The handle is the part of the pocket knife that the user holds, and within which the blade is housed when retracted. The handle on a pocket knife will always be hollow, in order to enclose the blade when retracted.
Several types of handle are available, in a range of materials. For more information on the different types of pocket knife handle, see: What are the different types of pocket knife handle?
Pocket knife slider
The slider is the mechanism which is used to open the blade. This will usually take the form of a ridged pad which the user pushes upward with the thumb to extend the blade. When the slider is pushed towards the cutting end of the knife, the blade is pushed forward until fully extended.
Pocket knife blade
The blade is part of the pocket knife which is used to cut. Only the blade’s cutting edge (bottom edge) and tip are sharp enough to cut, while the spine (top edge) is ground to a smooth but blunt edge.
Pocket knife quick release mechanism
The quick release mechanism usually comprises a button or slider which can be pressed to immediately release the blade or open the blade compartment, enabling quick blade replacement.
On some models, engaging the quick release mechanism opens the handle entirely, exposing the blade housing within.
On others, it simply releases the blade from its housing, enabling the user to slide it out of the front of the knife. A replacement blade can then be inserted.
