The new DeWalt utility knives and folding knives are aiming to be a cut above the rest. The latest models in the line include retractable, folding retractable, carbon fiber pocket, and heavy-duty pocket knives with features meant to increase strength and durability.
Our General Take on DeWalt Utility Knives
When we got to use these at the DeWalt Experience back in June when the FlexVolt line was announced, a couple of things stood out to me. Both new DeWalt utility knives have an angled design that fits pretty in well your hand. While I like the convenience of a folding utility knife to store in my pocket or toolbox, I actually prefer the fit and feel of the premium non-folding model better. With the carabiner clip integrated on it, I can clip it to my belt loop and not have to think about it. I also get an additional pair of blades in storage with it.
That’s not to say that the folder isn’t a solid design – it is. The price difference is about $5 between the two. Since they’re both solidly built, it’s really more about style preference when it comes to your individual needs. Unless of course your utility knives tend to walk off frequently. $5 will start adding up quickly at that point.
Both DeWalt utility knives have been designed to increase the slider strength along with a new blade change mechanism and a bi-material grip.
DeWalt Folding Knives
The new DeWalt Folding Knives both use 8Cr13MoV steel for their blades. This is a favorite of CRKT in popular folders like the Outrage and is a good mid-grade steel – definitely a step up from 440HC. Both knives also go for a partially serrated blade. This is something that most users on the jobsite will appreciate for the variety of materials it will cut. Blade styles are slightly different (clip point and modified drop point) with the emphasis clearly weighted toward a piercing tip.
Like the aforementioned DeWalt Utility Knives, there are features to like on both folding knives. With the Carbon Fiber Knife, it’s all about the handle. Carbon fiber gives it an attractive modern look while reducing the weight.
The Premium Folding Pocket Knife gets a more traditional DeWalt paint job and G10 overlaying the aluminum handle. This model gets some additional function with the 12- and 14-gauge wire strippers integrated into the handle. Both are priced reasonable well considering the materials used.
Kenny holds a B.S. in Biology and a minor in chemistry. While that might not sound like a direct line into the power tool industry, his analytical and scientific mindset helps him design repeatable testing methods for Pro Tool Reviews’ head-to-head testing and offers highly objective comparisons in his reviews.
