Utility knife question

[turbov21]

I bought a neat, Craftsman folding utility knife yesterday.  It came with a plastic cover that fits over the blade like a sheath.  Is it customary to leave that on, to prevent wear and tear to the blade, or should I go on toss that out?

(Apologies if utility knives don't count as proper folders.)

[Zack]

Its there so you don't cut yourself taking it out of the package.  I toss mine out, the folding mechanism protects the blade in the pocket.

[turbov21]

Thanks!

[Chako]

I tend to keep them for some unknown reason in a pile with the knives.

[Mr. Whippy]

I keep the one on my Husky utility knife, mostly as a safety device.

[yud]

this is OT but what is the reasoning behind the folding utility knife? 

[Sazabi]

this is OT but what is the reasoning behind the folding utility knife? 

You mean utility knives in general?  They're inexpensive knives with replaceable blades so they can be used on harsh materials, including cardboard for extended stretches of time and other blade-ruining materials; plus, they have very minimal upkeep.  They're the blade you can use as a true beater that you'd not use your real knives for certain cutting jobs. 

[yud]

no what I mean is why are there folding utility knives, just from the stand point of why dose some one need a OH locking utility knife, I just don't see that it adds that much to the utility knife

[Mr. Whippy]

no what I mean is why are there folding utility knives, just from the stand point of why dose some one need a OH locking utility knife, I just don't see that it adds that much to the utility knife

Well, for me, if I'm cutting sheet rock, the dust jams up the sliding out style of utility knife.  The folding style is much more robust.

[turbov21]

this is OT but what is the reasoning behind the folding utility knife? 

You know, I've got one of each, and while I haven't done much with the folder yet, I can't see the big difference.  I will say, so far, the folding knife scares me a bit more than the slider.  On the other hand, it seems like the folder might be easier to change the blade.

[Chako]

The reason for the folder? EDC. Small compact form facter that is very easy to carry around.

[yud]

no what I mean is why are there folding utility knives, just from the stand point of why dose some one need a OH locking utility knife, I just don't see that it adds that much to the utility knife

Well, for me, if I'm cutting sheet rock, the dust jams up the sliding out style of utility knife.  The folding style is much more robust.

Ok I was just wondering

[DaveK]

I have a blade very similar to that - it was a gift from phil gas at last year's meet in the UK. It's a very handy thing indeed.

no what I mean is why are there folding utility knives, just from the stand point of why dose some one need a OH locking utility knife, I just don't see that it adds that much to the utility knife

For me, it's useful to be able to fold it and pocket clip it out of harm's way and easy to find when you need it. I seem to use this mostly whilst up a step ladder or on my hands and knees! This format just make sit a bit more convenient really

[hawkchucker]

I find them just plain convienient. Fast to cut up boxes, and I also stash them everywhere. Espescially the new ones that store 5 blades on them. Great little blades to keep with ya!