What is the Best Electrician’s Knife of 2023 ? 5 Top Picks

Check out our top picks for the best knives for electricians. We’ve selected a range of knives that are perfect for electricians, including both budget and premium options.

A good electrician’s knife is an absolute gamer-charger no matter if you’re a pro or a DIYer.

You can easily strip away wire with the stainless steel reinforced handle, and it’s lightweight and durable.

Bad electrician knives, on the other hand, have blunt blades and are unable to slice raw spaghetti. I’m not interested.

Electricians cannot live without a good knife in their daily lives. For all the knife snobs out there, we reviewed the top electrician’s knives on the market today.

When it comes to cutting Romex jackets, cutting back insulation from large conductors, scoring drywall, and even opening boxes, an electrician’s knife is indispensable.

The Top Electrician’s Knives Available in 2022, Ranked and Reviewed

This is our ranking of the best electrician’s knives currently available on the market.

1. SOG Kilowatt Folding Knife EL01-CP

The foldable straight edge blade of the SOG Kilowatt has the capability to strip wire quickly in an emergency. The blade is manufactured out of AUS-8 steel, is 3.4 inches in length, has a satin finish, a clip point form, and sports a satin shape. 

There are three types of strippers: a stripper bar, a spring-loaded adjustable stripper, and a hole stripper. There is also a high-voltage tower clip, an insulator thumb, and schematic glass-reinforced nylon grips on the handle. 

Other characteristics include these. It weighs 3.3 ounces total. On this list, it is the item with the highest price tag.

2. Klein Tools 44200 Cable-Splicer

It is a unique short-bladed knife with a full-sized. heavy-duty handle that nonetheless manages to be practical thanks to the knife’s pleasant feel and secure grip. It has a blade in the shape of a coping knife that is 1.75 inches long and is crafted from the highest quality cutlery steel.

 This steel is hard and has a good ability to keep its edge. There is a hang hole provided so that it may be easily transported and stored. It weighs a total of 2.4 ounces.

3. Victorinox Electrician

It has a silver finish and is a tiny multi-tool designed specifically for electricians. There is a big blade, a wire scraper, a wire remover, an electrician’s blade, a bottle opener, and a reamer included in the package. The body of the knife is made of a rust-resistant aluminium alloy, while the blades are made of stainless steel. Only 0.15 pounds is all that it weighs.

4. Morakniv Craftline Electrician Trade Knife

With its short, 1.3-inch blade made of Sandvik stainless steel that is both sharp and robust. This cable stripper and cable scaler may be used with either the right or left hand to strip wires and scale cables. 

The ergonomic handle has been double molded for added strength, and it has a high-friction grip for optimal handling. A finger guard is included for further protection. And the knife is packaged in a plastic sheath that has a belt clip for storage. It is 2.1 ounces in weight.

5. Lansky Utility Electrician

On this list, the pocket knife with an electrician-specific sheepfoot blade measuring three and a third eighth of an inch and an insulated nylon grip is the one that costs the least money. 420 stainless steel was used in the construction of the blade. 

The blade of the knife is specifically designed for use by qualified electricians in stripping cables and completing a variety of other tasks. It is 4 ounces in weight.

An Overview of the Electrician’s Knife

An electrician’s knife is a specially insulated knife that was developed to lower the risk of receiving an electric shock when doing maintenance or other types of repair work. An electrician, however, does not have to restrict themselves to using simply an insulated knife.

 There are also numerous uninsulated solutions available. such as pocket knives and multi-tools, which are the kinds of equipment that the majority of electricians choose to use.

There are a variety of applications for an electrician’s knife. It makes it easier to cut the cables, wires, and conductors. As well as remove the insulating covering from such items. In addition to this, it is useful for drilling holes and cutting boxes that hold electrical equipment. When cutting or removing the insulating layer, care must be taken to ensure that the core wire is not compromised.

For this purpose, the exploitation techniques of taping and stage peeling are often carried out using an electrician’s knife. The edge fillet of its blade is resistant to the core wire, but the blade itself is sharp enough to cut through the cutting layer of the wire.

Can be use

An electrician’s knife may be used for a variety of tasks, including the cutting of wires on a building site. As well as the chipping of wood and bamboo. If you have a piece of high-quality equipment that is capable of performing many functions. You can even saw or carve bamboo and wood with ease.

A knife with this many functions may also be used to screw a hole or drill a hole with less effort. Which makes it easier for thick cables to pass through the hole. Because it may come with certain tools, such as scissors, a saw, a bottle opener, and a ruler. You may even be able to use it to open a bottle in addition to doing other tasks with it.

The insulation at the majority of cable and wire junctions is strengthened with the help of rubber or plastic bands. These bands may be readily severed with the use of a multi-function electrician’s knife.

Read Also: Best Cheap Bushcraft Knives

Evolution

The best electrician’s knives include a locking blade that doubles as a wire remover. In addition to having a spear-shaped blade that can pierce wire insulation. The military TL-29 standard, which is today very hard to come by, served as the inspiration for this design.

It was first included in the design of electrician’s knives during the 1930s and 1940s when these decades were their formative years. 

After many decades, these blades were only produced according to a contract with the government. In most cases, the TL-29 mark may be seen on any electrician’s knife that was provided by the government. The TL in this case refers for Tool for Linemen.

During World War I, the first version of the TL-29 was made available. It had a handle measuring three and a half eighths of an inch and was made of hardwood scales. The original TL-29 also included an internal lock that could be opened by pushing the folding primary blade.

Design

During the 1930s, the design was modified so that it could accommodate a 3.75-inch standard jack, wooden, plastic, or jigged bone scales, and a patented lock from Watson & Chadwick. This lock is a forerunner of the now-famous Liner Lock that Michael Walker developed for his own locking mechanism.

Since the early 1900s, electrician’s knives have been developed to be equally suitable for civilian and military use. Mathias Klein & Sons is not only one of the oldest but also one of the most recognized manufacturers of such knives (M. KLEIN). You may still find several different versions of the TL-29 standard in use today. The one with a blade at each end and a master blade designed in the manner of a sheep foot is by far the most prevalent.

Linseman is another well-known brand, and its knives are often used by electricians. The primary blade of its knife is often a spear master. And the secondary blade, which is a screwdriver blade and functions as a wire remover, is attached to the knife.

Screwdriver

 The screwdriver is held securely in place by a liner lock. There are a few civilian variants that could have a hawkbill blade instead of the master blade, or possibly a third blade. These models are rare.

In a nutshell, electricians may choose between single-blade and multi-blade alternatives for their fans. A screwdriver blade, a hawkbill blade, and a spear point blade comprise what is often referred to as the Janitor’s knife.

Only a few manufacturers typically provide full-sized versions with a master blade designed to resemble a pruner. An additional hooked blade is included, which makes it simple to remove the insulating covering from a thick cable.

Different kinds of blades may be found on electrician’s knives.

If you shop about in the knife market for electrician’s knives. You will probably find that there are a variety of blades available to choose from. Despite their modest length, each of these blades is designed for a particular purpose or set of circumstances.

 If you want to get the most effective electrician’s knife. You will need to be aware of the ways in which it is distinct from its competitors. The following is a rundown of the many options available for the blade of an electrician’s knife.

Coping Blade

This style has a spine that is straight, which helps create lines that are parallel. In addition to that, it has a tip that is both narrow and pointed, making it ideal for stripping cables and opening boxes.

Blade of Sheep’s Foot

This design incorporates a spine that is bent downward and intersects with the edge at the very tip of the blade. The edge itself is straight. The structure is completely risk-free since it lacks a pointed concrete tip that may cause injury.

 Sheep hooves are really trimmed using a sheepsfoot blade, contrary to what the name of the blade may lead one to believe. However, in modern times it is also used for other purposes, including as cutting wood, sharpening knives, and doing delicate electrical work.

Sheepsfoot blades

Sheepsfoot blades are also used for teaching children how to use knives because of its reputation for being safe. Because of this reputation, sheepsfoot blades are also used for cutting ropes aboard ships. It is quite improbable that you would accidentally stab yourself with such a blade if you are on a boat that shakes unexpectedly.

In the case of an electrician’s knife, its blade has been expertly designed to facilitate drilling through a variety of materials in a straightforward manner. The end of the tool has been honed to such a degree that it can easily drill through even the toughest material.

You could also come across something called a sheepsfoot slitting blade in your search for it. The tip of this type is curved, which makes it an excellent choice for doing the intricate trimming. In addition to this, it works well for heavy-duty tasks, such as de-insulating longer cables.

Blade with a Spear Point

This design has a symmetrical, linear layout with a pointed edge and a straight tip at the end. The line that divides the tip from the center of the axis is parallel to the tip. This kind of blade is typically constructed with two cutting edges and is used mostly for piercing. 

It is also known as one of the daggers, given that the name “dagger” may refer to a variety of various sorts of blades depending on the culture in question.

Because of the many improvements that have been achieved over the course of the last several years, it is now possible to get a wide variety of single and double-edge models on both fixed and folding models.

 The design, on the other hand, does not lend itself well to being carried about on a daily basis and is more suited for use in tactical or combat variants.

Despite this, a blade with a spear tip may easily slice through even the toughest material when used for electrical work.

Hawk Bill or Pruner Blade

In the beginning, the hawkbill, also known as the pruner blade, was used as a hook for collecting various agricultural goods like grapes. When it came to trimming fruit trees, a larger size was optimal. 

However, the same blade found its way into the electrical industry when linoleum was invented, for which the invention of a simple method of cutting became required. This led to the development of the electrical saw. In modern times, it is also put to use for the purpose of removing the insulation from the ends.

Hawk Bill

The presence of a hawkbill blade on the knife you’re holding is often indicative of it being a pruner. In addition to its usage for pruning and the removal of electrical insulation, a pruning knife may be put to good use for the slicing of linoleum, string, carpet, and roofing paper, among other materials.

Pruner Blade

A pruning knife has the appearance of a big jack that has been curled. The size and form of the cutting blades are the primary distinguishing characteristics of various types of pruners. 

The most common type of variation can be seen at the ends: some of them have heads that are flat, while others have heads that are rounded. The pruning saw is a second blade that comes with certain pruning knives. The majority of pruning knives, however, only have one blade.

Knives in the hawkbill type, which are shaped like a hawk’s nail and are frequently carried by experienced electricians, may be easily recognized. When stripping the wire toward yourself, the curved edge of the blade is great for preventing the wire from sliding off the blade and falling into your hands.

 This kind of knife may be the appropriate model for stripping huge conductors, while the tip of the blade is just what you need to remove the non-metallic sheathing from the cable.

You could also encounter a curved hawk blade every once in a while. Because of its curved design, it is much simpler to cut through wires in order to remove their insulation.

Varieties of Knives Used by Electricians

When it comes to shopping for an electrician’s knife, you will discover that they are often divided into two primary types: utility knives and pocket knives.

Utility Knives Designed for Electricians

These blades are often put to use in activities that are connected to the building and trade industries. Because they are equipped with a razor blade that may be removed after prolonged usage, professionals in the field of electrical work often refer to them as “razor knives.”

 In some versions, the razor blade may be accessed by removing a screw that is located on the handle. Within the handle of the knife is a storage compartment that may be used to carry extra blades.

If money is tight, you are not limited in the utility knife that you may get. You won’t have any trouble finding a large pack of blades at a price that’s on par with other vendors.

 A utility knife does not need any sharpening, which is another advantage of using one. Simply changing the blade of the razor should fix the problem.

Knives Designed for Use in Electrician’s Pockets

The vast majority of electricians do not typically carry pocket knives for their day-to-day work because of safety concerns. Nevertheless, it is most helpful during the period known as “trim out,” during which the electricians do not maintain all of the gear.

 They carry just a handful of them for trimming the switches and plugs, which is something that can be accomplished with a pocket knife in an effective manner.

 It is helpful to have a pocket knife since it can cut through Romex sheathing in a flash and greatly reduce the load that the tool belt is carrying. Most importantly, it can be slipped into a pocket without any difficulty!

Finding the Right Knife for Your Job as an Electrician

When searching for an electrician’s knife, there are a few things to keep in mind so that you may choose the appropriate instrument. One way to understand what is meant by the phrase “the appropriate tool” is as “the tool that meets your demands.” Therefore, the first step is to accurately assess what it is that you need.

Your Own Requirements

There is no need that every single electrician has the same demands. On the other hand, they might be quite different from one another or very similar. Some electricians, for instance, like having a model that can be folded up and is lightweight, while others favor having a model that is set in length and is lengthy. 

The latter group does not want to walk about with a hefty pocket and needs such a model in order to undertake occupations that require a lot of lifting.

Blade Style

This is a fixed style as opposed to a folding one. How you want to carry your knife should completely guide your decision between these three sheath types. Folding knives are often shorter and have thicker blades than their fixed counterparts. Which tend to be longer and have a thinner blade.

In addition, the fixed blades do not need a locking mechanism, although they do need a sheath in order to be carried securely. In a similar manner, the folding knives may be stored away in the pocket with ease. If you anticipate using the knife often, a pocket-sized folding electrician’s knife could be the best option for you.

Size and Weight (May Have Legal Consequences)

If you want to be able to carry an electrician’s knife with you every day, it ought to have as little weight as feasible. Having said that, at the same time, its size has to be suitable as well. 

The optimal weight, out of all those that are accessible, is between three and five ounces since it is not only absolutely light but also does not add extra weight to the pocket even if it contains other items. Therefore, going with a device that’s easier on the body makes sense.

Despite this, there are also heavier variants available that weigh up to 4.5 and 4 ounces respectively. If you are interested in attempting a model like this, you have the option to choose it. 

However, familiarise yourself with the rules and legislation that govern the area. This is due to the fact that certain jurisdictions do not let citizens carry knives without a valid reason.

It is a well-known fact that carrying a blade in several states is against the law. Therefore, there exist laws that specify the maximum allowable blade lengths for both professionals and non-professionals to carry at any one time.

Law

 Legally speaking, it is against the law to carry a blade longer than four inches in length in public areas. Despite the fact that such a blade is required for outdoor and heavy-duty jobs.

It is OK to carry any knife with a blade that is between three and four inches in length. These knives have more flexibility, allowing them to manage both labor-intensive tasks and intricate cutting. A knife with a blade that is three inches long is a tool that is ideal for everyday usage. Therefore, you need to take into consideration the length of the open blade in order to determine whether or not it is legal and how successfully the duties will be completed.

A helpful piece of advice is to choose a length that is no more than 3.5 inches in length. As this will result in an overall knife length that is anywhere between 7 and 8 inches. In general, their blades are not very heavy.

 If you go for a knife that’s longer than 20 centimetres (8 inches). You may have to give up some of the portability advantages of a shorter blade. Be aware, though, that any blade weighing less than three ounces is not only very thin but also very light.

One further thing to bear in mind is that you should try to avoid purchasing a blade that is as large as it possibly can be. 

You should be aware that the length of the blade is an element that may be customized to meet the requirements that are unique to you. If you want greater control, a shorter length is excellent. But if you want more reach, a longer one is best.

Blade Material

It is the composition of the blade’s building material that determines its level of hardness, durability, and ease with which it can keep its edge. It should be able to withstand the wear and tear that comes with regular usage. Please take into consideration the following materials:

Materials

• High-carbon steel has the ability to keep a superb edge while also being simple to sharpen. If there is a higher concentration of carbon, it will be more brittle despite its increased hardness. The fact that it is susceptible to rust and discoloration is a drawback, but the fact that its performance is unaffected is a plus.
• Stainless steel has all of the beneficial properties of high-carbon steel, but there is no chance that it may rust or discolor with time. Because of the high degree of hardness, the edge will remain for a longer period of time. The main drawback is that it requires a fair amount of work to sharpen. The degree of the material’s abrasiveness is proportional to the quantity of carbon present. When there is an excessive amount, sharpening is not an option. In the same vein, if it is insufficient of it, it is susceptible to rusting.
• Titanium is superior to steel in terms of its durability and weight, as well as its ease of sharpening and ability to keep an edge for far longer than steel. Because of this, it is the perfect material for an all-purpose knife. The advantages of using a knife made entirely of titanium, as opposed to one that is coated in titanium or has a titanium edge, are enhanced to a greater degree.
• Ceramics is superior to steel in terms of edge retention and edge retention time. It is lightweight, strong, and resistant to chemical reactions. On the other hand, it breaks easier than steel does.

AUS8 and 8CR13Mov

AUS8 and 8CR13Mov are two high-quality sheets of steel. That are recognized for their great edge retention and resistance to corrosion. Other high-quality steels that are known for their good edge retention and corrosion resistance include 420HC, VG-10 (for those on a budget), and 154CM (upscale).

Hardness

A Rockwell machine uses a scale that ranges from A to C to determine hardness. This scale also indicates the depth of penetration. A larger scale indicates less penetration and a bigger increase in the steel’s hardness. In most cases, the rating for steel falls somewhere on the C scale between RC 55 and RC 60.

Handle Material

Your electrician’s knife has to have a handle that is both long-lasting and capable of soaking up moisture. In addition to this, it needs to have the appropriate texture for a secure grip. 

All of these advantages are a direct result of the material that is used to make the handle, which may be anything from plastic to fiberglass. Consider the following materials if you want to avoid accidents and have a strong grip:

Materials

• Carbon Fiber is a robust material that is also aesthetically pleasing. It has layers that alternate and are composed of plastic, making it very durable.
• Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon (FRN) is a material that is robust, efficient, and long-lasting, but its appearance is unattractive. It provides a superb hold on the hand.
• Zytel is not only inexpensive, but it is also indestructible, abrasion- and impact-resistant, and long-lasting. In addition to this, it provides a superior grip compared to the alternatives.
• G10 and Micarta are composites that, like fiberglass, are made up of many layers of a different material. Micarta is made from of compressed linen resin, whereas G10 is made out of fiberglass. In spite of this, both are robust and long-lasting. G10, on the other hand, is tougher than Micarta despite its low weight and resistance to water.
• Metal is often made of stainless steel and titanium, and it is the most expensive of the three alternatives presented here. Even metal may be purchased, but the material does not provide a comfortable grip.
• Titanium is a metal that is lightweight, very robust, and resistant to corrosion; yet, it does not have a pleasing appearance.
• Delrin is renowned for its long-lasting properties.
• When used in knives designed for electricians, nylon has a rubber grip and exhibits a high degree of impact resistance. Additionally, nylon is insulated.

Protective Measures

Locking mechanisms are one of the most important safety characteristics that should be looked for. If you are looking to purchase a folding pocket knife for an electrician, this function is very necessary.

 The majority of electricians’ pocket knives are equipped with a dependable liner-style lock as standard equipment. When the blade is in the open position, the liner lock does its job by preventing it from being accidentally opened.

The ergonomic finger guard is another characteristic that you should seek. It makes handling safer and reduces the risk of injuries occurring. If you are a lefty, a double-ground spur is another viable safety alternative for you to consider.

Closing Remarks

We really hope that our buying advice will assist you in getting started with your search for the ideal knife.

In addition to doing so, kindly read the reviews that can be found on marketplaces such as amazon.com. Please leave a remark or question below if you have any queries or thoughts.