How to Open Pocket Knives

Lockback Knives

• 1

  Turn the knife so that you can see the blade folded into the handle.

• 2

  Pull the blade out with your thumb and index finger just enough so that you can fit the tip of your thumb under the "thumb stud," the small protrusion near the blade's pivot point.

• 3

  Push the thumb stud away from the handle until you hear an audible click. The blade is now locked in the open position.

Slip Joint Knives

• 4

  Turn the knife until you can see the blade folded up into the handle.

• 5

  Find the "nail nick," a small indentation on the part of the blade that sticks out from the knife handle.

• 6

  Insert your thumbnail into the nail nick and pull the blade away from the handle.

• 7

  Pull the blade out just far enough so you can grip the non-sharp side of the blade with your thumb and index finger.

• 8

  Pull the blade away from the handle using your thumb and index fingers until it is fully extended. You should feel it settle into place when it is fully extended.