Folder Lock Strength?

[bodog]

There was a lock strength testing video that showed how a traditional lockback held its own to more modern high-load rated locks (I will try to post the link if I find it).

I have come to the conclusion that they are all reasonably strong for my purposes and I value having no blade play given this (OCD comments aside). I recently bought a compression lock folder and had to disassemble and retighten the pivot to remove very slight vertical blade play that bugged me. It's tight now, but also does not open as easily, but I never had that problem with the triad lock and good liner locks.

So I would rate the triad lock up there and liner locks for my personal preference, the compression lock is not bad (recognizing its lock strength is superlative). One can have high lock strength as seen in traditional lockbacks, but at the same time it could have some slop (blade play) and you need to decide if you are OK with it. I'm sure it's a non issue for most who just want to get the job done.

EDITED TO ADD LINK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KmHfbG7z7g
The lockbacks were statistically the strongest compared to linerlocks and framelocks.

Them putting the weight on the lock to prevent it from slipping open is akin to putting the same weight right on an integral lock which could have yielded a similar result that the integral lock is the strongest. Basically, the weight kept the lock in place for the lockback but they didn't give the same advantage to the other locks. So, the video is inaccurately showing lockbacks to be stronger when no such result is found in that test. I bet if you put 500 pounds of pressure right on any lock to keep the blade open, it would come down to other factors like lock thickness, lock grinds, handle and blade strength, etc., rather than the basic design of any lock itself.

 

[8steve88]

Same with the folders I EDC! And they are slipjoints. Never had one close on my fingers. (And I'm an idiot! )

But I always remember they, by design, fold.

Exactly!
I've been carrying slip-joints for years, legal necessity, and haven't had one fold when I didn't intend it to yet. It does teach you to treat your blades with respect as to what they could do.
Always think about what you are doing and if you think it's going to be dangerous go and get the correct tool for the job, even our stringent knife laws allow for that.

 

[mostho]

The best lock is the brain and how using it.