1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the STANLEY 10-499 QuickChange Retractable Blade Utility Knife. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use, maintenance, and care of your utility knife. Please read these instructions carefully before operation and retain them for future reference.

This image displays four units of the Stanley 10-499 QuickChange Retractable Blade Utility Knife. Each knife features a durable grey metal body with yellow accents for the blade release button and lanyard loop. The retractable blade is partially extended on each knife, showcasing the design.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Utility knives are extremely sharp and can cause severe injury if not handled properly. Always exercise caution.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety gloves and eye protection.
- Keep fingers and body parts away from the blade's path.
- Ensure the blade is fully retracted when not in use.
- Store the knife in a secure location, out of reach of children and unauthorized users.
- Do not use the knife for prying or as a screwdriver.
- Inspect the blade for damage before each use. Replace dull or damaged blades immediately.
- Dispose of used blades safely in a designated sharps container.
3. Package Contents
- STANLEY 10-499 QuickChange Retractable Blade Utility Knife (Quantity as purchased, e.g., 4-pack)
- Standard Utility Blades (Quantity as included, e.g., 3 blades per knife)
4. Setup: Blade Installation and Replacement
The STANLEY 10-499 features a QuickChange mechanism for easy blade replacement without tools.
- Retract Blade: Ensure the existing blade is fully retracted into the knife body.
- Press Release Button: Locate the yellow quick-change button on the side of the knife body. Press and hold this button firmly.
- Remove Old Blade: While holding the button, carefully pull the old blade straight out from the front of the knife. Dispose of the old blade safely.
- Insert New Blade: With the quick-change button still pressed, insert a new standard utility blade (e.g., Stanley 11-911, 11-921, 11-931, 11-961, 11-983, or ASB blades 11-937, 11-939, 11-987) into the blade slot until it clicks into place.
- Release Button: Release the quick-change button. Gently tug on the blade to ensure it is securely locked.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Extending and Retracting the Blade
The knife offers three retractable blade positions for various cutting depths.
- Extend Blade: Push the yellow slider button forward along the top of the knife body to extend the blade to the desired cutting position. You will feel it click into place at each of the three positions.
- Retract Blade: Pull the yellow slider button backward until the blade is fully retracted into the knife body. Ensure it locks in the fully retracted position when not in use.
5.2 Using the Integrated String Cutter
An integrated string cutter is available for quick cuts when the main blade is retracted.
- Ensure the main blade is fully retracted.
- Locate the small notch with a sharp edge near the front of the knife, typically on the underside or side, designed for string cutting.
- Carefully place the string or thin cord into the notch and pull to cut.
6. Blade Storage
The STANLEY 10-499 includes swing-out blade storage for convenient access to spare blades.
- Locate the small latch or pivot point on the knife body, usually near the rear.
- Swing open the storage compartment to access or store spare blades.
- Ensure the compartment is securely closed after storing or retrieving blades.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the knife body to remove debris, dust, or residue that may hinder blade movement. Use a dry cloth or a brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
- Lubrication: A small amount of light oil can be applied to the blade slider mechanism if it becomes stiff, ensuring smooth operation.
- Blade Condition: Always use sharp blades. Dull blades require more force, increasing the risk of slippage and injury.
8. Troubleshooting
- Blade not retracting/extending smoothly:
- Check for debris in the blade channel. Clean as described in the Maintenance section.
- Ensure the blade is not bent or damaged. Replace if necessary.
- Apply a small amount of lubricant to the slider mechanism.
- Blade feels loose:
- Ensure the blade is correctly seated and the quick-change button has fully engaged. Remove and re-insert the blade.
- If the issue persists, the knife may be damaged and should be replaced.
9. Specifications
| Brand | STANLEY |
| Model Number | 10-499 |
| Handle Material | Metal |
| Blade Material | Metal |
| Blade Type | Retractable Utility Blade |
| Blade Positions | 3 |
| Blade Change | QuickChange (Tool-free) |
| Integrated Features | String Cutter, Blade Storage, Hang-hole |
| Color | Grey |
| Item Weight | Approximately 1 Pound (per 4-pack) |
10. Support and Warranty
For product support, replacement parts, or warranty information, please contact STANLEY customer service or visit the official STANLEY website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
STANLEY Official Website: www.stanleytools.com