Flicking a compression lock

[KeithAM]

I'm sure I'm not the first to notice this, but over the wekend I discovered that a compression lock Paramilitary can be easily flicked open -- and closed -- in much the same manner as a Benchmade Axis lock, by simply holding the lock open.

I have little, ring and middle finger on the clip side, thumb on the lock side just below the pivot pin, and index finger pressing the lock. With the lock bar pressed into the scale, a light flick will either open or close the knife.

Opening and closing a compression lock is even easier than I thought.

No doubt flicking is not recommended. But it's nice to know that a Spyderco Compression lock can do anything an axis lock can do (except break an omega spring).

Every one already knew this, right?

 

[storyville]

Keith,

So that's how you spent your Labor Day weekend too, huh?

I love the concept of the Axis lock but I am increasingly convinced that the Compression lock is every bit as strong and reliable, in an even simpler design. (No O-springs as you note.) Excepting the accumulation of a heck of a lot of hard debris in the lock area, I haven't been able to identify a realistic scenario of failure.

I also really like the fact that the Compression lock does not hinder pocket clip placement for tip up or tip down carry. I prefer the latter which, to my knowledge, is impossible or difficult to do with an Axis. (Does BM make a tip-down Axis?)

 

[James Muehlner]

I prefer the latter which, to my knowledge, is impossible or difficult to do with an Axis. (Does BM make a tip-down Axis?)

I don't think they make any tip-down only axis knives, but I do know that several are drilled for tip up or down, including the 806, which would have no problem in that area, because it is only neccesary to pull back on one side of the bar to unlock it.

 

[gull wing]

It's your knife and you can flick if you want.
Yes, I knew you could flick a compression lock. It's a great lock, have loved since the Lil Temp. I carry my Para almost every day, it's the second most used knife I have, behind the Calypso Jr.
Good Luck.

 

[Leo Daher]

I'm sure I'm not the first to notice this, but over the wekend I discovered that a compression lock Paramilitary can be easily flicked open -- and closed -- in much the same manner as a Benchmade Axis lock, by simply holding the lock open.

I have a BM 806 and I can easily flick it open without manipulating the Axis lock.