I was looking for something a few days ago and I ran across a pocket knife that belonged to my dad. I remember that my dad always carried a pocket knife, as did both my granddads. I’m not sure it’s still true but in the past I’d say that almost every man always carried a pocket knife. I’ve carried a pocket knife for about as long as I can remember — still do today. It’s a small one but I’d be lost without it and it gets an amazing amount of use for all sorts of things… some things that I’ve actually used my knife for includes: removing a splinter, removing staples, cutting zip ties, sharpening pencils, separating those “stuck together” legos, stripping wire, opening a bottle of wine, tightening/loosening screws, removing stickers, cutting tape, opening letters, scraping excess glue, making a spot for drilling or cutting — so you get the idea, rarely does a day go by that I don’t use my trusty pocket knife.
There is only one federal knife law — the Switchblade Knife Act of 1958 and it only applies to individuals traveling internationally as well as between the states. All other governing powers for knives are state powers. If you reside in a particular state, the federal law only applies if your are traveling to another state or if your are entering federal property, such as a federal courthouse or military base. It is legal to own any type of knife in both Ohio and West Virginia.
The first folding pocket knife was created in the first century by the Romans. By the late 16th century, pocket knives were very popular, especially in the American colonies. Farmers, lawyers, in fact just all men started to carry them. Pocket knives have been an essential tool for soldiers throughout American history. George Washington carried one and the U.S. Navy began issuing pocket knives to sailors during the Civil War. During WWI, the pocket knife was standard issue for American GIs.
Recently, like a lot of things, it seems, the changing world has led to knives disappearing from men’s pockets. Increased security at airports and many other buildings has made it increasingly difficult and impractical to carry a pocket knife — no matter how small. Years ago, when Kelly got married, I had to lock my knife in a security locker before we could enter the courthouse in Leesburg, even though my pocket knife was only 2 inches long. Just a sign of the times, I suppose, but so far these minor obstacles have not persuaded me to give up that manly tradition of carrying a pocket knife.
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