Locking Traditional Knife

L

LegendTeller

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Jan 25, 2013
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Hello everyone, I'm new to this forum but I've been reading posts on here for a while. What I'm looking for is a good locking, traditional style knife. I prefer carbon steel, like cv in Case, and a handle material that isn't too fancy because it's going to be a using edc knife, and for this same reason I don't want it to be really expensive because then I won't want to carry it. I like the look of the Case mini Copperlock, but I'm not sure if that tru-sharp steel is good, and if there was a CV mini or full sized copperlock that I could get new I wouldn't hesitate to get it but I can't find any of those anywhere. I also like the Case trapperlock, but I've heard that it has problems with coming open in your pocket and having blade play, which I can't stand any amount of. I've looked for a while and not been able to find exactly what I'm looking for so I'm hoping some of you that are more experienced can help me find something that fits what I want.

P.S. I know that some of you don't like/see the need for locking knives, but I just feel safer and more confident with a locking knife. I know that they can close and the lock can malfunction, but I just like locking knives. Thanks!
 
Forewarned is forearmed. Let's keep it traditional folks. This subject seems to have more drift then most.
 
Böker Germany do a very nice Drop-point lockback in carbon. 4" closed in a variety of handle choices.

Tru-sharp is quite OK for pocket knife tasks, but some people won't hear of it (stainlessphobia usually) yet the Mini Copperlock is a good option.

If you need a user and don't want to mess up more costly handles (they can take it you know...) then look at Rough Rider they have a lot of lockback knives in their stainless(equal to Trusharp at least)in many different handle options, and a few nice ones in there at low cost.
 
You should try the K55K Mercator knife. A nicely locking knife at a very slim profile and carbon steel blades... at a nice price range... ;) And made in Germany, Solingen.
 
Yeah I really like the mini copperlock, I'm leaning towards it. I know that those costly handles can take abuse but I would rather save money on a good basic handle on a using knife than spend a lot more on a handle that doesn't affect its performance, just costs more and looks fancier.
 
Case isn't currently producing any of the Copperlock in CV. BUT, if you search the web for pattern# "31549L CV" (large) or "31749L CV" (mini), you might be able to track one down on the 'auction site' or other secondary market seller. That particular pattern was in yellow delrin handles. Downside is, aside from the relative rarity of them, they might be pricey when you do find them. The few I've seen were late '90s or early 2000s vintage.


David
 
I THINK CASE made the Mini Copperlock in black G-10 as well. This is defo hard wear material! Looks very nice on their knives too.
 
Do you have flea markets, trade days, or NKCA type knife shows in your area ?

I found a couple of CV Mini Copperlocks for a great price at flea markets that have Case knife dealers. Found a CV large Copperlock at a NKCA show at a great price.

A mini CV sold here a day or two ago. They fetch a good bit more on the bay. I do prefer their CV, but also have one in SS, and its holds a decent edge.

I don't have a GEC 72, but have heard good things about it. If you don't go with Stag they go for under $100, but not sure how much you want to spend.

Moki make's one called a Fish Owl, and I've almost pulled the trigger on one. They make great knives, and its priced under $100 as well. Buck makes a few sizes, along with several others.

You mentioned the Mini Copperlock, so I assume you're hunting for a smaller one. Here's a thread with some pics.....http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/1019065-Small-Lockbacks
 
Thanks all, I think I'm gonna go for the mini copperlock. I'll look for a cv one but if I can't find it I'll settle for the tru-sharp.
 
The Ben Hogan locking GEC looks fantastic to my eye.

Plenty of good choices for traditional lock backs. Liner locks, and the ring lock on the Opinel come to mind too.


There is nothing wrong with wanting a locking knife.
 
The Queen Teardrop Linerlock is one of my all-time favorites, I own a couple of them. Here is a pic of mine, in amber carved stag bone.

IMG_0610.jpg


They are a hair over 3-3/4" closed, blades of excellent D2 carbon tool steel, and come with either the bone or a curly zebrawood handle.
Mike Latham at Collectorknives.net has them both at an excellent price, below. Go about 3/4 way down the page.

http://www.collectorknives.net/queen-knives.html
 
I'll put my vote in for a Canal Street Pinch Lockback. D2 steel, sleek and slim package and yet is surprisingly robust. I've had 3 so far, I've given 2 of them away as gifts and each time I found myself wishing I kept it for myself, so I bought one for myself and I'm keepin it!

Here are some pictures of an older one that I gave away (I bought another one just like it for myself though :D )
8HZnkl.jpg


MN6U3l.jpg
 
black mamba said:
The Queen Teardrop Linerlock is one of my all-time favorites, I own a couple of them. Here is a pic of mine, in amber carved stag bone.

IMG_0610.jpg


They are a hair over 3-3/4" closed, blades of excellent D2 carbon tool steel, and come with either the bone or a curly zebrawood handle.
Mike Latham at Collectorknives.net has them both at an excellent price, below. Go about 3/4 way down the page.

http://www.collectorknives.net/queen-knives.html
Click to expand...

Jeff thanks for showing it, this is very high on my list of Most Cherished Knife. Now I've got it sharp, it's a superb carry, would like to get hold of a recent Zebrawood one too-if I get the chance.

All the best, Will
 
Case 21051 LSSP - small lock back - handle 3 1/2 in., blade 2 3/4 inches. Discontinued, but I see them occasionally on auction sites.

Here's photos of mine:

http://imageshack.us/a/img822/6757/caselock21051lssphnd.jpg

http://imageshack.us/a/img826/9507/caselock21051lssprt.jpg

I carried this as an EDC for a few years back in the late 70's. I usually carry other knives now, but this one often goes along in the day pack, camp box, "possibles" bag, or whatever for back-up. Stainless steel, but works just fine. Rugged, easy to maintain, and comfortable in the hand. This one dressed and skinned a few deer back in the day, as well as the usual lighter chores, with no complaints.
 
I posted this in another thread on locking traditionals.
For a modern interpretation of th barlow see AG Russell's barlow on the top. Great slicer w/ it's hollow grind.
The two Schrade USA's on the bottom are very pocketable and easily found.

lockbacks_zps9f57f027.jpg
 
I carry & use a Queen Mountain Man quite a lot. Just about my favorite folding knife, ever. They have D2 tool steel for blade stock, and are available in several handle variations. I can't recommend it highly enough.
 
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