What's the little room in the handle for?It's to small for anything I can think of, and quite difficult to open...?

Tech Specs:

Shaft Material:

Anodized aluminum 

Blade Material:

Aluminum 

Length Attached:

34in down to 26in 

Length Detached (Handle):

18in down to 15in 

Blade Size:

10.5in x 9.5in 

Telescoping:

Yes 

Weight:

27.2 oz 

Recommended Use:

Snow safety, avalanche rescue 

Warranty:

1 year 

Country of Origin:

United States