Customer Reviews

Irwin Industrial Tools 2081200 ProTouch Fixed Utility Knife

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I've tried a lot of different utility knives and this one is by far the best. The overmolded handle is comfortable and the shape is perfect. This is a fixed blade knife, so be careful with it. That said, fixed blades are nice because they don't wiggle and there's no danger of them slipping back in the handle when you're cutting. This is the one that I grab in my workshop the most -- definitely my favorite.

After doing on-line research of everything that's available to slice and dice the 1000 sq. feet of carpeting that I planned to remove, I bought the Irwin 2081200 Utility Knife and an extra package of the Irwin dual blades. It cut through the carpeting and pad like butter without causing tendonitus. The enlarged grip is much more comfortable than that typically found on utility knives; eliminating the need to over-grip. The angle of the handle maximizes cutting efficiency. For my application I considered the lack of retractability to be a plus; I didn't have to worry about the blade retracting under pressure. The blades are as advertized; sharper and last longer. The combination is definitely worth the extra cost.

This is a great fixed-blade (non-retractable) utility knife. If you are looking for a retractable utility knife, Irwin makes those as well. Being non-retractable does not make a utility knife dangerous. Some blades, such as scoring blades, cannot be used in retractable handles. Also, fixed-blade handles hold the blade more securely than retractable handles. I use both types, depending on the application.

I bought this knife because it was on the The Old House list of recommendations for gifts. People buying the knife should be aware that the blade does not retract. I think this is a serious safety issue.