Hacking Knives

About Hacking Knives

Hacking knives are specialist fixed-blade cutting tools designed for working with soft building materials including lead sheet, roofing felt, carpet, linoleum, and various membranes commonly used in construction and renovation work. Featuring a robust, thick blade with a characteristic hooked or curved tip, these traditional hand tools have been essential equipment for roofers, plumbers, and general tradespeople for decades. Unlike retractable utility knives, the fixed blade construction provides superior strength and reliability when cutting through demanding materials that would quickly damage lighter-duty blades.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks quality hacking knives from trusted manufacturers including Draper, Faithfull, and Footprint. Each brand offers their own interpretation of this time-tested design, featuring high-carbon steel blades typically measuring 75-100mm in length, with comfortable handles designed for sustained professional use. The hooked blade profile prevents slipping during cutting and provides excellent control when dressing lead flashing or trimming sheet materials to precise dimensions.

Applications

• Roofing: Cutting lead flashing, roofing felt, membranes, and dressing sheet materials around chimneys, valleys, and weatherproofing details
• Plumbing: Working with lead pipes, sheet lead for weatherproofing applications, and cutting gasket materials
• Flooring Installation: Trimming carpet, underlay, vinyl sheet flooring, and linoleum during fitting work
• General Building: Versatile cutting of DPC membrane, soft sheet goods, and various site materials
• Property Maintenance: General purpose cutting tasks in facilities management and repair work
• DIY Projects: Home improvement work including roofing repairs, flooring projects, and renovation tasks

Choosing The Right Hacking Knives

When selecting a hacking knife, prioritise blade quality and material. Look for high-carbon steel construction that holds a sharp edge and can be resharpened multiple times throughout its working life. The brands available at MyToolShed.co.uk are known for producing durable blades that withstand professional use.

Consider handle design and comfort, particularly if you'll be using the tool for extended periods. Traditional wooden handles offer excellent grip and durability, whilst modern composite materials resist oils, solvents, and weather exposure. Ensure the handle feels secure even when wearing work gloves.

Assess the blade profile and length appropriate for your typical applications. Standard blades measure 75-100mm, with varying degrees of hook curvature. A more pronounced hook provides better control for lead work, whilst a subtler curve suits general cutting tasks. Finally, check the tang construction – a full tang design where blade steel extends through the entire handle provides maximum strength for demanding applications.

Safety Information

Hacking knives feature permanently exposed fixed blades that require careful handling. Always cut away from your body and keep your free hand clear of the cutting path. Store your knife safely with a blade guard or in a dedicated tool pouch – never carry it loose in pockets or toolbags where accidental contact could cause injury.

Wear cut-resistant gloves when undertaking cutting tasks, and ensure materials are properly secured before cutting. Maintain sharp blades, as dull edges require more force and are more likely to slip. When working at height during roofing applications, use tool lanyards to prevent dropping tools and follow HSE guidelines for working safely at elevation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a hacking knife and a utility knife?

A hacking knife features a fixed, rigid blade specifically designed for heavy-duty cutting of soft metals like lead and tough sheet materials. Utility knives have retractable, replaceable blades suited to lighter general-purpose work. The hacking knife's robust construction makes it far more durable for demanding professional applications.

Can I sharpen my hacking knife blade?

Yes, hacking knives are designed to be resharpened multiple times using a suitable sharpening stone or file. Regular sharpening maintains cutting performance and extends the tool's working life. Keep the blade clean and lightly oiled during storage to prevent corrosion.

Are hacking knives suitable for cutting carpet and vinyl flooring?

Absolutely. Whilst traditionally associated with lead work, hacking knives excel at cutting carpet, underlay, vinyl sheet flooring, and linoleum. The rigid blade and comfortable handle provide excellent control for precise trimming during flooring installation projects.