Oh, a carpet cutter goes by a few names, but they all mean the same thing. I've heard people call it different things depending on where they're from, but once you see it, you'll know what it is.
The most common name is a carpet knife-that's what you'll hear at the hardware store. If you walk up to a clerk and say, "I need a carpet knife," they'll know exactly what to grab for you. It's the name that sticks, probably because it's straightforward: it's a knife for cutting carpet.
Some people call it a carpet cutter, which makes total sense. It does exactly what the name says-cuts carpet. I've had older folks refer to it as a carpet cutter more often, maybe because that's what they grew up calling it. Either way, it's the same tool.
Occasionally, you'll see it labeled as a floor covering knife. That's because it works on more than just carpet-you can use it on vinyl, linoleum, or other floor coverings too. But honestly, I rarely hear anyone say that in real life. It's more of a technical term you might see on the packaging.
If you're looking for one online, search "carpet knife"-that's the term that'll bring up the most results. You'll see a handle with a retractable, curved blade, and that's the one you want. Don't overthink it-all those names refer to the same tool.
I remember the first time I went to buy one, I was worried I was using the wrong name. The clerk just laughed and said, "You mean a carpet knife? Yeah, we've got those." So don't stress about the terminology. No matter what you call it, as long as it has that curved blade, it's the right tool for the job.
carpet knife from hanke tools
