When you’re in the market to buy new cutting tools, you want the best of the best. But if you look at enough of them, sometimes they can all look the same. Obviously you’ll want a traditional box cutter that is safe to use but sharp enough to open boxes with ease.
But what else do you need to know before making a final selection? This small cutting tool is specifically designed to cut packages open, but what type of blade should you choose? Is a spring-loaded slider that can easily retract a better, more secure option? Or, maybe a manual cutter will make more sense for easier cutting control?
Investing in a quality box cutter that fits your cutting needs can make chores and work tasks much easier for you. Let’s dive into some of these box cutter features that you should look for and why they matter.
What to Look for in Your Box Cutter
In order to find the best box cutter for you, it’s vital to keep the following features in mind while you’re on the hunt.
A Comfortable Grip
Have you ever tried to maneuver a tool with an uncomfortable handle? It may have an awkward grip that causes unnecessary strain after an extended period of time. The last thing you want is a box cutter that doesn’t fit well in your hand. That can potentially lead to preventable accidents or lacerations.
Consider purchasing a box cutter that’s constructed ergonomically. In addition to an efficient, comfortable handle, think about buying a box cutter with a handle that’s composed of nylon. For instance, these box cutters are both ergonomically designed and made of nylon, which is really durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Why does the material matter as much as the grip? You can suffer from long-term injuries by handling a tool with a bad grip. Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) occur when a muscle is overused via repetitive motion. This normally affects the upper/lower arms, wrists, and hands. You can prevent this by investing in a box cutter that is easier to operate.
A Blade That’s Safe to the Touch
Think about buying a box cutter that harbors a safe-to-the-touch blade. You may believe this contradicts the purpose of an effective blade, but your safety comes first. You won’t be cutting anything if you’re injured.
Blades that are composed of zirconium oxide, an advanced ceramic, tend to be much more resilient than steel or metal. It has a hardness level that’s higher than steel.
It’ll last longer, which can result in reduced blade changes. This can curb the risk of accidental lacerations. Additionally, it’s safer to the touch, more so than traditional blades. But don’t mistake that safeness for ineffectiveness. Zirconium oxide can still make an effective cut.
A Long-Lasting Blade
If you’re springing for longevity, zirconium oxide for your blade material is the way to go. The longer your box cutter blade can last without rusting, the less blade changes you’ll have to make. This will save you precious cutting time and help prevent accidents or lacerations.
A good, long-lasting blade is a prudent investment. It’s well worth your money. That being said, it’s always good to do your own research and keep an eye out for new innovations in box cutter blade technology.
A Spring-Loaded Slider
Instead of a manual box cutter, consider opting for an auto-retractable box cutter. When it’s not in use, the blade automatically retracts with assistance from a spring-loaded slider. This is especially helpful if you set your cutter down while in a workspace. You don’t want an exposed blade that could potentially harm someone or yourself.
The blade on an auto-retractable box cutter withdraws when it loses contact with the cutting material. Consider those fingers and hands well-protected.
A Shallow Blade Depth
A box cutter with a shallow blade depth is beneficial to have because it mitigates the chance of injury and lessens blade exposure. Not only does this keep you safe, but it keeps the materials you’re cutting safe as well.
Limited blade exposure doesn’t mean that the blade is less effective. There’s just less of the sharp stuff to cut you.
Traditional Tool With Multiple Usages
Box cutters are great for cutting single- and double-walled corrugated cardboard boxes. Additionally, they can cut plastic string, stripping materials, thick cardstock, and insulation. Box cutters can be utilized to make precision cuts. A good box cutter can also slice through a wide array of materials.
Regardless of what you’re cutting, it’s always good to practice safe, accurate cutting and keep those hands and fingers protected.
A traditional box cutter is the perfect tool to add to your toolkit. This versatile, durable, and effective cutting tool can be used for more than just slicing through cardboard.