How about a utility knife challenge?

[Farmer X]

Earlier today, I cut up some nasty ol' carpet. That's a job I consider best suited for a utility knife. It got me to thinking: there hasn't been a utility knife challenge insofar as I'm aware. Such a challenge could be interesting and a lot of fun.

Of course, the usual challenge rules would apply. The unique rule is that participants' primary cutting tool would be a utility knife or multi-tool with a replaceable blade. Of course, trapezoidal utility knife blades and razor blades would be acceptable. Multis that use X-Acto type blades would also be acceptable. For other types, we'd have to see.

This is just a gauging interest thread. If there's enough interest, I'll figure out what month works well for everyone and get an official challenge thread fired up.

What say ye?

[Alan K.]

Good idea. It sounds interesting.

[AzteCypher]

Alright... twist my arm why don't you.    Depending when it would be, I'd be up for it.



Depending when it would be, I'd be up for it.

[powernoodle]

I EDC a utility knife, which gets more use than any of my other EDC items except a smart phone.  It is mostly used for killing Amazon boxes, which are my lifeline of consumerism.  I have long thought of starting a utility knife/box cutter Challenge.  So subject to details, I might be interested.  I also use a full size box cutter at least a few times a day.

 


Screwpop utility knife, top right, with Dewalt carbide blade.

Amazon link:  https://tinyurl.com/3s4h27wx

[Farmer X]

There is interest!

I am booked for September, October, and November. Any other month would be good for me. How about y'awl?

[AzteCypher]

I'm busy in July and Sept but free otherwise.

[nate j]

Would something like this count?

https://www.outdooredge.com/products/razor-lite-edc?variant=16399679491

I’m not sure the little 1” (or whatever they are) jobbies would cut it for me.

[powernoodle]

I’m not sure the little 1” (or whatever they are) jobbies would cut it for me.

I carry a utility knife for boxes and clam shell packages, and a "real" folder for everything else.  So you are right that they have limited utility.  But within their job description - slicing cardboard, clam shells, carpet, etc., there is nothing better.  And its easy to turn the blade around for a fresh edge, or just replace it.  A carbide blade will last a long time.

My thesis - of course - is to carry both.  As with most Challenges, if the tool can't cut it [<<pun], you can use a different one.

[Farmer X]

I’m not sure the little 1” (or whatever they are) jobbies would cut it for me.

My thesis - of course - is to carry both.  As with most Challenges, if the tool can't cut it [<<pun], you can use a different one.

Powernoodle is correct. The main idea behind this challenge is using a small blade that can be replaced when it wears out or breaks and--dare I say it?--wouldn't give a warehouse manager or safety guy a coronary. The knife that Nate linked to is a little bigger and might cause that coronary. As a kid, I thought the Buck equivalent to the Otudoor Edge job (which I believe they called the Selector) was pretty cool.

As I stated in the original post, a utility or razor knife would be the primary cutting tool. Carrying a utility knife, paired with a bigger knife that also has exchangeable blades (used if the utility knife be unable to hack it), is a great idea.