Types of Pocket Knife Locks – how to choose yours?
Pocket knives are essential tools that have been part of our lives for a long time. To choose an ideal model, it's important to consider some aspects, such as weight, blade type and length, and even design. But, the main factor: what will you use it for? Here, the type of safety lock will influence your choice! That's why today, we've brought you the best types of pocket knife locks on the market. Check them out now!
What type of lock to choose?
You need to assess the functionality you will give your pocket knife, and what kind of service it will be used for.
The choice should be based on your needs, but also on the quality of the item, and since CIMO is a cutlery specialist, all our pocket knives, regardless of the type of lock, are pieces of the highest quality, reliability, and resistance, with exclusive and recognized designs.
For collectors, the tip is to choose one model of each. For those who want a pocket knife for camping, the Tomahawk and Komodo models are the most recommended because they feature a liner lock opening system, making the activity more agile as it can be opened with one hand. The main point to consider when choosing an ideal pocket knife is its intended use. And the type of blade safety lock can greatly influence this aspect!
It's important to know the existing types of locks to know which best suits your needs. Some of the options, to give you an idea, are: Liner lock, lock back and Slip Joint Lock is the simple lock of classic pocket knives.
Let's talk a little about each of them. Keep reading!
Liner Lock

Liner Locks are the most common in pocket knives. It's a lateral lock in the middle of the handle that, when activated, automatically "slips" under the blade, locking its closure. You just need to apply a little force to open it. When the blade reaches its full open position, the lock fulfills its function.
To close it, just make the opposite movement and apply a little downward force to the blade, and it's done. It will close again! It's a type of lock that can be opened and closed using only one hand.
Here at Cimo, we have several pocket knife options with Liner lock, such as the Tomahawk pocket knife line, favorites among those who like more robust models.

Lock Back

Pocket knives with the lock back locking system are opened by means of a hinged spring-loaded lock, which can be disengaged by pressing the catch downwards. The system is located at the back of the piece. Although it can be opened with just one hand, you will need two hands to close it. You will have to activate the rear lock with one hand and use the other to pull the very securely locked pocket knife blade.
The locks must ensure the efficiency of the pocket knife when in use, so they need to be of very high quality so that the piece does not break or close accidentally when handled.
Some examples of excellent pocket knives, found in the Cutelaria Cimo line, are the Gecko models, which feature super sharp V-style blades, perfect for camping and bushcraft situations.

Slip Joint Lock

Simple lock pocket knives are classics! They are among the first models to appear in the history of cutlery.
Here at Cimo, you'll find various options of classic pocket knives, from those with squarer tips, known as straight profile blades, to pointed ones, called Drop Point blades, for those who need pocket knives with the function of sharp and precise cuts as well.
The Slip Joint Lock is the most common. If you've ever held a pocket knife, you've undoubtedly experienced how this type of lock works. As the name suggests, you just pull the blade to open and push to close.
This style of lock is found on pocket knives suitable for less intense tasks.
Check out all Cimo pocket knives with Slip Joint (traditional) lock!

So, did you get a better understanding of the different types of pocket knife locks? Here on our blog, you'll find various information about the world of blades, so if you're an adventurer or a barbecue lover, stay tuned for our updates!
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