Signs That Your Utility Knife’s Blade Needs To Be Replaced

Signs That Your Utility Knife’s Blade Needs To Be Replaced

Utility knives that have replaceable blades are extremely convenient as they are normally more heavy duty than the disposable ones, and a pack of blades is more affordable than an entirely new utility knife. To save even more money, you might use your replacement blades sparingly.

Depending on how much use your utility knife gets, you may not need to replace it very often. However, even knives that aren’t used often can get wear and tear, especially if left outside or bounced around in the back of a truck. At Safecutters, our priority is your safety so in today’s blog, we want to give you some signs to watch for to know when your utility knife blade needs to be replaced.

The Knife Is Not Cutting Like It Used To

One of the first signs that your utility knife’s blade needs to be replaced is somewhat common sense. If the utility blade doesn’t cut like it did when you first got it, the first thing to check is the blade. Keeping your blade sharp not only helps to make the project you’re working on easier, but it can also help you to avoid getting hurt while using the utility knife.

When your utility knife blade is dull and not cutting properly, you will start to put more manpower behind the knife. This allows for more accidents to happen, especially when you are working with tougher materials such as wood or dry-wall. When the blade isn’t sharp, it won’t grip the material correctly which can lead to you slipping, and possibly cutting you or someone near you.

The Blade Doesn’t Extend or Retract Properly

If you have a utility knife that has a retractable blade, one day you may find it difficult to expand or retract it. This could be caused by having a bent blade that is getting stuck or scraping on the sides of the knife itself. Trying to bend the blade back can cause injury to you, as well as do permanent damage to your utility knife. We recommend that you replace the blade if you find that it is bent.

The Blade Is Rusted or Chipped

It is important to inspect your blade often for any rust or chips. Utility knife blades can rust quite easily, especially when used for specific projects that keep them out in the weather. Chips can occur when the blade is used on tough materials or dropped on hard surfaces. Both rust and chips in your utility blade can cause it to be weak, leading to it snapping apart while in use. It is important to replace your blade immediately if it is rusted or chipped to avoid injury.

Choosing Your Replacement Blade

Knowing the signs that your utility knife’s blade needs to be replaced is a great start! Next, it is important to choose the appropriate blade for your utility knife. Using the wrong replacement blade can lead to it not fitting properly and possibly falling out while you’re using it.   Hopefully this article on the signs that your utility knife’s blade needs to be replaced has been useful!  Call Safecutters today for help choosing your replacement blades!

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