OLFA 18mm Rotary Cutter
Score: 88/100
Lenox Locking Tradesman
Score: 88/100Rankings
The OLFA RTY-4 is the smallest rotary cutter in the brand's lineup, featuring an 18mm blade designed specifically for intricate and detailed cutting tasks. It offers a quick-change blade mechanism and an ergonomic straight handle, making it ideal for precision work in quilting and crafts. It is best suited for quilters and crafters needing precision on small-scale projects.
The Lenox Gold Locking Tradesman Utility Knife is a folding utility tool featuring a secure locking mechanism, ergonomic rubberized grip, and a quick-change blade system at a 45-degree angle. It includes a built-in multi-tool with a bottle opener, screwdriver, pipe reamer, and wire stripper, along with a titanium-coated Lenox Gold blade for extended durability. Ideal for tradesmen and DIY users needing a reliable daily pocket knife.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
18 mm | 19 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 9.07 gbest | 159 g |
140 mmbest | 102 mm |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Blade & Cutting(3) | ||
Blade Type | Rotary | Fixed Blade |
Blade Material | Stainless Steel | Bi-Metal Steel with Titanium Coating |
Blade Width (mm) | 18 mm | 19 mm |
Handle & Ergonomics(4) | ||
Handle Material | Plastic | Aluminum and Rubber |
Handle Type | Straight | Ergonomic |
Overall Length (mm) | 140 mm | 102 mm |
Weight (g) | 9.07 g | 159 g |
Safety & Mechanism(3) | ||
Retractable | true | false |
Locking Mechanism | Button Lock | |
Blade Change Mechanism | Single-Click Quick-Change | Quick Release Button |
Application & Support(2) | ||
Suitable Materials | Fabric, Paper, Craft Materials | Cardboard, General Materials |
Intended Use | Intricate Cutting | Tradesman Daily Carry |
Product testing with quilting, sewing, and craft instructors awarded the OLFA RTY-4 an A+ for intricate cutting tasks such as curved quilting, appliqué, template work, and scrapbooking.
Manufacturer and retailer descriptions emphasize reliability in professional testing, with no user feedback cited.
“daily work carry”
“cannot see using this as a pipe reamer”
“try not to use that as a wire stripper”
Professional reviewers and editors praise the knife's precision, control, and the reliability of its secure lock mechanism. The 45-degree quick-change feature is highlighted as a key efficiency tool for daily carry. However, some testers note that the handle size and lock mechanics present minor drawbacks regarding compactness and intuitive operation.
Everyday users commonly praise the comfortable grip, secure lock, and simple blade swaps, often describing it as a reliable daily work carry. Recurring complaints focus on the bulky folded size and skepticism regarding the practicality of the pipe reamer and wire stripper functions, which many find impractical for heavy use.
