Axis Lock vs. Frame Lock

I have had a frame lock fail....it may have been the quality of the knife ( buck ) but for about two years now I have used a benchmade 555 as an EDC. Never had one problem with the axis lock. It seems to open and lock with much less force than a frame lock.

Few thoughts...
 
I think a good frame lock will beat an axis lock in the toughness department. There are locks that are similar to the axis but I think that they are different enough to avoid patent violation. The frame lock is less complicated.
 
What Scott Dog said. In this case, simpler means better. The frame lock is also much easier to clean and maintain, a definitely plus in my book. Don't get me wrong, I love my Axis lock knives ( I have a Benchmade 720 in my pocket as I type). However, I think that the CRK frame lock is simply unbeatable.
 
I have a large regular Sebbie and the lockup is so rock solid I don't see how it could fail, not saing it won't. I have carried both frame locks and AXIS locks and they are both very good locks, probably the 2 top locks on the market right now, IMHO. The AXIS lock is quite a bit smoother to open, at least compaired to my Sebbie.
 
Overall I think the framelock is best. My Benchmade Axis Lock has never failed, but I don't always trust what I cannot see. My Framelock large Sebenza and Cuda Maxx 5.5 both seem very strong, plus I can see if any problems would be developing. With the Axis lock most everything is hidden and I cannot keep a close watch on dirt build up etc.
 
Axis lock strengths:
Easy to operate.
Reliable, not subject to accidental manipulation.
Strong.

Axis lock weakness:
Springs can fail, though statisticly rare, and there are two of them.

Frame lock strengths:
Strong.
Simple - no breakable parts.
Can be reinforced by hand grip.

Frame lock weaknesses:
Though more reliable than a liner lock, works on essentially the same iffy principle and subject to the same reliability issues if not fit properly.
Twisting can cause grip pressure to disengage lock.

Which one is better?

That's up to you.

Personally, I have both types of folders that I consider supreme in terms of function. However, I never worry about the function of an Axis lock, at all, while with a frame lock, it is always in the back of my mind that it could slip if conditions were wrong.
 
My experience has been that both locks are very reliable. I would say that other factors would be more important in deciding between knives with these two locks.

However, if you are concerned I would recommend a small Fixed Blade. I have converted to small fixed blades for my EDC Carry and I have no regrets.
 
I'd also like to chime in and warn you about those weak Axis springs. I had one break, and despite others' experiences, my knife was NOT reliable with only one spring. (and I got cut twice because of it) If you'll do a search here, you'll see that MANY forumites have had axis springs break. I don't remember any tales of frame locks breaking, though.
 
Originally posted by the possum
I don't remember any tales of frame locks breaking, though.
Click to expand...

...and I don't remember any tales of axis locks failing the spine whack test, though. ;)
 
Yesterday I pulled my Dodo out of my pocket to do an inertial opening and a piece of pocket lint the size of a pencil eraser was wedged between the top of the blade and the spacer at the top/front of the handle, preventing the knife from locking open. I own and carry several Axis knives and have frequently picked bits of lint out of the Axis mechanism, although I've never had an Axis lock fail to engage. My frame locks don't seem as susceptible to lint failure.

I suspect that an Axis/frame folder lock failure is more likely to result from an obstruction of the lock mechanism than from a mechanical failure. If you pocket carry, keep your pockets clean. If you don't, you are probably worrying too much.
 
A friend of mine experienced a failing framelock once. He just got off the plane on a holiday in Cuba, he opens his PUMA steelmaster tanto and the locking piece of the handle just broke off !!! But I just suppose this was a factory error as he got a new one no questions asked.
 
just my .02......
I had a framelock CRKT S-2 fail and cut me after a bit of pivot lube got on the lockbar. I know it's no sebenza but I just don't like the idea of having two butting surfaces (tang and end of lockbar) which are cut at angles and are not plum with each other. If/When these surfaces finally do wear enough to slip, you will have zero time to react! And if it takes such rarified talent and meticulous tolerances to counter this basic problem, well i guess that works if you got the $. It seems a better design would eliminate this angle right from the get-go. Which is one basic reason why I like lockbacks and axis locks.

I wouldnt worry a bit about my axis lock's springs. For one, there is a redundant one, and even in the very unlikely event that both fail at the exact same time, more than likely, it will be while you are opening the knife or closing since thats the only time the springs compress or move. To keep using the knife in a pinch situation, you'd just have to put your thumb on the bar. Way less susceptible to slick stuff on the lock since the bar and the tang are at a perfect 90 degree angle to each other.
 
I've never understood what real world significance the "spine whack test" has?:confused:
 
I've got both.

EDC is 710 HS. Haven't got this to fail yet (1 yr).

I carried a 551 for about a year (and beat the CRUD outta it) and never had the lock fail.

The CRKT KFF with the LAWKS is also one tough bugger. I just couldn't keep the a6 sharp enough to suit me, although my son (22) loves it. If this came out (I don't like the AL scales on the PRO) with a upscale steel I'd be all over it.

I've handled (although not owned) several framelocks and just didn't feel comfortable with 'em.

Also feel comfortable with the locks on my Delica (still use at work due to 3" size regs) and Endura (gave to son in law, so he would have a good knife.)
 
I am a big fan of the axis lock. I have had framelocks get stuck on me by "snapping" the blade open fast. But so far no problems what so ever with an axis.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top