The Klein Tools 44006 Lockback Utility Knife is the best knife for electricians because of its durable AUS 8 Stainless Serrated Blades designed to cut wires up close or at distance, while having an aluminum ergonomic reversible thumb stud, giving this knife the best features possible for electricians.
If you’re looking ,for an electrician knife to use in DIY or professional situations, this article is going to be perfect for you.
We will discuss what they are, what their functions are are, and which ones we recommend.
You’ll also get some special tips and tricks on how to prevent them from getting rusty and dull.
Don’t worry the knives we recommend were what we’ve personally tested with and are by far the highest-rated ones online.
So let’s get to it,
Know which is the Best Electrician Knife for you!
Don’t have time To read? No worries!
Below are our top picks for your convenience
Dweller Power’s Best Pick
Best Electrician Knife
Klein Tools 44006 Lockback Knife
- Hawkbill blade is AUS 8 stainless-steel
- Silver Anodized-Aluminum Handle
- Reversible Thumb Stud
- Pocket and Belt Clip Included
- Compact and Lightweight
Best Electrician Utility Knife
Milwaukee 48-22-1901F Fastback
- Wire Stripping Compartment
- Gut Hook
- Ergonomic Desig
Best SOG Electrician Knife
SOG EL01-CP Kilowatt
- Electrician Wire Stripping
- Aus-8 Steel Knife Blade
- 3-Way Wire Stripper
Best Electricians Lock Knife – Pocket Knife
Victorinox Swiss Army Electrician Pocket Knife
- World Recognized Brand
- Durable Construction
- Compact Carry
Best Electrician Multi Tool
LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 Multitool
- 19 Tools in 1
- Heavy Duty Multi Tool
- 25 Year Warranty Offer
What is the use of an Electrician Knife?
An electrician’s utility knife is a tool used to electrically cut circuit cables without being exposed to dangerous electrical sparks. It is a very sharp tool that helps remove insulation from various types of wires.
The electrician’s utility knife is typically made out of either stainless steel or carbon-coated steel so that the blade does not corrode quickly if it becomes wet during use, which would make it more difficult to work with.
In a professional setting, electricians have to be able to work with wires that have many different insulations on them, and the electrical utility knife helps to smoothly remove them without damaging the wiring.
An electrician wants to be able to use his or her utility knife in various conditions and settings.
They should work in tight spaces where they need to cut insulation in a safe manner. This means they must know when it is safe to use their current utility knife, as well as how to properly carry it without cutting themselves or others.
How does an Electrician Knife Function
An electrician’s utility knife is a tool used to electrically cut circuit cables without being exposed to dangerous electrical sparks. It is a very sharp tool that helps remove insulation from various types of wires.
They should work in tight spaces where they need to cut insulation in a safe manner. This means they must know when it is safe to use their current utility knife, as well as how to properly carry it without cutting themselves or others.
The Best Electrician Utility Knife (also known as a Hawkbill Knife) is a long-bladed, heavy-duty knife mostly used for cutting wiring. The blade of these knives is often scalloped to increase their serration effect.
Its design allows it to be used by either hand and provides more leverage than other knives. This makes it an excellent tool for cutting through rubber, wiring, and other materials.
What is the size of an electrician’s knife?
On average, a good size for an electrician’s knife is at around 3″ to 5″ in blade length and at least 1″ to 2″ in blade width.
This is to ensure that the knife is not too large to be used effectively because it will mostly be used for tight spaces.
Types of Electrician Knife Blades
Hawkbill Knife
The Hawkbill knife has a long, scalloped blade made out of stainless steel. The blade is full tang with a scalloped edge that is primarily used for cutting wires and climbing up and down poles.
It can also be used for cutting rubber, staplers, and other materials that are hard to cut with other knives.
This knife is the most commonly used utility knife for electricians since it is the best for its purpose.
Coping Blade
This type of blade is for cutting round shapes and a wider, more flattened arch that can cut through thick pieces of plastic. These types of blades are typically preferred for electricians that need to cut through several different types of insulation on wires and cutting holes into the side of wire sleeves.
Sheepfoot Slitting Blades
Like a sheep’s foot, the design of the blade is slightly curved at the same time this retractable blade is often paired with a retractable knife. It is typically used for making slits in the plastic insulation that electricians often work with.
Hook Blades
This blade is primarily used for cutting wires and thick pieces of insulation. It has a curved handle, making it easier to hold onto when you are working on wires in tight spaces. It does not have a point, which makes it ideal for cutting down into wire sleeves or other corners of the wiring that other knives may not be able to reach because of how small they are cut.
Spearpoint Blades
A straight blade that often resembles an ordinary knife. This is used for cutting and piercing wiring tubing in very narrow spaces. This blade has a much smaller blade than other types of blades, which is an advantage as the knife is easier to cut through tight spaces.
Utility Knife
The all-around tool that can be used in any kind of DIY or professional project. From a pocket knife, to a multi tool, to even being a wire cutter, the utility knife is by far the best well-rounded type of knife an Electrician uses.
The 7 Best Electrician Knives
#1 Klein Tools 44006 Lockback Knife –
Best Electrician Knife
This is a perfect knife for electricians, it has features that make it the best overall type of utility knife. The Klein Tools 44006 Lockback Utility Knife is highly polished and benefits from a classic design.
Review:
It’s designed with one cutting edge that’s versatile and can be used to cut wires up close or at a distance. The handle also offers a curved design which allows the user to grip it firmly when in use without hurting their thumbs.
Klein Tools 44008 Lockback Utility Knife has serrated blades on both sides and is made out of AUS 8 stainless steel.
This hawkbill electrician knife from Klein has compact and lightweight with a reversible thumb stud that provides for easy, one-handed opening.
When it comes to handling, the superb design of an ergonomic handle with a slim and comfortable silver anodized aluminum coat for corrosion resistance.
All premium features for the best electricians.
Definitely the best electrician knife out there in the market!
Pros:
- Hawkbill blade is AUS 8 stainless-steel
- Silver Anodized-Aluminum Handle
- Reversible Thumb Stud
- Pocket and Belt Clip Included
- Compact and Lightweight
Cons:
- Premium Price
#2 Milwaukee 48-22-1901F Fastback –
Best Electrician Utility Knife
Review:
The Milwaukee 48-22-1901F Fastback is a very good utility knife that I have found to be extremely useful.
The sharp blade on this knife is made of serrated high quality steel and can withstand quite a bit of force before it breaks. The blade is also curved, which allows you to create nice clean cuts in your wood or drywall, giving your project that professional look.
This knife is a handy tool for those who are looking for something that can tackle a broad range of electrical wiring tasks.
Its ergonomic design adapts to your hand in any position where the blade locks, be it 45 degrees or straight. This means you can use it whether you’re cutting under wiring or sideways.
The wire stripping tool is on the machine that can be used for up to 12 gauge wire. This makes it easy to strip wires from different parts of a device, or for a more thorough set-up.
A guthook is a type of cutting tool that has a long handle, usually with an offset hook at the end. With this Milwaukee Utility Knife, the guthook will help a lot with picking and pulling wiring for proper arrangement.
With all these features, the Milwaukee Electrician Utility Knife is probably your best all rounder pick!
Pros:
- Wire Stripping Compartment
- Gut Hook
- Ergonomic Design
Cons:
- Compartment Blades may get stuck
#3 SOG EL01-CP Kilowatt –
Best SOG Electrician knife
Review:
The EL01-CP is lightweight, portable and easy to use. This electrician knife from SOG comes with a powerful three-way wire cutting blade.
This high-quality knife has a 3.4 inch blade that is made from AUS8 steel. It’s the perfect tool for those who are in the carpenters or electrical trades who need to cut wires quickly, easily and efficiently.
It features a slim, lightweight, ergonomic handle that is made of glass-filled nylon. It’s designed to fit perfectly in your hand and stays secure even under the most strenuous conditions.
While the handle may be slim, it does not compromise on strength. This electrician knife is made from a strong ABS plastic that is impact resistant and durable.
What makes this knife truly unique is its 3-way wire stripper operation system that allows you to cut on both sides of the blade simultaneously without exiting the handle.
This electrician knife is equipped with a wire stripper for cutting and stripping both solid and stranded wires. You’ll be able to cut them all without having to change the blades or remove the wires from the handle of your knife.
This high-quality knife also features a pocket clip that allows you to store it in your pocket without ever sliding off of it accidentally. This means that you can take it with you anywhere that you need it, whether you’re going into a construction site or simply doing your own home renovations.
Proven and Trusted, the SOG brand never fails to disappoint especially with this flagship knife of theirs.
You can never go wrong with choosing SOG.
Pros:
- Electrician Wire Stripping
- Aus-8 Steel Knife Blade
- 3-Way Wire Stripper
Cons:
- Awkward Handle Grip
#4 Victorinox Swiss Army Electrician Pocket Knife –
Best Electricians Lock Knife – Pocket Knife
Review:
The Victorinox Swiss Army Electrician Pocket Knife is the best electricians lock knife.
It is a small, agile and ready for any adventure head-on Swiss Army Knife.
The Swiss Army Knife has been in production since 1897 with its first product being the Swiss Officer’s and Sports Knife. They now have this large blade, electrician’s blade, wire scraper, reamer, bottle opener, screwdriver and wire stripper for all your tasks while on site or on an adventure.
Made from signature Swiss stainless steel construction with a compact carry that fits easily into your pocket or pouch when not in use; this knife can be used as a regular pocket knife but also has all these special tools to make it the best electrician’s pocket knife!
Pros:
- World Recognized Brand
- Durable Construction
- Compact Carry
Cons:
- Premium Price
#5 Klein Tools 1550-4 Pocket Knife –
Best Electrician Hawkbill Knife
Review:
The Klein Tools 1550-4 Pocket Knife is an excellent knife for a professional.
This pocket knife features the best electrician’s hawkbill blade. It is an ideal tool to have in any electrical operation, which makes it perfect for those professionals who need a quality knife with them always.
The blade of this pocket knife has been forged using high carbon steel ensuring that this item will last you for many years to come!
This Klein Tool product also has great grip from the handles, which will ensure that you are never in danger if anything were to happen and you needed emergency action.
It comes in a protective leather sheath as well as convenient belt clip making it an easy item to carry around all day long without needing to put it away.
If you need a Hawkbill for precise cutting, then Klein will never disappoint!
Pros:
- Carbon Steel Blade
- Klein Standard Design
- Polished Handle
Cons:
- Cons
- Cons
- Cons
#6 KNIPEX Tools Dismantling Knife –
Best Electrician Dismantling Knife
Review:
You need to have tools for the job which are going to be comfortable and easy to use. The KNIPEX tool company is generally the top choice when it comes to this type of work. They have a new design in the market that is sure to blow you away.
The KNIPEX Tools Dismantling Knife, also referred to as a nut-buster, works wonders on screws and nuts that you may not be able to get off with your bare hands and it comes with a finger guard.
It has a specially designed blade for precision cutting and getting into tight spaces.
The handle is made out of polymer with an ergonomic grip which will provide you comfort while operating it in any situation whether its wet or dry or greasy, so there’s no need to worry about that.
The cutter on the end of the knife is also adjustable so you don’t have to go out and buy a new tool if it doesn’t fit perfectly without spending a lot of money. Dismantle away with the KNIPEX Dismantling knife!
Pros:
- Precision Grade Performance
- Comfortable Grip
- Overall Quality Tested
Cons:
- Aesthetic Design is not good
#7 LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 Multitool – Best Electrician Multi Tool
Review:
19 TOOLS IN 1 HAND: The Super Tool 300 features knives, pliers, screwdrivers, wire cutters, an electrical crimper, a wire stripper, scissors, bottle and can openers, a file, a saw, an awl and a ruler
All-locking features mean that every tool and knife (with the exception of the pliers head) will lock when fully opened, keeping you safe and the tools securely in place
With its heavy-duty yet portable size and lanyard ring, your Super Tool 300 is always within reach and ready to work
The LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 is a 13-in-1 tool with 19 tools. It features a full range of locking mechanisms that are meant to make you feel safe and secure when using the tool. There are also multiple tamper-resistant screws, as well as a convenient belt sheath to keep this multi-tool close at hand.
This supertool opens up into so many options, from knives and pliers to screwdrivers and saws there’s an instrument for every job around the house or on the job site.
The hardened stainless steel cutting blades will be more than enough for any household task you can think of that requires power tools.
The wide electrical application means that not only can this multitool help save money by letting you fix more things around the house, there’s even enough in there to get you started when it comes to electronics.
Definitely the best Multi Tool for all Electricians!
Pros:
- 19 Tools in 1
- Heavy Duty Multi Tool
- 25 Year Warranty Offer
Cons:
- Premium Price
Custom Electrician Knife
Thinking that the Best Electrician Knife for you is not in our best picks?
Don’t worry, there’s the option to always have a very customized electrician’s knife just to suit your specific workflow.
There are two ways you can get your own Customized Electrician Knife.
First, and the easy way, is to search for hobby shops or professional shops online such as Etsy. They have a diverse lineup of customized knives for hobbyists and professionals alike!
The second option, and more expensive, is to work with a local crafstman that deals with knives. This way you can get a knife built just for your needs and even have your initials engraved on it!
Either way, your new best Electrician Knife will always be a very special one!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do electricians use Hawkbill knives?
Electricians use Hawkbill knives for specialty jobs. They are not as strong or sharp as the other electrician knives, but they provide a highly controlled cutting-edge that is great for removing insulation or scraping electrical wire coating.
Can electricians carry knives?
Yes. Electricians can carry knives, in fact they have a dedicated lineup of knives just for them. These knives are made to be used on electrical wiring and the best electrician’s knife reviews will point you towards the right one for you.
Why are Electricians knives different from regular knives?
Electrician’s Knives are specifically designed to work with the tough conditions of electrical wiring. These knives are a little bit cheaper and lighter than other professional knives, but they have a variety of uses in the electrical industry that other types of knives will not have access to.
What is the best Leatherman for an electrician?
That would be the LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 Multi Tool. This is a heavy duty knife that will help you on all of the different tasks you’ll be doing every day. It’s a 19 in 1 Multi Tool that has most of what an Electrician would need from a multi tool and is by far the most feature intensive multi tool offered as an electrician’s knife.
What is the best Electrician folding utility knife?
That would be the Milwaukee 48-22-1901F Fastback. This knife is one of the lightest and most reliable tools made, and comes with a sheath that will hold any of the different special bits that come with the different jobs you do around the house. The best electrician folding utility knife review will point you towards the right one for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do electricians use Hawkbill knives?
Electricians use Hawkbill knives for specialty jobs. They are not as strong or sharp as the other electrician knives, but they provide a highly controlled cutting-edge that is great for removing insulation or scraping electrical wire coating.
Can electricians carry knives?
Yes. Electricians can carry knives, in fact they have a dedicated lineup of knives just for them. These knives are made to be used on electrical wiring and the best electrician’s knife reviews will point you towards the right one for you.
Why are Electricians knives different from regular knives?
Electrician’s Knives are specifically designed to work with the tough conditions of electrical wiring. These knives are a little bit cheaper and lighter than other professional knives, but they have a variety of uses in the electrical industry that other types of knives will not have access to.
What is the best Leatherman for an electrician?
That would be the LEATHERMAN Super Tool 300 Multi Tool. This is a heavy duty knife that will help you on all of the different tasks you’ll be doing every day. It’s a 19 in 1 Multi Tool that has most of what an Electrician would need from a multi tool and is by far the most feature intensive multi tool offered as an electrician’s knife.
What is the best Electrician folding utility knife?
That would be the Milwaukee 48-22-1901F Fastback. This knife is one of the lightest and most reliable tools made, and comes with a sheath that will hold any of the different special bits that come with the different jobs you do around the house. The best electrician folding utility knife review will point you towards the right one for you.
Final Thoughts on the Best Electrician Knife
This ends our Review Series for the Best Electrician Knife.
With all that said, remember that to maximize efficiency in your DIY and Professional electrical projects, you need the Best Electrician Knife. The best of these will be the key to your next project that requires intensive cutting. So you better choose wisely!
We want you to be sure of what you plan to get, please don’t hesitate to ask for advice.
Love our Best Electrician Knife Review?
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Weldon is a Single Dad who loves teaching others about the workaround in the house. He loves to write about DIY and Home Improvement Hacks and just recently had his first child. You’ll have some fun read with his write-ups and more of his works in his own home!
