The basic safe carving grips
Written by Mattias Höög · Last updated
Short answer
Safe knife carving relies on a few grips that keep the blade's path away from your body: the forehand grip, the chest-lever grip, the thumb-push (thumb-assist) grip and the paring cut. Always know where the edge will go if the wood suddenly gives way.
The golden rule
Before every cut, ask where the blade will end up if the wood splits or the cut releases. No body part, especially your thigh, wrist or the fingers holding the wood, should be in that path. Carve seated with elbows braced when possible.
Core grips
- Forehand grip: a strong grip for removing wood with cuts away from the body, with the wrist locked.
- Chest-lever grip: the knife edge faces out, and the cut comes from opening the chest and shoulders. It is powerful and very controlled.
- Thumb-push grip: the thumb of the holding hand pushes the back of the blade for small, precise cuts.
- Paring cut: the knife is pulled towards the thumb, which stays safely below the edge path. Use only for small, controlled cuts.
Sharp is safer
A dull knife needs more force and slips more easily. Keeping the knife sharp and stropped is one of the most effective safety measures.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the safest carving grip for beginners?
- The forehand and chest-lever grips, because the blade travels away from the body.