If you are someone who carries a pocket knife for daily chores, whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, or a DIY hobbyist, it is essential to know how to securely use your folding knife. Now, let's get into the most important safety advice that every knife owner should know.
What Is a Folding Knife?
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of knife safety, let's familiarize ourselves with the different types of folding knives and their common uses. This will help you better understand the safety procedures we'll discuss later.
Different Types of Folding Knives
You've probably seen various folding knives, but did you know there are several distinct types? Let's break them down:
- Lockback knives feature a solid spine lock that's super reliable and has been trusted for generations. Think of your grandpa's old hunting knife – it probably had this type of lock.
- Liner lock knives are probably the most common today. They use a spring-loaded side bar that clicks into place when the blade opens. They're like having a little safety guard that automatically engages.
- Frame lock knives are like liner locks on steroids. Instead of a thin liner, they use part of the handle frame itself to lock the blade. They're tough as nails and perfect for heavy-duty work.
- Slip joint knives are the classic Swiss Army style that don't actually lock – they just resist closing with spring pressure. These are what most of us started with as kids.
Common Uses of Folding Knives
Folding knives are incredibly versatile tools.
- Hikers and campers swear by them for everything from cutting rope to preparing food.
- EDC enthusiasts keep them handy for opening packages, cutting strings, or handling quick tasks.
- Even home cooks sometimes reach for a folding knife when their kitchen knife is out of reach.
Basic Safety Rules When Handling Floding Knives
Now that we understand what we're working with, let's talk about some basic safety rules. Think of these as your "always-on" safety settings – they should become second nature.
Always Assume the Knife Is Sharp
Even if a knife looks dull or has not been used recently, it can still pose a significant risk. Always treat every knife as if it is sharp, and handle it with respect. Accidents and damage will be less likely if you think this way.
Use a Stable Surface When Closing the Knife
Find a flat, stable surface to close your knife. Avoid closing it while standing or on uneven ground, as this can lead to slips or drops. A firm countertop or table provides a secure area where you can focus on safely manipulating the knife.
Keep Fingers Clear of the Blade's Path
Watch out for your fingers as you fold the knife. Keep them out of the way of the blade so they don't get cut by chance. This will keep your fingers safe at all times.
Wear Protective Gloves If Necessary
If the knife you're using is very sharp or if you're not sure how to handle it properly, consider wearing protective gloves. Cut-resistant gloves can add an extra layer of safety, making it less likely to get hurt while you are closing or handling the knife.
How to Properly Close a Folding Knife
So if you need to close a folding knife, how should you do it safely? Let's break down the process into manageable steps.
Step 1: Assess the Environment
First things first – look around you. Are you standing in a crowded space? Maybe move to a quieter spot. Is there good lighting? If not, find some. Having a clear, spacious space helps prevent accidental contact with other objects or people.
Step 2: Grip the Knife Correctly
Use your dominant hand to grasp the handle securely. Your grip should be firm but not white-knuckle tight. Depending on the type of folding knife, you may need to use your thumb to disengage the lock. Position your thumb correctly to apply pressure without compromising safety.
Step 3: Release the Lock
This is where knowing your knife type really pays off.
- Lockback: Use your thumb to press down on that spine lock until it clicks, allowing the blade to fold.
- Liner Lock: Gently press the liner (the metal strip inside the handle) to the side; this will release the blade for closure.
- Frame Lock: Similar to a liner lock but might need a bit more oomph.
- Slip Joint: This type does not have a locking mechanism; simply pull back the blade while keeping your fingers clear.
Step 4: Fold the Blade
With the lock released, gently guide the blade back into the handle, keeping your focus on it to avoid sudden movements. If the blade feels stuck or doesn't close smoothly, don't force it. Check for obstructions or debris and ensure the locking mechanism is disengaged before trying again.
Step 5: Secure the Knife
Listen for that satisfying click or feel the blade settle into its closed position. Double-check everything's where it should be. If your knife has additional locks or safety features, make sure they are engaged once the blade is closed. This provides extra security, preventing unintended openings during transport or storage.
How to Fix Common Folding Knife Closing Issues
Even with proper care, you might encounter various challenges when closing your folding knife. Let's talk about what to do when things don't go as smoothly as we'd like.
Stuck Blade Solutions
If your blade gets stuck, resist the urge to force it. Check for debris in the pivot or lock mechanism. Sometimes, a gentle wiggle while holding the lock open does the trick.
Lock Problems
It's a bad sign if your lock feels strange or won't work right. Keep an eye out for signs of wear, like a lock that isn't fully engaged or that feels mushy. When you're not sure, check it out with a pro.
Uneven Closing Action
Sometimes your blade might feel like it's closing unevenly or catching at certain points. This usually happens due to misaligned pivot screws working loose over time, uneven tension in the lock mechanism, or bent and damaged washers creating an inconsistent closing path. The fix is simple: carefully check for visible alignment issues and ensure all screws are properly tightened, but not over-tightened.
Additional Folding Knife Care Tips
A well-maintained knife is a safer knife. Let's talk about keeping your folder in tip-top shape for smooth, safe operation.
Wipe Down Your Blade Regularly
Wipe down your blade after each use with a clean, dry cloth. Remove any moisture or residue immediately to prevent corrosion. Take a moment to check the pivot area for pocket lint and debris. A few seconds of care can prevent hours of repair later.
Choose the Right Lubricant
Choose the right lubricant – lightweight mineral oil or purpose-made knife oil works best. Avoid WD-40 or thick oils that can attract dirt. Apply just one small drop to the pivot area and moving parts. Work the blade open and close several times to distribute the oil evenly. Wipe away any excess to prevent lint buildup.
Check and Tighten Screws
Check all screws monthly for proper tension. Loose screws can affect blade alignment and lock safety. Use the correct size tools to prevent stripping screws. Apply a tiny dab of blue Loctite if screws consistently work loose, but avoid red Loctite as it's permanent.
Sharpen and Maintain the Edge
Keep your blade sharp – a sharp blade is actually safer than a dull one because it requires less force to use. Learn basic sharpening skills or find a reliable professional. Check the edge regularly for small nicks or rolls that might affect performance.
Store Your Knife Safely
Store your knife in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use silica gel packets in storage containers to control humidity. Consider a dedicated knife roll or case with individual pockets. For long-term storage, apply a light coat of protective oil to prevent rust.
Master Safe Folding Knife Handling!
Safety with folding knives isn't rocket science, but it does require attention and respect. Just take your time and follow these steps. Soon, you'll be able to handle knives safely without thinking about it. Don't forget that every expert was once a beginner. If you keep these tips in mind and use them, you'll develop good habits that will serve you well.