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301 Utility Knife Safety Skip to main content

Understanding Utility Knives

Types of Utility Knives

Utility knives are versatile tools used across many industries for cutting materials like cardboard, drywall, carpet, and much more. Let’s look at the different types of utility knives commonly used in the workplace:

  1. Retractable Blade Knives:
    • Box Cutters: These knives feature a blade that retracts into the handle when not in use, offering enhanced safety. The blade length can often be adjusted according to the task.
    • Standard Retractable Blade Knives: These are similar to box cutters but might be designed for a broader range of materials. The blade retracts into the handle for safety when not in use.
  1. Fixed Blade Knives: These knives have a non-retractable blade, typically offering greater strength and stability. They are ideal for heavy-duty tasks but require careful handling and storage.
  2. Snap-off Blade Knives: These knives have a long blade that can be snapped off in sections to reveal a fresh, sharp edge. They are particularly useful for tasks requiring constant sharpness.
  3. Safety Knives: Designed with safety in mind, these knives include features like self-retracting blades, concealed blades, or guards to minimize the risk of injury.
  4. Specialty Knives: These are designed for specific tasks, such as hooks or carpet knives, and might have unique features suited to a particular type of material or environment.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-1. What feature distinguishes Box Cutters from other utility knives?