1. Introduction
The Starrett Hidden Edge Utility Knife (Model S011) is designed for safe and efficient cutting tasks. Its innovative design keeps the blade safely retracted when not in use, minimizing the risk of accidental cuts. The knife features a quick-release mechanism for instant blade access and a thumb wheel for precise cutting depth adjustment. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use, maintenance, and care of your utility knife.
Figure 1.1: Starrett Hidden Edge Utility Knife, Model S011. This image shows the overall design of the utility knife with its blade retracted, highlighting its compact and safe form factor.
Key Features:
- Enhanced Safety: Blade remains hidden when not in use, reducing injury risk.
- Quick & Convenient: User-friendly safety lock and lever for instant blade exposure.
- Precision Cutting Depth Control: Thumb wheel allows for smooth and accurate depth adjustments.
- Tool-Free Blade Changes: Fast and easy blade replacement without disassembling the knife.
- Durable Construction: Made with aluminum case material for long-lasting performance.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Utility knives are sharp and can cause severe injury. Always exercise extreme caution when handling, using, or changing blades.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as cut-resistant gloves and eye protection, when using or handling the knife.
- Keep the blade retracted when the knife is not in active use.
- Ensure the safety lock is engaged when carrying or storing the knife.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not attempt to cut materials beyond the knife's intended capacity.
- Always cut away from your body.
- Dispose of used blades safely in a designated sharps container.
- Proposition 65 Warning: This product may expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
3. Setup and Blade Installation
The Starrett Hidden Edge Utility Knife is designed for quick and tool-free blade changes. Spare blades can be conveniently stored within the knife's lever.
Blade Installation/Replacement:
- Ensure the blade is fully retracted and the safety lock is engaged.
- Locate the quick-release mechanism for the blade. This is typically a button or lever on the knife body.
- Press or activate the quick-release mechanism to eject the old blade or open the blade housing.
- Carefully insert a new standard utility knife blade into the housing, ensuring it is properly seated.
- Release the quick-release mechanism to secure the new blade in place. Verify the blade is firmly held before use.
Figure 3.1: Features and Specifications overview. This graphic highlights key features such as the hidden blade, easy-to-use safety lock, thumb wheel for depth adjustment, and fast, tool-free blade changes, which are crucial for setup and operation.
4. Operating Instructions
The Starrett Hidden Edge Utility Knife offers intuitive operation for various cutting tasks.
Extending and Retracting the Blade:
- To extend the blade, first release the safety lock.
- Squeeze the lever towards the knife body. The blade will instantly extend to its cutting position.
- To retract the blade, release the pressure on the lever. The blade will automatically retract back into the handle.
- Engage the safety lock once the blade is fully retracted for secure storage.
Figure 4.1: Operating the knife. This image demonstrates a hand holding the utility knife with the blade extended, ready for cutting, illustrating the ease of use of the safety lock and lever mechanism.
Adjusting Cutting Depth:
The cutting depth can be easily and accurately adjusted using the thumb wheel.
- Locate the thumb wheel on the side of the knife.
- Rotate the thumb wheel to adjust the desired blade extension for your cutting task. Turning it one way will increase the exposed blade length, and the other way will decrease it.
- Test the cutting depth on a scrap piece of material before making your final cut to ensure accuracy.
Figure 4.2: Thumb wheel for depth adjustment. This image provides a close-up view of the utility knife, specifically highlighting the thumb wheel mechanism used for precise control over the cutting depth.
5. Maintenance
Proper maintenance will ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Starrett Hidden Edge Utility Knife.
- Cleaning: After each use, wipe down the knife body with a dry cloth to remove any dust, debris, or residue. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Blade Replacement: Replace blades regularly as they become dull. A dull blade requires more force to cut, increasing the risk of slippage and injury. Refer to Section 3 for blade replacement instructions.
- Storage: Store the knife in a dry place, with the blade fully retracted and the safety lock engaged, away from moisture and corrosive materials.
- Inspection: Periodically inspect the knife for any signs of damage, wear, or loose parts. Do not use the knife if it appears damaged.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your utility knife.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Blade does not extend or retract smoothly. | Debris in blade channel; worn mechanism; incorrect blade installation. | Clean blade channel; ensure blade is correctly installed; if mechanism is worn, consider replacement. |
| Blade is loose or wobbly. | Improper blade installation; incorrect blade type; worn blade housing. | Re-install blade correctly; ensure you are using standard utility blades; if housing is worn, consider replacement. |
| Difficulty cutting. | Dull blade; incorrect cutting depth; material too thick. | Replace blade; adjust cutting depth using the thumb wheel; ensure material is suitable for a utility knife. |
If you encounter issues not listed here or if the suggested solutions do not resolve the problem, please contact Starrett customer support.
7. Specifications
Detailed specifications for the Starrett Hidden Edge Utility Knife Model S011.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | S011 |
| Brand | Starrett |
| Material | Aluminum (Case, Handle, Blade) |
| Color | Black, Grey |
| Item Length | 6.5 Inches |
| Item Weight | 7.36 ounces (approx. 208.6 grams) |
| Style | Retractable |
| UPC | 636123578548, 049659675849, 049659511871 |
8. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information:
The Starrett Hidden Edge Utility Knife (Model S011) comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover damage resulting from misuse, abuse, alteration, or normal wear and tear.
Customer Support:
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or general inquiries, please contact Starrett customer support through their official website or the contact information provided with your purchase. Please have your model number (S011) and proof of purchase ready when contacting support.
Visit the official Starrett website for more information: www.starrett.com
