Pocket knives are versatile and durable tools that are always useful to have on hand for a variety of different scenarios. They are typically small, lightweight, and easy to carry and are able to provide you with quick and easy access when you need it the most.
There are several different types of pocket knives to choose from, and ultimately it comes down to determining what you will be using the pocket knife for the most. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast who loves camping and hiking, or you just want to be prepared for whatever can happen, a pocket knife makes a good addition to your arsenal.
A Small History of Pocket Knives
Pocket knives have been around since the beginning, far beyond what any of us would remember. They were always seen as one of the most basic and useful tools in existence. Each culture had their own version of the pocket knife that they used for different tasks which makes it hard to pinpoint an exact historical account of the beginning of this handy tool.
Folding knives have seen many new improvements over the years, and they are being made to be more durable and versatile than ever. Due to this evolution, there is no shortage when it comes to finding the perfect pocket knife. From many different uses, styles, designs, and colors, there are many to choose from, and they all are able to offer versatility and durability for whatever gets thrown at them.
The Pros of a Pocket Knife
One of the biggest pros of owning a pocket knife is the fact that they are convenient, small, and easy to carry. Since they fold, you also do not have to worry about cutting yourself on the blade while carrying it or worrying about finding blade coverage for when it isn’t being used.
It is also easy to unfold a pocket knife, and since they are so easy to carry, you are also awarded convenient and easy access.
The Cons of a Pocket Knife
The biggest con between a pocket knife, or folding knife, and a fixed blade knife is the overall strength of the blade. Since the pocket knife folds in, it may not be as strong because they are not manufactured from one piece of steel.
Pocket knives have three various positions: open, closed, and partially open. Since they have to be folded, some of the stability you can find with a fixed blade knife is lost. However, you are still receiving a high-quality, durable knife that is easier to carry.
Different Opening Styles
Pocket knives come in a variety of different opening styles and the variation in these styles is what improves their portability and convenience.
Manual Opening Pocket Knives
A manual opening pocket knife does not include any springs that assist the blade. Therefore, you may need two hands to open this type of pocket knife unless they come equipped with a thumb stud or a hole in the blade to make it easier to operate with just one hand.
Assisted Opening Pocket Knives
Assisted opening pocket knives do allow for easy one-handed operation because they have a spring inside of the handle that releases the blade after it has been open past a certain point, typically around the thirty-degree mark. This type of pocket knife is best suited if you feel you will be in a position in which you will only have one free hand and will need to use the knife, such as during a self-defense, emergency, or climbing scenario.
Automatic Pocket Knife
An automatic pocket knife releases the blade with just the push of a button or a switch. These pocket knives are usually reserved for military and law enforcement use, but there have been exceptions made for civilians looking for this type of pocket knife.
Different Types of Pocket Knives
Now that you are aware of the different opening styles available for pocket knives, let’s take a closer look at the different types of pocket knives that are available.
Single Blade Folding Pocket Knives
A single blade folding pocket knife comes in different shapes and sizes and typically have a locking mechanism included in the design for safety. They are usually more stable than a multi-bladed pocket knife design as well and make an ideal all-purpose knife that is good for everyday carrying and use.
Multi-Blade Folding Pocket Knives
Multi-blade folding pocket knives allow you to use the knife for a variety of different tasks and they have proven to be effective when it comes to general purpose cutting, skinning, and piercing. The only downfall is that they are not as strong as a single blade pocket knife.
Multi-Tool Pocket Knife
When you think of a pocket knife, then your mind probably goes to the classic Swiss Army Knife that provides you with a general-purpose tool that combines several other tools such as screwdrivers, tweezers, scissors, and so much more. They cut down on the amount of tools you may need to carry with you because they provide one tool with several distinct functions for convenience.
Final Thoughts
If you have considered buying a pocket knife then you probably already know what a few of its uses may be. If you understand what it is you need it for, it will make choosing the best pocket knife for you that much easier.
A pocket knife has several uses including opening boxes, camping, fishing, and so much more. They are typically carried by outdoorsmen, fishermen, and average people on an everyday basis to help them tackle any and all small tasks that may arise throughout the day. Pocket knives are small, compact, lightweight, and easy to carry which is what makes them the ideal general-purpose tool.
If you are a camper that loves being outdoors, then a pocket knife with a sharper edge, a serrated edge, or a longer blade may be useful for bigger tasks such as cutting rope. Or you may prefer a multi-purpose knife that includes many other smaller tools in one.
The average person may carry a pocket knife for small tasks such as opening boxes. In this case, a keychain would be ideal and will keep it close and within easy reach throughout the day when you may need it.
