Benchmade locks

AXIS lock and frame locks have really proven themselves in being very consistent in withstanding harder usage and being able to resist environmental stress. All locks do have weak points (ex: omega springs with AXIS, cutout on frame lock, end-portion liner on liner locks, etc. [and if we want to be technical, the weakest weak point is not the lock at all, but the blade, as it usually fails long before the lock does]) and most any folding lock can be a reliable and strong lock when done right. But overall, AXIS has proven itself as a very robust, very reliable, and very strong locking mechanism.

The Adamas and Contego are probably the two hardest-working Benchmade folders made. Both use AXIS and have proven themselves in their ability to survive very harsh usage and to withstand anything one can throw at at.
 
I would add that the lock is at best a small part of what makes a great knife. Blade primary grind, shape, profile, hardness and steel and overall ergonomics are going to be much more important.
 
ZeroTurnDude said:
It sounds like the axis lock is the best all around lock.
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When deciding if a knife is tough enough, I look at the design as well as every part that could break, and the likelihood of those parts breaking.

With a liner or frame lock, the most likely part to fail is the lock itself, which on a high quality knife is pretty unlikely.

With an Axis lock, the most likely part to break is the tiny Omega spring, which seems to happen randomly with little warning or reason.

Looking at both types, the Axis lock is more likely to give me grief, so I stay away from them when my knife could become really important to my well being, like when on a long hike or on a road trip.

I really wish Benchmade would stop putting Axis locks on just about everything :(
 
MatthewSB said:
When deciding if a knife is tough enough, I look at the design as well as every part that could break, and the likelihood of those parts breaking.

With a liner or frame lock, the most likely part to fail is the lock itself, which on a high quality knife is pretty unlikely.
With an Axis lock, the most likely part to break is the tiny Omega spring, which seems to happen randomly with little warning or reason.
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Have your AXIS lock ever broke on you? AXIS lock has 2 springs and it functions without fail with one. (You would feel it wouldn't be as smooth) Some people say the spring broke, but I'm not convinced there could be other reason why it brakes. If one uses knife in corrosive environment or dry environment without ever oiling the mechanism, it might prematurely fail.

Looking at both types, the Axis lock is more likely to give me grief, so I stay away from them when my knife could become really important to my well being, like when on a long hike or on a road trip.
I really wish Benchmade would stop putting Axis locks on just about everything :(
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If you are concerned about lock failure, then fixed blade is it. To me, it would most likely slip or disengage in frame lock, liner lock, or spine lock to be more concerning than AXIS lock.

For frame/liner lock, unless it is adjustable, stop screw equipped, and has contact point replacement, once lock fails, so does the entire folder. Sure, you can try bending it back if it slipped, but would you trust your fingers to be holding that knife? AXIS lock is physically present and in chance of one in billion both spring fails, you can still place small rod to keep it locked in emergency.

I'm not interested in Benchmade folder without AXIS lock. I already have ZT, KAI, and Spyderco for that.
 
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