Basics on Pocket Knives
Pocket knives are often thought as an outdoor accessory as it provides flexibility, easy storage and enough safety for every outdoorsman. But pocket knives come in different forms and types that there could be a perfect pocket knife for most situations. It is just a matter of knowing what you really need so that you could have the right pocket knife.
The main feature of a pocket knife is that its blade could be folded and kept on the handle. It’s also a relatively small knife with blades ranging from three to five inches and handles that also has the same range.
Types of Pocket Knives
Slip Joint Knives
A very versatile type of knives, slip joint knives come with different types of blades that could be used for different purposes. A slip joint knife could have the regular blade, a small saw, small scissors and other types of blades folded together in one handle. Other slip joint knives come with add-ons such as small spoon and fork, pen, hook and other small equipments that you might use while traveling. The most popular type of slip joint knife is the Swiss Army knife.
The slip joint knife could be considered as the “jack of all trades.” Although they could be used in so many ways, they can’t be excellently used in one purpose alone and could easily break down when used excessively.
Locking Knives
A very simple looking knife, locking knives are durable and could be used in different conditions. Locking knives have spring-lock mechanism wherein the blade is locked within the handle. The blade usually has a hook that becomes the security lock for the knife. Slip joints don’t have locking mechanisms as it only has a spring to ensure stability of the knife. Although the locking knife is more durable, this type of pocket knife is less versatile.
Collection and Protection
There are individuals who opted to be collectors of different types of pocket knives. As pocket knives come in different shapes, sizes and forms, collecting pocket knives has proven to be great hobby.
Starting a collection is very easy as different types of knives from different makers could be bought in local shops or online. But the difference maker in maintaining a good collection is on how you protect the pocket knives. Basically, pocket knives are like guns – they needed to be taken out from time to time and inspected if there are any rusts. The case should also protect the knives from extreme weather conditions.
Counterfeits
Collectors of pocket knives often have to deal with counterfeits in order to maintain the authenticity of their pocket knife collection.
The best way to avoid counterfeits is to buy directly from the manufacturers or closely examine them when buying in shops. When examining the pocket knife, take a good look of the joint components and try to look out for odd looking joints. Anything that looks bad should be discarded. You don’t want to end up with a counterfeit pocket knife as you could be buying something very expensive with very little value.