This spring Milwaukee introduced two utility knives to kick off its new category of hand tools. Whether you are a serious DIYer with a penchant for electrical projects, or you just need a better cutter for opening straps, cutting twine and breaking down cardboard boxes in the shop, these two utility knives can help.

Milwaukee's Fastback™ Utility Knife is folding style, similar to a pocketknife. Its thin metal body makes the knife easier to carry, and a wire clip holds it securely to a pocket or belt. Other features include tool-free blade changes at the push of a button, as well as an integrated gut hook and wire stripper that can be used without opening the blade. Milwaukee says the Fastback's push-button release is designed to activate the blade three times faster than other folding knives that require two hands to operate. It sells for $16.99.

Or, consider the new Sliding Utility Knife ($14.99). The blade activates with a switch on the side of the knife rather than the top, which Milwaukee hopes will remedy a switch configuration that some users find cumbersome. Similar to the Fastback, this knife includes tool-free blade changing and a built-in wire stripper. But, it also comes with a soft overmold to help reduce hand slippage and a lower compartment for storing spare blades.

Both knives are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. They are available from Milwaukee tool outlets as well as online.