Technically what is a "jack"?

[Ernie1980]

I always thought the same as Obsessed with edges. That is the way that my family has always used the term. However, I have heard coworkers refer to a "jack knife" as any folder regardless of blades

 

[thawk]

A "Jack" is a devious type of Fellow, located in the U.K, found lurking around open stalls, sifting through small trinket boxes looking for old knives.

Do they call such fellow the same in the USA? I want to apply for the position.

 

[Double Ott]

In Levine's Guide to Knives and their Values, 4th Edition, Bernard Levine offers this definition:

"JACK KNIFE" is a general term for the simplest form of folding knife. The standard jack knife is single-ended. Its blade or blades are hinged at one end of the handle. There are also a few large heavy-duty double-end jack knife patterns. Double-end jack knives have a large blade in each end.

Small knives with blades pivoted at both ends are called "pen knives." Tiny single-ended knives with just a short pen blade are called "quill knives." Although they are constructed like jack knives, quill knives were the original pen-sharpening knives, so they too are classed as pen knives.

I'll go with Levine's definition. A very wise & knowledgeable fellow.

The classic Jack Knife...TC Barlow



Tom

 

[markpmc]

One or more blades at the same end. Blades of different lengths. Otherwise Trappers are Jacks, but Jacks aren't Trappers are they ?

Of course this makes my GEC #54 Big Jack an Equal End Trapper .....