All You Need to Know About Pocket Knives For Everyday Survival

A good pocket knife is all you need to be prepared for everything, from basic tasks to self-defense. It's one of the most versatile and useful items to have in your arsenal. This is the survival tool that should never leave your side. Check out the post below to learn why cool pocket knives are tools that no man should be without.

The Essential Guide to Using Pocket Knives for Everyday Survival

Origin Of Pocket Knives

With roots in the Iron Age, the pocket knife has been a much-needed tool since the dawn of mankind. Some of the earliest archaeological evidence of pocket knives have been found in modern-day Austria, belonging to the Hallstatt culture that dates back to 600 – 500 B.C.E.  Pre-Roman pocket knives have even been uncovered throughout modern-day Spain. Farmers used these pocket knives primarily to make their living from the land. Used as an everyday tool as opposed to self-defense, the pocket knife has remained unchanged for centuries.

Around 1650, some of the first mainstream pocket knives became widely sold throughout Sheffield, England to farmers, herdsman and even gardeners as a primary tool labeled ‘the farmer knife.’ This pocket knife consisted of a pivot so that the blade may be folded into a grooved handle. By 1700 the first mass production of pocket knives began, supplying craftsman and laborers around.

Common Uses for Pocket Knives

The most common uses for pocket knives are as a daily tool. From hunting and fishing, to everyday chores, the pocket knife is one of the most common tools amongst handymen. Over the centuries the blade has been redesigned to provide maximum versatility and durability. The handle also leveled up to suit a variety of demands–for example, the Swiss Army Knife, one of the most common pocket knives. It consists of corkscrews, files, a second sharpened blade, bottle opener, and even a Philips or a flathead tip.

Some pocket knife designs are more of a self-defense tool than a daily tool. These self-defense tactical pocket knives consist of a larger handle and a larger blade. However, they still fit comfortably in the pocket. Some of these larger self-defense pocket knives also have a belt or pocket clip. This allows for quicker deployment if needed in an emergency situation. Some self-defense pocket knives have a different blade design for puncturing flesh. The exit also has a jagged reverse edge, to inflict as much damage as possible.

Reasons to Carry a Pocket Knife

The pocket knife has evolved as a tool useful for more than just everyday tasks. There are so many different styles of pocket knives available. It is important to comprehend what uses a pocket knife would serve for you. For example, many daily responsibilities are achievable by carrying a simple Swiss Army Knife. Also, basic pocket knives, or smaller pocket knives, may come in handy for use in everyday life. Larger pocket knives are a great accessory to an individual’s EDC when out venturing or traveling in areas unknown and unfamiliar.

Read more about the Hoffman Richter knife featured above! It's one of the Survival Life team's favorite pocket knives.

Choosing Your Pocket Knife

When choosing a pocket knife it truly does come down to preference. Whether you are looking for a simple knife to complete daily tasks or perhaps looking for something that does a little more, you need to choose accordingly. Do you intend on carrying the blade for self-defense purposes? Remember these concerns when choosing the style of pocket knife that suits all of your needs.

The Swiss Army Knife is the best style pocket knife for everyday tasks. If choosing a pocket knife with a blade capable of cutting through flesh for hunting, fishing and survival purposes, then pocket knives by Benchmade, SOG and Blade-Tech Industries are the best to choose from. If you need a larger pocket knife with a blade capable of self-defense against attackers, then pocket knives made by Blade-Tech Industries and SOG will be the most capable of providing an excellent tool for EDC. Look for well-constructed handles and blades made from a high-grade steel.

Watch this video by Blade HQ about the importance of a pocket knife:

The importance of pocket knives goes back to the earliest civilizations. Even with today's sophisticated tools, it's obvious that the average man should have at least a few quality knives of his choice. It's been used for simple daily tasks to defending oneself against impending danger. Even today, your EDC kit isn't complete without a good pocket knife or a multi-tool with a built-in blade.

Are you a fan of knives? What specific pocket knife is your favorite? Tell us about it in the comments section below!

Up Next: 13 Eye-Catching Folding Hunting Knives

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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in November 2016 and has been updated for quality and relevancy.