Folding knives are perfect for any man or women. They are practical and can function as a tool and for security.  A folding knife can be easily stored in a pocket or backpack.  The blade folds perfectly into the handle of the knife for safety.  When using this invaluable tool you will find it practical to carry at all times no matter what you are doing.  A folding knife is good for inside functions such as opening boxes and cutting off tags and outdoors for cutting rope and fishing line.  This is the only type of knife that is practical for all people from laborers to politicians.

When it comes to choosing the right folding knife there are several characteristics that are important to note. Take some time to learn and research different brands and components available in a quality knife.  The more you know about exactly what you are looking for in a pocket knife the easier it will be to narrow down your choices.  Below are some key characteristics to consider before making a folding blade knife.

Blade Material

Steel: A steel knife blade is one of the sharpest blades available.  Steel is simple to sharpen and holds an edge well. The major disadvantage to a steel blade is the wear and tear; steel blades tend to rust, stain and corrode over time and use.

Laminate: Laminate folding knife blades are popular because they use a combination of metals layers together to create your blade.  The use of multiple metals layered together gives you the benefits of each type while alleviating the major pitfalls.

Titanium: Folding knife blades created out of titanium are the most expensive available.  Although they are expensive you will find that titanium is incredibly resilient, wears well and tends to give more than steel does.

Ceramic: If you are looking for a lightweight knife to carry in your purse or pocket one with a ceramic blade will be desirable.  Ceramic is highly fragile however can be easily maintained for years with proper care.

Forged vs. Stock Removal

Forged: A knife blade that is forged is made with one piece of metal.  It is shaped using a press or hammer while the metal is very hot.

Stock Removal: This method creates a knife blade by shaping the blade using grinding away the metal. Stock removal is a simpler method of making knife blades and therefore knives made from this method tend to be less expensive than forged knife blades.

Knife Handle Material

Wood: A wooden knife handle provides a stable grip that stays warm in the user’s hand.  The one disadvantage of wooden handles is that they tend to wear quickly when not properly maintained.

Plastic: Plastic handled knives tend to be slippery but offer the benefits of being easy to care for and inexpensive.

Rubber: If you are looking for highly durable knife that offers a cushion a rubber handle may be right for you.

Stainless Steel: For durability, reliability and low maintenance a stainless steel knife handle is your choice.  The one thing to be careful about though is when using the knife around heat.  A metal handle will conduct heat and become too handle if exposed to heat for a fair amount of time.

Opening/Locking/Closing Mechanisms

The mechanics of the knife are one of the most important points involved in folding knives. You must determine how easy or difficult you want the knife to be to open and close.  Do you want the knife to lock in place when open or be held in place by a spring mechanism? When closing the knife do you want to press a button or slide the blade into position?  Carefully examine the different option mechanisms available for opening, locking and closing your folding knife blade.

KnifeMule.com is an online retailer specializing in a variety of specialty knives including folding knives made from a variety of materials.  More information on brand name knives, cutlery and specialty gear can be found by visiting https://www.knifemule.com/category.php?cat=Folding+Hunter+Pocket+Knives