No question, pocket knives are one of the most versatile tools out there, not only for camping but also for everyday tasks. So, if you are planning to purchase one of these actually useful tools, here are three tips that can assist you to select the correct one for you.
1. Be sure to check your local laws, particularly if you are planning to purchase one on the web. For most of us pocket knives are only useful tools, but they could be used as weapons too. So, nowadays they face a number of legal restrictions. The length of the blade is likely to be regulated in some states, turning illegal to carry around pocket knives with a blade larger than a certain size. The same could happen with certain types of pocket knives, you should have special care with switchblades due to the fact they are the most likely to be banned. Besides you will find certain places, like schools, courthouses or airplanes where pocket knives are directly not allowed.
2. Do you want a knife or a multi tool? If I am carrying a pocket knife I will prefer that it contains other useful tools as well, like scissors, can opener, screwdriver or saw. Of course this is a personal choice. Being a practical guy, for me, merely don't make sense to deprive my pocket knife (and me) of all these handyman applications. But other folks only like to have a knife, no a lot more. There is a certain romantic flavor attached to carrying a knife that a multi tool doesn't have, and that's ok too.
3. Quality is other crucial matter to contemplate. A good pocket knife maintained with care really should last several years. So, in the long run a high quality pocket knife will probably be cheaper due to the fact you won't have to purchase a new one each couple of years. Check the steel of the blade, it should be a stainless steel that holds its edge and at the same time sharpens with a reasonably ease. Besides, be sure that the joint mechanisms are great and also the lock secures the blade safely in place.
All in all, the choice of a pocket knife is a personal matter and depends of several subjective things. Nonetheless, I hope that these tips can assist you to discover the correct pocket knife for you.