A comprehensive guide to collecting, maintaining, appreciating, and using modern folding pocketknives safely, carefully, and legally. The ever-reliable traditional pocketknife has changed immensely over the last few decades. New technologies and production methods have led to the development of new designs and shapes. This book gives a complete overview of the fascinating world of modern pocketknivesboth practical and tactical versionsand answers many questions, including How are modern pocketknives constructed? How do the different locks work? When makes a blade cut welland what doesn’t? What do steel designations and related metal properties mean? What are the advantages and disadvantages of different handle materials? How do different opening mechanisms work? What are the advantages and disadvantages of various clips? There is a chapter devoted to safely carrying and using your folding knives. And a special section contains an in-depth discussion of the pros and cons of knife and weapons bans and the legal ramifications of carrying and using pocketknives in different areas of the world. For every current or aspiring knife collectoror anyone with a keen appreciation of the elegant design and artistry of modern folding knivesthis book contains everything youll ever want to know.By Thomas LaibleThomas Laible is a historian and the editor ofWeapons: Internal Market. He has been working for more than two decades with swords, daggers, and knives and is the author of numerous books and numerous articles. He lives in Germany.330+ color and black-and-white photos and diagramsThe Complete Guide to Modern Pocketknives330+ color and black-and-white photos and diagrams