Just for clarity, checked luggage means suitcases, large duffel bags that you hand over at check in. Hand luggage is what you carry on the plane and put in your overhead locker.
I have carried various knives, mulit-tools as checked in luggage and never had a problem. (Even as carry on once, in this day and age!!!!).
Did you actually pack the knife or is there a chance that you forgot it?
If the authorities took your knife then they would have given you a receipt and questioned you.