The proper throwing grip is with the blunt edge toward the palm, the point lying near the base of the thumb, the thumb lying flat on the blade, pointing toward the helt. The fingertips grip in a row on the opposite flat of the blade. If this sounds confusing, consult illustrations # 1 and 2.
Holding the knife by its point with thumb and forefinger, a grip that is necessary with double-edged blades for obvious reasons (See illustration #3), results in a total lack of power for all but the heaviest knives. In a serious situation a light knife thrown like this might make an opponent mad enough to really hurt you!
We have all seen fantastic long-distance throws in scenes from films and on television. These, of course, are another myth. Around fifteen feet would be the maximum range for good control. Beyond this, point first impact is a matter of luck. Also, because of air resistance and the necessary adjustment in throwing force for control, much power is lost at the longer ranges.
Between you and the target, a knife should make exactly one half turn. This half-turn is controlled by two factors: Angle of release and force of throw. Balancing these two elements is the thing that will require the most practice. At maximum range the release angle should actually be no angle at all, the knife horizontal, handle pointed straight at the target. As the distance decreases, the angle should increase. At very close range, the handle at release point might be vertical or perhaps actually pointing toward the rear. See illustrations #4,5,& 6.
You might think that the horizontal release would give a quicker turn-over, since the elevated angle requires 1/4 to 1/2 more turn, but it doesn't work out that way for one good reason: Air resistance. With the horizontal release there is very little of it and the knife travels handle-first for a longer distance before starting to turn. With the angled release both the air resistance and the wrist action help to start the turn earlier.
Force of throw also has a direct effect on the turn-over, in an obvious manner. The shorter time a knife is in the air, the less time to turn. Therefore a powerful throw at very close range is difficult to achieve. I prefer to always throw with as much force as possible and to adjust the release angle to the distance.
Quite a bit of body action is necessary for a powerful throw. Assuming that you are right-handed, start with your weight on the right foot, arm drawn-back past the right ear, the knife vertical, handle pointed downward. While snapping the arm forward to a straight, extended position, take a long step with the left leg toward the target, leaning forward and transferring the weight to the left leg. Let the throwing arm "follow through", the hand lightly striking the left leg near the knee. See illustrations # 7 & 8.
My own pre-throw stance is fairly ridiculous-looking, as I balance for a moment on the right leg, the left foot slightly off the ground. Since artist Roy Pelz couldn't keep from laughing long enough to sketch it, we have omitted this illustration. Anyhow, perhaps it's better that you find your own most effective and comfortable position.
The gymnastics of the throw may occasionally evince a snicker from some onlookers, but their derisive chuckles will likely cease when they see your knife quivering in the target. If not, you can always comment, as you work the blade loose from a two-inch penetration, that you haven't tried any live targets lately.
Unfortunately, there are no "tricks" that I can pass along which will make you an instant expert at knife throwing. That critical balance between release angle and throwing force can only be attained by persistent practice with a suitable knife. Once you have mastered a particular knife, don't assume that you can do as well with any other knife. Your basic skill will be an advantage, but you'll find that each knife has its own throwing characteristics. Well, good luck and do not be discouraged if your first few dozen throws land handle first! Keep trying.
| Two views of the proper grip for throwing a single-edged knife: 1. the full length of the thumb, |  |
| 2. three fingers on the blade. |  |
| 3. The proper grip for throwing a double-edged knife. With this hold, not as much power can be delivered. | 
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| The three release points- 4. is close range. Released from this angle, turn-over will occur more rapidly. |  |
| 5. is medium range. |  |
| 6. Long-range release point. With knife released horizontally, it will travel for some distance handle first before starting turn-over. This is also the maximum power throw. |  |
| 7. Body and arm position at moment of release.
8. Follow through. With a hard throw, hand should end by lightly striking the left knee. |
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