Abstract: A versatile compound tool comprises a handle assembly having a first end and a second end. The handle assembly includes a handle along the first end and an extension extending from the handle along the second end including a first connection feature. The versatile compound tool includes a first implement having a first end and a second end. The first implement comprises a second connection feature along the first end and is configured for a first function along the second end. The versatile compound tool further comprises a retainer. The first implement is removably securable to the handle assembly by the retainer when the first connection feature is engaged to the second connection feature so that the first implement is selectively removable for assembly of a second implement. The second implement comprises a first end and a second end and is configured for a second function along the second end. The second implement includes a second connection feature along the first end.

Abstract: A cutting device includes (i) a housing having first and second separable portions, the first portion having a locking aperture, the second portion having an attachment aperture, and (ii) a locking apparatus for removably locking the first and second portions of the housing. The locking apparatus includes an attachment portion for being fixedly attached in the attachment aperture, and a locking arm adapted to be releasably locked into the locking aperture. The attachment aperture and locking aperture are correspondingly positioned so that the locking arm becomes aligned with the locking aperture when the first and second portions of the housing are aligned for assembly. The housing may be constructed of metal, and the locking apparatus constructed of plastic. The locking apparatus may also include a return spring and blade carrier integrally molded therewith.

Abstract: A retractable cutting implement, such as a utility knife, comprises a sleeve-like handle member having a cavity portion with the handle member being open at the base and at one end through a first longitudinal slot. A carrier member is pivotally mounted to the handle for pivotal movement into and out of the cavity with the carrier member being resiliently held within the cavity when it is pivotally moved into the cavity for substantially closing the cavity. The carrier member comprises a substantially enclosed longitudinally extending chamber with a passage therein in communication with the one end of the first slot in the handle member and a blade carriage member is slidably mountable in this chamber for slidable movement toward and away from the passage.