A switchblade is a pocketknife with a sliding or pivoting blade contained in the handle which is extended automatically by a spring when a button, lever, or switch on the handle or bolster is activated. Virtually all switchblades incorporate a locking blade, where the blade is locked against accidental closure when the blade is in the open position. It is unlocked by a mechanism that allows the blade to be folded and locked in the closed position.
A side opening (left) and out the front (OTF) knife
Benchmade 4300 CLA Composite Lite Auto. Auto knife push button operation with side mounted safety, reversible clip. Length 7.85 in (19.9 cm) Blade length 3.4 in (8.6 cm). Blade Material CM154.
Pocket knife made by Flylock Knife Company of Bridgeport, Connecticut with two spring-loaded, button activated blades. Scales are made of horn. Measures 3 3/8" (86mm) closed. These were manufactured from 1918 to 1929.
Italian stiletto
A pocketknife is a knife with one or more blades that fold into the handle. They are also known as jackknives (jack-knife), folding knives, EDC knife, or may be referred to as a penknife, though a penknife may also be a specific kind of pocketknife. A typical blade length is 5 to 15 centimetres.
A collection of pocketknives
A Swiss Army knife made by Victorinox
A typical pruning knife, made by Opinel
Roman pocketknife: original with a modern reconstruction beside it
