Siu, if the Impel is anything like the size of other sub 2" automatics I've handled, I'd say they make good box cutters and serve well for other similar activities. When it comes to other things you might want to use a knife for, I'd say they come up short. *proud of myself* That's just my opinion though.

The fact that it's an automatic just clouds the real issue. Whether or not a knife is too short depends on what you use it for, not its opening mechanism. So if you're considering one for practical reasons, ask yourself why you're looking at a <2" blade at all.

I'd agree that for a general purpose tool, being less than 2" is a limiting factor. Of course, the practical side is not the only reason for its popularity. Having an automatic mechanism makes it a neat gadget, but not necessarily a better cutter.

The reason I'm looking at the Impel is for two reasons:

1. It's legal to carry where I live. Anything more than 2" is a no no.

2. It's hella cute.

I CAN get a larger auto easily but if I cannot bring it places, no use in getting one.

Thanks for your comments, Chang. Makes sense. I still have my Mini Barrage that can satisfy those needs.

I understand and agree with both points, but it makes me wonder why you're worried that it may be too small. Too small for what? Arguably its size is part of what makes it cute. And you already have a backup for jobs where a larger blade would be more appropriate.

Too small for everyday use.

I'm not trying to be mean here, but I'm just trying to understand the issue. Its usefulness as an EDC tool is exactly what I intended to address with my first reply above. It probably is too small to be a general purpose everyday tool, but ultimately that's based on what you need to cut day to day. However, the size grants it both its legality and aesthetics. Your stated reasons don't include "being appropriate for as many jobs as possible" and you've got another knife for bigger tasks. The downside, while real, isn't very relevant. I'd say get it! =)

quote:

Your stated reasons don't include "being appropriate for as many jobs as possible" and you've got another knife for bigger tasks. The downside, while real, isn't very relevant. I'd say get it! =)

Please excuse me for not being clear. I've got two knives that are safe queens, the others I use. I meant to use the Impel should I get it. I should have stated that. I will usually use my knives for work and it seems to be too small. If I were to get it for that purpose, I'd still have to bring another knife.

Maybe it's because I usually carry at least three knives at any one time, but I wouldn't go anywhere without my little Impel now. In fact, living here in South Florida, it may wind up being my only carry knife on those extremely hot days where the lightest clothing could make larger, heavier knives difficult to carry.

And if anyone is thinking it's too small because of the photo I posted, don't let that put you off. I have really big hands and, unfortunately for me everything looks small in them!

Gotcha, if you're planning on it being a 1-knife EDC solution, you might end up wishing it were bigger. Hopefully there's a knife store somewhere in the Bay Area where you can check one out in person! =)

quote:

Originally posted by TheDoctor:
Maybe it's because I usually carry at least three knives at any one time, but I wouldn't go anywhere without my little Impel now. In fact, living here in South Florida, it may wind up being my only carry knife on those extremely hot days where the lightest clothing could make larger, heavier knives difficult to carry.

And if anyone is thinking it's too small because of the photo I posted, don't let that put you off. I have really big hands and, unfortunately for me everything looks small in them!

I have big hands as well. FortunatelyI don't have the same problem as you.