1. Different Mechanisms, Different Hazards
- Briefly distinguish these knives from retractable knives: the blade is intended to open or move into position, not collapse under pressure.
- A working mechanism adds hazards not present in a fixed-blade prop.
- The mechanism must serve a necessary theatrical effect, not merely novelty.
2. Folding Knives
- Ordinary hinged blades
- The danger of the blade closing unexpectedly
- Locking and non-locking designs
- Pinch and cutting hazards during opening and closing
- Why a folding knife intended for contact choreography must remain securely fixed in its open position
3. Automatic and Gravity Knives
- Switchblades — blades opened by a spring-powered mechanism
- Gravity knives — blades opened by gravity, inertia, or both
- Out-the-front knives — blades traveling through the end of the handle
- Practical differences among the mechanisms
- Reliability, control, and the danger of unintended deployment
- Why a blunt blade does not eliminate the hazards of the mechanism
4. Butterfly Knives
- The divided handle and exposed blade during opening
- Why manipulation requires particular skill and rehearsal
- Pinching, striking, and control hazards
- The difference between a display flourish and practical stage action
5. Converting a Switchblade Comb
- Why a commercial switchblade comb may provide a useful starting mechanism
- Removing or replacing the comb
- Fitting a lightweight theatrical blade
- Blunting and rounding the completed blade
- Ensuring that the substitution does not interfere with the mechanism
- Limitations of the finished prop
6. Mechanism Care and Repair
Only the maintenance peculiar to these props:
- Keep the pivot or sliding mechanism clean
- Use lubrication sparingly
- Check springs, buttons, locks, fasteners, and blade play
- Do not increase spring tension merely to produce a more forceful opening
- Remove the prop from use if the mechanism becomes unreliable
- Leave detailed structural inspection to Checking and Maintaining Knives and Daggers
7. Concealment, Drawing, and Deployment
- Safe placement on the actor or costume
- Preventing accidental opening
- Keeping the mechanism clear of fabric
- Rehearsing the draw, opening, use, closing, and return
- Ensuring that the actor can control the prop without looking at it
- Avoiding concealment methods that place the blade or mechanism against the body
8. Final Practical Rule
- Use a specialty mechanism only when the audience must see that particular action.
- If the opening or transformation is not theatrically important, use a simpler and more dependable prop.
- No mechanism compensates for poor selection, preparation, or rehearsal.