The knife has been one of the most indispensable items since ancient times. Easy to use device allows you to solve many everyday tasks. With its help, people survived for many years. Over time, the design has undergone significant changes: the size, weight, shape and appearance of the device have changed. Initially, the selected piece of stone was sharpened. Later, bone was used as the main material, a little later - metal. Many hunters and warriors endowed weapons with magical properties that accompanied men throughout their lives.
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Turning to archaeological documents, we can conclude that the first folding knife appeared on the territory of modern Australia in 559 BC. e. Similar items have also been found in Spain. Presumably they were made by Iberian specialists. The found Roman knife, which was of great importance in the Roman Empire, dates back to the same year. It was forbidden to carry it freely, however, knives were used not only as a military weapon, but also as an everyday assistant (cut off, measure, repair, and as cutlery).
At the end of the 17th century, the demand for such designs increased significantly, since most of the inhabitants of Europe preferred to carry them with them as expensive accessories. Particular attention should be paid to the two guilds of experienced craftsmen who were the first to put the production of folding knives into production. Enterprises exist to this day, and are incredibly popular among collectors and connoisseurs. We are talking about a concern located in Solengen (Germany) and Sheffield (UK).
If you plan to give a folding knife to a dear person, then it is recommended to pay attention to the works of French specialists who offer handmade knives.
In the same period, not only the number of produced accessories increases, but significant changes in their structural elements are observed. Folders are equipped with innovative locks and folding mechanisms. Now the product differs not only in appearance, but also in rings, clamps, springs and so on.The best manufacturers began to surprise their admirers with such devices:
What are the types | Description |
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Gear lock (ratchet) | The locking method is similar to the Navajo. |
Liner - lock | It has been popular from its inception to the present day. A springy plate acts as a locking device. |
backlock | The folding of the knife is carried out by means of a spring-loaded lever - a rocker arm. Distinctive feature: the back of the handle is elongated and protrudes slightly in order to make a cutout for installing and using the lever. |
The 19th century was marked by the widespread use of Swiss knives. Initially, their main purpose was to help the military open canned food, put the rifle in order. Since then, accessories have been equipped with additional elements necessary for survival in field conditions. They were used as a screwdriver, opener and so on.
Since the Second World War, folding devices have been mass-produced in the United States and Japan. The developers began to introduce a variety of tactical requirements, which affected the appearance of the product and its functionality. Collectors are increasingly interested in popular high-tech models.
If earlier folding knives were produced to meet the needs of a certain category of people (soldiers, hunters, fishermen), then already at the end of the 20th century they became an indispensable assistant in the everyday life of an ordinary person. Manufacturers began to use special grade steel for the manufacture.
According to buyers, the main characteristics of the product are versatility and small size. It is with these requirements in mind that it is worthwhile to select the purchased products.If you didn’t make tourist options before, then you had to take with you on a hike, in addition to a knife, an hatchet, a corkscrew, an awl, a saw, needles, threads, and so on. Today, one folder is enough to fully solve the tasks set for itself.
Little helpers come with the following features:
If you study the rating of quality goods, review the products offered by specialized outlets, you can get lost in the diversity. The question of which item is better to buy will become so complicated that you will have to seek advice from specialists. In order to avoid making a mistake when choosing, professionals recommend strictly following the generally accepted selection criteria.
Which company is better depends on the personal preferences of users. But the TOP includes products from the world's leading manufacturers. There are 5 recommendations from connoisseurs. Buying a thing from a famous brand, you are guaranteed:
What is the difference between branded products and inexpensive goods brought from China? There are several nuances:
Where to buy a folding knife? If you decide to purchase a folder, it is better to do this at specialized outlets. There, a qualified manager will help you choose the right option, show how it functions. You can experience it yourself without leaving the counter. You can order your favorite model online in the online store, having previously studied user reviews. One option is to buy a knife on Aliexpress.
Miniature product with creative execution. Visually resembles a pen. Can be attached to a shirt or trouser pocket. For these purposes, a side clip is adapted. An ideal option for avid mushroom pickers and those who like to fry shish kebabs in a forest clearing. It weighs only 40 g. The blade is made of 9 Cr 18 Mov stainless steel, which has high strength. But it will not withstand a significant load. The initial sharpening lasts a long time. Rez deserves respect. Chrome-plated steel is used in the manufacture of the handle, which makes it resistant to corrosion. Blade thickness - 1.5 mm, which allows you to accurately cut bread, tape, paper, sausage or cheese. When folded, the product has a length of 11 cm.
The average price is 200 rubles.
Belongs to the budget type. The main purpose is for everyday household needs. Available in two versions: L and S. The cutting element is 9 and 6.7 cm long, respectively. Pocket version with a metal handle. The blade is made of stainless steel 3 Cr 13, produced in the territory of the Celestial Empire. It is easy and simple to sharpen, but does not differ in strength. Steel hardness - 57 HRC, sharpness index - average. The handle is comfortable, equipped with an emphasis and anti-slip coating. On the side there is a clip that allows you to attach the product to your pocket. In the process of opening the blade springs slightly.
You can buy products at a price of 450 rubles.
Full metal construction with an attractive design. Sold in black and white. Made from cheap Chinese steel. Strength is below average, sharpening practically does not hold. Hardness is average. However, the product is easy to use. Practically useless for survival in extreme conditions, but will be an excellent assistant for fishermen and mushroom pickers. Feels comfortable in the palm of your hand, lightness allows you to carry it with you all the time. The blade is sharp.
The purchase price is 200 rubles.
Belongs to the category of decorative accessories. The two-piece handle, when opened, resembles the flapping of a moth's wings. Used for self-defense purposes, an indispensable item in the fast spin class. Sharpening is not provided, so you can not worry about its safety. The manufacturer has launched the production of more than two dozen models with a variety of designs. More suitable for training professionals than amateurs, as the opening system is quite tight. Weighty model - 145 g. The total length of the product - 220 mm, including the blade (95 mm). The kit includes a wrench for tightening the screws, the screws themselves and a case.
How much does the item cost? You can buy it at a price of 450 rubles.
Something between a Swiss product and a balisong. There are built-in elements of pliers. The handle consists of two parts. Inside are a Phillips screwdriver, a standard item, pliers, a fish scale construct, a scraper, a nail file, a can opener, and a compact can opener. The product comes in a handy nylon bag. You can purchase a smaller version of the model and use it as a keychain.
The average price is 350 rubles.
The perfect set for travelers. Replaces 30 tools. The handle contains:
Stainless steel is used in the manufacture of tools, which is distinguished by reliability and durability. It can save the life of a person in a difficult situation. Differs in compactness, is located in a trousers pocket. Nylon sheath included.
The average cost is 500 rubles.
An indispensable item for craftsmen.It will master the cut of plastic pipes and other household materials. The presence of a special platform on the blade for the thumb allows you to safely put pressure on it without fear of getting cut. Folds thanks to the latch, which is enough to loosen. The set is equipped with five interchangeable blades inside the plastic handle.
Implementers offer a design at a price of 700 rubles.
Good product with a comfortable blade width. An integral attribute of hunters, fishermen, tourists. The blade is 9.4 cm long, made of high quality steel alloy 7 Cr 18 Mov. Withstands significant loads, does not deform. Handle – 13.1 cm. The butt is equipped with a cullet. There is a sling cutter for quick cutting of the rope. Thanks to the bracket attached to the pocket.
The average cost is 950 rubles.
The model is distinguished by an elongated blade and the convenience of a handle, which is equipped with wooden inserts. The tip is thin and easy to use. A distinctive feature is an excellent latch, thanks to which the open blade is qualitatively fixed.Structural elements are firmly interconnected. The screws do not need to be constantly tightened. In the manufacture of the blade, steel of medium quality is used.
Specialized stores offer products at a price of 550 rubles.
Lightweight with aluminum handle. The blade is made of alloy steel, which is durable and hard. Despite the attractive appearance of the handle, users note not entirely acceptable convenience. Notches dig into the palm. The blade has a straight design, which causes a lot of inconvenience to fishermen. Its characteristics are more suitable for military use.
The price of the goods is 750 rubles.
Belongs to the category of the best tactical products. They are used not only by hunters and tourists. Designs are supplied to the armed forces of all countries of the world, they are considered an integral attribute of the special services. They are distinguished by ergonomics and well-thought-out functionality. Nothing extra. Appearance - strict, closer to the harsh and brutal. A blade with a blackened surface, a lot of necessary parts are conveniently located in the body. The folding mechanism allows you to open the product with one hand. The blade is made of high quality alloy steel. Sharpening won't take long.It all depends on the intensity of use.
The average cost is 350 rubles.
Small size folding design with wide blade. The handle has wooden lining. Small parameters allow you to carry it in your pocket or bag. Can be used as a keychain. Wooden grips with a ribbed surface provide a good grip. The presence of a durable titanium coating will provide the user with the opportunity not only to open canned food in nature, but also to cut building materials in the process of repair work. There are no complaints about the fixer, it qualitatively performs the tasks assigned to it. The back of the handle can be used as a cullet.
The purchase price is 1106 rubles.
A well-known brand product at an affordable price. The blade is made of steel N 690, the handle is made of durable plastic G10. Product features are excellent. It belongs to the category of tourist devices, although it has tactical qualities. The design is as thoughtful as possible, user reviews are only positive. Not afraid of significant loads and solid objects.
The average cost is 2860 rubles.
Today there is no shortage of folding knives. You can buy goods for every taste, taking into account individual requests. Goods from Europe are considered the highest quality, but their price sometimes “bites” a lot. Although on sale you can find options at an affordable cost. It all depends on the grade of steel used for the blade, the material for the manufacture of the handle and the set of functions.
You can also purchase goods made in the territory of the Middle Kingdom. But you should be prepared for certain shortcomings, such as poor sharpening, fragility, poor quality of the latch, and so on. But such products cost mere trifles. At least you can go looking for mushrooms with such a knife, but it is unlikely to help protect yourself from an attacking beast.