Pocket knives are back in style. 

It’s a small, versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks.

Pocket knives are popular for their portability, convenience, and affordability. They are lightweight, making them easy to carry.

They are quick and convenient to use, easy to sharpen, ideal for tasks that require a sharp blade, and they are relatively inexpensive.

But these small, concealable knives are not legal everywhere, so what are the alternatives?

In this blog, we will discuss these multi-functional pocket tools as well as explore other options if these aren’t legal in your area.

Do you really need a pocket knife?

Are pocket knives really useful or are they more of a style statement? Well, that depends on a number of factors:

• If you enjoy being active and spending time outdoors, a compact blade can come in handy for various everyday tasks.
• Check local laws before buying a foldable knife, as some places have restrictions on carrying them.
• If you are concerned about your personal safety, a pocket knife can be a deterrent to crime. However, it is important to use it responsibly and especially Not as a weapon.

When should you use a pocket knife?

Whether you’re a new owner of a pocket knife or you are looking to buy one, here are some of the things you can use it for:

• Opening packages
• Cutting food
• Cutting rope
• Carving wood
• Trimming plants
• Fixing small objects
• Self-defense

When should you NOT use a pocket knife?

You should not use pocket knives for tasks that require a lot of force, such as prying or chopping. 

You should also avoid using them near the eyes or other sensitive areas.

What can I use instead of a pocket knife?

Let's discuss pen knives. Some folks get mixed up between these and handmade pocket knives.

Here's the deal: Pen knife, often known as 'Swiss Army Knife', pack in lots of different tools for various jobs.

On the other hand, pocket knives are mainly meant for cutting, and any extra features usually take a back seat, especially in the case of budget-friendly options.

Along with a cutting blade, a pen knife may also include a fork, nail file, tweezers, scissors, screwdriver, ballpoint pen and many other functional tools.

The modern-day pen knives may even include a USB memory stick or a charging cable. Some even have flashlights.

Pen knife: A time saving tool that can help you get more done

Pen knives are certainly a good alternative for a pocket knife, because other than cutting you may also sit down and file your nails a bit.

A penknife reduces the number of tools you have to carry; hence, your burden is lessened.

Moreover, wanting to do a different task in a short time, then a penknife helps in reducing the time wastage as well.

BUT…

Due to its complexity, the blade of a penknife is much harder to replace than that of a pocket knife. If your blade wears out fast, think about the damage it might be taking during your tasks.

Other compact knife alternatives for specific tasks

There are tools in the market that are designed for a specific task. Moreover, they are CHEAPER! Hence, it’s worth considering other options if you only have one or two specific tasks to perform.

But keep in mind, if you need more versatility, then you should choose a pocket knife!

A BOX CUTTER

We have all been using a belt cutter knife, right? Box cutter is a knife designed specifically for opening packages and boxes.

The blade of a box cutter is segmented, it has sections that can be snapped off when the blades have worn down; moreover, when these blades are snapped off, it gets a new cutting edge!

WRAP CUTTERS

A hooked, small blade along with a plastic liner. Its purpose is to protect the contents in the package, and any other surface the blade may come in contact with. Just under the hook, you’ll find a small section that leaves the cutting edge exposed. This helps in cutting through plastic wraps, adhesives or any other similar material.

Some unconventional alternatives to pocket sized blades

• Hardwire Cutter
• Large Screwdriver
• Needle Nose Pliers
• Scissors
• Wire Cutters
• Small Screwdriver
• Wire Stripper

These options may be quite different from what you are used to. But they are handy and convenient all the same.

Check out our exclusive collection of pocket knives now!