Despite the similarities between tanto blades and drop points, there are differences as well. The latter is a bit more versatile and offers a wider range of applications. For example, a tanto blade is much better for poking and puncturing than its drop point counterpart. But, some people find the former difficult to use for a wide variety of purposes. A drop point is also more difficult to hone in precise detail.
The main difference between the two is the thickness of the tip. The drop point knife has a thinner tip than the tanto, so it’s much easier to control it in tight spaces. However, a thick, heavy tanto can perform as well as a drop point for slicing and cutting. It’s important to look for a blade with a thick stock and a large enough tip.
While the tanto blade is stronger, its drop point counterpart is easier to handle in tight spaces. It’s easy to grip near the tip and is also much easier to maneuver. It’s also more efficient for cutting and slicing. While a tanto’s edge is more versatile, the drop point is easier to handle. Cold Steel is one company that popularized the modern tanto. The drop point design is a hybrid of katana and short swords.