Abstract: A blade protection device that includes an instrument body, a blade connected to the instrument body, and a guard slidably mounted on, and completely surrounding the instrument body. The guard may be slid between a guard-retracted position in which the blade is exposed for use, and a guard-extended position for covering the sharp cutting edge of the blade. In the guard-retracted position, instrument body may be exposed at both the distal and proximal ends to allow improved control and blade orientation. The retracted guard may allow the user to firmly grip both the proximal and distal portions of the instrument body. The instrument body may be molded as a single piece with the blade holder to prevent unwanted blade or handle movement. The slideably mountable guard may be locked, or latched, in both the guard- extended position and in the guard-retracted position.