Abstract:
A method of using a knife. The method includes providing a knife having a blade portion and a handle portion. The handle portion has a pivot point at one end of the handle portion and a knob defined by two cupped regions at the other end of the handle portion. The method includes placing a thumb in the pivot point and moving the blade portion of the knife.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     Knives are useful. Unfortunately, conventional commercially available cutlery knives are often hard to handle and use. They can lead to hand and arm stress sometimes resulting in carpel tunnel syndrome, particularly with prolonged use. This can be due, in part, to the amount of pressure required for cutting and the non-ergonomic shape of the handle. For example, those who cook at home, professional chefs, butchers, senior citizens, handicapped people with disabilities and the like can become fatigued with prolonged use of conventional knives. There is a long-felt need for an improved knife that requires less pressure to cut with and ergonomically hold securely.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     The above advantages as well as other advantages not specifically enumerated are achieved by a method of using a knife. The method includes providing a knife having a blade portion and a handle portion. The handle portion has a pivot point at one end of the handle portion and a knob defined by two cupped regions at the other end of the handle portion. The method includes placing a thumb in the pivot point and moving the blade portion of the knife.  
         [0003]     Various advantages of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment, when read in light of the accompanying drawings. 
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0004]      FIG. 1  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized machete knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0005]      FIG. 2  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized machete knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0006]      FIG. 3  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized steak knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0007]      FIG. 4  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized clever knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0008]      FIG. 5  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized knife having a forked end in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0009]      FIG. 6  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized fillet knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0010]      FIG. 7  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized knife having a forked end in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0011]      FIG. 8  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized sports military style knife with a jagged edge in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0012]      FIG. 9  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized handle covering for use with one or more of the cutting implements shown in this application in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0013]      FIG. 10  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized bread knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0014]      FIG. 11  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized butcher knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0015]      FIG. 12  is an elevational side view of a relatively large sized carver knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0016]      FIG. 13  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized paring knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0017]      FIG. 14  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized bird&#39;s beak knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0018]      FIG. 15  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized dicing knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0019]      FIG. 16  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized bagel knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0020]      FIG. 17  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized fillet knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0021]      FIG. 18  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized knife having a forked end in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0022]      FIG. 19  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized handle covering for use with one or more of the cutting implements shown in this application in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0023]      FIG. 20  is an elevational side view of a relatively mini or small sized handle covering for use with one or more of the cutting implements shown in this application in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0024]      FIG. 21  is an elevational side view of a relatively small sized bird&#39;s beak knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0025]      FIG. 22  is an elevational side view of a relatively small sized bread knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0026]      FIG. 23  is an elevational side view of a relatively small sized carver knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0027]      FIG. 24  is an elevational side view of a relatively small sized paring knife in accordance with the present invention.  
         [0028]      FIG. 25  is an elevational side view of a relatively medium sized paring knife in accordance with the present invention. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0029]     Preliminarily, it should be noted that certain directional terms that may be used herein are used to facilitate the description of the invention. Unless otherwise specified or made apparent by the context of the discussion, such terms and the like should be interpreted with reference to the figure(s) under discussion. Such terms are not intended as a limitation on the position in which the invention or components may be used. Indeed, it is contemplated that the components of the invention may be easily positioned in any desired orientation for use. Likewise, numerical terms such as for example “first” and “second” are not intended as a limitation or to imply a sequence, unless otherwise specified or made apparent by the context of the discussion.  
         [0030]     Referring now to the drawings, there is illustrated a machete, indicated generally at  10 , in accordance with the present invention. The term “machete” is understood to include a relatively large and/or heavy knife used for cutting plant matter and/or a weapon. The term “knife” is understood to include a cutting instrument consisting of a sharp blade secured to or having a handle. As such the term knife includes a cleaver, a machete, and a wide number of other styles of blades and/or handles. For purposes of clarity, the knives are shown apart from their respective handle coverings. The handle coverings may be made of wood, plastic, or any other suitable material. The term “terminal point” use herein is understood to include those points that are of or relating to an end, extremity, and/or boundary.  
         [0031]     The illustrated machete  10  includes a handle portion  12  and a blade portion  16 . The handle portion  12  and the blade portion  16  are operatively connected. The handle portion  12  and the blade portion  16  are generally planar. The term “operatively connected” is understood to include a linking together of the portions under consideration and may include a physical engagement and/or a functional or operational connection. The illustrated blade portion  16  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  20 . The cutting edge  20  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated cutting edge  20  is plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  16  also includes a back edge  24 . The illustrated back edge  24  is generally straight. The back edge  24  of the blade portion  16  is generally aligned along a first axis  28 , as shown.  
         [0032]     The handle portion  12  is generally aligned along a second axis  32 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  32  generally extends from a first terminal point  36  on the back edge  24  of the blade portion  16  to an upward tip  40  of the handle portion  12 . An illustrated third axis  44  intersects the first terminal point  36  on the back edge  24  of the blade portion  16  and the second terminal point  48  on the cutting edge  20  of the blade portion  16 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  44  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  28 , as shown.  
         [0033]     The illustrated machete  10  includes a joint  52  as shown. The term “joint” is understood to include a place and/or location where two things and/or parts are joined. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  52  is the place where the handle portion  12  and the blade portion  16  are joined. The illustrated joint  52  is generally about where the third axis  44  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  24  of the blade portion  16  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  20  of the blade portion  16 .  
         [0034]     It will be noted that the first axis  28  and the second axis  32  define an angle  56 . The angle  56  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  56  is more preferably about fifteen degrees. With respect to the angle  56 , and the general positioning of the handle portion  12  and the blade portion  16 , it will be appreciated that the other knives are shaped in an analogous fashion. For purposes of consistency, ease of reading, and completeness of disclosure, the numbering scheme shown for the machete  10  will be employed with a change of numbering in the hundreds position unless otherwise noted.  
         [0035]     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , the illustrated relatively large sized machete  110  includes a handle portion  112  and a blade portion  116 . The handle portion  112  and the blade portion  116  are operatively connected. The handle portion  112  and the blade portion  116  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  116  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  120 . The cutting edge  120  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  116  also includes a back edge  124 . The illustrated back edge  124  is generally straight. The back edge  124  of the blade portion  116  is generally aligned along a first axis  128 , as shown.  
         [0036]     The handle portion  112  is generally aligned along a second axis  132 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  132  generally extends from a first terminal point  136  on the back edge  124  of the blade portion  116  to an upward tip  140  of the handle portion  112 . An illustrated third axis  144  intersects the first terminal point  136  on the back edge  124  of the blade portion  116  and the second terminal point  148  on the cutting edge  120  of the blade portion  116 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  144  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  128 , as shown.  
         [0037]     The illustrated machete  110  includes a joint  152  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  152  is the place where the handle portion  112  and the blade portion  116  are joined. The illustrated joint  152  is generally about where the third axis  144  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  124  of the blade portion  116  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  120  of the blade portion  116 .  
         [0038]     It will be noted that the first axis  128  and the second axis  132  define an angle  156 . The angle  156  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  156  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0039]     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , the illustrated relatively medium sized steak knife  210  includes a handle portion  212  and a blade portion  216 . The handle portion  212  and the blade portion  216  are operatively connected. The handle portion  212  and the blade portion  216  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  216  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  220 . The cutting edge  220  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  216  also includes a back edge  224 . The illustrated back edge  224  is generally straight. The back edge  224  of the blade portion  216  is generally aligned along a first axis  228 , as shown.  
         [0040]     The handle portion  212  is generally aligned along a second axis  232 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  232  generally extends from a first terminal point  236  on the back edge  224  of the blade portion  216  to an upward tip  240  of the handle portion  212 . An illustrated third axis  244  intersects the first terminal point  236  on the back edge  224  of the blade portion  216  and the second terminal point  248  on the cutting edge  220  of the blade portion  216 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  244  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  228 , as shown.  
         [0041]     The illustrated knife  210  includes a joint  252  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  252  is the place where the handle portion  212  and the blade portion  216  are joined. The illustrated joint  252  is generally about where the third axis  244  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  224  of the blade portion  216  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  220  of the blade portion  216 .  
         [0042]     It will be noted that the first axis  228  and the second axis  232  define an angle  256 . The angle  256  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  256  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0043]     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , the illustrated relatively large sized clever knife  310  includes a handle portion  312  and a blade portion  316 . The handle portion  312  and the blade portion  316  are operatively connected. The handle portion  312  and the blade portion  316  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  316  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  320 . The cutting edge  320  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  316  also includes a back edge  324 . The illustrated back edge  324  is generally straight. The back edge  324  of the blade portion  316  is generally aligned along a first axis  328 , as shown.  
         [0044]     The handle portion  312  is generally aligned along a second axis  332 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  332  generally extends from a first terminal point  336  on the back edge  324  of the blade portion  316  to an upward tip  340  of the handle portion  312 . An illustrated third axis  344  intersects the first terminal point  336  on the back edge  324  of the blade portion  316  and the second terminal point  348  on the cutting edge  320  of the blade portion  316 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  344  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  328 , as shown.  
         [0045]     The illustrated knife  310  includes a joint  352  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  352  is the place where the handle portion  312  and the blade portion  316  are joined. The illustrated joint  352  is generally about where the third axis  344  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  324  of the blade portion  316  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  320  of the blade portion  316 .  
         [0046]     It will be noted that the first axis  328  and the second axis  332  define an angle  356 . The angle  356  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  356  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0047]     Referring now to  FIG. 5 , the illustrated relatively large sized knife having a forked end  410  includes a handle portion  412  and a blade portion  416 . The handle portion  412  and the blade portion  416  are operatively connected. The handle portion  412  and the blade portion  416  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  416  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  420 . The cutting edge  420  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  416  also includes a back edge  424 . The illustrated back edge  424  is generally straight. The back edge  424  of the blade portion  416  is generally aligned along a first axis  428 , as shown.  
         [0048]     The handle portion  412  is generally aligned along a second axis  432 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  432  generally extends from a first terminal point  436  on the back edge  424  of the blade portion  416  to an upward tip  440  of the handle portion  412 . An illustrated third axis  444  intersects the first terminal point  436  on the back edge  424  of the blade portion  416  and the second terminal point  448  on the cutting edge  420  of the blade portion  416 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  444  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  428 , as shown.  
         [0049]     The illustrated knife  410  includes a joint  452  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  452  is the place where the handle portion  412  and the blade portion  416  are joined. The illustrated joint  452  is generally about where the third axis  444  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  424  of the blade portion  416  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  420  of the blade portion  416 .  
         [0050]     It will be noted that the first axis  428  and the second axis  432  define an angle  456 . The angle  456  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  456  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0051]     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , the illustrated relatively large sized fillet knife  510  includes a handle portion  512  and a blade portion  516 . The handle portion  512  and the blade portion  516  are operatively connected. The handle portion  512  and the blade portion  516  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  516  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  520 . The cutting edge  520  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  516  also includes a back edge  524 . The illustrated back edge  524  is generally straight. The back edge  524  of the blade portion  516  is generally aligned along a first axis  528 , as shown.  
         [0052]     The handle portion  512  is generally aligned along a second axis  532 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  532  generally extends from a first terminal point  536  on the back edge  524  of the blade portion  516  to an upward tip  540  of the handle portion  512 . An illustrated third axis  544  intersects the first terminal point  536  on the back edge  524  of the blade portion  516  and the second terminal point  548  on the cutting edge  520  of the blade portion  516 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  544  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  528 , as shown.  
         [0053]     The illustrated knife  510  includes a joint  552  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  552  is the place where the handle portion  512  and the blade portion  516  are joined. The illustrated joint  552  is generally about where the third axis  544  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  524  of the blade portion  516  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  520  of the blade portion  516 .  
         [0054]     It will be noted that the first axis  528  and the second axis  532  define an angle  556 . The angle  556  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  556  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0055]     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , the illustrated relatively large sized knife having a forked end  610  includes a handle portion  612  and a blade portion  616 . The handle portion  612  and the blade portion  616  are operatively connected. The handle portion  612  and the blade portion  616  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  616  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  620 . The cutting edge  620  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  616  also includes a back edge  624 . The illustrated back edge  624  is generally straight. The back edge  624  of the blade portion  616  is generally aligned along a first axis  628 , as shown.  
         [0056]     The handle portion  612  is generally aligned along a second axis  632 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  632  generally extends from a first terminal point  636  on the back edge  624  of the blade portion  616  to an upward tip  640  of the handle portion  612 . An illustrated third axis  644  intersects the first terminal point  636  on the back edge  624  of the blade portion  616  and the second terminal point  648  on the cutting edge  620  of the blade portion  616 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  644  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  628 , as shown.  
         [0057]     The illustrated knife  610  includes a joint  652  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  652  is the place where the handle portion  612  and the blade portion  616  are joined. The illustrated joint  652  is generally about where the third axis  644  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  624  of the blade portion  616  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  620  of the blade portion  616 .  
         [0058]     It will be noted that the first axis  628  and the second axis  632  define an angle  656 . The angle  656  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  656  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0059]     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , the illustrated relatively large sports military style knife with a jagged edge  710  includes a handle portion  712  and a blade portion  716 . The handle portion  712  and the blade portion  716  are operatively connected. The handle portion  712  and the blade portion  716  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  716  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  720 . The cutting edge  720  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  716  also includes a back edge  724 . The illustrated back edge  724  is generally jagged. The back edge  724  of the blade portion  716  is generally aligned along a first axis  728 , as shown.  
         [0060]     The handle portion  712  is generally aligned along a second axis  732 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  732  generally extends from a first terminal point  736  on the back edge  724  of the blade portion  716  to an upward tip  740  of the handle portion  712 . An illustrated third axis  744  intersects the first terminal point  736  on the back edge  724  of the blade portion  716  and the second terminal point  748  on the cutting edge  720  of the blade portion  716 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  744  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  728 , as shown.  
         [0061]     The illustrated knife  710  includes a joint  752  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  752  is the place where the handle portion  712  and the blade portion  716  are joined. The illustrated joint  752  is generally about where the third axis  744  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  724  of the blade portion  716  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  720  of the blade portion  716 .  
         [0062]     It will be noted that the first axis  728  and the second axis  732  define an angle  756 . The angle  756  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  756  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0063]     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , the illustrated relatively large sized bread knife  810  includes a handle portion  812  and a blade portion  816 . The handle portion  812  and the blade portion  816  are operatively connected. The handle portion  812  and the blade portion  816  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  816  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  820 . The cutting edge  820  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  816  also includes a back edge  824 . The illustrated back edge  824  is generally straight. The back edge  824  of the blade portion  816  is generally aligned along a first axis  828 , as shown.  
         [0064]     The handle portion  812  is generally aligned along a second axis  832 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  832  generally extends from a first terminal point  836  on the back edge  824  of the blade portion  816  to an upward tip  840  of the handle portion  812 . An illustrated third axis  844  intersects the first terminal point  836  on the back edge  824  of the blade portion  816  and the second terminal point  848  on the cutting edge  820  of the blade portion  816 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  844  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  828 , as shown.  
         [0065]     The illustrated knife  810  includes a joint  852  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  852  is the place where the handle portion  812  and the blade portion  816  are joined. The illustrated joint  852  is generally about where the third axis  844  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  824  of the blade portion  816  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  820  of the blade portion  816 .  
         [0066]     It will be noted that the first axis  828  and the second axis  832  define an angle  856 . The angle  856  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  856  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0067]     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , the illustrated relatively large sized butcher knife  910  includes a handle portion  912  and a blade portion  916 . The handle portion  912  and the blade portion  916  are operatively connected. The handle portion  912  and the blade portion  916  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  916  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  920 . The cutting edge  920  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  916  also includes a back edge  924 . The illustrated back edge  924  is generally straight. The back edge  924  of the blade portion  916  is generally aligned along a first axis  928 , as shown.  
         [0068]     The handle portion  912  is generally aligned along a second axis  932 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  932  generally extends from a first terminal point  936  on the back edge  924  of the blade portion  916  to an upward tip  940  of the handle portion  912 . An illustrated third axis  944  intersects the first terminal point  936  on the back edge  924  of the blade portion  916  and the second terminal point  948  on the cutting edge  920  of the blade portion  916 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  944  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  928 , as shown.  
         [0069]     The illustrated knife  910  includes a joint  952  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  952  is the place where the handle portion  912  and the blade portion  916  are joined. The illustrated joint  952  is generally about where the third axis  944  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  924  of the blade portion  916  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  920  of the blade portion  916 .  
         [0070]     It will be noted that the first axis  928  and the second axis  932  define an angle  956 . The angle  956  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  956  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0071]     Referring now to  FIG. 12 , the illustrated relatively large sized carver knife  1010  includes a handle portion  1012  and a blade portion  1016 . The handle portion  1012  and the blade portion  1016  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1012  and the blade portion  1016  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1016  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1020 . The cutting edge  1020  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1016  also includes a back edge  1024 . The illustrated back edge  1024  is generally straight. The back edge  1024  of the blade portion  1016  is generally aligned along a first axis  1028 , as shown.  
         [0072]     The handle portion  1012  is generally aligned along a second axis  1032 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1032  generally extends from a first terminal point  1036  on the back edge  1024  of the blade portion  1016  to an upward tip  1040  of the handle portion  1012 . An illustrated third axis  1044  intersects the first terminal point  1036  on the back edge  1024  of the blade portion  1016  and the second terminal point  1048  on the cutting edge  1020  of the blade portion  1016 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1044  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1028 , as shown.  
         [0073]     The illustrated knife  1010  includes a joint  1052  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1052  is the place where the handle portion  1012  and the blade portion  1016  are joined. The illustrated joint  1052  is generally about where the third axis  1044  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1024  of the blade portion  1016  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1020  of the blade portion  1016 .  
         [0074]     It will be noted that the first axis  1028  and the second axis  1032  define an angle  1056 . The angle  1056  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1056  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0075]     Referring now to  FIG. 13 , the illustrated relatively medium sized paring knife  1110  includes a handle portion  1112  and a blade portion  1116 . The handle portion  1112  and the blade portion  1116  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1112  and the blade portion  1116  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1116  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1120 . The cutting edge  1120  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1116  also includes a back edge  1124 . The illustrated back edge  1124  is generally curved. The back edge  1124  of the blade portion  1116  is generally aligned along a first axis  1128 , as shown.  
         [0076]     The handle portion  1112  is generally aligned along a second axis  1132 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1132  generally extends from a first terminal point  1136  on the back edge  1124  of the blade portion  1116  to an upward tip  1140  of the handle portion  1112 . An illustrated third axis  1144  intersects the first terminal point  1136  on the back edge  1124  of the blade portion  1116  and the second terminal point  1148  on the cutting edge  1120  of the blade portion  1116 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1144  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1128 , as shown.  
         [0077]     The illustrated knife  1110  includes a joint  1152  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1152  is the place where the handle portion  1112  and the blade portion  1116  are joined. The illustrated joint  1152  is generally about where the third axis  1144  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1124  of the blade portion  1116  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1120  of the blade portion  1116 .  
         [0078]     It will be noted that the first axis  1128  and the second axis  1132  define an angle  1156 . The angle  1156  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1156  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0079]     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , the illustrated relatively medium sized bird&#39;s beak knife  1210  includes a handle portion  1212  and a blade portion  1216 . The handle portion  1212  and the blade portion  1216  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1212  and the blade portion  1216  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1216  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1220 . The cutting edge  1220  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1216  also includes a back edge  1224 . The illustrated back edge  1224  is generally straight. The back edge  1224  of the blade portion  1216  is generally aligned along a first axis  1228 , as shown.  
         [0080]     The handle portion  1212  is generally aligned along a second axis  1232 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1232  generally extends from a first terminal point  1236  on the back edge  1224  of the blade portion  1216  to an upward tip  1240  of the handle portion  1212 . An illustrated third axis  1244  intersects the first terminal point  1236  on the back edge  1224  of the blade portion  1216  and the second terminal point  1248  on the cutting edge  1220  of the blade portion  1216 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1244  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1228 , as shown.  
         [0081]     The illustrated knife  1210  includes a joint  1252  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1252  is the place where the handle portion  1212  and the blade portion  1216  are joined. The illustrated joint  1252  is generally about where the third axis  1244  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1224  of the blade portion  1216  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1220  of the blade portion  1216 .  
         [0082]     It will be noted that the first axis  1228  and the second axis  1232  define an angle  1256 . The angle  1256  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1256  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0083]     Referring now to  FIG. 15 , the illustrated relatively medium sized dicing knife  1310  includes a handle portion  1312  and a blade portion  1316 . The handle portion  1312  and the blade portion  1316  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1312  and the blade portion  1316  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1316  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1320 . The cutting edge  1320  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1316  also includes a back edge  1324 . The illustrated back edge  1324  is generally curved. The back edge  1324  of the blade portion  1316  is generally aligned along a first axis  1328 , as shown.  
         [0084]     The handle portion  1312  is generally aligned along a second axis  1332 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1332  generally extends from a first terminal point  1336  on the back edge  1324  of the blade portion  1316  to an upward tip  1340  of the handle portion  1312 . An illustrated third axis  1344  intersects the first terminal point  1336  on the back edge  1324  of the blade portion  1316  and the second terminal point  1348  on the cutting edge  1320  of the blade portion  1316 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1344  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1328 , as shown.  
         [0085]     The illustrated knife  1310  includes a joint  1352  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1352  is the place where the handle portion  1312  and the blade portion  1316  are joined. The illustrated joint  1352  is generally about where the third axis  1344  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1324  of the blade portion  1316  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1320  of the blade portion  1316 .  
         [0086]     It will be noted that the first axis  1328  and the second axis  1332  define an angle  1356 . The angle  1356  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1356  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0087]     Referring now to  FIG. 16 , the illustrated relatively medium sized bagel knife  1410  includes a handle portion  1412  and a blade portion  1416 . The handle portion  1412  and the blade portion  1416  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1412  and the blade portion  1416  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1416  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1420 . The cutting edge  1420  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1416  also includes a back edge  1424 . The illustrated back edge  1424  is generally straight. The back edge  1424  of the blade portion  1416  is generally aligned along a first axis  1428 , as shown.  
         [0088]     The handle portion  1412  is generally aligned along a second axis  1432 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1432  generally extends from a first terminal point  1436  on the back edge  1424  of the blade portion  1416  to an upward tip  1440  of the handle portion  1412 . An illustrated third axis  1444  intersects the first terminal point  1436  on the back edge  1424  of the blade portion  1416  and the second terminal point  1448  on the cutting edge  1420  of the blade portion  1416 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1444  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1428 , as shown.  
         [0089]     The illustrated knife  1410  includes a joint  1452  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1452  is the place where the handle portion  1412  and the blade portion  1416  are joined. The illustrated joint  1452  is generally about where the third axis  1444  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1424  of the blade portion  1416  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1420  of the blade portion  1416 .  
         [0090]     It will be noted that the first axis  1428  and the second axis  1432  define an angle  1456 . The angle  1456  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1456  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0091]     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , the illustrated relatively medium sized fillet knife  1510  includes a handle portion  1512  and a blade portion  1516 . The handle portion  1512  and the blade portion  1516  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1512  and the blade portion  1516  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1516  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1520 . The cutting edge  1520  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1516  also includes a back edge  1524 . The illustrated back edge  1524  is generally straight. The back edge  1524  of the blade portion  1516  is generally aligned along a first axis  1528 , as shown.  
         [0092]     The handle portion  1512  is generally aligned along a second axis  1532 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1532  generally extends from a first terminal point  1536  on the back edge  1524  of the blade portion  1516  to an upward tip  1540  of the handle portion  1512 . An illustrated third axis  1544  intersects the first terminal point  1536  on the back edge  1524  of the blade portion  1516  and the second terminal point  1548  on the cutting edge  1520  of the blade portion  1516 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1544  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1528 , as shown.  
         [0093]     The illustrated knife  1510  includes a joint  1552  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1552  is the place where the handle portion  1512  and the blade portion  1516  are joined. The illustrated joint  1552  is generally about where the third axis  1544  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1524  of the blade portion  1516  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1520  of the blade portion  1516 .  
         [0094]     It will be noted that the first axis  1528  and the second axis  1532  define an angle  1556 . The angle  1556  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1556  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0095]     Referring now to  FIG. 18 , the illustrated relatively medium sized knife having a forked end  1610  includes a handle portion  1612  and a blade portion  1616 . The handle portion  1612  and the blade portion  1616  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1612  and the blade portion  1616  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1616  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1620 . The cutting edge  1620  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1616  also includes a back edge  1624 . The illustrated back edge  1624  is generally straight. The back edge  1624  of the blade portion  1616  is generally aligned along a first axis  1628 , as shown.  
         [0096]     The handle portion  1612  is generally aligned along a second axis  1632 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1632  generally extends from a first terminal point  1636  on the back edge  1624  of the blade portion  1616  to an upward tip  1640  of the handle portion  1612 . An illustrated third axis  1644  intersects the first terminal point  1636  on the back edge  1624  of the blade portion  1616  and the second terminal point  1648  on the cutting edge  1620  of the blade portion  1616 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1644  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1628 , as shown.  
         [0097]     The illustrated knife  1610  includes a joint  1652  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1652  is the place where the handle portion  1612  and the blade portion  1616  are joined. The illustrated joint  1652  is generally about where the third axis  1644  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1624  of the blade portion  1616  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1620  of the blade portion  1616 .  
         [0098]     It will be noted that the first axis  1628  and the second axis  1632  define an angle  1656 . The angle  1656  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1656  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0099]     Referring now to  FIG. 21 , the illustrated relatively small sized bird&#39;s beak knife  1710  includes a handle portion  1712  and a blade portion  1716 . The handle portion  1712  and the blade portion  1716  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1712  and the blade portion  1716  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1716  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1720 . The cutting edge  1720  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1716  also includes a back edge  1724 . The illustrated back edge  1724  is generally straight. The back edge  1724  of the blade portion  1716  is generally aligned along a first axis  1728 , as shown.  
         [0100]     The handle portion  1712  is generally aligned along a second axis  1732 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1732  generally extends from a first terminal point  1736  on the back edge  1724  of the blade portion  1716  to an upward tip  1740  of the handle portion  1712 . An illustrated third axis  1744  intersects the first terminal point  1736  on the back edge  1724  of the blade portion  1716  and the second terminal point  1748  on the cutting edge  1720  of the blade portion  1716 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1744  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1728 , as shown.  
         [0101]     The illustrated knife  1710  includes a joint  1752  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1752  is the place where the handle portion  1712  and the blade portion  1716  are joined. The illustrated joint  1752  is generally about where the third axis  1744  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1724  of the blade portion  1716  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1720  of the blade portion  1716 .  
         [0102]     It will be noted that the first axis  1728  and the second axis  1732  define an angle  1756 . The angle  1756  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1756  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0103]     Referring now to  FIG. 22 , the illustrated relatively small sized bread knife  1810  includes a handle portion  1812  and a blade portion  1816 . The handle portion  1812  and the blade portion  1816  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1812  and the blade portion  1816  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1816  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1820 . The cutting edge  1820  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1816  also includes a back edge  1824 . The illustrated back edge  1824  is generally straight. The back edge  1824  of the blade portion  1816  is generally aligned along a first axis  1828 , as shown.  
         [0104]     The handle portion  1812  is generally aligned along a second axis  1832 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1832  generally extends from a first terminal point  1836  on the back edge  1824  of the blade portion  1816  to an upward tip  1840  of the handle portion  1812 . An illustrated third axis  1844  intersects the first terminal point  1836  on the back edge  1824  of the blade portion  1816  and the second terminal point  1848  on the cutting edge  1820  of the blade portion  1816 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1844  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1828 , as shown.  
         [0105]     The illustrated knife  1810  includes a joint  1852  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1852  is the place where the handle portion  1812  and the blade portion  1816  are joined. The illustrated joint  1852  is generally about where the third axis  1844  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1824  of the blade portion  1816  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1820  of the blade portion  1816 .  
         [0106]     It will be noted that the first axis  1828  and the second axis  1832  define an angle  1856 . The angle  1856  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1856  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0107]     Referring now to  FIG. 23 , the illustrated relatively small carver knife  1910  includes a handle portion  1912  and a blade portion  1916 . The handle portion  1912  and the blade portion  1916  are operatively connected. The handle portion  1912  and the blade portion  1916  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  1916  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  1920 . The cutting edge  1920  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  1916  also includes a back edge  1924 . The illustrated back edge  1924  is generally straight. The back edge  1924  of the blade portion  1916  is generally aligned along a first axis  1928 , as shown.  
         [0108]     The handle portion  1912  is generally aligned along a second axis  1932 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  1932  generally extends from a first terminal point  1936  on the back edge  1924  of the blade portion  1916  to an upward tip  1940  of the handle portion  1912 . An illustrated third axis  1944  intersects the first terminal point  1936  on the back edge  1924  of the blade portion  1916  and the second terminal point  1948  on the cutting edge  1920  of the blade portion  1916 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  1944  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  1928 , as shown.  
         [0109]     The illustrated knife  1910  includes a joint  1952  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  1952  is the place where the handle portion  1912  and the blade portion  1916  are joined. The illustrated joint  1952  is generally about where the third axis  1944  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  1924  of the blade portion  1916  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  1920  of the blade portion  1916 .  
         [0110]     It will be noted that the first axis  1928  and the second axis  1932  define an angle  1956 . The angle  1956  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  1956  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0111]     Referring now to  FIG. 24 , the illustrated relatively small paring knife  2010  includes a handle portion  2012  and a blade portion  2016 . The handle portion  2012  and the blade portion  2016  are operatively connected. The handle portion  2012  and the blade portion  2016  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  2016  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  2020 . The cutting edge  2020  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  2016  also includes a back edge  2024 . The illustrated back edge  2024  is generally straight. The back edge  2024  of the blade portion  2016  is generally aligned along a first axis  2028 , as shown.  
         [0112]     The handle portion  2012  is generally aligned along a second axis  2032 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  2032  generally extends from a first terminal point  2036  on the back edge  2024  of the blade portion  2016  to an upward tip  2040  of the handle portion  2012 . An illustrated third axis  2044  intersects the first terminal point  2036  on the back edge  2024  of the blade portion  2016  and the second terminal point  2048  on the cutting edge  2020  of the blade portion  2016 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  2044  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  2028 , as shown.  
         [0113]     The illustrated knife  2010  includes a joint  2052  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  2052  is the place where the handle portion  2012  and the blade portion  2016  are joined. The illustrated joint  2052  is generally about where the third axis  2044  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  2024  of the blade portion  2016  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  2020  of the blade portion  2016 .  
         [0114]     It will be noted that the first axis  2028  and the second axis  2032  define an angle  2056 . The angle  2056  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  2056  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0115]     Referring now to  FIG. 25 , the illustrated relatively medium sized paring knife  2110  includes a handle portion  2112  and a blade portion  2116 . The handle portion  2112  and the blade portion  2116  are operatively connected. The handle portion  2112  and the blade portion  2116  are generally planar. The illustrated blade portion  2116  includes a generally sharpened cutting edge  2120 . The cutting edge  2120  may be serrated and/or plain edged. The illustrated blade portion  2116  also includes a back edge  2124 . The illustrated back edge  2124  is generally straight. The back edge  2124  of the blade portion  2116  is generally aligned along a first axis  2128 , as shown.  
         [0116]     The handle portion  2112  is generally aligned along a second axis  2132 , as shown. The illustrated second axis  2132  generally extends from a first terminal point  2136  on the back edge  2124  of the blade portion  2116  to an upward tip  2140  of the handle portion  2112 . An illustrated third axis  2144  intersects the first terminal point  2136  on the back edge  2124  of the blade portion  2116  and the second terminal point  2148  on the cutting edge  2120  of the blade portion  2116 . It will be appreciated that the third axis  2144  is generally perpendicular to the first axis  2128 , as shown.  
         [0117]     The illustrated knife  2110  includes a joint  2152  as shown. It will be appreciated that the illustrated joint  2152  is the place where the handle portion  2112  and the blade portion  2116  are joined. The illustrated joint  2152  is generally about where the third axis  2144  intersects the first terminal point on the back edge  2124  of the blade portion  2116  and the second terminal point on the cutting edge  2120  of the blade portion  2116 .  
         [0118]     It will be noted that the first axis  2128  and the second axis  2132  define an angle  2156 . The angle  2156  is preferably within the range of from about one degree to about twenty degrees. The illustrated angle  2156  is more preferably about fifteen degrees.  
         [0119]     Handle coverings for use with the handle portions of the knives may be employed. Handle coverings are shown in  FIGS. 9, 19  and  20 . Any suitable handle covering may be employed. Two handle coverings may be employed for each handle portion of each knife. The knife handle portion may be generally sandwiched between two handle coverings. The handle coverings may be secured to the handle portion in any suitable manner, including by means of adhesive, rivets, fasteners, and the like. It will be appreciated that the contour of the handle coverings generally follows and/or mirrors the contour of the corresponding knife handle portion. Thus, a discussion of the physical structure of the handle coverings will generally apply to the physical structure of the handle portion of the knife unless otherwise made clear by the context.  
         [0120]     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , a relatively large size handle covering  2200  is shown. The relatively large handle covering  2200  may be employed with any or all of the relatively large knives shown in this application or any other suitable knife. The illustrated handle covering  2200  is generally planar. The illustrated handle covering  2200  includes five stress points. The first stress point is shown generally at  2204 . The second stress point is shown generally at  2208 . The third stress point is shown generally at  2212 . The fourth stress point is shown generally at  2216 . The fifth stress point is shown generally at  2220 . The term “stress point” is understood to include a point where a relatively greater force is exerted by a portion of a hand pressing and/or squeezing on it. It will be noted that the illustrated handle portions of the illustrated knives similarly include these five stress points as well as the other structural features discussed herein.  
         [0121]     A number of other terms may be helpful for understanding the drawings of the handle portions of the knives and the handle coverings of the knives. The term “cupped” is understood to include a structure generally curve into the general shape of a cup. It also may include a recess, dip and/or indentation. The term “belly” is understood to include a surface or object generally curved and/or generally rounded. The term “knob” is understood to include a variety of generally rounded protuberances. The term “contiguous” is understood to include the state of being generally in line and/or touching and/or being generally connected throughout in a generally unbroken fashion.  
         [0122]     The illustrated handle covering  2200  includes a knob  2224 . The illustrated handle covering  2200  includes a first belly  2228  and a second belly  2232 . The first stress point  2204  and the second stress point  2208  are located on a back side  2236  of the illustrated handle covering  2200 . The third  2212  stress point and fourth stress point  2216  and fifth stress point  2220  are on a front side  2240  of the illustrated handle covering  2200 . The back side  2236  of the handle covering  2200  is generally contiguous with the back, relative non-sharp portion of the of the blade portion of the knife. The front side  2240  of the handle covering  2200  is generally contiguous with the front, relatively sharp portion of the blade portion of the knife.  
         [0123]     The first stress point  2204  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2200 . The second stress point  2208  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2200 . The first stress point  2204  and the second stress point  2208  are generally separated by the first belly  2228  of the illustrated handle covering  2200 . The third stress point  2212  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2200 . The fifth stress point  2220  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2200 . The fourth stress point  2216  is generally located on the second belly  2232  of the handle covering  2200 .  
         [0124]     Referring now to  FIG. 19 , a relatively medium size handle covering  2300  is shown. The handle covering  2300  may be employed with any or all of the relatively medium sized knives shown in this application or any other suitable knife. The illustrated handle covering  2300  is generally planar. The illustrated handle covering  2300  includes five stress points. The first stress point is shown generally at  2304 . The second stress point is shown generally at  2308 . The third stress point is shown generally at  2312 . The fourth stress point is shown generally at  2316 . The fifth stress point is shown generally at  2320 .  
         [0125]     The illustrated handle covering  2300  includes a knob  2324 . The illustrated handle covering  2300  includes a first belly  2328  and a second belly  2332 . The first stress point  2304  and the second stress point  2308  are located on a back side  2336  of the illustrated handle covering  2300 . The third  2312  stress point and fourth stress point  2316  and fifth stress point  2320  are on a front side  2340  of the illustrated handle covering  2300 . When secured to the knife, the back side  2336  of the handle covering  2300  is generally contiguous with the back, relative non-sharp portion of the of the blade portion of the knife. When secured to the knife, the front side  2340  of the handle covering  2300  is generally contiguous with the front, relatively sharp portion of the blade portion of the knife.  
         [0126]     The first stress point  2304  is generally located on the first belly  2328  of the handle covering  2300 . The second stress point  2308  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2300 . The third stress point  2312  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2300 . The fifth stress point  2320  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2300 . The fourth stress point  2316  is generally located on the second belly  2332  of the handle covering  2300 .  
         [0127]     Referring now to  FIG. 20 , a relatively small size handle covering  2400  is shown. The handle covering  2400  may be employed with any or all of the relatively small sized knives shown in this application or any other suitable knife. The illustrated handle covering  2400  is generally planar. The illustrated handle covering  2400  includes five stress points. The first stress point is shown generally at  2404 . The second stress point is shown generally at  2408 . The third stress point is shown generally at  2412 . The fourth stress point is shown generally at  2416 . The fifth stress point is shown generally at  2420 .  
         [0128]     The illustrated handle covering  2400  includes a knob  2424 . The illustrated handle covering  2400  includes a first belly  2428  and a second belly  2432 . The first stress point  2404  and the second stress point  2408  are located on a back side  2436  of the illustrated handle covering  2400 . The third  2412  stress point and fourth stress point  2416  and fifth stress point  2420  are on a front side  2440  of the illustrated handle covering  2400 . When secured to the knife, the back side  2436  of the handle covering  2400  is generally contiguous with the back, relative non-sharp portion of the of the blade portion of the knife. When secured to the knife, the front side  2440  of the handle covering  2400  is generally contiguous with the front, relatively sharp portion of the blade portion of the knife.  
         [0129]     The first stress point  2404  is generally located on the first belly  2428  of the handle covering  2400 . The second stress point  2408  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2400 . The third stress point  2412  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2400 . The fifth stress point  2420  is generally located on a cupped portion of the handle covering  2400 . The fourth stress point  2416  is generally located on the second belly  2432  of the handle covering  2400 .  
         [0130]     The fifth stress points  2220 ,  2320 ,  2420  are pivot points. The term “pivot point” is understood to include a point or region on which something balances, turns, moves and/or rotates. It will be appreciated that a finger, including a forefinger, thumb or other suitable finger, can be place on the pivot points of one or more knives. Using a knife by placing a finger on the pivot point and moving the blade can be advantages in cutting or otherwise using the knife. While the pivot point is particularly useful for the paring knives, it may be employed with any suitable knife.  
         [0131]     The principle and mode of operation of this invention have been described in its preferred embodiments. However, it should be noted that this invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically illustrated and described without departing from its scope.