Why is a clasp knife called a clasp knife?

[Wirebender]

Is it because the general shape was taken from a navaja with a clasp lock?

 

[bob bowie]

Originally posted by Wirebender
Is it because the general shape was taken from a navaja with a clasp lock?

Yes, I believe so, recent Clasp knives are still very close to earlier German, French, Spanish folders.

 

[Rebus777]

The navaja is a clasp knife, but what it
refers to is the way the handle is curved
and conforms with the shape of the blade.
The handle clasps the blade. First probably
having horn handles in the characteristic
curved shape.

-Rebus

 

[Wirebender]

Bob and Rebus- thanks for the replies.