Saturday, March 19, 2011

The Joys Of Getting Pocket Utility Tools

By Douglass Jones


No doubt if you are going camping, one of your most essential items will be your knife. It has been a long time that man started using this essential tool. The original one was made of flint, shaped into an edge. Today, it has evolved from copper to bronze to iron or steel blades. The oldest known knife believed to be over 2.6 million years can be seen in the dry riverbed of the Afar Region of Ethiopia. Knives have developed into the device it is today since its first formation from volcanic rocks. Basically, knives were used for survival, in securing food and shelter. Knapping was a method they used in the old times in making sharp bladed devices. It is the shaping of the tool through the process of lithic reduction. A few of the oldest knives were made out of obsidian stone.

A knife functioned as a device for weaponry, consumption and hunting. During the 15th century, those who were not permitted to carry firearms, store their knives in a scabbard on their belts. They used their knives for eating. Knives were made into sets composed of three - one big knife for hunting, two small ones for peeling or cutting. These were stored in one scabbard. The use of knives as a hunting tool, diminished as they progressed more as an eating device besides the spoon and fork.

Knives were created out of wood, bone, stone, flint or shell up until 100 centuries have gone by. It was about that time that copper was discovered and became the main material used to make blades. In the past 5 millenniums, steel took the place of copper. Knives today have evolved into ceramic, carbon fiber or titanium as a result of advancing technology.

Knife collecting is a huge business with collectors seeking the rare, unusual or unique design. These knives are specially sorted according to their uses such as hunting, military, camping, multi-function, sports, fishing and pocket tools. Joining auctions are a great way for finding the unusual and bizarre knife pieces.

To keep your knives especially the folding ones, in great working condition, clean it regularly from debris. Drop some oil from time to time to create that smooth feeling when pulling the knife from its case and store it separately in leather sheaths to prevent rust from settling in. The old timers had a saying about a knife that clicked and closed smoothly, saying it "Walks and Talks well." Keep knives away from children. Store it properly. Do not use an electric grinder to sharpen the blade. Avoid putting the knife in your pockets with loose change because this might damage the knife's handle and bolsters.

A friend of mine collects knives. His collection contains every sort you can imagine. However, the one that tops it all is the knife he customized with turquoise and coral. He still uses his knives and he never forgets to bring one when he goes camping. However not all, the knife with the turquoise and coral pattern is "for your eyes only"!




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