Mike Mallory 10/8/2024
Pocket knives are super handy tools and can be a great addition to your daily carry if used properly. I find myself mostly opening boxes or cutting tape but there are infinite other uses. With so many different lock types it can be confusing to keep up with all of them. When talking about “lock types” I am referring to the mechanism that locks the blade in the open position. This prevents the knife from closing during use. For this article, I would like to discuss five popular pocketknife lock types and review how to close a pocketknife with each lock type. I will be discussing the slip joint, back lock, liner lock, button lock, and crossbar lock.
Slip joint
A slip joint is most commonly associated with a traditional-style knife. This is a simple design in which tension between flats on the knife blade and the mainspring hold the blade open, closed, or sometimes halfway open. To open or close this type of knife there is typically a nail nick, or slot on the blade, which you can grab with your fingernail to pull the blade open. When finished, pinch the body of the knife with your non-dominant hand being mindful to keep your fingers out of the path of the closing blade. Then, pinch the blade with your dominant hand and push it toward the handle to fold it closed.
Back lock
A back lock, or lock back knife typically has an indent in the middle or the end of the knife handle on the spine exposing the lock. To unlock the blade, hold the blade with your dominant hand, push the lock with your non-dominant thumb, and fold the blade slightly. Once the blade has moved out of the locked position, adjust your non-dominant hand to firmly hold the handle with your hand and fingers clear of the closing blade. Then push the blade closed.
Liner lock
A liner lock is a popular choice for modern everyday carry (EDC) knives. A liner lock knife has a special liner that will lock the blade open. To close the knife the liner can be pushed aside, unlocking the blade and allowing it to be folded closed.
Button lock
Button lock knives are gaining popularity because of their simplicity as well as they are fun to fidget with. A spring-loaded button holds the blade open or closed. To open the knife, just push the button with your thumb and open it. Most of these knives can be opened with a thumb stud, a flipper, or just with gravity. To close, simply push the button to unlock and fold the blade closed.
Crossbar lock
A crossbar lock is a locking mechanism that consists of a spring-loaded bar locking the blade open or closed. This type of lock requires the bar to be pulled back to release the blade for opening or closing. Once the blade is released it can be opened or closed much like a button lock.
These are just a few of the numerous pocketknife lock types. Designers are always innovating to come up with something unique or something better. If you have questions about how to close a pocketknife you are not alone.