Steel that folds, not fails.
A slip joint knife doesn’t lock open. It stays in place by tension alone—steel spring against steel blade. That’s its nature. Simple. Old-world. Still relevant.
But how does a slip joint work? And why would anyone choose one in a world of locking blades?
How Does a Slip Joint Work?
A slip joint uses a backspring to hold the blade open or closed. No liner lock. No button. Just pressure—steel against steel. It opens with a pull. It closes with a push. That’s it.
It holds, not by force—but by design.
For those asking “what is a slip joint?”, it’s a folding knife without a lock. For those wondering “what are slip joint pliers?”, the name is shared—but the meaning here is blade, not jaw.
Why Choose a Slip Joint Knife?
Because in some places, the law chooses for you.
In countries like the UK, carrying a locking knife is often restricted. But a non-locking slip joint—especially those with blades under 3 inches—is legal in more situations. For responsible carry, a 3-inch slip joint knife is often the best path.
But that’s not the only reason.
The Strengths of a Slip Joint
- Simplicity — No moving parts beyond what’s needed. Built to use, not to explain.
- Lightweight & Slim — A true EDC slip joint knife, compact and easy to carry.
- Low Maintenance — With fewer parts to jam or fail, these knives require less care and survive longer in the real world.
- Travel-Friendly — In the right jurisdictions, slip joints are more likely to pass inspection. Always check local laws.
- Modern Design — Models like our D2 G10 Slip Joint or Black G10 Slip Joint offer precision steel, G10 scales, and thoughtful touches like thumbstuds.
- Finger Choil — Some blades feature a finger choil—a small cutout behind the edge. This gives your index finger a natural resting spot, adding control and acting as a passive safety stop.
- Two-Stage Resistance — Certain models are built with a “half-stop” or resistance to close, meaning the blade pauses before fully folding. This gives you a moment to reposition your fingers and avoid accidental closure—a quiet safety feature built into the steel.
How to Use One, Properly
No lock means you stay present.
- Cut, don’t twist. These aren’t made to pry.
- Keep fingers clear. Especially while closing.
Used right, they’re dependable. Misused, they remind you—quietly but firmly—that good tools don’t compensate for bad habits.
Why They Still Belong
In a world chasing the next thing, slip joints remain what they’ve always been: enough.
No gimmicks. Just function. The kind of blade you carry not for show, but for need.
Explore our full range of folding knives, including our newest slip joint models — honest steel, clean lines, and made to be passed on.