Abstract:
An improved and simplified combination sheath and rigid handle for small, elongate tools such as knife blades, saws, small chisels and the like is disclosed herein. The structure of the invention is combined with a tool such as a knife blade having a butt end which is provided with a pair of side-by-side hinge elements having axes which are disposed transversely of the longitudinal center line of the knife blade or other tool. Swingably connected to such hinge elements are a pair of cooperating sheaths and handle members such as elongate bars or plates of somewhat greater length than the knife blade or tool, and of width greater than the width of the tool for protecting the same in one of the operative positions of the device. These bar or plate members, near the free ends thereof, when swung rearwardly in opposing relation to form a handle, have interlocking elements which prevent lateral or other shifting of the two plates when positioned in opposing relation to form a handle and rigidify the combination tool. To protect the tool or user when not in use, the bar or plate elements are swung reversely forward in opposing relation, forming an enclosure covering the sides and edges of the knife blade or the like.