Pocket Knife Safety: How to Open, Close and Store Your Knife Safely?

People who take pleasure in outdoor activities and their hobbies, and people who need tools to complete their daily work, should learn about the dangers which come from carrying a pocket knife. The tools which people can use for various purposes serve multiple functions because they help users open packages, cut rope and prepare food for camping and complete different small tasks throughout the day. 

The proper techniques for handling items must be followed to stop people from getting hurt because of their use. This guide explains essential safety procedures, which include instructions for opening, closing and storing pocket knives. Following these basic yet essential procedures will allow you to keep your blade functioning as a dependable and safe instrument for your daily tasks.

Understanding the Pocket Knife

A pocket knife is a folding blade that fits comfortably in your pocket, ready for everyday tasks. Variations include simple slip-joints, locking mechanisms, and specialised blades like Damascus steel pocket knives that combine beauty with functionality.

In the UK and many countries, legal rules affect what type of pocket knives for sale you can carry, especially regarding blade length and locking mechanisms. Always check local laws before purchasing or carrying a knife.

1. How to Open a Pocket Knife Safely

To open your folding pocket knife safely, you need to grasp the handle with your dominant hand while you keep your fingers away from the path of the knife's blade. Use the nail nick or thumb stud to slowly and smoothly open the blade with steady pressure. The correct way to open the knife requires you to avoid flicking it open while you maintain the knife's position away from your body and all people who are near you.

2. How to Close a Pocket Knife Safely

Closing your knife is just as important as opening it.

Step-by-Step Closing

• Keep Fingers Clear: Ensure no fingers are near the blade edge or hinge.
• Release the Lock (If Applicable): Many modern knives include a locking mechanism. Press the release gently with your thumb or index finger.
• Fold Slowly: Bring the blade back into the handle with controlled movement; never let it snap shut.

Practising this simple routine prevents accidental cuts and protects the blade mechanism from damage.

3. How to Store Your Pocket Knife Safely

Proper storage helps maintain blade durability while maintaining your best pocket knife UK for immediate use. You need to clean and dry your knife before storage because moisture and dirt will result in corrosion damage to carbon-rich or ornamental blades, which include Damascus steel pocket knives. 

You should use a sheath or protective case to protect your item from scratches and prevent unintentional cuts while you carry it in a bag or store it in a drawer. The primary requirement for knife storage is that you keep your knife in a safe area which children cannot access.

Top 3 Pocket Knives in UK You Must Buy in 2026

Here are three great knives that balance style, safety features, and everyday practicality.

1. Handmade Laguiole Pocket Knife — Classic & Elegant

The pocket knife serves as a functional tool which combines traditional design elements with contemporary operational capabilities. Users can operate the knife because its smooth opening mechanism enables dependable operation while its handle design delivers users comfortable control with a secure grip. The product delivers reliable performance in a compact size, which makes it suitable for daily use and multiple cutting applications.

2. Custom Damascus French Laguiole Knife with Leather Pouch

The Damascus steel pocket knives provide an elegant cutting solution which showcases their beautiful layered designs and their expertly crafted, smooth handles. Their unique design successfully fuses form and function from a performance perspective while being suitable as daily-wear pieces for the customer. The leather pouch included in the package enables you to store your knife securely while providing both traditional protection and stylish design.

3. Custom Made Damascus Folding Pocket Knife — Legal Carry

The folding pocket knife combines Damascus steel with a practical design that people can use for their daily activities. The strong blade offers excellent edge retention and reliability for daily tasks. The secure locking system holds the blade in position during use while providing a safe and smooth closing mechanism for post-use purposes.

Legal Pocket Knife Carry — What You Need to Know

People in the UK need to understand the legal regulations about knives, which govern their use. People are allowed to carry folding pocket knives without locking mechanisms when their blades stay below a specific length, and they use the knives legally. The regulations for locking knives establish more restrictive requirements. You should verify the most recent legal information before you take your pocket knife to public spaces.

Final Thoughts

Knives become safe operational tools when users apply correct handling techniques to them. People who handle blades correctly because they know how to open and close blades and store their knives can achieve two goals. The Perkin Knives offers two options to customers who want a trustworthy daily folding knife: the traditional Laguiole design and the modern Damascus steel pocket knife. Your Perkin knife will remain useful for multiple years when you handle it carefully and perform needed maintenance tasks.