Abstract: The present invention is directed to a letter opening device comprising an elongated tubular handle, a removable tubular cap and a generally L-shaped cutting guide including a cutting blade and a blade holder. The cutting guide is affixed to the forward end of the tubular handle and has an elongated nose portion which is adapted to fit underneath the flap of an envelope to be opened. The elongated nose portion has an elongated groove for receiving the sharp tip of the cutting blade. The blade holder is pivotally mounted to the cutting guide and can be moved to easily replace the blade. An elongated safety shield is slidably mounted inside the tubular handle for shielding the blade when the letter opening device is not in use. The shield has an actuating member attached thereto for moving the shield within the tubular handle.