Lockblade Knives

The term “lockblade” refers to a pocket knife with a built-in locking mechanism that prevents the blade from being able to close until the user disengages the lock. While the blade is fully open, the lock essentially turns the pocket knife into a fixed-blade knife.

The most common types of locking mechanisms are:

• Liner Lock: When the blade is opened, a tensioned metal strip within the handle automatically moves into a position that prevents the blade from being able to close.
• Frame Lock: A frame lock functions like a liner lock, but the blade is blocked with a substantial part of the handle itself, rather than a metal strip. Frame locks are exceptionally strong.
• Back Lock: A lockblade knife with a back lock will have a spring-loaded bar (called a rocker) on the back of the pocket knife’s spine. When the blade is opened, the rocker’s lug hooks into the blade, which stops it from being able to close.

Learn More Here: Pocket Knife Lock Types.

Locking pocket knives support safe usage and let you work more confidently. Locking knives are often used by people who require work knives for demanding tasks, such as woodworking, carpentry, bushcraft, construction, landscaping, and handling emergency situations.

Of course, you don’t need to be a professional to appreciate the safety and peace of mind you get from locking blade knives. They’re great for casual users, too.

How to disengage a pocket knife’s locking mechanism depends on the brand, model, and type of lock. Typically, the handle will have a button or bar that must be held down while you carefully slide the blade into the handle. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance.