How does having a big cutout on one side seem classier?
Not trying to squabble as I'd buy either, it just seems an odd observation. The asymmetry of frame locks has always bugged me. Some pull it off better than others, the mnandi comes to mind, but I've always found liner locks more attractive.
I think it's a cleaner design as in less parts. From my view point, a liner lock is like a frame lock but with a liner and a cover, frame locks tend to integrate the too, thus why it was named an integral lock originally. I also find monolith designs more appealing, like the cold steel drop forged knives, though I don't think I would own one because at the fixed blade level I expect that I'll abuse it more. Not sure it's practical.
Don't get me wrong, I like liner locks a lot too, probably up there as a 2nd fave behind that axis, tied with the frame lock, and then the back lock... then probably a slipjoint/no lock (like the feel of opening a nice W&T slippie).
Very close for me and a personal preference, I guess it really comes down to the metal sides I've seen of every leek I've handled and that to me seems like it should be a frame lock. If it's a plastic handle, like my millie, liner all the way. However, can't deny I've lusted over the frame lock variants either.
I guess the asymmetry doesn't bother me much because I view both frame and liner locks as "one-sided" carry-only, even though you can carry it on the left. It's just that the locks are optimal for right or left handing lock manipulation. I've actually thought about doing something similar with a BM custom shop where the inner scale is a bright orange (HS and college school color) and the outer is black for discrete carry. Give it subtlety and flare in the same piece. I feel like that was some of the allure so come of the CF/ti frame lock knives that have been out recently, usually flippers unfortunately, from ZT and spyderco (I'm sure there are plenty of others). I have some odd tastes, I like assisted flippers but not standard flippers. Symmetry isn't a requirement. I want practical use first, and then aesthetics. I like simple design (less parts) even though assisted adds parts, and slippies seem more complicated than a basic lockback or liner as you add more blades, though I have limited myself to two blades because 3 is too much.
I do find fixed blades the nicest but I can't deny the convenience of a folder for work where it's been recommended I don't carry a personal knife at all and stick to using the provided utility knife (which are never around when I need one, like tape guns).
Sorry for the book, hopefully you have some of my perspective on this.
. I did buy several Links as gifts though and the guys I got them for loved them.
