Do I need a framelock?

Sufler

Sufler

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Oct 15, 2005
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Ok, so the thing is that I'm debating the notion of whether or not I want a framelock in my collection. I currently have a Benchmade 710 and 940, and will add a 551.

I just don't see the value in a Sebenza and the now discontinued mini-Skirmish has features like the blade hole (I like thumb-studs) and tip down carry... both of which, I don't necessairly like - I've been trying to like the 635 ever since I saw it... I just can't convince myself. Quite honestly, I'd rather add another 940 because it's my favorite folding knife.

I used to own a Pinnacle 750. And, the Bradley Alias is out of the question - don't like 'em... and if I can afford an Alias... I can afford a Seb.

I guess this indecision comes down to whether or not the axis lock is able to be as robust as a framelock.

Any comments? Just get my head straight, please. :D

Thanks.

:thumbup:
 
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IMO, the Axis lock is the best lock available, followed by the Ball lock and the Compression lock. I would put the Frame lock as next in line. I really like a Frame lock for it's strength and the fact that the tighter you grip the knife, the tighter the Frame lock grips.

In short, I have found the Frame lock to be a reliable, 'one hand' lock, but the Axis still steals the show.
 
The new BM 760 is exactly what you are looking for..

The new BM 580 also looks great.

-Ron
 
440hard said:
The new BM 760 is exactly what you are looking for..

The new BM 580 also looks great.

-Ron
Click to expand...

I would have if the 760 came available in a blade other than tanto and wasn't coated. Maybe it'll be in the '10 catalog?

"Eh" on the 580.

:)
 
Do you NEED a framelock? Of course not. There are all sorts of locks out there, most of them pretty good. There are lots of great knives out there with no locks at all. Do you WANT a framelock? That's the real question. I'm not a big fan of framelocks or linerlocks myself, but there are plenty who are.

I would say that the axis lock is just as robust as a framelock, and maybe a bit safer, because there is less of a chance of accidentally disengaging the lock. (puts on flamesuit) However, the one weakness of the axis lock are the omega springs which push the lockbar into position. I've heard many stories about these springs wearing out and breaking, but I have had it happen to me, or examined a knife it has happened to- and I have a lot of knives with the axis lock.

In my opinion, the toughest, safest locking mechanism on the market is Spyderco's compression lock- specifically, on the Paramilitary or the Yojimbo. That lock is not going to wear out or fail, ever.

But by all means, if you have the money, and the design appeals to you- get a Sebenza.
 
I am a big fan of the frame lock, IMO its the best lock there is.

The key to good design is simplicity and I think the frame lock is a great example of that.
 
The frame lock and the Axis lock are two of the best locking designs ever made, in my opinion. In reliability and strength of lockup, I don't think that performance gets any better. I feel very comfortable with both of these designs.

You don't necessarily need a frame lock---although it's a nice design. Looking at it from the other side, if you have a frame lock, you don't necessarily need an Axis lock. And looking at it from your significant other's standpoint, do you really need any of these expensive knives at all? :D It's more a matter of personal preferences, as both perform to an admirable degree.

All that being said, if you have the money for a Sebenza, I'm sure you'll find it more than worth it. :thumbup:
 
Haze said:
I am a big fan of the frame lock, IMO its the best lock there is.

The key to good design is simplicity and I think the frame lock is a great example of that.
Click to expand...
Yup, I agree 100% with what he said. :thumbup::thumbup:
 
Even though I'm much more of a Spydie/Kershaw fan, after carrying a Grip for a couple months, I must reluctantly admit that the Axis lock is inherently stronger and safer then anything Spyderco or Kershaw can put up..... Yet.... (Caged ball lock FTW!!) ;)

That's not to say the Axis lock is necessarily always better, merely that in many cases, it is superior. Nor does the Axis lock make a knife design "perfect"., But for a (hard use) working knife, such as a Rukus, or Grip, there's none better.

As I said, I am FAR from a Benchmade fanboy, their designs just don't appeal to me very much.
 
I think framelocks are great. I think if you bought a Sebenza you won't be sorry. The Sebbie is the knife that all others are compared to.!;)
 
Take a look see at the Kershaw Tyrade. This is a super framelock and one that is limited in numbers.:thumbup: Composite blade and speedsafe also! Guess you can tell I'm a fan.:)
 
I have to admit that the simplicity of the design of a framelock is a major attraction for me. But OTOH my desire for simplicity is much better satisfied with a fixed blade ;) Folding knives are by their very nature more complex. Though a framelock has less moving parts, its operation involves metal scraping against metal. That kind of ruins it for me compared to the fluidity of an axis lock, which by design gets stronger with the very minimal wear and tear that occurs during its operation. That and the ability to quickly and easily close an axis lock knife without having a finger cross the path of the blade travel makes framelocks much less attractive to me. Just my opinion.
 
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