The tanto’s unique design provides surprising utility around the campfire. Its strong tip makes it perfect for piercing, scoring, and detail work. Plus, its durable spine can handle light prying and opening cans. With typically grippy, secure handles designed for control in adverse conditions, the tanto becomes a multi-tool and reduces the need for extra tools like a can opener.
Today, we’ll share safety tips for using a tactical tanto and a step-by-step guide for getting the best results. Keep reading to learn more.
Safety concerns you must be aware of
A sharp blade is actually safer than a dull one, because it requires less force and is less likely to slip and slide. To make sure that or nothing worse happens to you, we’ve listed the major safety concerns:
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Always ensure a secure grip for the task. For precision work, there should be at least a pinch grip near the blade and a firm hammer grip for chopping.
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Don’t forget to use a stable cutting surface like a board, log section, or flat rock.
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Always cut away from your body and fingers.
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When the knife isn’t being used for food prep or a camp task, put it back in its sheath.
How to prepare the Tactical Tanto Knife?
Before we discuss the Tanto blade outdoor cooking techniques, it is essential to know how to prepare your knife for the best possible results.
Step 1: Clean the blade
Wash your blades with dish soap and warm water. Avoid harsh detergents, as they can damage the quality of the steel. Use a dry cloth to wipe off the water.
Step 2: Sharpen the blade
If this is not your first time handling a tactical knife, you must also consider using a sharpening stone to maintain the blade's angle.
Step 3: Sanitisation for maintained hygiene
Once the knife is ready to be kept aside, wipe it down with food-safe alcohol and sanitiser. However, also ensure that you rewash it before you use it to chop your food again.
Core Cooking Techniques Step-by-Step
Slicing Meat and Fish
Slicing proteins like meat and fish requires smooth, controlled strokes using the middle to lower section of the blade. For that, you need to make sure the meat or fish is stable on your surface. For boneless cuts like steaks or fillets, slice across the grain for maximum tenderness. Use full drawing motions by pulling the blade towards you or push-cutting motions, apply minimal downward pressure, and let the sharpness do the work.
If you’re filleting a fish, you need to use the sharp tanto point to make the initial incision behind the gills and pectoral fin down to the spine, then carefully guide the blade along the spine using the ribs as a guide.
Chopping Vegetables
Now, if you want to chop vegetables, then you’ll focus on using the straight or slightly curved section of the blade nearest the handle. For that, place the vegetable on your chosen stable surface. Then curl your non-knife hand fingers inward using your knuckles to guide the blade and tuck your fingertips away. For softer items like onions or herbs, use a controlled rocking motion. Finally, ensure you do not use excessive force and let the sharp edge of the tactical do the work.
When Not to Use a Tactical Tanto Knife?
The Tactical Tanto knife is very versatile, but when you see it from the perspective of an expert who aims to achieve a particular taste with the way they use the knife, then maybe you must consider the following factors:
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A tactical tanto knife may not be the best choice if you prefer soft textures or thin slices.
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If you are preparing large amounts of meat, the weight of this knife may not allow you to achieve the desired taste.
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Lastly, this is most definitely the best knife choice if you want to bake pastries, cookies, etc.
(Also read from our previous blogs: Top Five Durable Multi-Purpose Camping Knives for Outdoor Activities)
Choosing the Dfackto Tactical Tanto Knife
As you may already know, Dfackto offers some of the best, and globally-loved, essential knives for grilling and adventure chefs, and the reason? Well:
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Our knives are built with precise engineering.
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They are versatile and offer multiple uses.
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The handles are ergonomic and comfortable.
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You can maintain them easily.
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This is hand-crafted for wildlife and outdoor chefs.
Bottom Line
Now that you know how to use a tanto knife for cooking in the outdoors, what are you waiting for? Whether you are planning for a family BBQ session in the woods or a beach party with your friends where you represent the skills of the head chef, a tactical tanto knife is all you need to do one, show off your cooking skills, and two, make some of the tastiest food possible.
Have queries? Reach out to our experts today!
