Toward a 3(?) rules of knife safety

[Marlin60Man]

As far as the safety of others is concerned: The Blood Circle

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blood_circle

Keep other people outside of the circle.


The only real rule I observe with knives is not using my hand as a cutting board. Common sense is one thing, but I've seen no shortage of intelligent people try to cut something in their hand, and go straight down through into their palm. Your hand is not a cutting board!

Some might see this as a common sense thing, but on the other hand, some people just don't appreciate how quickly and easily a sharp knife will go through something compared to the average shape of a persons' pocket knife. The first time they're handed a chef's knife, fillet knife, hunting/skinning blade... Yeah, they won't appreciate how sharp it really is.

 

[conw]

Interesting concept M60M. I have never articulated it but definitely stay out of that circle with all but a few people when knives are being used.

 

[twofifty]

Think things through before you act.

 

[twofifty]

or

What if?

 

[JohnKSa]

I'll give it a shot.

Rule 1: When not actually using a knife, sheath it or fold it or otherwise cover/shield the cutting edge. NEVER walk or run with a knife that is opened/unsheathed.

Rule 2: Chopping or vigorous cutting actions should be ALWAYS directed away from body parts. Any time the blade is "aimed" in the general direction of something that shouldn't be cut, the knife should be moved in small controlled motions using ONLY movements of the wrist and hand, NOT the elbow and/or shoulder.

Rule 3: Be aware that blades can break and locking mechanisms can fail. Use your knife so that if it breaks or folds unexpectedly the chance of serious injury is minimized.

 

[GLOOB]

Regarding the NEVER CUT TOWARD YOURSELF rule, I think some people take this too literally. Cutting towards yourself can give you a great amount of control. If you aim it right and keep the tip pointed away and your off thumb clear, it can be very safe. If the knife runs away from you, you'll just thump yourself in the midsection with the butt end, first.