The knife making trade in Albacete today
In addition to size reductions, from the early twentieth century, there is a great change in the typology and the styles of the “navajas” or pocket knives. The accumulative incidence of restrictive regulations; the emergence of new aesthetic preferences; the application of certain serialization operations and procedures; the use of new materials and the diversification of uses are the cause of the emergence and consolidation of aesthetical innovations and new shapes.
Especially, it is in the second half of the twentieth century, when the morphology of the pocket knife is transformed to adapt to the new needs and fashions.
Especially, it is in the second half of the twentieth century, when the morphology of the pocket knife is transformed to adapt to the new needs and fashions.
Typology of the “navajas” or pocket knives
STYLET
t is a light and elegant “navaja” with a sharp and narrow blade.
TRANCHETE
It is ideal for pruning due to the curved form of the blade.
SWORD POINT
Its blade is similar to that of a sword or sprat.
MACHETE
It is characterized by the symmetry of its blade and the straightness of the handle.
SHEPHERD
It is ancient and simple. It was used in grazing tasks.
DE FIELES (OF PINS OR RIVETS)
It is simple and very effective for cutting. It is the oldest type.
SEVILLANA (FROM SEVILLA)
It is very similar to the type “Albaceteña”, but the blade is sleeker.
JEREZANA (FROM JEREZ)
Typical folding knife used for defence and attack.
COW’S TONGUE
It has a wide and short blade, adequate to castrate, therefore it is also called “capaora” (castrator).
CUT TIP
This type is a result of the legal restrictions imposed on the manufacture and use of pocket knives at the end of the nineteenth century. It is used in agricultural works for grafting, so it is also called “folding grafting knife”.
ALBACETEÑA (FROM ALBACETE)
It is the classic “navaja”, made in Albacete, which is used as a domestic and rural utensil.
RING LOCK
It is more solid than the previous one because it has a spring with a ring that makes it unique and gives its name.
Illustration of the typologies
Basic typology of the Albacete “navajas” from the second half of the 20th century
Author: Alejandro Expósito Fernández
Year 1985
Repository: INDUALSA