Lock type preference poll

[Ajack60]

Frame lock, for me, they’re the easiest to work on and assemble when a knife needs cleaning.

 

[norcalAF]

Framelock, I like a lock that gets stronger the tighter you squeeze. I really like lionsteels rotolock!

 

[GB940Rookie]

Axis, lock back and liner are my favorite.

 

[jux t]

I prefer a lock that is dynamically strong no matter how hard you squeeze, and that goes to back locks and the Tri-Ad lock in particular.

Back locks are ambidextrous and don’t run the risk of lock slippage when oily.

 

[ShaunAF]

Compression lock > Lock back > Ball bearing.

 

[skyer]

it seems framelock is the worst cause its not super tough while not comfortable to hold.

 

[Lenny]

Compression lock

 

[Ikhnaton]

Ever since getting a compression lock and CBBL and an axis and button lock, I don't mich care for the lock types you specify.

Though of all those, the firstbtwo are my preferred type of lock, button and axis feel kinda flimsy

 

[Wasty]

I'm a predominantly fixed knife guy, so for folders I actually prefer slipjoints.

However, if the knife has a lock, I prefer backlocks and button locks

 

[Wolverine666]

Titanium frame locks are my favorite. I also like liner locks , Axis-style locks and the Compression lock.

 

[Mannlicher]

never gave the subject much thought. I guess I don't really have a preference.

 

[skirm]

1. Tri-AD Lock
+ Rock solid
- Only a few knives

2. Axis Lock
+ Easy to open/close, also left-handed
- Omega spring failure (never happened to me in more than two decades of use)

3. Framelock
+ Solid
- Handle can be uncomfortable
- Too much weight; one half of the handle needs to be metal

4. Backlock
+ Handle can be thin
- Every one of my knives has blade play after long use

5. Linerlock
+ Easy to disassemble
- Liner moves slowly to the side; with a thin blade, it can be over; cannot repair it

 

[whp]

1. Lock back/triad.
2. Compression.

 

[91bravo]

I use knives with all types of locks and I honestly can't say I have a favorite type of lock. There are lots of factors that go into my choices of knives, but lock type is extremely low on the list as long as it's a well made knife because I never depend on any folding knife's lock to keep me safe. Probably why I prefer a fixed blade anytime it's an option.

If I have to choose from the list in the poll it would be lockback. Nothing to do with strength or type of action, but much more because it doesn't affect how the knife handles or feels in my hand at all ... frame lock, liner lock, even axis lock, or compression lock all affect how the knife feels in your hand in some way.

Same. I have knives with all types of locks and some with none at all. Doesn’t matter to me as long as it’s well built.

 

[Kwon Kwang]

Lockback because that's what the majority of the knives I've decided to purchase have got, in one form or another. Money talks, but I love all kinds of locking mechanisms. I especially enjoy the Reeve Integral Lock and the compression lock.

The type of lock doesn't matter to me as much these days as build and design quality; there is a world of difference between a high end, properly designed liner lock from Spyderco or ZT and one in a gas station that was probably made by Uighur kids in Xianjang.

The words of the day here are nuance and discernment.

 

[sgt1372]

FWIW, for the purposes of the poll, None = It Doesn't Matter.

I own folding knives using all kinds of locking devices. I have no preference, so it's doesn't matter to me what kind of locking device is used.

The only thing that matters is that the locking device, whatever it is, works in "normal" use.

I don't own any folder that uses a locking device that can't satisfy this requirement.

 

[Stringjam7]

Liner and frame are my favorites. A well-done liner wins for me because it's generally easier to manipulate, and I have never had a quality version of either fail. Tie here for a good button lock - I would say my ProTech buttons are perfectly done.

I love the positive feel of good back-locks, too.

I'm good with the Spydie compression lock on PMs, but I hate it on other models like the Caribbean or Sliverax where it ends up pinching my finger half the time on deployment.

Axis-type locks are my least favorite - but I don't dislike them. I just like the others better.

 

[ShaiHulud]

Properly executed, there's little to no strength difference between many types of locks
Preference alone I prefer liner locks, easier to clean in my opinion, however I've been pocketing a 110 slim select for a few weeks

 

[tony281sc2]

Framelock
I like liner locks too, but I think a framelock will always be a little stronger since a tight grip on the knife results in a more secure lockup.
Still I wouldn’t turn my nose up at a well done liner lock.
I like other types of locks as well but the action of a well done frame/liner is second to none IMO

I realize most axis style locks and the triad are stronger, but I’d rather have the super smooth action than the extra strength that is just overkill for my needs.

 

[drawkcaB]

None of the choices given are my favorite, as I prefer OTFs and gravity knives.

I do have a few Spyderco lock backs, so I voted for that since I can use them one-handed.