Your Guide to Utility Knives and Box Cutters

There are a wide variety of utility knives, safety cutters, slice knives and other cutting products available. How do you know which cutting tool is right for your application? We’ll help you learn the difference between utility knives and  box cutters and pick the right tool for the job.

Utility knives are versatile and handy tools for the home, garage, shop, construction site, warehouse or packaging line. Also called razor blades or box cutters, these multipurpose knives have endless uses, from opening cartons to trimming carpets.

What Is a Utility Knife? A utility knife (box cutter) is a type of blade used to perform utilitarian work. While utility knives were originally small fixed-blade knives for everyday use, most people now think of a utility knife as a small knife with a retractable or foldable blade. Modern utility knives typically use disposable razor blades that can be easily replaced when they get dull. This type of knife is sometimes called a Stanley knife after the company that invented the iconic grey steel retractable-blade model. Utility knives come in a wide variety of forms for different uses.

What Are Utility Knives Used For? Utility knives are valued for their sharp blades and ergonomics, which allow users to make straight, precise cuts. They have many different applications, including:

-Box cutting/carton opening.

-Trim work (plastics, wood, carpets, rubber, etc.).

-Marking cut lines.

-Drywall cutting.

-Cutting tape or cords.

-Film cutting.

What Are the Different Types of Utility Knife? Utility knives come in many different forms and with different blade sizes and handle styles. Some models include:

Folding utility knives (pocketknives): These knives have a sturdy folding, non-replaceable blade, which may be straight or serrated. They can be used for a variety of cutting tasks. Since the blade is not replaceable, you’ll need to take good care of it, which may include regular sharpening. These knives are not as safe as retractable razor knives for making long cuts or opening cartons. However, a sturdy serrated blade is a better choice for cutting thicker, denser materials like wood or drywall.

Folding replaceable-blade utility knives: These folding pocketknives use a replaceable razor blade instead of a fixed blade. They usually have a sturdy hinged handle and a quick-change mechanism for the blade.

Retractable safety razor knives: The iconic utility knife, these models have a replaceable razor blade that retracts into the knife handle when not in use. A locking mechanism will usually allow you to control how much of the blade is visible, from the entire blade to just the tip. A retractable utility knife is safer to use because it gives you more control, and the blade can be retracted when not in use. In addition, it’s easy to change the blade, so the knife edge and tip are always sharp, and a sharper knife is a safer knife. These knives are a good choice for making long, straight cut lines, trimming thinner materials, and opening cartons. They are available in a variety of models, from economical plastic to sturdy metal versions that will last a lifetime. Some models allow replacement blades to be stored inside for added convenience.

Snap-off blade utility knives: These knives are like razor knives, but instead of using standard razor blades, they use a strip of connected snap-off blades. When the knife goes dull, the end blade can be easily snapped off and disposed of, revealing a fresh, sharp blade tip. Like standard razor knives, the blade retracts into the handle for safety when not in use. These knives can be used for many of the same kinds of tasks that standard razor knives are used for. They may not be as sturdy as a standard razor model, so they are generally used for lighter-duty tasks. However, they are highly economical, and the snap-off blades are very easy and convenient to use. Strips may have 8-10 snap-off blades, so you always have a fresh one ready when you need it.

Disposable utility knives: Some utility knives do not have replaceable blades. Instead, the blade is embedded in a plastic handle, and the whole thing is tossed when it becomes dull. These knives come in different styles, including hooked film cutters and T-style cutters (with two blades). The cutters usually have small, recessed blades and a thin plastic grip. They are best used as film cutters or tape slicers; they are not the best choice for heavier-duty applications. A hooked film cutter is best for cutting stretch wrap and films over products because the back side of the plastic housing protects the product underneath the film.

Economy cutters: This is the simplest version of a utility knife. These cutters just consist of a metal sleeve that holds a razor blade, which can be extended and retracted using a simple slide mechanism. They are highly economical (under a buck each), and the slim design means they will fit easily into a pocket (with the blade retracted, of course!) or toolbox.