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Source: https://outdoors.stackexchange.com/q/9456
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

<p>A lot of knife owners who have carried pocket knives for 30+ years talk very fondly of the traditional patterns, like Barlow, stockman, etc. However when it comes to explaining exactly why they carry their old knives over newer styles, it usually comes out something like "sometimes you just want a plain old fashioned knife," or "they don't make 'em like they used to."</p>

<p>I'm trying to come up with a reason why they keep saying that (and there must be a reason right?), but here are the only advantages I can see of an old fashioned pocket knife:
1. Build quality/finish
2. Availability of carbon steel blades, if that's your thing. </p>

<p>Whereas a modern "tactical folder" design like the one I currently carry (which at 2.5" blade is decidedly non-tactical in reality) has several advantages:
1. Pocket clip
2. 1-hand opening with thumb stud etc. 
3. Easy cleaning inside the open frame
4. 1-hand closing with liner lock and other blade locks not found on traditional knives
5. Screw assembly allows for easy disassembly if required, or re-tension of the joint if the blade gets loose</p>

<p>In order for me to switch to a traditional knife pattern I would have to find somewhere to carry it, in a belt sheath or at the bottom of a pocket that's already full (I carry a leatherman and flashlight as well), and getting the knife out and opening it would take 2 hands. I love the classic looks of the wooden scales and shiny bolsters, but my knife is a practical tool, and utility comes first. I'm not trying to start an argument, but there has to be something about old folders that I'm missing. Can someone clue me in?</p>

<p>And lastly, let me be clear: this is for everyday use around the home and office, opening packages, cutting threads, paper, food (I once at an entire steak with nothing but my EDC knife because that's what I had on hand and nobody thought to bring knives/forks), etc. I'm not planning on skinning game or surviving in the wilderness with my EDC knife. </p>