Pocket knives are a staple of many households around the world. They are used for a variety of tasks, and with proper care, can last for a lifetime.
However, when were these small, folding cutlery tools invented? Weighing about the same as a paper clip, they are easy to carry.
Origins
The history of the pocket knife is a long one. While it has been used by a variety of people over time, it is most often associated with hunting and camping.
The first folding knife was created around 2000 years ago, but it did not become popular until the 17th century. This was because smelting iron was difficult to do, which made them expensive and hard to manufacture on a large scale.
In 1670, Obadiah Barlow, of Sheffield, England, invented a mass-produced pocket knife. He is credited with the development of a slip joint knife that employed a spring to help keep the blade open.
Slip Joint
The slip joint was the classic build of the folding pocket knife, and it has stood the test of time. These knives have a blade that pivots around a joint on one side of the handle and a flat bar called a back spring on the other.
Traditional slip joints can be found in many traditional folding knives, but they are also used in modern designs. These knives can be a little more restricted than locking folders, but they are often more reliable and safer.
You’ll also see a lot of these knives in smaller sizes, usually made for people who want a good, solid all-purpose folding knife that can perform a variety of tasks. This is called a multi-tool knife, and they are also very popular among Boy Scouts.
Lockback
A lockback knife, often referred to as a “buck knife,” is one of the most iconic folding pocket knives of all time. It features a lock mechanism that snaps into a hidden notch on the tang of the blade to prevent the blade from accidentally opening when unfolded.
Traditionally, these knives were made with a basic liner lock. The liners are cut out and bent to create a spring effect that engages the back of the blade tang when the knife is opened, securing the blade in place.
A frame lock operates similarly but uses a milled-out part of the handle to secure the blade. It also usually has a detent ball that engages with a hole in the base of the blade to keep it locked closed.
Blade Length
When it comes to blade lengths for folding pocket knives, there is a sweet spot of 2.75-4 inches that is perfect for a wide range of cutting jobs and convenient for everyday carry. However, some local knife laws may prevent you from carrying blades larger than 2.75 or 3 inches, so be sure to check with your local law enforcement before making a purchase.
Regardless of blade length, most modern folding pocket knives use a variety of handle materials to provide a high level of grip for easy deployment. A popular option is Zytel, which is a thermoplastic that can be coated with a protective coating for added durability and an improved grip.
Uses
One of the oldest tools in mankind’s arsenal, the pocket knife has a long list of uses that are still applicable today. Whether you’re an avid hunter or just enjoy a weekend outdoors, a folding knife can make all the difference when it comes to preparing your kill for eating or cleaning.
It can also save your life in some cases. We’ve all heard about the many times that knives have saved people from certain death – cutting a seatbelt in a car accident, stripping cloth to create a tourniquet, or even defending yourself against a bear are just a few examples.
Having a quality EDC knife on hand can mean the difference between survival and disaster in many situations. Hopefully, these 30 uses of the folding pocket knife will give you an idea of how versatile this tool can be.