I'm trying to understand the compression lock a little more.

[cards94]

I see the way it locks in to the opening, but is the lock considered 1/2 liner lock with the way the liner moves over to lock into place?

 

[Redmasta]

You are right it uses the liner to lock, but does it in a different way than a traditional liner lock.

From Spyderco's edge-u-cation:

"COMPRESSION LOCK A lock mechanism that uses a leaf-like spring from a split liner in the handle to wedge laterally between a ramp on the blade tang and the stop pin (or anvil pin). Developed and patented by Spyderco, it provides extreme lock strength and ease of use."

http://www.spyderco.com/edge-u-cation/index.php?item=23

So basically instead of the liner just butting up against the end of the blade tang like a traditional liner lock, the compression lock liner is wedged between the back of the blade tang and the stop pin.

 

[yablanowitz]

Not really. A liner lock takes closing force on the end of the locking leaf, which is part of the liner. Think of an open door being held open by a curved stick pushing on the edge of the door. The compression lock wedges the end of the locking leaf between the back of the blade tang and a stop pin, so closing force is transferred from the blade though the locking leaf to the stop pin and then to both liners. It is not an exact anology, but it is more like holding that door open by wedging a block of wood between the door and the doorstop on the frame. The comp lock is much more reliable and durable.

 

[FDE]

And best feature over a liner lock is its on the proper side of the handle.

 

[Ballenxj]

You are right it uses the liner to lock, but does it in a different way than a traditional liner lock.

From Spyderco's edge-u-cation:

"COMPRESSION LOCK A lock mechanism that uses a leaf-like spring from a split liner in the handle to wedge laterally between a ramp on the blade tang and the stop pin (or anvil pin). Developed and patented by Spyderco, it provides extreme lock strength and ease of use."

http://www.spyderco.com/edge-u-cation/index.php?item=23

So basically instead of the liner just butting up against the end of the blade tang like a traditional liner lock, the compression lock liner is wedged between the back of the blade tang and the stop pin.

I really like the way the compression lock looks and works. From what I see in that link, the compression lock really is strong.
Thanks for posting this.

 

[rushane]

And best feature over a liner lock is its on the proper side of the handle.

The worst feature is that it isn't on more Spyderco knives.

 

[3rdGenRigger]

And best feature over a liner lock is its on the proper side of the handle.

And easier to use left handed, or if you're ambidextrous.

 

[Wolverine666]

The worst feature is that it isn't on more Spyderco knives.

I too wish it was available on more Spydercos. I love the compression lock.

 

[Lycosa]

A fantastic lock, indeed... once I got used to it.
rolf

 

[FDE]

The worst feature is that it isn't on more Spyderco knives.

Agreed!

 

[K.O.D.]

Being left handed/ambidextrous I like the compression. My favorite lock (of any brand) is the ball bearing lock, and compression a close second. I so wish the Gayle Bradley had one of those two, it would be fabulous.