Milwaukee Lineman’s Underground Knife

In the world of utility knives, the Milwaukee Lineman’s Underground Knife stands out for its robust design and practical features. Having put this knife through its paces, I can confidently say that it brings a lot to the table for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

The first thing you notice about this knife is its stout and sturdy build. The stainless steel blade is designed to stay sharp longer, and from my experience, it certainly lives up to that promise. The blade is thick and maintains a keen edge even after repeated use. I found it particularly effective for splicing cable and stripping multi-layer wires, where precision and sharpness are crucial.

One of the standout features of this knife is its ergonomic handle. The handle is long enough to fit comfortably in larger hands, and its tapered design makes it easy to pull or make oblique cuts. This is particularly useful when working with tough materials, as it allows for a secure grip and greater control. The handle's material feels durable and capable of withstanding the rigors of daily use.

Safety is a key consideration with any utility knife, and Milwaukee has addressed this with a durable blade cover. The cover fits snugly over the blade when not in use, reducing the risk of accidental cuts. However, I did find the process of removing and replacing the cover to be a bit cumbersome. It requires a two-handed operation, which can be inconvenient when you're in the middle of a job. The cover also stores in the back of the handle when the knife is in use, which is a clever design feature, but again, it can be a bit tricky to manage one-handed.

The knife includes a loop at the back of the handle, presumably for attaching a lanyard or retainer cord. While this is a nice touch, I was surprised that a lanyard wasn't included with the knife. This small addition could enhance the knife's usability and safety, especially for those who frequently work at heights or in challenging environments.

Durability is another strong point for this knife. The stainless steel blade is not only sharp but also resistant to corrosion, which is a significant advantage for a tool that might be exposed to the elements. The handle, made from tough polycarbonate material, feels like it can withstand a lot of wear and tear. However, it would have been nice if the blade extended the entire length of the handle for added stability and durability.

In terms of performance, the Milwaukee Lineman’s Underground Knife excels in various tasks. I used it to split open heavy-duty wire sheathing, cut through carpet, and even for some gardening tasks like opening bags of mulch and fertilizer. The knife's sharpness and sturdy build made quick work of these tasks, and it was easy to maintain the blade's edge with a simple sharpener.

One of the aspects I appreciate most about this knife is its versatility. It's not just limited to electrical work; it’s a useful addition to any toolkit. Whether you're an electrician, a gardener, or simply someone who needs a reliable utility knife for everyday tasks, this knife delivers.

That said, there are a few areas where the knife could be improved. The sheath design, while functional, could be more user-friendly. A one-handed operation sheath would be a significant upgrade, making the knife more convenient to use in various situations. Additionally, including a lanyard would enhance the knife's safety and usability.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Milwaukee Lineman’s Underground Knife is a solid choice for anyone in need of a durable, sharp, and versatile utility knife. Its ergonomic handle, sharp blade, and practical safety features make it a valuable tool for a wide range of applications.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend the Milwaukee Lineman’s Underground Knife. Its combination of durability, sharpness, and ergonomic design makes it a reliable tool for both professional and personal use. While there is room for some minor improvements, the knife's overall performance and build quality are impressive. If you're looking for a utility knife that can handle tough jobs and stay sharp over time, this knife is definitely worth considering.