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Utility Knives & Blades
Browse utility knives and replacement blades for scoring plasterboard, trimming flooring and opening packaging. Choose from fixed, folding, retractable and snap-off knives, plus standard, hooked and 18mm snap-off blades. When choosing replacement blades, check the blade type and size against your knife’s specifications.
Choosing a Fixed, Retractable or Folding Utility Knife
The way a knife opens and holds its blade makes a difference when you use it throughout the day. A retractable utility knife lets you adjust the exposed blade length and withdraw it into the handle after cutting. A folding utility knife closes into a compact body for storage. For regular work, also look at the grip, blade-changing mechanism and space for spare blades.
The OX Trade Shark Heavy Duty Fixed Blade Utility Knife is a fixed blade option with a metal body and quick-release access for blade changes. It includes 10 SK5 blades and a holster, with storage inside the handle for spares.
Getting a Clean Score on Plasterboard
For straight cuts in standard plasterboard, score the face paper with a sharp knife, snap the board along the scored line, then cut through the backing paper. You do not need to push the blade through the full thickness of the gypsum core. Check the board manufacturer’s instructions before cutting specialist boards, as the method can differ.
Measure and mark the line before starting, then guide the blade along a suitable straightedge. Our measuring and layout tools can help with setting out board sizes and checking dimensions before you cut. A clear cut line and a sharp edge make it easier to work accurately when fitting boards around a room.
Snap-Off Knives for Everyday Trimming
A snap-off knife gives you several cutting edges on one segmented blade. As the exposed section becomes blunt, it can be removed to reveal a fresh edge. This is useful for repeated light cutting, such as opening packaging, trimming tape and cutting suitable thin plastics.
The OX Trade Snap-Off Utility Knife 18mm with Slide Lock has a lightweight ABS body, adjustable blade extension and a built-in blade snapper in the removable end cap. It accepts standard 18mm snap-off blades, making it straightforward to find replacements when the blade is used up.
Matching Replacement Blades to Your Knife
Start with the blade format when choosing replacements. Standard utility knife blades, hook blades and segmented snap-off blades are different types, so check which your knife accepts. Confirm the dimensions and any compatibility information as well; blades from the same brand will not necessarily fit every knife in its range.
The OX Pro Snap-Off Utility Knife Blades SK5 Steel 18mm - Pack of 10 fits compatible 18mm snap-off knives and comes in a storage dispenser. For knives that take standard replacement blades, OX Heavy Duty packs are available in quantities of 10 or 100. Choose the pack size around how often you cut and how many knives you need to keep supplied.
FAQs
What is a utility knife used for?
A utility knife is used for cutting, trimming and scoring materials during building, decorating and everyday repairs. Typical jobs include opening cardboard packaging, cutting tape and scoring paper-faced plasterboard before snapping it to size. For flooring, plastics and other sheet materials, check that both the knife and blade are suitable for the cut.
How do I choose the right utility knife?
Choose a utility knife that accepts the blade type needed for your usual cutting tasks. A retractable model withdraws the blade into the handle, a folding knife closes into a compact body, and a fixed blade knife holds the blade in its working position. For regular use, compare grip comfort, blade retention, ease of blade changes and storage for spare blades.
Are utility knife blades universal?
No, utility knife blades are not all interchangeable, even when they come from the same brand. Check your knife’s specifications for the accepted blade shape, fitting and dimensions before choosing standard straight or hooked replacement blades. Snap-off knives need the specified segmented blade format and width, such as 18mm, with compatibility confirmed for the model.
What is a snap-off knife, and when is it useful?
A snap-off knife has a blade divided into scored segments, allowing a worn section to be removed to expose a fresh cutting edge. It is useful for repeated trimming and cutting tasks, such as opening packaging and cutting tape or other suitable thin materials. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when removing segments, use the recommended snapping tool and dispose of broken sections in a suitable sharps container.
Can I cut plasterboard with a utility knife?
Yes, standard paper-faced plasterboard can be cut with a sharp utility knife using the score-and-snap method. Measure and mark the cut, score the front paper along a suitable straightedge, snap the supported board along the scored line, then cut through the backing paper. Check the manufacturer’s cutting instructions for specialist or insulated boards, as the same method may not suit every product.