locks

[Turbo923]

So, spyderco nuts (myself included),which is your favorite locking mechanism? Is it the lock back, liner lock, or the new compression lock? Could you also tell me why you like it best?

A question for Sal: I know you talked about locks and rating the strengths, which you said you ddin't like to do. But, in your opinion, which is stronger- the compression lock or the lock on the Chinook? You you give a rough estimate on the failing strengh of these two locks? Which knife has the strongedt locking mechanism on your knives? (OK, that was more than one question, sorry 'bout that) Thanks for the time.

[Turbo923]

Anyone?

[mundele]

All of my spyderco knives are lockback. I didnt plan it this way, I just buy what I like and up to this point I've never bought anything made by Spyderco with any other lock type. I just wanted to say that lock strength is not the only factor in choosing a lock type. For me, as long as the lock doesn't fail under reasonable use, then I'm happy. What is much more important to me is the ease of use. How convenient is the knife to open and close one handedly. Sometimes the tension of the pivot is more important than the type of lock, IMO.

--Matt

[jyork]

Well I originally only liked lockbacks. But I think that was because that was what I was used to. (Change is bad you know) But after buying and carrying lots of new Spydercos I would have to say for my purposes of carring at work and around I now prefer the liner lock. I find it easier to use one handed and some of the nicer knives I like come that way. Still learning on the compression lock. Seems like a great lock in theory but still trying to get used to it. (there is that change thing again.)

[sal]

Hi Turbo. The ultimate lock strength on the Chinook and the Gunting are about equal.

sal

[clipiteer]

Turbo,
Don't know if this qualifies as a locking mechanism, but I prefer fixed blade knives. But other than that my favorite lock is the Benchmade Axis lock. Out of the choices you gave me, the liner lock is my favorite, because it is very easy to close with one hand. (I haven't handled a compression lock yet though)

[vampyrewolf]

Up until 2 months ago, my lockblade knives were all back lock... My latest was a linerlock(cricket), and now I'm looking more at linerlocks.

Linerlocks are smoother to open, but I feel backlocks are stronger. I have yet to handle a compression lock.

If a knife holds up to daily abuse, and the occasional camping trip, it's got a good lock in my opinion.

[GronK]

I prefer the convenience of a liner lock, but they tend to be sensitive to proper set up for indexing. I bought my first Spydercos this weekend (Thank you! Thank you very much). One is a NOS Viele (pre-VG-10 and eccentric pivot <img src="sad.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle> ). It indexes all the way across the tang. It's not loose, but probably will get that way with normal wear. The other is the Blackhawk with back lock and it's solid as a rock.

Just 'cause yer paranoid don't mean someone ain't out ta getcha

[clipiteer]

BTW, one thing I don't like about liner locks is people that can't figure out how to close them! It is beyond me how some can't even close my Schrade Cliphanger.(It says &quot;PRESS&quot; in capitol letters right on the lock!)