Case knives are traditional pocket knives known for their quality craftsmanship and durability. Opening a Case knife typically involves using the nail nick, which is a small groove on the blade that provides leverage for opening. Here's a step-by-step guide to opening a Case knife:
Inspect the knife: Before attempting to open the knife, make sure it is clean and free from any obstructions or debris. Safety is essential, so handle the knife carefully.
Hold the knife: Grasp the closed knife firmly in your hand with the blade facing away from your body. Keep your fingers away from the blade's edge to avoid accidental cuts.
Locate the nail nick: Examine the blade near the base (the end closest to the handle) for a small groove or indentation. This is the nail nick, and it is used to open the knife.
Use your thumbnail: Position your thumbnail (or another suitable tool) into the nail nick. Apply gentle pressure to push the blade away from the handle. This action should pivot the blade open.
Fully open the blade: Continue pushing the blade until it is fully extended and locked in place. Many Case knives feature a slip joint mechanism, which means they do not have a traditional locking system like liner locks or frame locks. Instead, the blade stays open due to tension on the back spring.
Check the blade: Once the blade is open, ensure it is secure and does not move or wobble. Be careful when using the knife, and always close it properly when finished.
Closing the knife: To close the Case knife, apply gentle pressure to the back of the blade to release the tension on the spring. Carefully guide the blade back into the handle until it is fully closed.
It's important to note that traditional slip joint knives like Case knives do not have a locking mechanism, so extra caution is necessary when using them. Always keep your fingers away from the blade's path and handle the knife responsibly to avoid accidents.