Ball Lock?

G

Grey Area

Joined
Dec 20, 2000
Messages
176
I was just reading on the German knifeforum about Spyderco´s appearance on the IWA-show in Germany.

Apparently they presented a new lock mechanism, the "ball lock", on a prototype folder called "Dodo".

Is there some more information on this, or is it just a hoax?
 
The "Ball Lock" is an "in house" name for a new lock prototype that we introduced at the IWA show in Germany last week.

It is simple and strong.

The "Dodo" is an "in house" name for a new 2.25" blade knife that was designed with the "Ball Lock".

I believe that I mentioned several months ago that we have been working on several new locks.

Can't say too much more at this time. We'll have it to show at the Blade Magazine Show in Atlanta in May/June.

sal
 
Thanks a lot.

The comments I read were favourable, so I hope this will get further than the prototype stage.

But naming the knife after an extinct bird that was incapable of flight... hopefully there was no pessimistic symbolism involved in this. :)
 
Hi Grover. No relationship. Just names pulled from the appearances of the models.

Hey Wesmalo, you made me laugh out loud. thanx.

sal
 
Now that it's after the Blade Show, can we hear any more about the ball lock? I'm not asking for pictures, just a description.
 
I liked the ball lock. I do not know the particulars of its operation; however, I would take it on any future Spyderco
 
Any more info on this new lock? Is it proving up to Spyderco standards?
 
Spyderco is developing a couple of models with the new lock, but they will be 2003 releases I believe.
 
Is the ball lock more reliable than a "classic" lock (front lock, linerlock, even compression lock became a classic IMO)? I know that the ball lock has that coil spring that is susceptible to wear much easier than the old fashion springs present at the models mentioned before.
 
The ball is under compression, so there is good strength and reliablility. There are two springs, for safety and function.

There is a great deal of room for wear although I don't see that there will be much wear, the ball, frame and blade tang are hard.

The ball is a little harder to unlock, but accidental unlocking is very unlikely.

It's also another new lock that we get to develop and refine. We've already had interest from both custom makers and factories to license the lock. In reality, only time will tell if there is a future for the ball bearing lock.

sal
 
It's an axis lock only it a ball instead of a rod...that's what is looks like in the picture and after reading this sounds like thats what is is...
Ahh spydies with axis locks, sounds nice! :D
 
I handled ball-lock knives at the Spirit of Steel Show, and the system seems quite strong, IMHO. I think the name may have been inspired by the massive beak of the Dodo bird. I look forward to the Dodo's introduction, since I like even a short-bladed knife to have a large, easy-to-grasp handle.
 
Is this the lock that is on the WTC commemorative knife? That buy the way I never did get answer on when trying to order...:mad:
 
Hi NGK. Yes it is. Sorry 'bout your not getting througn. Joan's pretty busy these days. Did you leave a call back message?

sal
 
I thought that was the ball lock. Yes Sal Mike called from the store and e-mailed never got a response back from anyone though I guess it's a busy time of year, this was when you all 1st posted them on the site though. Happy Thanksgiving all my favorite holiday is next! i'd like one of each Spyderco made for Christmas this would be a easy task if everyone on the forum would buy one each! :)
 
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