#73 - Liner Lock or not?

Hawk45

Hawk45

Joined
Jan 28, 2005
Messages
2,154
Looking to get my first traditional and the GEC #73 pattern (maybe a #72 Warncliff) has my attention. I see some of the 73s have liner locks. Do you like the liner lock or prefer a lockback or slipjoint instead? Any downfall to the liner lock versions?
 
I prefer the lockback #72, followed by the slipjoint #73, with the linerlock my least favorite. The slipjoint has such stout springs, that any lock is a little redundant, but the styling of the #72 is better for me, with it's clip vs. drop point blade and the long pulls. It also has the easiest pulls of the three. The linerlock's lock tab is very slightly in the way of a good grip, so it comes in last for me.
 
I have a couple GECs with LL's, a 55 and an 85. I don't mind them at all. Easy to operate and haven't been any problem for me. Not sure of the positioning of the LL tab on a 73, but i've seen some here comment on it irritating their fingers when gripping for prolonged use (whittling perhaps?). So I suppose it depends on your intended use and preference.

For me, if I like a model the LL isn't a deal-breaker at all.
 
I have a #73 liner lock, and it is a great knife, but the #73 has such a stiff spring, there is really no need for a liner lock. I'd go with the slip joint or even better...go with the #72...particularly if you can find it in the clip blade.
 
Do you guys like one or two blade models also? I like a thinner knife, but if the second blade adds value I can give up a little room. I have bigger hands anyway.
 
Make mine a slipjoint. I don't see a need for the linerlock. And the release looks like it would be uncomfortable during use.

- Christian
 
I like the linerlock variant of the 73. Have two, one in a Bonestag which is quite slim and the other in real stag which is thick handled and a big favourite. Yes, the slipjoint backspring on these is tough so you could argue a linerlock is redundant. I don't see it that way, when prodding about it can be useful to have the reassurance of a liner as extra, these are not like modern skeleton liner lock knives that can open up in your pocket by accident either :eek: Also have an 85 linerlock which is excellent, you may like to consider one of these as well? The locktab is not obtrusive or uncomfortable at all.

As for the 2 blade 73, not my thing at all I'm afraid. I have an early Cyclops Works model from 06 in their 440c stainless, lovely bone on this but both blades have really heavy pull, I mean nail extractors not busters.:barf: Moreover, it's too thick and heavy in my pocket. Been wanting to have it converted to single blade, but GEC refuse to do this (don't want to create a unique model or some such tosh) work, other knife makers have said it may be difficult to do without breaking the bone and as it's so nice I don't want to risk it. They X-L in single blade in this particular pattern I feel.

Thanks, Will
 
I've got a few of each, LL & non LL. I've come to appreciate the LL versions. Not all of the 73s have monster tough springs. In my experience the ones with the lanyard tubes are much easier to open. Pinchable even. As Will mentions above, the reassurance of the LL is nice and I love hearing that LL snap into place.
 
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