Button Lock Knives: An In-Depth Guide to the Ultimate EDC Tool
Button lock knives are a popular type of locking knife that is known for their convenient and easy-to-use mechanism. As the name suggests, these knives feature a button on the handle that you need to press down in order to unlock the blade and close it. This simple yet effective design makes button lock knives a favorite among many knife enthusiasts, as they can be quickly and easily deployed with one hand.
As an everyday carry (EDC) enthusiast, finding the right knife for your daily needs is crucial. One type of knife that has gained popularity in recent years is the button lock knife. we will take a closer look at what button lock knives are, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to choose the right one for you.
In this article, we'll explore the features and benefits of button-lock knives in more detail, as well as provide some examples of high-quality button lock knives that are available on the market.
What is Button Lock Knives?
Button lock knives are folding knives that use a mechanism that locks the blade in place with a button. The button is usually located on the handle and is pressed to unlock the blade, allowing it to be folded back into the handle.
History
The button lock mechanism was first patented in 1984 by Michael Walker, an American knife maker. His design was known as the Walker Linerlock and was used in his custom knives. In 1996, the first production button lock knife was introduced by Benchmade a leading knife manufacturer.
Anatomy of a Button Lock Knife
A typical button lock knife consists of the following parts:
● Blade: The cutting edge of the knife.
● Handle The part of the knife that is held during use.
● Button: The mechanism that locks and unlocks the blade.
● Lock bar: The part of the handle that engages with the blade to lock it in place.
● Pivot: The point where the blade and handle are connected and allow the knife to open and close.
6 Common Types of Locking Knives Explained
1. Liner Lock
This is one of the most common types of locking knives. It features a thin metal liner inside the handle that locks the blade in place when it's opened. The liner is usually made of stainless steel, and it's held in place by a spring. To unlock the blade, you need to press down on the liner and move the blade back into the handle.
2. Frame Lock
This type of locking knife has a frame that acts as a lock. The frame is usually made of stainless steel, and it's shaped like a "C." When the blade is opened, the frame moves behind the blade, locking it in place. To unlock the blade, you need to move the frame back to its original position.
3. Back Lock
This locking mechanism is located at the back of the knife handle. When the blade is opened, a metal bar snaps into place behind the blade, locking it in place. To unlock the blade, you need to press down on the bar and move the blade back into the handle.
4. Axis Lock
This type of locking knife uses a mechanism that's similar to a barbell. There are two bars on either side of the blade, and they pivot around an axis. When the blade is opened, the bars move into place, locking the blade in place. To unlock the blade, you need to move the bars away from the blade.
5. Button Lock
This type of locking knife has a button on the handle that you need to press down to unlock the blade. The button is usually located near the base of the blade, and it's held in place by a spring. When you press down on the button, the blade is released and can be closed.
6. Compression Lock
This locking mechanism is similar to the liner lock, but it uses a different type of spring. When the blade is opened, a small piece of metal moves into place, locking the blade in place. To unlock the blade, you need to press down on the piece of metal and move the blade back into the handle.
Advantages of Button Lock Knives
One-Handed Operation
One of the biggest advantages of button lock knives is their ease of use. The mechanism allows for quick and easy one-handed opening and closing of the blade, making them a great option for those who need to use their other hand for another task.
Secure Lockup
Button lock knives are known for their strong lockup, which means the blade is securely held in place when opened. This makes them a safer option than other types of folding knives that may have a looser lockup.
Durable Construction
Button lock knives are built to last. The locking mechanism is typically made of strong materials such as steel or titanium, and the handle and blade are also made of high-quality materials.
Disadvantages of Button Lock Knives
Complexity
Button lock knives are more complex than other types of folding knives, which means they may be more difficult to repair or maintain. The mechanism can also be more prone to failure if not properly cared for.
Cost
Button lock knives are often more expensive than other types of folding knives due to their advanced mechanism and high-quality construction.
Legal Restrictions
In some jurisdictions, button lock knives may be considered illegal to carry, so it is important to check local laws before carrying one.
Conclusion
In conclusion, locking knives are an essential tool for many outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, and everyday users. Whether you need a reliable knife for camping, hiking, or everyday use, there is a wide variety of locking knives to choose from, each with its own unique set of features and benefits. Button lock knives, in particular, offer a simple and intuitive locking mechanism that can be easily operated with one hand, making them an ideal choice for those who need a quick and easy-to-use knife. With so many high-quality button lock knives available on the market today, it's easy to find a knife that meets your specific needs and preferences. No matter which type of locking knife you choose, investing in a high-quality, reliable knife is always a wise decision that will provide you with years of dependable service.