There are four common types of tang found in knives. A full tang is where the blade is hidden inside the handle, providing optimal strength and durability. Push tang, or stick tang, extends partially into the handle, secured by pressure or friction. Rat-tailed tang is a narrow, tapering extension of the blade that runs through the handle, commonly found in inexpensive or decorative knives. Encapsulated or hidden tang is fully enclosed within the handle material, often used in traditional or decorative knives. Each tang type offers different levels of strength and stability.