Is there a knife like this?

[Rexlion]

I cut boxes open quite often during work. Not cutting the cardboard much, but slitting the tape that holds the box shut. I like the way the cheap box cutters work in that they deploy and retract easily with a push of the thumb. But they are too cheaply made; the plastic parts break long before the blades even get dull. I hardly ever get to where it's time to break off a section of blade to reach a sharper portion; the mechanism quits first. And I sometimes wish I had a better blade, not so flimsy.

So, what would you recommend? I want a knife that is really fast and easy to open and close one-handed, because after slitting a box I close the blade while folding the box flat, then immediately grab another box and open the blade again... I may do this over and over. A locking mechanism would just get in the way of this activity. And since I'm not working the knife hard, but I am getting the blade all messed up with tape residue, it doesn't make sense to me to buy a high-dollar or super durable knife. Something under $20, preferably under $10, would be nice.

Is there a knife to fit the bill, or are the (under-$1) box cutters the only sensible solution?

 

[Patriot]

The Superknife isn't a retracting blade but it is a one hand open and close. Most people love them and I even know a guy who skinned a whole buffalo with one. :ooo:

The price is right too.

 

[Morelite]

How about the Stanley mini utility knife? They are about 3" long and made with all metal parts. I have been using the same one for 20+ years.

 

[Tekno_Cowboy]

Stanley Quickslide - Used it for a while at my former job, until I wanted something a little more compact. Very quick open and close. If I knew where the darn thing was I'd send it to you.

CRKT Peck

 

[TorchBoy]

+1 on a Stanley knife (or some sort). Instead of a snap-off blade they have a retractable double ended blade which you just turn around when you need to.

 

[TooManyGizmos]

.
Someone needs to make one with a 1/4" blade that is Spring loaded .
So you push forward on a button to extend the blade under light spring tension while you're using it ..... but when you release the button the internal spring retracts the blade to hidden position.

That would be the ideal - safe box opening tool .

.

 

[carrot]

.
Someone needs to make one with a 1/4" blade that is Spring loaded .
So you push forward on a button to extend the blade under light spring tension while you're using it ..... but when you release the button the internal spring retracts the blade to hidden position.

That would be the ideal - safe box opening tool .

.

One of these exists, I forget, but they are like, "extra safe" boxcutters.

 

[TooManyGizmos]

.
Sure wish I knew where to get one , carrot.

.

 

[carrot]

One of these exists, I forget, but they are like, "extra safe" boxcutters.

Here's one: http://www.martorusa.com/Information/Spring-Loaded-Knives

Me, I'm going to recommend the HAK Utility, which runs $69 but meets your needs perfectly. http://www.hideawayknife.com/utilityhak.php

And #4 here illustrates why: http://www.hideawayknife.com/concept.php

 

[TooManyGizmos]

`
Thanx carrot , your 1st link is the best. I'm ordering one .

I'm only fighting box's .........not people , so I don't need a hideaway.

Thx for the link
.

 

[Rexlion]

Wow, I like that spring-loaded retraction, carrot! Some nice ideas from all of you, but so far the Martor blades appeal to me the most by a good margin. Push with thumb on the side, like I'm used to, but in a safer, more durable package. The spring retract is not just safer, it promises to be more convenient. Thanks for that link! :thumbsup: