Abstract: A combined envelope opener and pencil sharpener unit has an envelope opener part (1) constructed to receive a letter envelope (5) for the like to be opened passed in a substantially horizontal plane therethrough and operable electrically to cut open an edge margin of the envelope (5) or the like in a directional substantially at rights angles to said plane during passage therethrough. The unit also includes a pencil sharpener part (2) constructed to receive a pencil or the like to be sharpened inserted substantially at right angles to said plane and operable electrically to sharpen the inserted end of the pencil.