This Unique Pocket Knife Found a Clever Way to Skirt the TSA

Aerohart’s new Howland XL is inspired by one of America’s most legendary, and enigmatic, aviation pioneers.

Published September 9, 2024

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Updated September 12, 2024

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For those of us who regularly tote a pocket knife, flying comes with an extra headache. You’ve either gotta remember to stash that EDC item in your checked luggage or, if you are flying with a carry-on only, leave it at home. Enough of us forget, however, that there’s an active online marketplace dedicated to selling a variety of “dangerous items” that organizations like the TSA have confiscated.

There are plenty of utility knives out there with disposable blades that are just as TSA-friendly. But the Howland XL stands out for two reasons: The durable, corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel frame looks finely machined, and it’s a flipper.

Having been through the experience ourselves, we know how painful that moment of gear surrender can be. But here’s some good news: a crowdfunded pocket knife offers a smart solution that should come in quite handy if you get to the airport only to realize you still have your EDC folder on you. It’s called the Howland XL, and the key is a blade that’s a bit different.

Aerohart Howland XL

Starts at $70

Aerohart Howland XL

The source of this project? A little outfit called Aerohart, which has a track record of about a dozen beautifully crafted, flight-oriented products. The Howland XL is in fact the third pocket knife to carry that moniker – following the original Howland Knife and the Howland Knife Reborn — which honors Amelia Earhart.

Located in the central Pacific, Howland Island was to be the last stop on Earhart’s circumnavigation of the globe, before she and navigator Fred Noonan disappeared on July 2, 1937, sparking a mystery that endures to this day.

But we digress. What distinguishes this third Howland is its replaceable #60 scalpel carbon steel blade. Commonly used in the medical profession, this type of blade is surprisingly sharp and precise, not to mention affordable (we just found a 100-pack on Amazon for $40).

Now, obviously there are plenty of utility knives out there with disposable blades. But the Howland XL stands out for two reasons: The durable, corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel frame looks finely machined, and it’s a flipper.

howland-xl-pocket-knife-gif — The Howland XL offers seemingly seamless rear flipper deployment.

These elements bode well for a smooth and satisfying deployment experience, and a knife that’s a bit more versatile than a typical utility knife, which is great for opening boxes but maybe not ideal for, say, slicing an apple.

The knife is stabilized with a liner lock, meaning it’s a one-hand opening, two-hand closing kind of deal. It’s a fairly small wonder, weighing just 1.6 ounces, with a closed length of roughly 3.7 inches and an open length of just under 6.8 inches.

The design evolved from the original Howland, which was itself based on a bit of history. In 2007, a team searching for Earhart found the remains of an “Easy Open” Jackknife on Nikumaroro Island, which is located near Howland.

easy open jackknives — The remains of the “Easy Open” Jackknife recovered near Howland Island, alongside an intact model.

The knife was manufactured sometime between 1930 and 1945 and matches one mentioned in Earhart’s manifest. While further research indicates it’s not in fact, her knife, the discovery only added to the mythology surrounding her final flight.

Meanwhile, in 2024, the real beauty of the Howland XL is the potential forgiveness it may offer (see editor’s note below) if you happen to forgetfully leave it on your keychain on your next trip. The blade can easily be detached and discarded, meaning you can relax knowing you can pick up a fresh one on the other end of your next flight.

howland-xl-blade-detach — The #60 scalpel carbon steel blade can be detached and discarded in seconds.

Editor’s Note: In light of consideration over what sort of knife housing can pass TSA muster, here’s what Transportation Security Officer Larry Britton, a TSA veteran and OJT (on-the-job) coach, has to say.

“Current Standard Operating Procedure has a change that forbids a TSO from removing any removable blade from a tool such as a utility knife or other tools like Howland XL. It was changed to prevent possible injury from these often very extremely sharp blades. The whole item is either voluntarily abandoned, or a TSO will escort the passenger out of the checkpoint, where the passenger can place it in checked baggage, return it to the passenger’s vehicle, give it to a person not traveling, or dispose of the blade safely at sharps disposal stations located in airport restrooms.”

It’s also worth clarifying that housings for utility blades are not allowed through security, while bladeless multitools and safety razors are, according to the TSA’s current guidelines. Ultimately, it’s up to the discretion of the agent whether or not housing for a surgical blade qualifies for your carry-on. For everyone’s safety and peace of mind, be sensitive to the TSO’s position and prepared to comply with their instructions.

Availability and pricing

Currently funding on Kickstarter, the Aerohart Howland XL can be procured for an Early Bird pledge of $70, with an estimated delivery of November 2024.