Flexcut KN14 Roughing Knife Review [UPDATED]

Last updated on July 23rd, 2022 at 05:14 pm

Wood carving is an art that requires the use of different blades. This can only come about when you know what to look for in a carving knife. Are you considering the Flexcut KN14 roughing knife? 

How you choose the knife you want is determined by different factors and features. One of those is knowing the project you want to work on and the wood you will be working on. 

Caricatures need a more precise and accurate blade that can carve detail well. Whereas trying to carve a canoe using a detail knife can be nearly impossible. 

Choosing the correct type of knife to carve is almost as important as knowing what to do with it once it is in your possession. It is characterized by thicker and longer blades than the general carving knife or the detail knife. A roughing knife, in general, is used to get rid of a larger stock. 

This is the knife that you need to get when you want to remove large amounts of wood as you carve, and in the process, make sure that you do not damage the blade. 

The Flexcut KN14 has a large blade compared to the other blades on the other carving knives. The blade serves the purpose of removing a considerable amount of stock. Let us look at all that this knife has to offer you.

Aesthetics

While looks may not be everything, they can not be ignored, even when it comes to woodshop tools. The KN14 roughing knife has a considerably larger blade than the other flex cut tools that you are used to. 

The blade is 1 3/4 inches, and it is straight. It is made of high carbon steel and is highly polished, giving it a bright and appealing look. It looks just as sharp as it is. 

The handle is made of ashwood and is very durable. One of the most distinct things about this knife is its light beige hue that elegantly displays the straight grains, which is a well sought-after look for furniture and wooden products. 

It is durable and aesthetically pleasing. The KN14 handle adds a clean look that is comfortable depending on how you decide to hold it. If you do it properly, you should not have any hand fatigue or cramps issues. 

The handle has the shape of a hook, and this is a matter of appearance and contributes to functionality. Also, the Flexcut logo is decorated in red across the handle. It is not easy to miss.

You will also notice that the handle looks somewhat shiny when you first use it. This is due to an oil covering used to preserve the wood and make sure that it has a certain look. It is an essential, clean-looking knife that can easily fit in with the rest of the tools in the shed.

Performance Review

This is a high-performing knife for removing large amounts of stock. The Blade is 1 3/4 inches and is straight. This means that it can get straight to the intended purpose. 

The length also makes it capable of removing more stock. The blade is razor-sharp and will easily slice through some of the toughest wood. 

It is also very durable, which is a necessary feature when looking for a roughing knife. It will not hold up when you put it to the test if it is a flimsy knife. 

Synonymous with flex cuts knives, the handle has an ergonomic design, making it easy to work for longer periods. It is very comfortable in hand and is easy to use. 

The blade is flexible yet durable. This makes it a great buy for beginning whittlers. A rare combination that is often lacking in competing brands.

Safety

This blade comes very sharp right out of the box, so you have to be careful when handling it. The sharpness is both a blessing and a curse. 

You can avoid any accidents by wearing a pair of whittling gloves, especially when holding a block of wood. This will help you avoid splinters and keep you from nicking your fingers with the blade as you work. 

Sometimes when roughing a wood block, you use a bit more force than when slicing off shavings. This requires that you position the knife and the wood properly and avoid possibly slipping and cutting yourself. Some people also use thumb guards to protect their thumbs.

Who is this product ideal for?

This product is excellent for all levels of whittlers, including beginners. It is easy to use. Just make sure that you have the right idea. A lesson or two on using the knife will help you get the most out of your knife and give you the carving you want to make.

Pros

• It is durable
• It is versatile
• The blade comes ready to use and is very sharp
• The long blade means that you can get more work done faster.

Cons

• It does not have a sheath that will allow you to carry it around safely.

Our Verdict

We recommend this roughing knife because it has all the necessary to make a great carving. Roughing requires removing large amounts of wood, thanks to the long blade that the KN14 has. 

This knife feels great in hand, making it much easier to be more effective. We hope this review helps you make the best decision for you and our project. Happy shopping! View the Flexcut KN20 Mini-Chip Carving Knife Review.