Spine wack test?

ChaserAlpha · Apr 19, 2005

What exactly is the spine wack test? I've viewed previous posts about "spine wacking" folders and some members posted that this is not a wise thing to be doing to a folder. What is the purpose of the spine wack test, how reliable is it and how does one do it?

Slim to None · Apr 19, 2005

I suppose the term "spine whacking" could be deceptively simple. One locks a folder open, and "whacks" the "spine" of the knife on a hard surface, allegedly "testing" the lock strength in some way or another. Not a great idea with flimsier knives. With a benza, strider, axis lock, or manix you're just going to dent whatever you're hitting.

Joe Talmadge · Apr 19, 2005

My suggestion is to do a search on "spine whack". There are lengthy threads every few months on it, people arguing either way.

allegedly "testing" the lock strength in some way or another.

It tests reliability, not strength.

Slim to None · Apr 20, 2005

Sorry Joe, only joking. I suppose sarcasm doesn't come through well in type. I wasn't intending to impugn anyone or their methods.

WadeF · Apr 20, 2005

Whenever I get a liner lock I give it a few wacks on the spine of the blade, usually with my hand. I just want to make sure the lock isn't going to fail if the blade it accidentally bumped into something. I'm not going to hit it with a hammer or slam it down on something with a lot of force.

Keith Montgomery · Apr 20, 2005

WadeF said:
Whenever I get a liner lock I give it a few wacks on the spine of the blade, usually with my hand. I just want to make sure the lock isn't going to fail if the blade it accidentally bumped into something. I'm not going to hit it with a hammer or slam it down on something with a lot of force.

I do exactly the same thing and for the same reason.

T Schloz · Apr 20, 2005

Same here. If a knife is sold as a locking knife than it should stay locked.

Tom

BVincent · Apr 20, 2005

WadeF said:
Whenever I get a liner lock I give it a few wacks on the spine of the blade, usually with my hand. I just want to make sure the lock isn't going to fail if the blade it accidentally bumped into something. I'm not going to hit it with a hammer or slam it down on something with a lot of force.

I have a S&W SWAT tanto that won't even pass that test, and cut my finger when the framelock released. I just gave it a small whack against my palm and it released the blade, what a POS. I threw it away to ensure that I would never use that knife again by accident.