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Styles of Knife Locking Systems

Styles of Knife Locking Systems

Master knife makers have weaved stories about the righteous upkeep of knives.  In those many useful points, the lock mechanism is of key importance. If a knife is properly locked, only then, it would be ideal to travel along. Knife designers and aficionados, time to time, update their knowledge and come up with newer styles of knife locking systems. Here is a brief about such methods:

1.            The Traditional Slip joint: This mechanism is mostly found on traditional pocket knives. The blade, although doesn’t lock, is held in place by a spring system

2.            The Lockback/ Spine Lock:  A pivoted latch and spring mechanism, is used to lock the blade into the grooved handle. The patch needs to be pressed to release the blade.

3.            The Liner Lock:  A leaf spring-type liner incorporated in the contoured handle is used to lock the blade.  The liner is used to lock/collapse and unlock/release the blade.

4.            Button Lock: A simple push-button mechanism is used to release the blade out of the handle.

5.            The Axis Lock: A cylindrical bearing mechanism is used to lock and unlock the blade. Benchmade Knife Company holds exclusive license of this locking mechanism.

6.            The Arc Lock: The locking mechanism is similar to the Axis Lock, only the axial spring is replaced by the cylindrical bearing. The SOG Specialty Knives holds exclusively license to the Arc Lock.

7.            Ball Bearing Lock: This mechanism is similar to the Axis and Arc, with ball bearing replacing the cylindrical bearing. Spyderco holds its licensing rights.

8.            Tri-Ad Lock:  Only licensed to Cold Steel, the Tri-Ad locking system has a lockback, in which the tang of blade fits into the spine. There is a patent Stop-Pin, which ensures for equitable distribution of stress on both- Lock as well as Spine.

9.            Clasp Lock: This clasp locking system is responsible for easier opening and closure of knives. Fabricated using a piece of metal, the knife opens and closes like a plunge lock.  To open, you have to put pressure against the clasp. For all those who don’t know, clasp is a metal ring, which is pulled for opening the knife.

10.          Ring Lock: Ring Lock is simple mechanism, which involves the twist of ring towards the handle of knife for proper opening. This is most observed in Opinel Knives.

11.          Lever Lock: In this, the ever lock is simply a pin, which prevents the blade from closing.  Once the blade is open, the pin automatically fits into the hole of blade tang. If the pin is lifted out, the knife can be easily closed.

 

Conclusion

These eleven locking mechanisms are most followed by knife manufacturers across the world. However, gradual involvement of young and dynamic people into this field has improved the complete scenario.  

 

 

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Knife Country USA is the ideal online platform to look for Knives with all such different types of Locking Mechanisms.  Now, an online megastore, Knife Country USA boasts of more than three decades of experience in this segment. At Knife Country USA, the emphasis is always on helping the customers make a better, well-informed choice. For this, product listings carry detailed product information. The Shipping Policies are clearly mentioned, ensuring customers are never in doubt about the actual invoice. For any queries, you can speak with our customer care agents by dialing (800) 342-9118.