X-Acto

Buying Guide: Blades and Sharpeners

Pencil Sharpeners
X-Acto makes manual crank pencil sharpeners and an electric model in its 1800 Series. The manual KS sharpener mounts onto a horizontal or vertical surface and includes an 8-hole dial pencil selector. The electric 1800 Series sharpener uses vertical sharpening.

Replacement Blades
X-Acto sells replacement blades in carbon steel, including the #2 heavy duty blade and the #11 light duty blade, in packs of several counts. Blades are sold in multi-pack and dispenser formats. The #2 blade is suited to medium weight materials, while the #11 blade is made for detailed, fine point cuts.

Hobby Knives and Precision Knives
The X-Acto hobby knife has a 5 in. long aluminum handle for precise cuts through craft materials. The hobby knife is used with the #2 blade and other numbered blades. The precision knife is a #1 knife for delicate cutting, trimming and stripping of paper, plastic and balsa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does X-Acto make?
X-Acto makes manual and electric pencil sharpeners, replacement blades, a hobby knife, a precision knife and a blade dispenser with blades. The knives and blades are built for precise cutting in craft, art and office work.

How do I choose the right blade?
Match the blade number on your old blade or knife packaging before you buy. Check the number and size printed on the blade, and measure the blade length if you are unsure. Replace blades when they dull, and handle them carefully.

Which sharpener should I pick?
Choose the manual KS sharpener if you want a crank model that can be mounted to a desk, table or wall. Choose the electric 1800 Series model if you want a powered sharpener with vertical sharpening.