Folding knives are essential tools for outdoor adventurers, providing versatility and safety in a compact design. Whether it's your EDC (everyday carry) or a specialized adventure carry tool, knowing how to properly close your folding knife is crucial for maintaining its longevity and ensuring your safety. This guide will cover the various types of folding knives and how to safely close them.
Explore our extensive collection of folding knives, including the versatile Wilora Black Folding Knife with Sharpener, perfect for your next adventure.
Types of Folding Knife Locks and How to Close Them
1. Lockback Knife
- How it Works: A lockback knife features a spine on a spring mechanism that locks the blade in place.
- Closing Method: Press down on the spine mechanism located on the back of the handle to release the lock, then carefully fold the blade into the handle.
2. Liner Lock Knife
- How it Works: This common locking system has a side spring bar located on the same side as the sharp edge of the blade, locking it into place.
- Closing Method: Push the spring bar to the side until the blade is released and then fold the blade back into the handle.
3. Frame Lock Knife
- How it Works: Similar to the liner lock, but part of the handle itself forms the lock, providing a more robust lock mechanism.
- Closing Method: Push the lock to the side and carefully fold the blade back into the frame.
4. Button Lock Knife
- How it Works: A button lock uses a small push-button to release the lock on the blade.
- Closing Method: Press the button while safely folding the blade into the handle. Ensure your fingers are clear of the blade's path.
5. Slip Joint Knife
- How it Works: Common in traditional pocket knives, this non-locking mechanism uses a spring to keep the blade open.
- Closing Method: Apply pressure on the spine of the blade to overcome the spring tension and close the knife.
6. Axis Lock Knife
- How it Works: A small, spring-loaded bar moves back and forth in a slot cut into both steel liners and locks the blade in place.
- Closing Method: Pull back the bar and fold the blade into the handle.
Safety Tips for Closing Folding Knives
- Keep Your Fingers Clear: Always ensure your fingers are not in the blade's path when closing your knife.
- Use Both Hands: When learning, use both hands to safely close your knife until you're comfortable with one-handed methods.
- Maintenance: Regularly clean and oil your folding knife to ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion
Understanding how to properly close your folding knife is essential for every knife owner, from the seasoned outdoorsman to the casual EDC enthusiast. By familiarizing yourself with the different types of folding mechanisms, you can ensure the longevity of your knife and your safety.
Discover the perfect folding knife for your needs within our Wilora Folding Knives Collection, featuring a selection designed for durability, safety, and ease of use.