Types Of Utility Knives And How They Are Different From One Another

Utility knives are compact and user-friendly hardware tools that allow users an easy way to cut through different types of surfaces, such as cardboard, foam, plastic, and even thicker surfaces, such as wood, drywall, etc.

What are Utility Knives

A utility knife has become a necessity in many environments – households use it to open online packages and sometimes in the kitchen to open sealed packages of raw ingredients.

Additionally, utility knives are found in offices, warehouses, and many other environments.

Advantages of a Utility Knife

Demand for utility knives started to increase as many people experienced the numerous advantages each type of utility knife provides to users. Since utility knives are compact tools, they tend to have a small design, which can fool people into believing that the tool is incapable of doing hard work.

On the contrary, these hardware tools are designed to provide users with a satisfying experience. For instance, a multipurpose utility knife can be helpful in many situations — heavy or light work, allowing users a safe cutting experience due to the safety features implemented on the tool.

On the other hand, a manual utility knife can be used in households to open online packages that are perfectly sealed. 

Another general advantage that you will be able to find in most types of utility knives is the ability to own the tool for a long period. The reason is that the blades are replaceable, so whenever the blade rusts or loses its sharpness, a user will have the opportunity to replace only the blade instead of the whole tool. 

Nowadays, most utility knives have an ambidextrous design, making it easier for people to use them with both hands. On the other hand, this feature makes it easier for people to decide on what utility knife to purchase, as they can use it with both hands.

Different Types of Utility Knives and Which Environment they can be Used: 

1- Manual Utility Knives – Manual Mini Cutter

As the name suggests, a manual utility knife is commonly used in many environments, allowing people to cut through different materials and surfaces.

Most manual utility knives are designed to allow people to have a firm grip on the knife; for example, the knife could have a unique exterior design, allowing users to have more control over the tool during the cutting process. 

Alongside the usual size of a manual utility knife, a mini version could be found in the market as well. However, the strength of both types is equal, and the only difference is the exterior of the tool. 

2- Multipurpose Utility Knives

As mentioned above, a multipurpose utility knife can be used in many environments as it is applicable to complete most types of jobs. A multipurpose utility knife can have different blades in a single tool, each intended for a specific type of job. 

3- (Auto) Retractable Utility Knives

The retractable or auto-retractable utility knife is one of the favorite tools for people who frequently cut things and are in a hurry. People often use a utility knife, and because they are in a hurry, they forget to pull the blade inside its frame.

This situation has caused many people to injure themselves due to the sharp blade being outside its protector. 

So, the retractable utility knife does this job for the user. Whenever a user is done with the tool, the sharp blade is retracted back into the tool’s frame, decreasing the chances of harming and injuring oneself.

4- Everyday Carry (EDC) Folding Utility Knives

Another useful type of utility knife is the EDC folding utility knife. This type of utility knife is designed for people to carry the tool on them, ensuring that it will not cause harm. This tool operates differently from the other types, as the blade folds inside of the frame instead of sliding into it. 

This tool is one of the camping gears preferred by campers and hikers who require small portable knives when they go into nature, and the folding feature of the knife gives them the peace of mind that they will not cause harm to themselves when medical assistance is unavailable. 

5- Edge Utility Cutter

An edge utility knife would commonly be used in warehouses and manufacturing environments. This type of utility knife is designed to have the shape of a hammer but with a sharp tip, making cutting hard edges, wires, and other construction-related materials easier. 

Conclusion

In a nutshell, utility knives have become a commonly used tool in many environments. The numerous types of utility knives available in the market have made it easier for users to choose which type is the most applicable for the job they intend to accomplish with the tool. 

Additionally, the safety features of these tools have ensured people that they will not cause harm to themselves and those around them while using a sharp tool.

Thus, when deciding what type to purchase, do some research and purchase the right utility knife for you.