A pocketknife is a small folding knife designed to be carried safely in your pocket. The blade (or blades) fold into the handle when not in use, protecting both the knife and the person carrying it. When you need to use it, you pull the blade out from the handle until it locks into place.

Pocketknives have been useful tools for centuries. A farmer might use one to cut twine or trim a damaged plant. A camper might use one to whittle kindling for a fire or cut rope. Many pocketknives include additional tools folded into the handle: screwdrivers, can openers, scissors, or even tweezers. The Swiss Army knife, invented in Switzerland in the 1890s, became famous for packing many tools into one compact design.

People who carry pocketknives treat them as practical tools, not toys or weapons. A well-made pocketknife might last someone their entire life and even get passed down to their children. Carrying a useful tool wherever you go, ready for small tasks and unexpected challenges, explains why pocketknives have remained popular for generations.