Hate Or Love? The 10 Best Knuckle Tattoos

Career killers.

Knuckle tattoos sure aren't for everyone. Still, they certainly inspire interest and creativity. The best bare phrases that match four letter words (4x4) and carry personal, yet universal sentiment. Great examples of knuckle tattoos include "LEFT HOOK", "FROM OHIO", and "HARD BALL." We could go on and on... there is even a superb site dedicated to the brilliance of the knuckle tattoo.

We've narrowed down the best 4x4 by phrase. Considerations include the statements they make and the potential for interesting typographic choices.

HATE or LOVE? The 10 Best Knuckle Tatttoo Phrases.

Tattoo by Norm.

Why this phrase is awesome: If you walk by the beat of your own drum, tell the world. "LONE WOLF" is the best 4x4 with which to express personal identity through tattoos. Sure, other people may have it too... exactly why you seek out an artist who will aid in turning a cliche into a unique tattoo.

Artist unknown.

Why this phrase is awesome: Unlike other phrases on this list, only one man can sport MOBB DEEP knuckles. One of the 10 best tattoos in the history of hip-hop. An excellent reminder that if you name your own group something that hits a natural 4x4 (or, if you wisely add letters), personalized knuckle tattoos are possible.

Artist unknown.

Why this phrase is awesome: The cliche knuckle duster "LOVE HATE" entered the American psyche through film. In Charles Loughton's 1955 thriller The Night of the Hunter, the serial killer Rev. Harry Powell (see above) wears the words proudly. Its a simple reminder of life's ying and yang. So, if that is your thing, the phrase might be appropriate.

Tattoo by Jim Sylvia.

What makes this phrase awesome: Classic sailor shit. HOLD FAST, battle the storm, etc. Hard to argue with iconic tattoo phrases, they stand the test of time for a reason.

"STAY TRUE" is another nice phrase, though not a top 10. Noted here to show how 4x4 trends are moving beyond the traditional placement and covering new portions of the hand.

Artist Unknown.

What makes this phrase awesome: Humor. On one level, you've got the subversive. Career killed, life game over. Haha. On another, the phrase suggests that you may be nice with your hands, and that street corner combatants should tread carefully. Furthermore, if you love video games, what the hell else are you going to get?

Artist unknown.

What makes this phrase awesome: In life, it is important to keep cool. Sometimes, we require a little reminder. Tattoos can function to ground the wearer, serving as an important device triggering important memories, and simply saying "just f'ing relax." There are a few 4x4's that speak to this sentiment, "STAY CALM" just happens to be the neatest. The letters also shape handsomely... an important consideration in career killing tattoos.

Artist unknown.

What makes the phrase awesome: Classic tattoos are classic for a reason — when well articulated, they rarely bare any regret. Pierced Hearts and True Love are anchor notions in the history of Western Tattooing. "TRUE LOVE" is also not quite as ubiquitous as "LOVE HATE," which will solve the potential embarrasment of matching someone at the bar.

Worth noting in this slide as well, the "CARPE DIEM" above "TRUE LOVE." In recent years, knuckle tattoos have expanded beyond the traditional 4x4 configuration. Sometimes it works, other times it fails. Judgement is, of course, completely subjective.

Artist unkown.

What makes the phrase awesome: Hand tattoos attract attention. (Believe me, I know from experience). Why not make them friendly? This young man encourages ladies to join him in quiet conversation. The brilliance of the phrase also stems from witty enunciation. Bravo!

Tattoo by Drew Horner.

What makes the phrase awesome: These fine knuckles are owned by Dr. Matt Lodder, an English art historian who has made a career of investigating the (often wrong) public opinion of tattooing. The phrase, then, is perfect for his personal mission. Also, it functions wonderfully for adventuresome, curious types with a thirst for knowledge. The ideal knuckle duster for the learned.

Also note the good doctor's fabulous hands, tattooed by Peter Lagergren.

Tattoo by BJ Betts.

What makes the phrase awesome: Similar to "KNOW MORE," this phrase questions assumptions about knuckle tattoos. Rather than going hard nosed, the wearer chooses to express (and embrace) nerd tendencies. In this particular case, the lettering is also excemplary. Not surprising, considering Mr. Betts knows a little about the subject. Probably the only knuckle 4x4 that won't bar you from the exclusive Grolier Club.