The quill knife was originally used to sharpen quills for writing, but as technology advanced, it became a versatile tool for outdoor activities. Modern pen knives feature multiple blades and useful tools such as nail files, toothpicks, and corkscrews. They have even become high tech with LED flashlights and USB sticks.
Dating back to a time when quills and inkwells were common writing tools, the quill knife has gone from an essential desk tool to an all-purpose knife that’s a favorite of many people who love the great outdoors. Here’s some background on the origins of the pen knife and how the knife continues to be used today.
The original function of a pocketknife was to provide a means of sharpening quills which were used in conjunction with ink to create written documents. Penknives were used to cut the end of the pen so as to create a sharp point known as a nib. As the nib wore away, the knife was employed to restore a sharp quill point.
As quills began to be replaced by fountain pens, penknives began to move from the desk to a wider range of uses. Being a small folding knife, the knife was easily portable, making it ideal for use in the home as well as outdoors. During the 20th century, the pen knife began to feature multiple blades, each of which was geared towards specific uses. Along with blades, pocketknives also began to include a number of different devices into the basic design. Considered a relatively safe first knife for boys, receiving a basic pen knife was a popular rite of passage for boys during the mid-20th century.
Today, a pocketknife can present a number of useful tools. Along with the blades, the typical penknife now supplies nail files and toothpicks ideal for quick personal hygiene. Awls and reamers work very well as quick tools for small wood jobs. Scissors and corkscrews are very useful tools both in the kitchen and when camping. Since the beginning of the 21st century, even the pocket knife has become high tech, with the addition of LED flashlights and even USB sticks.
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