The Milwaukee Fastback “Press and Flip” utility knife has ignited significant controversy, centering on its legality in various states. The issue stems from a proposed class action lawsuit filed in federal court in California in 2018. The complaint targets Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp., Techtronic Industries Company Ltd., and Home Depot for allegedly selling a product that functions similarly to a switchblade, which is restricted or illegal in several jurisdictions.
This utility knife features a blade that unfolds with a button push, prompting the lawsuit’s assertion that it violates multiple knife laws. The legal argument contends that the Fastback operates like a switchblade or gravity knife, and as such, should not be sold in areas where such knives are prohibited.
Despite the lawsuit’s filing, there have been no updates or significant developments regarding the case since 2018. Milwaukee Electric Tool has not provided any official statements addressing the lawsuit, and the Fastback knife remains widely available for purchase at retailers, including Home Depot.
Legal Claims and Implications
A critical aspect of the lawsuit focuses on the speed with which the Fastback opens. According to the complaint, Milwaukee claimed that the knife’s one-handed button mechanism allowed the blade to deploy “three times faster” than a traditional two-handed opening. This rapid deployment allegedly contravenes the Federal Switchblade Act, which governs the transportation of such products across state lines rather than ownership.
The filing seeks to hold manufacturers and retailers accountable for selling the knife to consumers who may be unaware of its potential legal issues. Despite the ongoing legal scrutiny, there is no indication that the Fastback has been banned by any court or regulatory authority. Publicly accessible information suggests that no judgment has rendered the knife illegal.
Understanding the Fastback’s Design
One of the key distinctions between the Milwaukee Fastback and traditional switchblades lies in its operation. The Fastback is classified as a “press and flip” knife, meaning users must intentionally push a button and manually flip the blade open. In contrast, a conventional switchblade opens automatically with the press of a button or flick of the wrist.
Moreover, the Milwaukee Fastback allows users to change the blade, a feature not typically available in standard switchblades. This design difference may be crucial in the ongoing discussions surrounding the legality and safety of the product.
As the legal proceedings remain in limbo, consumers continue to purchase the Fastback utility knife without interruption. Milwaukee Electric Tool has yet to publicly admit any wrongdoing, and the controversy surrounding its product raises important questions about consumer awareness and regulatory compliance in the knife market.
