This Is What You Get When Aerospace Engineers Design a Pocket Knife

Straightforward tasks call for simple tools. But simple can always be better.

Aerocrafted utility knifeAerocrafted

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Straightforward tasks call for straightforward tools. When it comes to chores like opening boxes, cutting through packaging and scraping away gunk, a simple utility knife usually does the trick.

But even simple products warrant a thorough rethink, which is exactly what a group of aerospace engineers did when designing the Sideslip Utility Knife, now sold under the brand Aerocrafted.

Aerocrafted utility knifeAerocrafted

Editor's Pick

Aerocrafted Sideslip Utility Knife

Aerocrafted Sideslip Utility Knife

The knife, which initially launched with a successfully funded Kickstarter, is comprised of just two parts to keep it as compact and lightweight as possible: a skeletonized frame combines with a small slide that locks into a channel, holding the blade.

Aerocrafted utility knife
Elegance in simplicity: the Sideslip Utility Knife is comprised of just two parts.
Aerocrafted

The latter, made from bronze or Ultem depending on which version you choose, replaces a conventional sliding switch (which so often fail) and promises to develop a natural patina over time.

Meanwhile, the option of Grade 5 titanium or high-strength 7075 aluminum alloy for the frame both present significant upgrades over the plastic you’d find at your big-box hardware store.

machining the Aerocrafted utility knife
The Sideslip Utility Knife is machined in the US from solid materials.
Aerocrafted

Speaking of the blade, that’s the one thing the engineers didn’t fuss with. They built the Sideslip Utility Knife around the trapezoidal blades that you can pick up for mere pennies. What’s more, you can swap one out within seconds without extra tools.

Finally, a built-in pocket clip and key ring hole permit multiple carry options.

EDC knife clip
An integrated clip adds an extra carry option.
Aerocrafted

Pricing and availability

The Sideslip Utility Knife is available now in right- and left-handed configurations, with prices starting at $58 for the aluminum frame and $98 for the titanium and bronze version.

The knife is precision CNC machined from solid materials in the USA. Aerocrafted is based in San Luis Obispo, CA.

Aerocrafted utility knifeAerocrafted

Editor's Pick

Aerocrafted Sideslip Utility Knife