Expert: Master Shadow - 8/29/2007

Question
I deals in swords/knives and had a booth at a fetish fair this past weekend. Most of the Dom's were impressed with my blades but what I have is geared toward medieval festivals.

I'm wondering is there anything specific one looks at when purchasing a blade? Any specific design/size, sharp/dull etc.

When you get a chance please let me know. Thanks.

Answer
There is no set design that is better than any other as far as knife play is concerned, but I can give You a few pointers.

Balance is important in knife play, as a knife that is poorly designed will not have good balance, making it awkward to use. A good design is one that will fit in the hand rather easily, and feel comfortable.

A knife that is used for knife play must be easy to hold and manipulate. It should have good balance, with the weight being evenly distributed when held by near the guard. I usually balance the knife on one finger, and see whether it is front heavy, or back heavy. Properly balanced knives can be balanced slightly behind the guard.

The knife must be easily controlled, as it will otherwise injure the sub or slave. The blade should not be overly long, as this makes it harder to control when involved in knifeplay, or cutting. It should have a decent hardness, to keep an edge over time, and should be sharpened, not dull.

The design can be almost anything that catches the eye. Try to avoid the cheap knives from India, and China, as they look cheap, are poorly designed, and of inferior craftsmanship.

Most of the knives in this category wind up falling apart in a short time, and there is nothing more disheartening to the sub/slave, and the Dominant than to have a knife come apart in the middle of a scene.

Personally, I have a collection of knives that are designed around a Dragon theme, with the design continued along the sides of the blade itself. Basically, thin, stiletto type blades look more wicked, and have more of an impact on the sub or slave than something that looks more like a kitchen carving knife.

Remember, visuals play an important part in the scene involving knifeplay and cutting, and the scarier the blade, the more impact it will have on the sub or slave as they are approached with the blade.

Swords are also used in knifeplay, but very seldom in cutting scenes. They are often used in temperature play as well, the blade being kept in the freezer, or a container of ice until it is actually brought into play during the scene.

In the long run, I would sell a selection of various designs of quality materials and workmanship. Remember, not everyone has the same size hands, and many Women are Dommes and Mistresses. Many have smaller hands, and therefor would need a slightly smaller handle then a man would.

Women also have different ideas as to what is appealing to them. While a Master might prefer a Rambo type knife, with a large heavy blade, the Mistress or Domme might prefer a thinner blade which would be easier for Them to handle and manipulate.

I sincerely hope this helps, even just a little. Be well, play safe, and have fun!


                                    SINcerely in Leather,
                                    Master Shadow.