All About Letter Openers

Letter openers are handy accessories for the home and office

Letter openers, which typically consist of a dull knife that can be used to open mail, are convenient accessories to have on hand. Not only do letter openers help you open mail faster, but they also minimize the chances of painful paper cuts. It's time to learn all about letter openers.

What types of letter openers are available?

You might be surprised at the number of letter openers that are available. Letter openers come in a variety of shapes, styles, and designs.  You can choose from letter openers that are made of steel, iron, even gold or silver.

You can find very basic letter openers or ones that feature an elaborate design on the handle. Some letter openers even have handles that are made of leather to provide a soft yet firm grip.

Beautiful keepsakes

Intricate etchings and lovely artwork on the handles make some letter openers more than just a simple desk accessory. Some people even collect letter openers because of their beauty.

Throughout the years, some of the more popular letter openers have been sword-shaped letter openers that feature exquisitely carved handles. Even today, letter openers that have elaborate handles with historical and gothic themes remain popular.

Letter openers also can be special keepsakes that are passed from generation to generation. For example, letter openers with silver or plated handles are heirloom quality collectibles that can be cherished by the family for years to come.  Letter openers become even more of a family treasure when they happen to display a great-grandmother's initials or special family motto.

A note on safety

While it seems that letter openers are harmless, they do have sharp enough edges to tear through paper and could be dangerous when in the hands of a child. It is best to keep letter openers out of children's reach. For additional safety, consider storing letter openers in protective leather sheaths to prevent unnecessary injuries.

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