta, Robin Lakehair, the beloved of Gath of Baal--the Death Dealer.