Bosch recently announced many new hand tools for the European market, and it looks like they’re testing the waters in the USA with a trio of new utility knives.
Bosch utility knives have previously been available for purchase from European dealers, but this looks to be the first time they’re deliberately launching here in the USA.
From Amazon’s preorder listings, there are 3 models:
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- Bosch Retractable Utility Knife
- Bosch Snap Blade Utility Knife
- Bosch Folding Utility Knife
Basically, there’s one of each major type of utility knife.
The Bosch retractable utility knife features a tool-free blade change mechanism, angled ergonomic handle, string and strap cutter, and built-in spare blade storage.
Bosch says it – and their other utility knives – are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
The folding knife features a one-button folding lock, tool-free blade change, string and strap cutter, and also has built-in spare blade storage. There’s a lanyard loop at the end of the handle.
Online images don’t show whether it has a pocket clip or not.
The snap-blade knife has a soft grip overmold.
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Pricing and Availability
At this time, preorders are open at Amazon, with a November 2024 ETA. They’re $15 each, or $40 for the 3pc set.
Buy the retractable utility knife at Amazon (H11-13000-1)
Buy the folding utility at Amazon (H11-11100-1)
Buy the snap blade utility knife at Amazon (H11-12100-1)
Buy the 3pc set at Amazon (H11-14200-1)
Discussion
I purchased Bosch’s Professional folding utility knife from Amazon UK 4 years ago, in October 2020. It looks like the USA model is identical to this one, aside from slight differences in the markings.
If I had to describe the Bosch folding utility knife with one word, it would be competent. I wouldn’t run to the store to buy one, although I did pay international shipping fees to get my hands on one try out, but it was okay with no obvious flaws.
The USA launch could be part of a low-risk experiment, as the utility knives have long been available overseas, but it could perhaps be the start of much larger rollout of Bosch hand tools. Would that excite you?
MM
What’s the blade size for the snap-off knife? It looks like it’s 18mm but that’s assuming all the photos are to scale, which may not be true.
fred
Amazon says 18mm
MKY
Amazon description states 18mm
MKY
Sorry. Didn’t refresh before posting.
Goodie
I definitely want to see Bosch roll out more tools in the US. I consider them to hit a very point between quality (great German quality) and affordability (better than the premium German brands like Festool and Mafell).
Michael F
I want to like Bosch. Their marketing is a bit strange at times, but I think that’s partially just Bosch being German – Wera’s marketing is also a bit cringe (I don’t really want to be a “Tool Rebel”, thanks). I’m not really sure I see myself buying Bosch hand tools over other German go-to brands like Knipex, Wiha, or Heyco, but if the price was right and they were available at big box stores I just might.
Cubbie
That non-folding knife looks similar to DeWalt’s initial design, where the plastic push-button blade change was a point of failure and they redesigned to a metal lever. I’d expect the same failure with the Bosch.
eddiesky
I have several ute knives with the oldest being a Stanley, with the fixed handle, plastic back button that is depressed, and the knife scissors open for blade storage. Many a wall was put up with that knife. My other go to ute is my folding DeWalt (note, discontinued and likely because the tiny screws come loose and disappear) and latest is Milwaukee .. red, I can find it, and easy to open.
I think if someone were to get a gift set, it would have these three knives, three tape measures, a torpedo level, 2ft level and laser range finder, a nail puller and 2ft claw bar, a 16oz hammer, a bit set, drill set, and choice of drill driver (m12, atomic, bosch, ryobi, mikita,..).
MrTexaz3
This Bosch retractable utility knife is the EXACT same one thats been sold at Harbor Freight for $8.99.
Brand Name: DOYLE
SKU#: 57107
Stuart
No, they are clearly different.
Jorn
Thanks for the heads-up. If I ever manage to break my Olfa snap blade and Milwaukee Fastback cutters I’d probably replace them with these because I’m a Bosch Fanboy and they appear to have similar features.
Jared
There’s nothing exciting about the knives from what I can see in the images, but they look fine and aren’t expensive. I wouldn’t turn up my nose at one.
The folding knife looks a little chunky – but that might be intentionally. E.g. less pocket-oriented but and more comfortable for hard use.
The snap blade knife looks competitive. I’d consider trying that one.