Dos and Donts When Handling Hand Knives

For more than 135 years, Hyde Industrial Blade Solutions has been manufacturing quality hand knives. A characteristic of our quality hand knives is the ability to hold an edge. In other words, our knives stay sharp for a long time.

Sharp hand knives are great for cutting cardboard, leather, paper, rubber, and other materials but if they’re used improperly, they can be dangerous. That’s why hand knife safety is very important.

Do Keep Your Hand Knives Clean

Keeping your hand knives free of debris will allow for precise and faster cuts. Debris on hand knives may impede the path of the blade, causing it to slip.

Don’t Hold the Knife in Your Hand While Cleaning It

Your natural inclination is to wipe off the blade of the knife while you’re holding it. Doing so can be dangerous. Instead, set the knife on a hard, flat surface and then carefully wipe the blade clean.

Do Cut Away from Your Body

All your cutting action should be away from your body.  If you’re cutting towards your body, and the blade slips, you might be at risk for a serious injury.

Don’t Use Damaged Hand Knives

If the blade of a hand knife is damaged, for example it has a chip or crack, do not use it. The same is true if the handle is marred. You should only use hand knives that are in excellent condition.

Do Keep Knives in Sheathes When Not in Use

When not using your hand knife, keep it in its sheath. Doing so will help prevent accidents. If you wear a sheath on your belt, you should be able to bend, kneel, and sit without it interfering with your movements.

Don’t Use Dull Knives

To cut with a dull hand knife, you’ll have to apply extra force. This extra force can be dangerous if the knife slips.

Do Use Safety Guards

Use knives with safety guards. They can be attached or built into the handle.

Don’t Catch a Falling Knife

If a knife rolls off a work table, or slips from your hands, don’t try to catch it as it falls. Allow the knife to hit the floor (or ground) and once it stops moving, pick it up.

If your plant, factory, or workshop needs quality hand knives, contact Hyde Industrial Blade Solutions. If we don’t already make your hand knife chances are extremely good we can make it for you.