My name is fulloflead and I'm a Phantom Lock lover.

fulloflead

fulloflead

Joined
May 3, 2002
Messages
6,192
I'm a member of Phantom Lock Lovers Anonymous.

I have a suggestion and questions for Spyderco and other Spyderco lovers..
(Of coarse I'm not in the loop on upcoming knives so something like this might already be coming out and I wouldn't know it.)

I actually really like the Phantom lock on my MeerKat.
I don't know how popular it's been, but if it's been unpopular it might be because the MeerKat has too light a blade to be able to flip back into the handle (even though I can do it most times) when the lock is disengaged.

What I think would be really cool is a full-size Spyderco with the Phantom lock. Maybe even G-10 or aluminum instead of FRN.

I think an Endura-sized knife (or bigger) would work really well with that lock because the blade would be heavy enough to fall (or flip) closed when you twist the handles to disengage the lock.

I actually kinda dig the Phantom lock (even though I hate trying to explain it when I lend my MeerKat to someone) and I'd like to see it again on another knife or more.

Any chance of that?
 
The only thing I don't like about the Phantom lock is the amount of repositioning the knife needs to unlock it. On most locks it is just a matter of turning the knife slightly to one side or the other withought basically moving the hand, whereas the Meerkat I find I have to reposition my hand to the extreme rear of the knife to disengage the lock, but it does generally flick shut from there.
Generally I find it easier to close the Meerkat two handed.

Even though I am not a great fan of the Phantom lock there are a lot of good things I like about the Meerkat. I'm not a great fan of FRN handles, but the tightly compacted version used on the Meerkat is really nice especially when complimented with the weight of the solid steel spacer. Also the wire clip is really good, safe secure and allows the knife to ride really deep.
 
I really like the Meerkat.

I just got one yesterday in the mail. I had one before and sold it. It was my EDC and I never should have sold it.
Anyway I have one clipped back in my right front pocket again and it is the handiest little knife.

I really like the Phantom lock and it would be great to see it on other knives.

As for the FRN handles I don't mind them at all.
Colored Meerkat's would be cool. I like blue :)

I would also like to see the Meerkat in VG-10, anyone else?
 
Yeah, the MeerKat is under rated. They had a bunch at the Factory Sale this weekend so I had to pick up a serrated one too.
VG-10 would be great.
 
Spyderco sent me one when I ordered my G-10 Police. I'm not a huge fan, but there are two good things about it. It's small enough that it won't scare people, and it's a LOT of fun handing it to someone without an explaination. Everyone can OPEN a Spyderco.....

Then I go back to what I was doing and giggle, while they look puzzled.
 
The Meerkat was among my first spydies. It is a great knife. I can flick open and close it single handed (it was a bit tight when it just arrived, but it loosen up quickly). I guess the Phantom Lock™ could be fitted to larger models as well, with some minor refinements.
And yes, it's nice to give it to someone to play with it and see how it tries to close it :D
 
Yup, the Meerkat is one fine little knife. I had two before I got rid of em :rolleyes: I'll pick up another some day. I had my girlfriend's step-father completely baffled by it. This coming from a man with a very large knowledge of mechanics and design.
Matt
 
the meerkat that I bought closed on my fingers 2 times in the past 6 months. Now both times the knife was held in a reverse grip. And the force of my hand / palm turned the handle just enough to release the lock and cut me.
Now I was at the sale too and tried some meerkats and spoke to fellow there. He said knife is too loose, the handle/lock shouldnt turn that easily. I tried several meerkats there and none where as easy to release as mine.

I dont think I would like the lock on a larger knife. Especially one that can be used for self defense, in a reverse grip

Jack
 
I had a Meerkat, but ended up selling it.

The FRN handles were ok. The phantom lock is pretty cool. The clip worked well.

It was pretty hard to close one handed. I ended up using a technique of pushing the handle out with my thumb and closing it with my leg.

I didn't like how the handles kind of jiggled. And I really didn't much care for having my finger on the choil - even though I knew it was fairly secure and that my fingers probably wouldn't slip up onto the blade.

I think I like the plain old lockback better.

Still, a very cool design.

-- Rob
 
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