How to Handle Your Swiss Army Knife™ Safely

Why Knife Safety Matters

A Swiss Army Knife™ is one of the most versatile tools you can carry—compact, reliable, and built to last. Whether you use it outdoors, at work, or for everyday tasks, safe handling is essential. If you know how to handle a pocket knife properly, you can avoid accidental injuries, extend the lifespan of the tool and help to keep your blade sharp for longer. This guide walks you through best practices, common mistakes to avoid, and step-by-step instructions for closing a pocket knife safely, one of the most important safety skills every owner should know.

Safe Opening

To open a Swiss Army Knife™ safely, start by locating the fingernail groove on the tool you want to use, which helps you lift it out with control. Only open or use one tool at a time, pulling it out slowly and steadily to avoid slips. Always keep your fingers clear of the blade’s path and ensure the tool clicks fully into position before use.

Cutting Direction

Always direct cutting motion outward because this reduces the risk of accidental injury. Ideally, cutting is done when sitting to ensure maximum stability. Always ensure that there is no one within arm's length of you as this helps to preserve a safe space around you.

Blunt Blades

Blunt or dull blades are much more dangerous than sharp blades because they require more force and increase the chance of slipping. Regular cleaning and oiling also keep the mechanism smooth. Our selection of sharpeners and our recommended oil can be found here.

How to Close a Pocket Knife Safely (Step-by-Step)

Closing the blade properly is one of the most important safety steps in handling a Swiss Army Knife™.

Here’s how to close a pocket knife without lockable blades:

1. Hold the Knife Securely Always use two hands to close a pocket knife. Grip the body of the knife firmly with your non-dominant hand, keeping fingers away from the slot where the blade folds.

2. Position Your Dominant Hand Carefully With your forefinger, begin pressing the back of the blade. Ensure no part of your hand is in the path of the closing blade.

3. Use Slow, Controlled Pressure Gently guide the blade downward. Do not flick or snap it shut.

4. Pause at the Halfway Point At about 45°, reposition your fingers if needed to ensure they remain completely clear of the slot.

5. Complete the Close Continue folding the blade into the handle until you hear or feel it seat firmly in place.

There are two ways to close a Swiss Army Knife™ with a lockable blade:

1. Liner Lock (most common on larger models like the Picknicker, Forester etc.)

This is the mechanism where the blade locks in place with a metal spring bar on the side. How to close it:

1. Look for the metal locking bar on the inside of the handle, usually on the right-hand side.

2. Push the bar to the side (typically to the left) using your thumb.

3. While holding the bar aside, gently begin folding the blade down.

4. Once halfway closed, finish folding the blade into the handle.

2. Side Lock (found on models like the Evoke collection)

This system uses a button on the handle. How to close it:

1. Locate the lock button — usually a bar on the handle but can also be a red Cross&Shield button.

2. Press the lock release down.

3. While holding the release, fold the blade closed with the other hand.

4. At about 45°, reposition your fingers to ensure they remain completely clear of the slot.