Abstract: An implement is provided for opening envelopes in which a ram is reciprocally mounted within a hollow sleeve. A transverse envelope receiving crevice or slot is defined at one end of the sleeve and the ram carries a blade which has a cutting edge directed toward the envelope receiving slot. A spring acts between the sleeve and the ram to urge the cutting edge of the blade away from the transverse slot so that the blade is not exposed unless the spring bias is overcome.

Abstract: An implement is provided for opening letter envelopes comprised of a body defining a handle and an envelope receiving crevice of a predetermined width and length. A blade is disposed within the body and has a cutting edge directed toward the crevice. A guide within the body limits movement of the blade to a linear path between a position wherein the cutting edge projects into the crevice in the direction of the width thereof and a position wherein the cutting edge is withdrawn from the crevice. Guides within the body control the position of the blade along the path and a manually operable slide is provided for external actuation. A dial is eccentrically mounted on the body in the path of movement of the slide and is rotatable to adjustably limit the extent of projection of the cutting edge of the blade into the crevice. The dial prevents the blade from spanning the crevice entirely.