I'm sure that this has been asked and answered

C

Chewy1

Joined
Jun 5, 2006
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But, in general, are traditional lockbacks a stronger lock than a liner lock?

I thinking Fallkniven U2 vs Buck Alpha Dorado.
 
It's sooo hard to answer "in general". I personally don't believe it's the type of lock as much as it is the expertise and integrity of the manufacturer. In other words, a great lockback and a great linerlock will each be reliable. Either one will take more stress than any ordinary situation, normal use, will require.

I actually like the lockback for a different reason: it's a cleaner, more open design, with no obstruction between the handle slabs to catch grit and grime.
 
There are too many other factors involved besides lock type that determine lock strength and reliablility to be able to answer that question. It depends on how each lock is made, materials, geometry, etc etc etc.
 
Need to differentiate "reliable" and "strong".

Not sure which is stronger.

Both are reliable when well made. There have been more reports of liner lock failures than lockback failures.
 
I'm not really sure but I do have an Alpha Dorado and I love it. I'v never had any problems with it.
 
You can't answer this question when asked "in general". Well made backlocks should be just as strong and reliable as well made liner locks. For example, I would trust my Spyderco Military's lock just as much as my Caly 3's. They are both really well made knives. It's definately more of a skill thing. They both do the same-protect the blade from closing on you, they are just different designs.

Now, for your specific knives, I think I would trust the Fallkniven's lock more than the Buck's. There are only a few companies I trust to linerlocks as it is more hard to do right. The Fallkniven has many fans and I have only heard praise.
 
knarfeng said:
Need to differentiate "reliable" and "strong".

Not sure which is stronger.

Both are reliable when well made. There have been more reports of liner lock failures than lockback failures.
Click to expand...

I agree somewhat....

I'm not sure which is stronger, but I truely believe that lock-backs are generally more reliable.
 
Capt. Carl said:
Now, for your specific knives, I think I would trust the Fallkniven's lock more than the Buck's. There are only a few companies I trust to linerlocks as it is more hard to do right. The Fallkniven has many fans and I have only heard praise.
Click to expand...

Thank you for all of your information, especially for the quote above.
 
I would say that lockbacks are stronger overall, but as the others have said, much depends on the manufacturer.
 
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