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Switchblade Knives

One of the most controversial knives ever built are switchblade knives. Their small size, often double edged blade and rapid deployment have made them formidable weapons since their development in the 1800s. They release the blade with a button or lever and the blade quickly locks into place from spring loaded tension. They have to be closed manually.

Because of their perceived threat they are not allowed to be carried by the public in most countries. Italy is still the largest manufacturer of stiletto switchblades which appeared in many films during the 1950s. These films, such as “Rebel Without a Cause”, sparked a controversy that resulted in the Switchblade Act which is a federal law prohibiting their use and sale, but they are still allowed in a handful of states as long as they are not concealed.

There are two types of switchblade knives, ones that open from the side like a regular folding knife but spring loaded, and knives that open from the top. There are two types of out of the front knives, single and double action. Single action requires the user to recompress the spring with the blade manually which allows for stronger springs and a more vigorous opening action. Double action allows the blade to be opened and retracted with the push of the button or lever.

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