It seems that almost everyone owns some level of pocket knife. Soccer moms, business executives, teenagers, they all carry at least one in their purse, briefcase, car, or some other useful place. Most knives tend to fall into one of two categories: those intended for home use, that is, for preparing food in the kitchen, or those intended for outdoor use. Knives, of course, belong to the latter category. However, there is quite a bit of variety in pocket knife designs, and certain types are more likely to be used in specific situations.
When it comes to soccer moms who carry pocket knives, they generally prefer the classic Swiss Army knife, or some imitation of it. Everyone knows what a Swiss Army knife looks like: lots of pocket knives, saws, screwdrivers, bottle openers, scissors, pliers, corkscrews, files and tweezers that unfold from an ovular cavity. Of course, Swiss Army knives come in a variety of levels. The most basic model, the Swiss Army Classic Knife, only has a knife, a nail file, a pair of scissors, a pair of tweezers, and a toothpick. This is probably the most popular model in various demographics, which would explain why it is offered in non-classic colors like translucent pink, amethyst, and even tie dye. The most complete models include the Swiss Army Climber, Champ and Huntsman knives.
Aside from the pocket knives of the Swiss Army and its relatives, there are a number of single blade pocket knives designed for rugged outdoor use. The blade of such a knife locks in place, allowing the user to use it without fear of the blade snapping shut and cutting off a finger. Unlike a Swiss Army knife, the blades of these pocket knives can often be folded out with one hand, making them very convenient. The sheet is often divided into two sections. The outer half is a ruler, designed for basic cuts, while the inner half is serenaded, intended for sawing and cutting harder materials. The blades are typically stainless steel, and the handles can be nylon, fiberglass, aluminum, or some other lightweight material.
These single blade knives are made by a variety of companies and cover a fairly wide price range. The least expensive ones are only around $ 15, but are generally miniature versions of full-size knives. The Gerber Paraframe, for example, has a 2.25-inch blade and weighs just over an ounce. Similarly, the blade of the Buck Metro Knife measures just over an inch and weighs just 1.5 ounces. These miniature knives are very convenient, but they are not designed for heavy outdoor use.
Full-size locking knives start at around $ 30, but these are very basic models. The Gerber Paraframe I-Serrated, Columbia River Mt. Shasta, and Leatherman C303 Combination Edge knives are examples of good entry-level knives that can be purchased for a reasonable amount of money.
If you really want the best outdoor knife available and money isn’t an issue, expect to spend around $ 200. Benchmade makes several high-quality models, including the 930 Kulgera Locking and 940 Osborne Serrated knives. These feature powder-coated steel blades that remain sharp and are resistant to corrosion.
