Knife Safety 101 - Tips for new collectors and enthusiasts.

So, you just picked up your first EDC knife (or maybe a few… it happens fast). Welcome to the club. Owning a knife (or many) is awesome, it’s practical, and, let’s be honest, a little addictive. But before you start slicing open every Amazon box in sight, let’s talk safety.

1. Treat Every Knife Like It’s Sharp (Because It Is)

Even a “dull” blade can cut you quicker than you’d expect. Don’t test sharpness with your finger (seriously, don’t). Just assume the edge is ready to bite and handle it with respect.

2. Learn Your Lock

Frame lock, liner lock, button lock... whatever your knife uses, take a minute to actually learn how it works. Open it slow, close it slow, and don’t let your fingers hang out in the blade’s path. Fast and flashy is cool, but safe and smooth is cooler.

3. Cut Away, Not Toward

Classic rule. Always cut away from your body and never toward your hand, leg, or torso. Position your work so the blade has a safe path if it slips.

4. Keep It Clean, Keep It Sharp

Dust, pocket lint, or sticky food gunk can make a knife sketchy to use. Wipe it down, drop a little oil in the pivot, and keep that edge sharp. Pro tip: a sharp knife is actually safer than a dull one.

5. Store It Smart

Tossing your knife loose in a drawer or pocket? Not a great idea (unless you are carrying a slip joint). Use a sheath, pouch, or pocket clip. If you’re building a collection, grab a knife roll, pelican case, or display case. It keeps your knives safe, and makes you look way more organized than you probably are.

If you have little kids at home, store in a way they won't be able to get to them. You know your kids and whether or not they know knife safety... act accordingly. 

6. Don’t Freak People Out

Flipping a knife open in the middle of Starbucks? Yeah… don’t. Be aware of where you are and who’s around. The EDC community knows knives are tools, but sadly not everyone else does. Save the fidget flipping for your home, or campsite.

7. Know the Rules

Knife laws are weird. What’s legal in one city might get you in trouble in another. Stay up to date on your local laws so you can carry confidently. Before traveling, remember to check the laws of the states or cities you will visit.  

Collecting and carrying knives is one of the best hobbies out there. Just remember: safety first, always. Respect the blade, and it’ll serve you for years (instead of sending you for stitches) :) 

See you around!