Plain Edge Versus Serrated

[shaolinbill]

As a newbie, could someone please tell me the practicality of using a serrated edge versus a plain edge? Thanks

[endgame]

I like serrated for plastic rope and cardboard.plain for everything else.spyderco serrations are like none other get a revers s serrated cricket and watch what that does to cardboard or plastic ties.like butter

[SpyderEdgeForever]

Good question. In my own use of various folders and fixed-blade knives, serrated and combo edge (half-serrated) seems to be easier and more precise for tough fibrous materials like cardboard, twine, and packaging, but plain/straight edges seem to be better for opening mail letters, certain types of food preparation, and so on and so forth. However, serrated edges are also very useful for these tasks; so I'd say my overall preference would be a half-serrated/half-plain edge, the "combo edge". Though sometimes the serrations get in the way of the looks of certain knives. Example: To me, serrations on a dagger kindof look bad, unless they are designed to be symmetrical with the twin edges.

[Blerv]

Serrated knives tend to hold a working edge longer than plain edges. They don't have the finess though.

If your only goal is to make one thing into two pieces, serrated is hard to beat. Every pull cut is very aggressive. Plain edge is better for push cutting, whittling (durability), and things like opening envelopes.

I would try both. It takes a while to "get" serrated knives in the era of plain edge snobby steels. Many still prefer them without teeth. However, a serrated Ladybug is like $27 so it's cheap entry for a trial run. My serrated Ladybug is my thrasher and never complains. :)

[vaisforlovers]

Push cut= plain edge
Used for chopping, peeling, dicing etc.

Slicing= serrated edge
Used for well, slicing such as bread or tomatoes, card board, and line rope and twine.

Plain edges can slice, though not nearly as good as a serrated edge.

Generally serrated edges cannot chop.