Differences Between Economy and Heavy-Duty Box Cutters

Snap-Off Blades

• The cheapest economy box cutters feature plastic handles and a long razor blade with perforated sections that can be broken off and extended to reveal a fresh edge. These knives work well for only the lightest cutting. The blades are thinner and have no stability, the edges do not last long and the mechanisms frequently slip or break, causing unsafe conditions. The long snap-off blade is convenient, since it does not require frequent replacement.

Plastic Box Knives

• A step up from the snap-off blade is a more traditional box knife, with a trapezoid shaped blade that either slides in and out, or in some cases is fixed in the extended position. The light-weight plastic handles make the knife unstable, although it cuts better than the snap-off variety. These knives have replaceable blades, each with two points, allowing them to be flipped end for end for twice the usability. The blades are accessed either through opening the plastic handle, or a release mechanism at the blade end of the knife that allows them to be exchanged without opening the knife.

Metal-Body Knives

• The metal-body knives come in a range of quality from so-so to excellent. Look for a knife with a smooth action on the blade extension, which is typically driven by a thumb button on the top edge of the knife's handle. Some metal-body knives have fixed-position blades, which stay extended unless they are moved. Heavier bodies are typically more stable, and tight mechanisms on the blade extenders hold the blades steadier. Extra blades are stored in the handle.

Folding Knives

• The latest innovation in box cutter technology is the folding box blade. These knives have heavier handles for superior handling and typically allow blades to be exchanged without opening the handle for storage. They feature a locking blade with a button that is pressed in order to fold the knife in. The shorter folded length and thinner body allow the knives to be carried in a pocket, and most models have a belt clip that can be slipped over a belt or waste band for carrying.