The Knife Vault

Knives have long been a staple of personal protection. Folding knives in particular are easy to conceal, and they are effective at deterring attackers. Unfortunately, some knives have garnered a bad name due to their association with criminal elements. Switchblades are one example of this phenomenon. In 1958, Congress passed the Switchblade Act, which prohibited the possession of “automatic knives” anywhere in the U.S. or its territories. Today, individual states determine these knives’ legality.

Switchblades are characterized by their spring-loaded blades that snap to attention at the push of a button. They gained notoriety in popular American films of the early 1950s, such as the James Dean vehicle Rebel Without a Cause. Although switchblades remain illegal in many American states, they shouldn’t be confused with folding knives. Buck folding knives are popular among hunters, outdoorsmen and people looking for an effective personal safety measure.