Whether traveling, in the wilderness, or while hunting and fishing: Pocket knives are the ideal companion on the go, as their blade can be folded into the gap of a sturdy handle for safe transport. The cutting tools, also known as folding knives, fixed-blade knives, locking knives, and in Switzerland as pocket knives, are not only a useful tool for everyday life. Especially high-quality pocket knives are also popular as collectibles.
If you want to buy a pocket knife, Meister Messer is the optimal contact. We offer you a versatile range of folding knives, which includes more than 2000 models and covers all conceivable areas of application. Many of our pocket knives can be opened with one hand, which is very practical especially in a professional environment. In the following guide, we will reveal to you what criteria you should pay attention to in order to find the folding knife that is optimal for you.
The history of the pocket knife
Already in ancient times there were simple folding knives used by hunters and travelers as tools and weapons. The oldest pocket knife discovered so far is a model found in Hallstatt in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria, with an iron blade and a handle made of bone, dating back to between 600 and 500 BC.
As archaeological finds prove, pocket knives were also used by the Romans in the 1th century AD. However, the knives made of bronze did not yet have a locking mechanism, which is why they had to be held open by hand. In the Middle Ages, folding peasant knives made of iron became popular.
The famous Swiss pocket knife was developed at the end of the 19. century for the army, where it served, among other things, as a tool for disassembling the then-standard rifle. The first version included a blade, a can opener, a screwdriver, and an awl (tool for piercing and enlarging holes).
Since at that time no Swiss company had the necessary production capacities, the first 15'000 specimens 1891 were manufactured by the German knife manufacturer Wester & Co. from Solingen. However, this changed quite quickly, as by the end of the same year, the Swiss manufacturer Victorinox took over production.
Types of Pocket Knives
Pocket knives can be categorized in various ways. When it comes to their opening mechanism, a distinction is made between one-handed knives and two-handed knives. The former can be opened and locked with just one hand - for example, using a flipper or a thumb stud. In the case of a two-handed knife, however, you need both hands to pull out the blade.
Classification by type of locking mechanism
It is also possible to distinguish folding knives based on the locking mechanism used. The lock ensures that the knife does not accidentally fold during use. The following systems are most commonly used:
- Liner Lock (Frame Lock): This locking mechanism relies on a leaf spring that snaps into place in the knife handle directly behind the hinge point. You can easily unlock the closure with just one hand by pushing the spring to the side. Another advantage: The Liner Lock system excels in high security. It's no wonder that it is one of the most commonly used locking systems.
- Frame Lock (Handle Scale Lock): The Frame Lock represents a proven variation of the Liner Lock mechanism, in which a part of the handle scale functions as a side spring. Here, the blade can be unlocked by pressing on the handle scale. There are no concerns regarding safety and ease of use with the Frame Lock mechanism.
- Back Lock / Lock Back (Lever Lock): Also popular is the Back-Lock system. In this type of locking mechanism, there is a spring-loaded lever in the handle that locks the unfolded blade. When the pocket knife is opened, the spring on the back of the blade falls behind the hinge point of the blade, ensuring easy handling.
- Lever Lock (back spring lock): Here the unfolded blade is locked using teeth attached to the blade joint, which snap into a slot in the back spring. To release the lock, depending on the model, you have to pull a ring or press a lever, allowing the blade joint to rotate freely again.
- Axis Lock (Bolt Lock): In the Axis Lock system, a transverse bolt above the folding joint ensures that the blade is locked. This locks into a notch integrated into the joint through a U-shaped spring. To unlock corresponding models, simply pull the bolt out of the notch. Due to its transverse position, Axis Lock knives can be operated by both right and left-handed users.
Pocket knives without locking mechanism
In addition, non-locking pocket knives can also be found in the market. This category includes the following types of folding knives:
- Schwenkerlmesser (in English Friction Folder) are held closed exclusively by friction. Their distinguishing feature is the tang, which rests on the handle when the pocket knife is open. The thumb presses on the extension of the blade passing through the handle, keeping the knife open. Typical representatives of this type of knife are medieval peasant knives and the Higonokami knives originating from Japan.
- Slip Joint Knives (im Englischen Slip Joint Knives) sind mit einer Feder ausgestattet, die Druck auf das Gelenk ausübt. Dadurch steigert sie die Reibung und hält die Klinge auf diese Weise in Form – sowohl im offenen als auch im geschlossenen Zustand. Allerdings stellt diese Art der Arretierung keine sichere Verriegelung dar, denn wer das Klappmesser schliessen will, muss lediglich die Federspannung überwinden. Ist der Mechanismus nicht vorhanden, handelt es sich um ein freigelenkiges Messer (im Englischen Free Joint Knife).
What opening mechanisms are available?
Equally versatile as the locking mechanism of the folding knife are its opening mechanisms. Pocket knives equipped with multiple blades or tools usually only have thumb nail slots. For models equipped with only one blade, different opening aids are used. While bumps attached on one or both sides of the blade back are referred to as "pins," experts speak of an "eye" when there is a hole in the blade. On the other hand, a protruding tab is referred to as a "flipper."
Buy pocket knives: Which variables you should definitely consider
The optimal pocket knife depends on various factors. When choosing a knife, you should keep the intended use in mind to identify the model that perfectly suits your needs. For outdoor enthusiasts, a robust design that withstands the challenges of nature is recommended. On the other hand, passionate DIYers may prefer a folding knife equipped with additional features, such as a screwdriver.
In addition, there are some general criteria that you should always consider when buying a pocket knife. The specific variables to consider in detail are explained in the following sections.
Blade material
The blade material is a crucial purchasing criterion. The material from which the blade is made influences both the sharpness and edge retention as well as the rust resistance of the knife. Common blade materials include stainless steel, carbon steel, and Damascus steel:
- Pocket knives made of stainless steel: This material offers a good balance between sharpness, rust resistance, and durability. Stainless steel knives are relatively easy to maintain and can be used in humid environments without rusting. Their good resistance to various chemicals and acids is also a plus. However, sharpening them tends to be slightly more laborious compared to models made of carbon steel.
- Pocket knives made of carbon steel: Blades made of carbon steel are known for their exceptionally high sharpness and edge retention. However, they are usually more prone to rust and therefore require more maintenance than models made of stainless steel. On the other hand, pocket knives made of carbon steel are relatively easy to sharpen.
- Pocket knives made of Damascus steel: Damascus steel is considered a very high-quality blade material that has long been able to impress with a unique sharpness. However, there are now high-performance steels that exhibit similarly good material properties. The knives are also popular because of their unique patterning, which can be attributed to the multi-layered steel. Pocket knives made of Damascus steel offer first-class quality and aesthetics, but are quite expensive to purchase.
Blade length
The blade length is one of the important factors to consider when buying a pocket knife, as it determines the tasks the cutting tool is suitable for:
- Compact blades with a length of up to 5 centimeters are ideal for everyday use, such as opening letters and peeling fruit.
- Medium-length blades (5 to 8 centimeters) are versatile and can be used for activities such as hiking and fishing, or for crafting. They offer a good balance between functionality and portability.
- Large pocket knives with a blade length of more than 8 centimeters are designed for more demanding tasks that require more leverage and cutting surface. Corresponding models are suitable, for example, for woodworking or heavy cutting tasks.
Blade shape
The shape of the blade not only influences the appearance, but also the functionality or possible uses of the knife. There are numerous blade shapes, each of which is predestined for specific areas of application. We will now take a closer look at the most common types of blades:
- A Drop-Point blade has a concave shape and is rounded towards the tip. This blade shape can be used in a variety of ways and is suitable, for example, for gutting fish, cutting ropes, or carving wood.
- The Clip-Point blade is characterized by a tapered point and a blade back that curves concavely toward the tip of the knife. Pocket knives with Clip-Point blades are particularly well-suited for precise tasks - such as opening letters or piercing materials, but also for filleting fish.
- A Spear-Point blade is symmetrical and equipped with a sharp point that facilitates penetration. This blade shape can be used for many different tasks, such as wood carving, cutting fruits and vegetables, or preparing food.
- The Tanto blade originally comes from Japan, where it is mainly used for swords and combat knives. However, there is also a modern American interpretation with a slightly different design. The characteristic feature of Tanto pocket knives is the knife tip located at the back of the blade. Due to their high durability, knives with Tanto blades are particularly suitable for tactical applications and self-defense.
Handle material
The handle of a pocket knife plays an important role in comfort and handling. Various materials are used for handles. Here too, the rule applies: Each material has specific advantages and disadvantages:
- Wood: Pocket knives with wooden handles offer a natural and appealing aesthetic, a pleasant feel, and a warm touch in the hand. However, since they are susceptible to moisture and wear, wooden handles require a bit more care.
- Plastic: Plastic handles - such as those made of nylon or G10 - are durable, water-resistant, and easy to care for. However, compared to other handle materials, they may be slightly less robust.
- Metal: Metal handles score with robustness and a long service life. In addition, they are generally corrosion-resistant. However, in cold temperatures, the handle feels uncomfortably cool in the hand. Furthermore, not all metal handles provide a secure grip.
- Rubber: In stores, you can also find pocket knives with a handle made of rubber or rubber-like materials. These offer excellent slip resistance even when wet. However, there is a risk that the grip may decrease over time due to material fatigue.
- Micarta: This composite material made of resin and layers of fabric such as linen, cotton, or fiberglass, offers good grip, long durability, and an appealing appearance. Micarta handles are typically also water-resistant.
Additional features
Not uncommonly, pocket knives are equipped with various additional tools. Some models come with tools such as a screwdriver, a corkscrew, a saw, and/or pliers. On the other hand, other versions are equipped with a seatbelt cutter and glass breaker, allowing you to free yourself in emergency situations.
Which functions should be available primarily depend on the intended use of the folding knife and your other equipment. For outdoor enthusiasts, however, a sturdy folding knife with only one blade may be more suitable in some cases. For everyday use, a model that includes commonly used tools is recommended.
Order high-quality pocket knives cheaply online
Are you looking for a pocket knife for everyday use, work, or your next outdoor adventure? In our knife shop, you will find the perfect folding knife for every purpose. Whether compact or sturdy, whether an affordable entry-level model or an exquisite collector's piece, whether a simple pocket knife or a multitool: At Meister Messer, you will definitely find the knife that best suits your preferences.
Our versatile range includes folding knives in various sizes, shapes, and designs from numerous well-known brands such as Böker, Cold Steel, Fällkniven, and CRKT. We offer both classic pocket knives with wooden handles and knives made of Damascus steel, as well as a variety of modern models.
Meister Messer not only scores with a wide range of pocket knives, but also with an excellent price-performance ratio and top service - So take a look at our product range today and discover our extensive selection.
