Is Throwing a Knife with No Spin Actually More Effective?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effectiveness of throwing a knife with no spin versus a rotating knife. Participants argue that a rotating knife experiences increased air drag, particularly when rotated in a horizontal plane, which may negate its advantages. The debate highlights the complexity of knife dynamics, including velocity and impact, and questions the validity of sources like Quora for scientific backing. Ultimately, the effectiveness of knife throwing techniques remains contested, with no definitive conclusion reached.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of knife dynamics and aerodynamics
  • Familiarity with rotational motion principles
  • Knowledge of drag forces and their effects on projectiles
  • Ability to evaluate scientific sources and references
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of projectile motion in knife throwing
  • Explore the effects of air drag on rotating versus non-rotating objects
  • Study the principles of rotational dynamics in sports
  • Investigate scientific literature on knife throwing techniques and their effectiveness
USEFUL FOR

Athletes, martial artists, and enthusiasts interested in knife throwing techniques, as well as individuals studying the physics of projectiles and aerodynamics.

Aurelius120
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Homework Statement
I have heard that if you spin a knife it hits harder than if allowed to fly tangentially
Relevant Equations
NA
They say that a rotating knife thrown is more dangerous than a knife thrown straight

I find it weird

  • If the knife is rotating, it will experience more air drag than if thrown straight which will also depend on plane of rotation(For some reason, I don't know, it experiences more drag if rotated in horizontal plane than if in the vertical plane)
  • One end of it will have greater velocity than it could have in pure translation but hey! There is no saying which end will hit the target and that end will probably have maximum velocity(as in rolling motion)
So does that actually mean any advantage
 
Physics news on Phys.org
It is easier to get a high velocity with a throw that spins the knife from the point instead of one that throws it like a dart.
 
Aurelius120 said:
They say
Can you post a link to where you have read this please? As @haruspex says, there are other considerations...
 

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