as a schoolboy i had a pocket knife, and couldnt say at what point i ceased to carry it... but the area i was brought up in was a very violent area, fights most days, but i can never remember anyone ever producing a knife... i first became aware of knifes among asians, but that died out then our coloured brethern were using them with some regularity, but the only ones using knives it seems are those who cant yet get guns. so we really should be grateful i suppose...