Question(s) about locking slipjoints

[Eric H]

More questions!

First, regarding the slipjoints that have locks, whether they are backlocks or linerlocks, to they still have the 'snap' to them? (I've owned and loved many tactical/modern liner locks, and one backlock--an original Spyderco Chinook, but they all opened smoothly without the snap.)

Second, for those linerlocks that have the lever/paddle on the back/spine of the knife, how do they work?

Third, what, exactly, is the horn on the Russlock for? It's a linerlocking knife, right?

Thanks, and sorry for all of my questions...

 

[yablanowitz]

First, a "slipjoint" is a non-locking folder. There are slipjoints with liner locks, such as the Russlock, where there is still a backspring to provide snap and hold the blade in open and closed positions, but they do not rely on the lock to hold the blade open, it is there merely as a secondary safety. Most traditional lockbacks have some snap, but it is generally not as strong as the slipjoints. The lever on the Russlock is there to allow one hand opening. As for the "linerlocks that have the lever/paddle on the back/spine of the knife", you're going to have to post a picture, because I have no idea what you're talking about there.

 

[Eric H]

Thanks for the info-- here's a Schatt & Morgan Saddlehorn set up like I mentioned:

 

[aplehr1]

Thanks for the info-- here's a Schatt & Morgan Saddlehorn set up like I mentioned:

That S&M isn't a liner-lock, it locks up like a conventional lock-back. The only difference being that the release protrudes, instead of being flush with the scales.

Adam

 

[moonwilson]

The spine on the Russlock is for opening the blade with your thumb. And for poking holes in your pockets. Yes, it is a liner-locking knife. Old school-liner locking. Not like a modern, Michael Walker-style linerlock.

 

[yablanowitz]

Thanks for the info-- here's a Schatt & Morgan Saddlehorn set up like I mentioned:

That's what I called a "traditional lockback". From the picture I'd guess cam end (no half-stop) so it should open smoothly like the Chinook, and that lock configuration generally does not lend itself to strong snap, so it should close about like the Chinook as well.

 

[Eric H]

Got it. Seems like actually gripping and using that style of knife would release the lock?

 

[aplehr1]

Got it. Seems like actually gripping and using that style of knife would release the lock?

Not in my experience, for two main reasons:
1. The release tab basically melts into the pad/fat of your palm while using it. When gripping the knife, you can't even feel the protrusion. Maybe I just have fat palms.
2. The force required to disengage the lock is 3-4 times more than any other lock-back I own.

From what I gather, it is a time tested design. As long as you don't use the release tab as a thumb-ramp, it is very dependable in my experience. YMMV

Adam