Small Blade, Exceptional Detail
The Swann Morton No.18 is a small curved blade engineered for fine-line work and intricate cutting — a specialist tool for procedures and projects where precision at a small scale is everything. Paired with the BM reusable No.3 handle, this kit delivers the control and reliability that surgeons, clinicians, and precision crafters demand.
Blade & Handle Specification
Blade: Swann Morton No.18 — small curved blade, non-sterile carbon steel
Handle: BM No.4 reusable stainless steel scalpel handle
Compatibility: BM handle fits all standard No.3-compatible Swann Morton blades
Sterility: Non-sterile blades — for professional use with appropriate infection control protocols
Key Features
- BM precision-machined No.4 handle for superior grip and control
- Swann Morton No.18 — small curved blade for fine-line and intricate work
- Reusable BM handle reduces waste and long-term cost
- Compatible with the full range of No.4-fit Swann Morton blades
- Available in 5, 10, 30, 50 and 100 blade packs
Professional & Hobby Applications
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Surgical & Clinical: Fine incisions, delicate dissection, and precision cutting
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Dermatology & Aesthetics: Small-scale skin procedures requiring fine control
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Engraving & Fine Art: Detailed line work on paper, card, and mixed media
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Model Making: Intricate trimming and detailing on plastic, foam, and balsa
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Leatherwork: Fine scoring and detail cutting on leather and suede
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Paper Crafting: Precision cutting on card, acetate, and delicate materials
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Educational & Dissection Labs: Anatomy training and biological dissection
What’s In Your Order
1 × BM Reusable No.4 Scalpel Handle + your chosen quantity of Swann Morton No.18 Non-Sterile Blades. Blades supplied in standard Swann Morton packaging. BM handle ready for immediate use.
Safe Blade Handling
Always use a blade remover or forceps when fitting and removing blades — never use fingers. Dispose of used blades in an approved sharps container in accordance with local clinical waste regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Swann Morton No.18 blade used for?
The No.18 is a small curved blade used for fine-line cutting, delicate dissection, and intricate detail work. In clinical settings it is used for small precise incisions and fine surgical work. For crafters it excels at engraving, detailed paper cutting, model making, and any application requiring a small, sharp curved blade with excellent tip control.
How does the No.18 differ from the No.15 blade?
The No.18 is smaller and more curved than the No.15, making it better suited for very fine, intricate work in confined areas. The No.15 has a larger belly and is more versatile for general surgical and craft use. If you need a blade for detailed, small-scale work, the No.18 is the better choice; for broader cuts, the No.15 is preferred. Both fit the BM No.3 handle.
Is the No.18 blade suitable for engraving and fine art?
Yes — the No.18 is popular with engravers, illustrators, and paper artists who need a small, sharp curved blade for fine-line work. Its compact profile gives excellent control for intricate cuts on paper, card, and thin materials. For broader cuts, consider the No.15 or No.25.
Can the BM No.3 handle be sterilised between uses?
Yes — the BM No.4 stainless steel handle is fully compatible with autoclave sterilisation, hospital-grade liquid disinfectants, and UV sterilisation cabinets. Always inspect the handle before each use and replace if the blade-seating groove shows any signs of wear or damage.
What blade should I use instead of the No.18 for larger cuts?
For larger curved cuts, the No.15 or No.15c are the natural step up from the No.18. For very broad sweeping cuts, the No.25 or No.23 are better suited. All of these fit the BM No.3 handle, so you can switch between blade sizes without changing your handle.
