Microtech Socom Lock?

J

J. MacDonald

Joined
Jun 8, 2000
Messages
3,140
The lock on my Microtech Socom Elite seems to be a variation on the frame lock/ liner lock. I know the mini Socom is a more traditional linerlock, but I'm curious about commentary on the lock in the full sized Socom.

The Socom seems like a really solid knife although it doesn't cut cardboard as well as my small Sebenza (nothing does). Besides the collector value of some Microtechs, what are the opinions on the Socom for EDC useage?

jmx
 
First off, are you talking about a SOCOM Elite or the older SOCOM model that preceded it? The elite's lock is stonger, but the original SOCOM is sturdy as well. It's a very thick piece of metal keeping it secure. The elite has an even thicker piece of ceramic.

For EDC, they're very nice IMO, though I seem to recall the original SOCOM sitting a bit too deep in my pocket for my tastes (I don't have my MTs here at the dorm with me to double check). They're sturdy, comfortable, and very sharp. Just be wary of showing it to other knife knuts, you don't want to get drool over your knife :p
 
The knife in question is a Socom Elite born in 6/2000 according to the blade. How solid is the lock as compared to a Sebnza? It seems that the handle on the Microtech (appears to be solid aluminum) would have to seriously deform before the lock would dis-engage.

What do you think?

jmx
 
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=180195

I did a comparison a while back between a SOCOM-E and a sebenza.
Pic and links will probably result in 404's, but I guess I have some pics at home, so mail me if youa bsolmutely want to see them.

Since then, I traded the sebenza off for a real custom handmade fighter to my specs, and the SOCOM-e for some other EDC's. Sending the SOCOM off hurt more. It is one of the strongest, longest lasting
knives ever. The sebenza is pretty much overpriced in my opinion, while the SOCOM-E is right on. Half the price of the Sebenza and 98 % the performance..
Dont't worry about the lock, it's strong enough for any human wrist, just keep an eye on the screw keeping it in place, at some SOCOM's it seems to come loose over time.

greetz and take care.
 
The Socom Elite is one of the best productions folders out there. I have heard of isolated cases of lock failure, but they appear to be rare. I have two and have never had any problems. The locking bar is made of 154CM, just like the blade. The ball detent is ceramic.

My only problem has been MT's cryptic marketing policies of introducing an excellent product with much hoopla and then dropping it usually within a year. This appears to be designed to manipulate the prices in the secondary market.

I have heard, however, that the SE will be making a comeback soon.:)
 
I agree that if you want a folder only for cutting tasks the SOCOM Elite is not the best choice. There are better blade designs available, especially with thinner blades.
In my opinion the SOCOM Elite model is the prime example of a tactical folder. A perfect combination of a versatile cutting tool and a self defense/fighting knife.
 
The Socom Elite seems like perhaps the definition of a Tactical Folder. Really reliable, pretty large, sharp and pointy. No offense to the Sifu crowd, but this seems like a great self defense knife should one need such a thing. Perhaps I should just carry both the Socom and the small Sebenza to have all bases covered?

jmx
 
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