the fi t of the lock/fi ring button. Since the contact surface of the button is slightly tapered, it offers a “wedge” fi t that not only ensures a strong lock-up, but compensates for wear of mating parts over time. As such, modern au- tos continue to lock up properly even after extended use. This is defi nitely not the case with classic switchblades, which often fail to close completely and suffer from “proud” blade points after repeated use. Some modern au- tos even combine a button-style release with a separate lock, like a liner lock, to offer even greater strength. Like many classic switchblades,
This photo illustrates one of the many problems of traditional switchblades — a weak, ineffective lock.
hole or groove in the tang to lock the blade open. Other switchblades had a back-lock that indexed an integral pin on the back of the blade tang. While substantially stronger than button or lever-style locks, it was still weak in comparison to modern lock mecha- nisms, especially considering the long blades and extreme leverages inherent in many classic switchblade designs. The button or “plunge” lock found
on most modern automatics, when properly executed, offers a much stronger lock-up than most traditional switchblades. It consists of a spool- shaped button arranged perpendicu- lar to the thickness of the blade tang and supported by the constant upward
tension of a compression spring. The base of the button, nearest the spring, is a slightly tapered cylinder that in- dexes semi-circular notches in the blade tang to lock the blade open or closed. When the button is depressed, the tapered cylinder moves into a re- cess in the handle of the knife and a narrower portion of the button body is aligned with the thickness of the tang. This allows the blade to pivot freely to either open the knife (via a coil drive spring) or allow it to be closed. With modern CNC machinery,
the tolerances of the blade pivot and blade-stop pins can be carefully and accurately controlled. That means the third variable in the lock mechanism is
modern button-lock autos also have sliding safeties that block the but- ton from being depressed. This pre- vents accidental fi ring in the closed position and accidental lock release when the blade is in use. Today’s autos also offer one other
feature not found on the classics: a pocket clip. First introduced by Spy- derco, the pocket clip revolutionized folding-knife carry and is now stan- dard fare on all modern folders. It ensures consistent placement of the knife and instantaneous access.
The Need For Speed Considering
all these factors,
it’s clear today’s autos are every bit as good as today’s state-of-the-art manual folding knives. In a util- ity context or a personal-defense situation, you would be equally well served by either one once you have it out and open in your hand. As such, the major difference — at least po- tentially — seems to be the ease and speed with which these knives can be opened 1-handed. For the record, opening a knife
1-handed has absolutely nothing to do with how dangerous or deadly that knife may be. In a utility context, it’s purely a matter of convenience. In a defensive context, although it may have some psychological effect on an attacker, I would never rely on any theatrical sound effect to scare off a determined attacker. Also, for the record, please under-
stand this comparison is based on the premise you can actually legally carry an automatic knife in your area. Most people can’t, so for them this discussion is really academic. To evaluate the speed differences
Two examples of modern, high-quality, button-lock autos. Although quick to de- ploy and very functional, they lack secondary safeties on the fi ring/lock buttons.
64
between manual, 1-hand-opening knives and modern automatics, I spent several weeks carrying a thor- ough variety of thumb-opening knives and autos around the house and offi ce. The thumb openers in- cluded knives with studs, disks, and the Spyderco round hole, as well as one with an Emerson “Wave.” The
AMERICAN HANDGUNNER TACTICAL • 2011 SPECIAL EDITION
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