Knife Throwing Research

Project Description

Measurement and Instrumentation (2.671) is one of two required capstone classes for mechanical engineers at MIT. In this class, we learn about experimental techniques for observation and measurement of physical variables such as force, strain, temperature, flow rate, and acceleration. We also conduct independent research projects that culminate in a final poster and paper.

I studied knife throwing, a hobby I picked up through my living community. I wanted to answer the question: what makes a knife stick? I measured a friend throwing a knife at a force plate 45 times and analyzed the data in Vernier Video Analysis. I found three key factors that increase the sticking probability: optimal range in total flight angle, impulse, and final angle.

Documentation and Data Collection

A visual abstract of my project

1 out of 45 knife throws

Using a painting to hide the mounted force plate from my landlord

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