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The Most Helpful Tool You Can Own
A pocket knife is an act of kindness. Really.
I am a firm believer in the altruistic tool — the object you always have handy for other people as much as for you. I once wrote about the impeccably clean hanky. This time, it’s the folding pocket knife. Next time, I’m thinking it will be the wallet Band-Aid.
Whenever I pull my Benchmade 940 pocket knife from my right front pocket, my kids roll their eyes and say, “We know, we know: Always carry a knife.” They say it all the time because I say it every time I use my knife, and I use my knife all the time.
But, really, everyone should have a knife handy—especially at home. For you and for everyone around you.
Get a good-quality knife, and keep it sharp. You will use it at least five times a day. I recommend a four-inch folding knife with a blade about three inches long. It should have a clip attached, because when you need a knife, you need a knife to be in exactly the right place. If personal style and clothing design allow, keep it clipped to your front pocket (the knife body should be inside your pocket, with only the clip visible outside, so it stays both secure…
