Owning a pocket knife is all about utility. While some onlookers might question why anyone would carry a knife, the truth is simple: a pocket knife is an indispensable tool with more than a hundred uses.

Far from being the dramatic implement often depicted in movies and TV, a well-maintained pocket knife is a practical companion for a multitude of everyday and emergency needs.

Here’s a detailed look at 101 plus ways you can put a pocket knife to work:

1. Opening Packages

Perhaps the most common modern use for a pocket knife. Slice through packaging tape or thick cardboard with ease, making mail day significantly less frustrating.

To keep your blade clean and sharp, opt to cut through the cardboard instead of the sticky tape, which can leave residue on your knife.

2. Cutting Fruit

Channel your inner outdoorsman by using your pocket knife to slice fruit with precision.

Whether you’re hiking on the trail or just enjoying a snack at home, cutting fruit directly off the blade is both satisfying and practical. It’s a simple way to feel self-reliant and prepared.

3. Removing Splinters

Pocket knives are perfect tools for removing deep splinters that tweezers just can’t reach. Use the fine point of the blade to gently lift and extract the splinter.

Just be sure to sterilize the blade beforehand to avoid infection, using rubbing alcohol or a quick flame.

4. Whittling

Rediscover the meditative and rewarding craft of whittling wood. Use your pocket knife to carve small figurines, animals, or practical objects like walking sticks.

Whether you’re at a campsite or passing time on your porch, whittling can help you tap into your creativity while improving your knife skills.

5. Cutting Hair

In a pinch, a sharp pocket knife can help you trim a tangled snarl of hair or tidy up your ends. Although this takes a bit of practice, it can be a lifesaver if you find yourself without scissors. Just ensure the blade is sharp and clean to avoid uneven cuts or damage to your hair.

6. Freeing Someone from a Seat Belt

In emergency situations like car accidents, time is critical. A pocket knife’s sharp blade can quickly slice through a stuck seat belt to help free someone in danger.

Carrying a knife equipped with a serrated edge makes this task even faster and more efficient.

7. Opening Clamshell Packaging

Those frustrating plastic clamshell packages are no match for a pocket knife. With a sharp blade, pierce the edge of the packaging and carefully slice it open, saving you time and preventing unnecessary frustration.

8. Making Drainage Holes

Need a quick fix for your plants or a DIY colander? Use your pocket knife to add drainage holes to plant pots or poke holes in plastic bags to strain food.

This simple trick can turn everyday items into useful tools.

9. Removing Staples

A stuck staple in your paperwork or a wooden surface can be pried up quickly with the sharp tip of a pocket knife. When a dedicated staple remover isn’t handy, your knife has you covered, saving both time and frustration.

10. Cutting Off Clothing Tags

Annoying clothing tags on new purchases can be snipped away in seconds with a pocket knife.

No need to hunt for scissors—just grab your knife for a quick and clean cut, leaving your new clothes comfortable and ready to wear.

11. Carving

Pocket knives are sturdy and versatile tools for carving designs or sculpting small objects.

Whether working with wood or soft materials, carving lets you create unique pieces of art or practical items like utensils or tools.

12. Cleaning Teeth (Use Caution)

While not the most conventional use, a pocket knife can serve as an emergency toothpick. This is particularly helpful after meals when you’re outdoors without access to dental tools.

Some multi-tools even include dedicated toothpicks for a safer option. Always clean the blade before use.

13. Performing Emergency Tracheotomy

This rare but life-saving use of a pocket knife has been documented in extreme emergencies. If someone is choking and no other option is available, a clean, sharp blade can be used to perform an emergency tracheotomy.

This should only be done as a last resort and with utmost care.

14. Cutting Zip Ties

Zip ties are incredibly useful but can be frustrating when you need to remove them.

A sharp pocket knife can quickly cut through tough plastic ties, whether you’re decluttering cords or freeing up secured items in a rush.

15. Sharpening Pencils

Artists, students, and professionals can rely on a pocket knife to sharpen pencils to the perfect point.

It’s especially handy when you’re sketching or writing outdoors and don’t have a sharpener on hand.

16. Cutting Meat

When restaurant knives fail you, a pocket knife can step in to slice through tough cuts of meat with ease.

From steak to chicken, your trusty blade ensures you can enjoy your meal without struggling.

17. Freeing a Dog from a Leash

If a pet’s leash becomes stuck or tangled, especially in emergencies like elevator doors or fences, a pocket knife can help free them quickly. A sharp blade ensures your furry friend stays safe from harm.

18. Prepping Kindling for Fire

Turn branches and twigs into perfectly sized kindling for your campfire or wood stove using your pocket knife.

Whether you’re camping or preparing for a cozy night at home, this simple task ensures your fire gets started quickly.

19. Cleaning Under Fingernails

After a long day of working with your hands, dirt and grime can build up under your fingernails. Use the tip of your pocket knife to gently scrape it away, leaving your hands clean again.

Just make sure to clean your blade afterward.

20. Acting as a Money Clip

A pocket knife’s clip can double as a convenient money holder in a pinch. If your wallet is missing or you want to travel light, tuck your cash safely into the clip for an easy solution to carrying money.

21. Cutting Loose Threads

Neatly trim loose threads from clothing to prevent them from unraveling further. This helps your garments last longer and maintain a polished appearance.

22. Emergency Shaving

When you don’t have access to a razor, a sharp pocket knife and a steady hand can be used to shave. Be cautious and work slowly to avoid nicks or cuts.

23. Honing Other Knives

The spine of a sturdy pocket knife can be used as a makeshift honing steel to realign and sharpen another blade, ensuring both knives stay effective.

24. Opening Bottles

Many pocket knives include a built-in bottle opener, but in a pinch, even the blade itself can be carefully used to remove a bottle cap. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or camping.

25. Fending Off Aggressive Animals

While rare, there have been instances where a pocket knife became a lifesaving tool during an animal attack. Carrying one can provide an extra layer of protection in the wild.

26. Separating LEGO Bricks

A slim, sharp blade from your pocket knife can help pry apart stubborn LEGO pieces that are stuck together, saving your fingers from frustration.

27. Stripping Wire

When proper tools aren’t available, a pocket knife can score and remove the insulation from wires. This is especially useful for quick electrical fixes in the field.

28. Cutting Wire

A sharp edge on your pocket knife can cut through thin electrical or craft wire with ease, making it an essential tool for DIY projects and repairs.

29. Cutting Rope

Whether you’re hiking, sailing, or working outdoors, a sharp knife is invaluable for slicing through ropes quickly and efficiently in various situations.

30. Untying Knots

Stubborn rope knots can be loosened by gently prying them apart with the tip of your knife. This is especially handy for campers and climbers working with heavy-duty ropes.

31. Making Rope from Grass

With a pocket knife, you can harvest long blades of grass, cut them down, and weave them into a makeshift rope. This skill can be crucial in survival situations.

32. Trimming Nails

If you’re without nail clippers, a pocket knife can be used to carefully trim your fingernails or toenails. Take your time to avoid cutting too deep.

33. Zesting Citrus

Use your knife to shave thin, fragrant strips of citrus zest to add flavor and aroma to your food or drinks. It’s a great way to elevate a simple recipe.

34. Handling for Fidgeting

Holding and gently twirling your pocket knife can serve as a form of stress relief or help with focus, similar to the use of a fidget spinner. Just ensure safety while doing so.

35. Trimming Fishing Line

For fishermen, a pocket knife is ideal for snipping off excess fishing line after tying knots, keeping your setup clean and efficient.

36. Cutting Bait

Prepare bait for fishing on the spot by slicing it into the right size. A pocket knife makes this task quick and easy, even out on the water.

37. Gutting Fish

Clean freshly caught fish efficiently using your pocket knife. It’s a versatile tool for removing the guts and preparing the fish for cooking or storage.

38. Filleting Fish

With a sharp blade and some practice, a pocket knife can be delicate enough to fillet small fish, ensuring you make the most of your catch.

39. Removing Gum from Carpet

Sticky gum stuck in carpet fibers can be carefully cut out with a pocket knife, allowing for a quick and effective clean-up without damaging the carpet too much.

40. Knife Throwing (With Appropriate Knives)

Some pocket knives are specifically designed for throwing practice. These specialized tools can be used for target practice, a skill that combines precision and focus. Always ensure safety and proper training.

41. Stopping a Bullet (Accidentally)

There are amazing true stories of pocket knives in a pocket stopping a bullet mid-impact, saving lives by acting as a surprising, last-second shield. Though rare, it’s a testament to the sturdiness of a good blade.

42. Opening Wine Bottles

While multi-tools often come with corkscrews for opening wine, a regular blade can also help. With some creative techniques, you can grip and lift the cork to enjoy your drink, even in a pinch.

43. Splitting Firewood

When you need to prep firewood for a campfire, drive your knife blade into a log using another piece of wood as a baton. This method allows you to split smaller chunks of wood efficiently without carrying heavy tools.

44. Releasing Trapped Animals

If you come across wildlife caught in netting, fencing, or fishing line, a pocket knife can help you carefully cut them free.

It’s a handy tool for anyone exploring the outdoors and wanting to lend a helping hand to animals in trouble.

45. Carrying Grocery Bags

The handle of a pocket knife can double as a tool for carrying multiple heavy grocery bags.

Loop the bag handles onto the knife handle to reduce strain on your fingers during those big shopping trips.

46. Hanging Coats or Clothing (Short-term)

In situations where there’s no hook available, a knife stuck securely into soft wood or a door frame can act as an emergency hook to hang a coat or hold up clothing temporarily.

47. Trimming Cuticles

A sharp pocket knife blade can quickly and precisely remove dead skin around your nails. Just be careful to use a steady hand and a very light touch to avoid injury.

48. Pruning Plants

When gardening, a pocket knife can serve as a tool for trimming plants and cutting away dead or overgrown branches.

It’s a practical alternative to dedicated shears when you’re in a rush.

49. Peeling Potatoes

No vegetable peeler? No problem! A sharp pocket knife can handle peeling potatoes or other veggies, making it a utility tool for outdoor cooking or emergency kitchen prep.

50. Breaking Car Windows in Emergencies

Some pocket knives are designed with built-in glass breakers, which can save lives in car accidents.

If trapped in a vehicle, this feature allows you to shatter a window for a quick escape.

51. Teaching Responsibility

A pocket knife can be a powerful tool for teaching responsibility to young people. Gifting a knife as a rite of passage helps instill lessons about safety, care, and the importance of caution when handling sharp tools.

52. Cutting Off Clothing to Access Wounds

In emergencies, quick access to wounds is essential. A sharp blade allows you to cut through clothing to expose injuries, helping first responders or rescuers act faster in critical situations.

53. Making a Tourniquet

In severe bleeding emergencies, a knife can be used to cut strips of cloth to create a tourniquet, potentially saving a life by stopping massive blood loss until professional help arrives.

54. Opening Cans

Many multi-tools come equipped with can openers, but if you don’t have one, a strong blade can pierce the lid of a can and allow you to open it with a little persistence.

55. Emergency Amputation

As extreme as it sounds, there are real-life stories of people using knives to amputate a limb when trapped in life-threatening situations. While rare, a good blade could be the difference between life and death in extreme survival scenarios.

56. Tightening Screws

The flat edge of a pocket knife blade can act as a makeshift screwdriver, perfect for quick fixes when you don’t have tools handy. It’s a small but handy feature in many everyday situations.

57. Adding Holes to Belts

Need to adjust your belt on the fly? A pocket knife can punch a new hole quickly and easily, saving you from the hassle of dealing with too-loose or too-tight belts.

58. Slicing Bagels

A sharp blade ensures you can slice bagels or bread rolls cleanly and evenly, making it easy to top with your favorite spreads or fillings for a quick and satisfying snack.

59. Spreading Condiments or Toppings

The flat side of a pocket knife blade can be used to spread butter, cream cheese, jams, or any other condiments.

It’s a quick solution when you don’t have a proper knife nearby.

60. Picking Up Screws (Magnetized Blades)

If your knife blade is magnetized, it can easily grab screws or small metal parts that are hard to reach. This feature comes in handy during repair work or when dealing with tight spaces.

61. Felling Small Trees (Survival Situations)

With enough time and effort, you can use a knife or blade to cut down saplings in the wild for shelter, tools, or firewood. It’s a valuable skill in survival situations.

62. Scraping Off Sticker Residue

If you’ve ever struggled with sticky residue from labels or stickers, a sharp knife can help.

Carefully scrape off the adhesive without damaging the surface underneath.

63. Popping Balloons

Quietly deflate leftover balloons after a celebration by puncturing them with the tip of your knife. It’s much faster than trying to untie the knot.

64. Opening Letters

Why bother with a letter opener when your knife can do the trick? A quick slice along the envelope’s edge opens your mail effortlessly.

65. Maintaining Pipes (Smoking)

For those who smoke, a knife can be used to ream and clean out a pipe’s bowl, ensuring it stays in good condition for regular use.

66. Starting Fires (With Ferro Rod or Flint)

A knife’s spine is perfect for striking a ferro rod or flint to generate sparks, making it an essential tool for starting a fire in the great outdoors.

67. Cutting Fishing Net

If you or an animal gets tangled in fishing netting, a knife can quickly cut through the material to free the trapped person or creature, potentially saving a life.

68. Making a Spear

In survival situations, you can secure your knife to the end of a sturdy stick to create a makeshift spear for hunting or defense.

69. Keeping Papers from Blowing Away

On a windy day during a picnic or while working outdoors, use your knife as a handy paperweight to prevent important papers or napkins from flying away.

70. Cutting Clothes Free from Escalators

If clothing or accessories get stuck in an escalator, a knife can save the day by quickly cutting the trapped fabric to prevent injury or further damage.

71. Shotgunning a Beer (Use Responsibly)

For a classic party trick, use the tip of a knife to pierce a hole near the bottom of a beer can. This method is popular at gatherings but be sure to handle the blade responsibly.

72. Transforming Pants into Shorts

Have an old pair of jeans lying around? Use a knife to cut them into custom shorts, perfect for warm weather or a quick DIY project.

73. Gutting Game (Hunting)

A knife is an essential tool for hunters to field dress game. It allows you to cleanly remove the internal organs to preserve the meat.

74. Skinning Animals

Carefully skin animals using a sharp blade to remove the hide, whether for acquiring food, creating clothing, or crafting fur items.

75. Butchering Game

Once game is field dressed, a knife can be used to break it down into manageable cuts of meat, ready for cooking or storage.

76. Accessing Coconut Water

When in tropical areas, use a knife to slice through the tough shell of a coconut. This gives you access to the hydrating, refreshing coconut water inside.

77. Cutting Tape

Whether you’re dealing with packaging tape, duct tape, or masking tape, your knife can make precise cuts without the need for a dispenser.

78. Breaking Down Cardboard Boxes

A knife can easily slice through thick cardboard, making it much simpler to break down shipping boxes for recycling or disposal.

79. Stirring Drinks

Don’t have a stirring stick on hand? A clean knife blade can be used to stir your coffee, tea, or cocktail in a pinch.

80. Opening Cheap Padlocks

In emergencies, a thin, sturdy knife blade can sometimes open cheaply made padlocks. Always follow legal guidelines before attempting this.

81. Scraping Away Glue

Tidy up woodworking or repair projects by carefully scraping away excess adhesive with your knife. It’s especially useful for tight corners or hard-to-reach areas.

82. Bookmarking Your Place

Don’t lose your spot in a book! Use your knife as an emergency bookmark. Just make sure the blade is closed for safety.

83. Cutting Out Paper Shapes

Perfect for crafts, use your knife to cut paper into precise shapes for DIY projects, greeting cards, or scrapbooking.

84. Making a Fashion Statement

A well-designed knife can double as a stylish accessory that reflects your personality while still being a versatile and practical tool.

85. Hammering

In a pinch, a heavy-duty knife can substitute as a makeshift hammer. However, avoid using your best blade, as this can damage it.

86. Cutting Pills

Caught without a pill cutter? Use your knife to split medication evenly, but always consult your pharmacist first to ensure it’s safe to do so.

87. Doorstop

Keep a door propped open temporarily by wedging your knife underneath. Just be sure to avoid damaging the blade.

88. Marking for Drilling or Cutting

Score wood, metal, or plastic surfaces with your knife to make precise guidelines for drilling or cutting.

89. Trimming Shoelaces

Cut your laces to the perfect length and even melt the edges with a lighter to create new aglets that won’t fray.

90. Opening Keyrings

Struggling to add or remove keys from a tight keyring? Slide your blade carefully under the ring to create enough space to slip the key in or out.

91. Removing Nails from Tires

If you find a nail lodged in your tire during a roadside emergency, use your knife to carefully pry it out. Be prepared to patch the tire afterward!

92. Cleaning Battery Terminals

Scrape away corrosion buildup on battery terminals to restore a solid electrical connection in your car or devices.

93. Killing Dangerous Critters

Use your knife to safely remove venomous or dangerous creatures, like snakes or scorpions, from your tent, boots, or bedding.

94. Cutting Cheese (the edible kind!)

A picnic essential! Use your knife to slice cheese into shareable portions while enjoying the great outdoors.

95. Deflating Packaging Pillows

Quickly pop air-filled packaging pillows for easy disposal when tearing them apart by hand isn’t convenient.

96. Removing Skin Tags

While technically possible to remove skin tags with a knife, it’s best to leave this to a doctor for safety and hygiene reasons.

97. Opening Bags

From heavy-duty bags like pet food or fertilizer to charcoal and potting soil, a knife can slice through tough packaging with ease.

98. Making Arts and Crafts

Enhance your DIY projects by using your knife to cut materials like paper, thin metal, or plastic with precision.

99. Cutting Free from Monofilament (For Divers)

If you’re a diver or spend time around water, a knife is a lifesaving tool for cutting yourself free from tangled fishing line or monofilament.

100. Picking Up Food

Avoid sticky fingers at picnics or parties by using your knife as a makeshift fork to pick up bite-sized snacks.

101. Self-Defense (Last Resort)

While not recommended as a primary weapon, a knife can serve as a last-resort tool for self-defense in dangerous situations.

Bonus Uses:

• Cleaning out ears: Some people use knives to remove earwax, though this is not advised for safety reasons.
• Lancing cysts: In emergencies, knives have been used for medical purposes, but this should always be done by a professional.
• Playing mumblety-peg: A knife game where players throw it into the ground to test skill and precision.
• Assisting in roadside births: Rare emergencies have seen knives used to cut umbilical cords during unexpected roadside deliveries.
• Competitive cutting: Knife enthusiasts compete in events that test a blade’s sharpness and durability through challenging tasks.

From practical needs to survival situations, the humble knife proves itself to be an invaluable, multi-functional tool!