Why All the Compression Lock Love?

Doesn't everyone unlock the comp lock the same? I've used my index finger to pull on the tab and my thumb is usually in the Spydie-hole, as the lock disengages I thumb the blade closed. While I can do the "flip open and closed" on some comp locks I've always felt it was unnecessarily dangerous since sometimes you're only pinching the knife between your thumb and forefinger (much like the Spydie-drop but worse).

As to why they're popular/loved - they're pretty darn strong, though admittedly a proper liner lock is more than strong enough (Military anyone?).
They're also easy to manipulate once you get the hang of it and keep your fingers out of the blade's path.
They keep the folding knife very lightweight.
 
It might not seem as "elegant", but I see elegance in simplicity. The fact is, the compression lock works great, and is very easy to use. It is basically as easy to make as a liner lock (by milling a liner and creating a leaf spring by bending it), and doesn't add any weight to the knife. Also, it is a very strong lock. The mechanics of the compression lock are structurally about the same as a BBL or Axis lock. However, it is simpler to make.

One other thing that it has over other high-strength locks like the Axis lock is, with a good detent, it has much better closed retention. Also, the fact that it is self-adjusting, like a liner or frame lock due to the diagonal lock engagement surface. So even if you dent the stop pin, it will just cause it to lock up a little later.

So basically, my opinion is that there's beauty and utility in simplicity. Less parts to fail, and just as strong. I'd be willing to bet that the "omega spring" of the Axis lock would break long before a compression lock's leaf spring.
 
senoBDEC said:
Doesn't everyone unlock the comp lock the same? I've used my index finger to pull on the tab and my thumb is usually in the Spydie-hole, as the lock disengages I thumb the blade closed. While I can do the "flip open and closed" on some comp locks I've always felt it was unnecessarily dangerous since sometimes you're only pinching the knife between your thumb and forefinger (much like the Spydie-drop but worse).
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I open my normally, but I close it with the "pinch" method, and I can do it very safely.

Something that works well on the Para 2 due to it's crazy smooth pivot, is you can hold it with a standard grip, and just press the lock with your thumb, and let the blade flop close (it will stop on your index finger due to the finger choil) then switch grips and close completely. Basically like many people close back-locks. However, the "pinch" grip closing method is very fast (no need to change your grip midway), and I find it to be just as safe (you can grip it with all your finger, and just use your index finger to close it.
 
I find the compression lock mechanism a bit convoluted compared to the simple elegance of a liner lock or frame lock, but there's a solid and reliable feel to the compression lock that's impressive. I'd buy another.
 
I really like the compression lock. Yes, sometimes they are a bit "sticky," but nothing too bad. Plus, with some use they wear in just fine, and better than liner locks in my experience. Easy to operate one-handed (for righties), stronger than about any other lock out there, and with a failure being very unlikely, what's not to like?
 
mentaculus said:
... but I see elegance in simplicity. ...
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Yes, sir. Mechanically simple, easy to operate, rugged and strong. Elegant in the sense of math and physics - simple and powerful.

John PerMar expressed his admiration of the compression lock by saying, "Now, why didn't I think of that?" John had invented an improvement to the back lock and subsequnetly obtained a patent. Cold Steel bought John's patent, which is similar to the Tri-Ad.

I find the compression lock very easy to operate one-handed, for the right hand. The compression lock and the Axis are my favorites.
 
Damn_Animal said:
I also have never had a comp lock knife. This is mostly due to the fact that I carry larger knives and the Comp lock is not available on any of them. To me though the placment of the comp lock would seem to cause a hot spot that would eventualy make it uncomfortable to use over longer periods of time. My favorite lock is the Ti Frame Lock because its reinforced by your grip and does not have anywhere to realy cause a hotspot.
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If you're talking about larger Spyderco knives, then the Superleaf and Para II both have Compression locks and are barely smaller than the Millie. Just out of curiosity, which large knives are you carrying?
 
EZ Bake said:
If you're talking about larger Spyderco knives, then the Superleaf and Para II both have Compression locks and are barely smaller than the Millie. Just out of curiosity, which large knives are you carrying?
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The Military is one that I am currently using just picked up a pair of back ups on the barter board.Have carried a SMF a zt300, an Onslaught and a few others. Spyderco doesnt make many realy large knives and I dont realy carry anything with a blade that isnt 3 3/4 or larger. I would like to give navaja and the vallton a try as well.
 
I received my first compression lock knife, the Para 2, a few days ago and love it. In years past, I had handled a different compression lock model and didn't like it because it pinched me when I opened the knife. The Para 2 doesn't have that issue. I like the fact that there's no small springs to break, and it appears simple, but clearly, a lot of thought has gone into this lock and into the Para 2 in particular.

Jim
 
mentaculus said:
One other thing that it has over other high-strength locks like the Axis lock is, with a good detent, it has much better closed retention.
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This is a key issue for me. That one statement makes me VERY happy. Thanks to everyone on this thread that has lauded the excellence of the compression lock - now sitting and waiting for the Yojimbo 2 to come out!
 
For me the compression lock of my D2 Para is awesome just a real easy lock to use and it just holds up. My spring run D2 Para has in no way received safe queen treatment, I have bent the clip 2 or 3 times, the clip is all worn and until about 30 minutes ago it had tape all over the blade.
 
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