Whichever of the above theories you accept, you can conduct this experiment on your own folder:
- If it's a lockback, open it non-inertially and check the amount of play in the lock, both vertically and horizontally.
- If it's a liner lock, do the same test, but also make a note of how far across the tang the liner travels before it comes to rest in the locked position. Be sure to make these notes in writing and put them where you can find them, e.g., in your computer or Palm Pilot.
Now adopt the habit of opening the knife inertially each time you use it, making a note on your calendar to perform the above wear-tests every three months. Use this time wisely, to perfect your ability to draw and deploy your matter-separator safely in consistently short times.
If at any time you discover additional play in the lock, or additional sideways movement on a liner, discontinue interial opening except in emergencies, and figure that the slight wear it cost was paid off in terms of improved muscle memory and self-confidence. Keep the mechanism oiled and clean for minimum friction.
By stopping wear early in its course you will have retained the knife's safety characteristics while learning/perfecting a valuable skill that could save your or another's life. That skill can be maintained by a practice similar to the "dry-firing" used by shooters: a few times each week, practise all the motions of a rapid draw but stop short of the actual inertial "snap" of the blade. Concentrate on form and you will maintain or even improve speed.
Ken Delavigne
P.S. Certain models such as the Starmate and the current Military versions have designed-in compensation for liner-lock wear, but the actual adjustment is better done by Spyderco. This is a finite amount of adjustment, however, that eventually could be used up. The radiused or step-type ramps will keep the liner from travelling off the tang to the right, but they don't prevent wear.
[This message has been edited by KenDelavigne (edited 11-21-2000).]
