Liner lock and frame lock obsolete?

K

KuKu

Joined
Jun 25, 1999
Messages
178
With the introduction of new locks like the Axis and the Rolling Lock, are the old locks obsolete? Are manufacturer still using liners and frames because they're are not authorized to use the new locks? Or is it because the knife itself calls for the use of a slimmer locking mechanism?

[This message has been edited by KuKu (edited 03-22-2000).]
 
The Axis and Rolling lock do offer a great deal of additional strength, and have proven quite reliable so far. But there will always be a place for liner and frame locks, just as there is still a place for lockbacks and slipjoints. The liner lock isn’t an overt and visible device like the new spring actuating devises, and allows for a cleaner look in handle designs on top of the thinner construction aspects involved. And the frame lock is still the most reliable lock available.

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James Segura
San Francisco, CA
 
Originally posted by KuKu:
With the introduction of new locks like the Axis and the Rolling Lock, are the old locks obsolete? Are manufacturer still using liners and frames because they're are not authorized to use the new locks? Or is it because the knife itself calls for the use of a slimmer locking mechanism?

[This message has been edited by KuKu (edited 03-22-2000).]
Click to expand...

KuKu,
Liner lock and frame locks are proven and simple with many happy customers, not dead yet. This is MHO only! Love the simplicity of the Axis, great design. My Favorite so far.
I had a Carnie and gave it to a friend. Didn't like the Carnie design. I don't want a thumb button and a spring that slides a lever up to operate a bell crank to move a pin to unlock my knife.
We all want a strong lock, but the less moving parts the better, thats just how I feel. (Now I'm going to get spamed by Carnie lovers.)
The old locks are not dead but... I sure have fun playing with the new ones, like the Axis, minimal moving parts (simple) and strong.
 
I don't believe that any Lock that works will ever become obsolete. It may fall from popularity but it will still be produced at some level. IMHO that is the beauty of Knives. They are so basic that designs that are thousands of years old still function.



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AKTI Member No. A000370
 
I still like the lockbacks. I don't see them failing as some of the lever locks.

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Lead,follow, or get the hell out of the way!
 
Yes and no, presuming that by frame lock, you mean the Apogee, Sebenza, Pinnacle style of lock. The frame lock is actually about the simplest and strongest, and therefore most reliable lock yet available. Additionally, a good tight grip helps hold them locked. The best folders, the Darrel Ralph Apogee and Reeve Sebenza both employ them.

But yes, the liner lock est muerto as far as I am concerned. I still carry a mini-AFCK from time to time, but other than that the only liner locks I own are on knives that I keep for the artistry and perfection of their design and craftsmanship, not for use. Their are some reliable liner locks, but they are the exception.

In my humble opinion, of course.
 
Interesting topic.
Although I own and love several of my linerlocks...for some reason my main carry users are either lockback or slipjoint (SAK). I like the idea of the Axis and Rolling locks, as they seem to 'wear in' instead of 'wear out.' Maybe the only thing that might give out are the springs that push the locking bar.

I do not yet own any frame locks of the Reeve or Pinnacle variety. I think linerlocks will be popular for a long time, though, because most people don't even know what one is. I've had people try to push the pivot screw on the handle to unlock my AFCK. So to many, liner locks, even lockbacks, are state-of-the-art and exotic. Also, since they hit the peak of popularity a couple years ago, some manufacturers have just recently gotten the knack of mass-producing well-made liner locks (CRKT, Outdoor Edge, and others). And as long as people are buying, they will make them.
Jim
 
Hey Harv, where you been
wink.gif


Mark



[This message has been edited by Mark W Douglas (edited 03-24-2000).]
 
One thing worth mentioning is that there are a few liner locks being produced with a safety now, which I think is going to help. The new locks are, I think, going to flourish though.
 
Has anyone seen the breaking knives tread? Seems like the frame lock is still as strong as ever.
 
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