Why do I benefit from newer locks (like Axis?)

R

RX-79G

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Jun 23, 2006
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I have a fair selection of name brand lock back pocket knives. Different frame locks, liner locks, lock backs, etc. All of which open and close easily. I often hear people say that X knife is good, but they wish it had Y type of lock.

Why? Aside from novelty, are any of the patented type locks going to function any differently or better than liner lock in use?


Hey, we all like folders because they are gadgets, and I get that. Just wondering why some folks are so insistent on one system or another when they all seem to work about the same when executed well.
 
Howdy. Wrong forum for this topic. Moving to General.
 
Some like different steel, blade shapes, handle material and ways the blade locks/unlocks. Just a matter of taste on what you prefer.
 
I love the Axis lock. I'm most proficient with it as far as opening and closing one hand which is something important to me. I work in LE and sometimes I have something in my left hand and and the Axis is smooth.and easy. For instance I may be holding a drug test kit in my left hand and need to get just enough of the drug on the tip to get it into the envelope, then put the knife away, then seal and agitate the solution.. I do this several times a week. I get pre occupied and I've been bit a few times by frame locks and lock backs are a bit more difficult for me.
I love the Axis
 
I only have one Benchmade knife, and it's a regular Pardue Griptilian. I like the knife, but I love the axis lock, and it is the reason I will eventually get another Axis lock Benchmade knife. It is extremely easy to both open and close with one hand (even with gloves), and you don't have to put your finger in the path of the blade.
 
You benefit from variety. Every company has their own claim to fame, be it locking mechanisms, designs, ingenuity, and collaborators. Keep in mind, this forum is highly geared towards the knife aficionado/steel junky/collector/accumulator. Those are the types of answers you will be receiving to even the most basic of questions.
 
There's really no advantage at all. I just happen to like frame locks the best. It gives me a warm fuzzy feeling to be able to see the lock up and how far over the locking mechanism is moving with use.
 
It is partly a matter of taste, it is partly a matter of function, and for some people it is a matter of perceived strength and safety. And you know humans have to figure out ways to complicate everything.

I prefer knives made for one-handed use so that leaves out lockbacks. Among the one-handed locks there are the frame locks and liner locks that you operate with your thumb. I am happy with this type of lock but many people prefer some of the other lock types. Even though I like liner locks, I have to be a little careful with them so as to not cut my thumb. I have other types of locks- axis, ball bearing, compression, button. The axis locks are easy to operate and I finally learned how to operate the compression lock easily. The BBL is the one that I can operate the easiest without attention, IOW I could operate it in the dark. For a truly one-handed knife this is best because if you are up on a ladder and need to use the knife one-handed, you shouldn't have to watch the knife as you close it.

A lot of people are real concerned about lock strength, especially with the fad of batoning a knife. I think a lock is essential but I can't tell that I need a lot of lock strength so I don't worry about that. Some people also worry about a lock disengaging during use and this is a valid concern depending on how you use the knife.

Another thing I notice- axis locks, BBL and button locks typically have the clip mounted for tip up, liner/frame locks and compression locks can theoretically have the clip mounted either way.
 
Let's just put it this way.....

If CRK made a small sebenza 21 with cf inlays, M390 at 60-62, and an axis lock, I would abandon this wretched place forever:p

It's all about preferences my friend
 
It seems from some of the comments that perception is a big factor in people's preferences.

For instance, I've never come close to cutting myself by closing a liner lock with one hand. Some liner lock knives, like the Kershaw Skyline, is impossible to close on your thumb.

I also have a several lock backs, like a Spiderco Endura, that are easy to close with one hand. You can even open and close a CRKT Rollock with one hand.


Which doesn't mean that an Axis or Tri lock don't do an excellent job, but it does sound like some of the problems exist more on paper than in use.
 
For me, its simply a matter of ease of use for a particular scenario. For example, I don't trust a liner lock nearly as much as I trust either a frame lock or an axis lock for heavier tasks. Also, some lock types lend themselves to easier and faster deployment. For example, the axis lock is, IMHO, as near to a perfect locking system as you'll get for an all around carry blade. Why? Because its ambidextrous, provides solid lock up, and allows for multiple modes of opening.

In answer to your question; yes, you will absolutely benefit from some of the newer locking types (esp. Axis or compression locks.)
 
I don't have an axis lock, for some reason I am cautious about omega springs breaking. I'm sure it doesn't happen that often, but I have heard about it and it puts me off a little.
 
I love the simplicity and strength of the axis lock. It my favorite. I wouldn't worry about the omega springs...my Griptilian is 10 years old and prior to sending it in to life sharp service I never had a problem. They always change screws and springs with that free service.
 
I also like the axis lock. Locks..... I don't pay much attention beyond them being present and never really liked liner locks. If a knife opends easily, it usually closes easily and needs a lock of some sort. The other side of the coin are the slip joint tradtionals and I feel just fine with their spring mechanisms. The amount of "lock" is plenty for normal use.
 
Anytime there's a spring...........

BUT....the development of new locking mechanisms, especially good ones, allows for more competition, creativity and new models of knives that might now be able to take on certain lines or functions not possible with previous locks.

For dependability and length of service I still don't think anything beats a good mechanism that operates on pure physics and does not require the addition of parts, especially springs. Many of them are good but long live the Reeve lock.
 
Personal preference. Also, the Axis lock is ambidextrous. Closing a frame/liner lock left handed is awkward.

Nice handle btw, OP. 08th MS Team was good.
 
I think every lock has its benefits and its drawbacks. Thinks like the axis lock and spydercos ball lock as well as the compression lock allow you to close the blade without ever getting your finger in front of the travel of the blade. This to me offers a great safety advantage.
 
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