Back lock knives
Back lock knives
EXPERT KNOWLEDGE BACK LOCK KNIFE
Back Lock knives - well-known and safe
Back-Lock mechanism: Reliable locking mechanism for pocket knives
The back-lock mechanism, often referred to as a lockback, has been one of the best-known and most reliable locking mechanisms for pocket knives since the 19th century. It was originally developed for Hunting and outdoor knives and became particularly well known in the 1960s and 1970s thanks to the US Manufacturer Buck Knives. Today, the backlock remains an integral part of many knife designs and impresses with its simple but robust construction.
Material and construction
- Handle material: Pocket knives with a back-lock mechanism often use robust materials such as stainless steel, wood or modern composite materials. These materials ensure stability and durability and provide a firm grip during use.
- Spring and locking mechanism: The spring that supports the engagement of the blade is usually made of high-quality Steel to withstand the stresses and strains. The locking mechanism is integrated into the handle and consists of a lever that engages the blade as soon as it is fully open.
- Blade length: The blade length of back lock knives varies depending on the model and intended use, but is typically between 70 mm and 100 mm.
Steel grades
- Stainless steel: Rustproof stainless steel is often used for the blades of back-lock knives. This type of steel offers excellent corrosion resistance and ensures a long-lasting and sharp cutting edge.
- Carbon steel: Some back-lock knives are also available with blades made of carbon steel. This type of steel is particularly sharp and easy to resharpen, but requires regular maintenance to prevent rusting.
- Damascus steel: Some high-quality models use Damascus steel, which is characterised by its special pattern and high cutting performance. This steel not only gives the knife aesthetic appeal, but also a particularly hard and resistant blade.
Sharpening
- Sharpening angle and blade care: The sharpening angles of the blades vary, but usually offer a balanced combination of edge retention and resharpenability. Grinding stones are suitable for resharpening, while maintenance depends on the type of steel used.
- Grind types: Often flat grinds or Scandi grinds, which are characterised by high sharpness and easy maintenance. A flat grind offers universal cutting performance, while the Scandi grind is ideal for precise cuts in woodwork.
Intended use
- Outdoor and survival: The back-lock mechanism is ideal for outdoor and survival knives, as the blade locks securely in place, ensuring a high level of safety. Knives with this locking mechanism are ideal for woodworking, tinder making and other outdoor activities.
- Hunting and fishing: The back lock is also ideal for hunting and fishing, as the blade remains stable and reliably in position. The design also makes it easy to clean, which is particularly important when working with game or fish.
- Everyday use: Many users appreciate the back-lock mechanism for everyday use, as it is reliable and easy to operate. The mechanism can be opened and locked with one hand, which makes it particularly practical for a wide range of tasks.
Locking system
- Mechanics: The back lock consists of a spring that is compressed when the blade is opened and engages in the blade when it is fully opened. This mechanism ensures that the blade remains firmly and securely locked in place.
- Locking mechanism: To close the blade, the lever on the back of the handle is pressed, unlocking the spring and allowing the blade to be folded back securely. This simple and intuitive system contributes to the popularity of the Back-Lock.
The back lock remains a favoured choice for knife manufacturers who focus on stability and safety. While modern mechanisms such as the liner lock and frame lock are widely available on the market, the back lock remains a favourite for traditional knives and models that require maximum security.
Advantages of Backlock knives
High level of safety: The sturdy locking mechanism prevents the blade from folding in unintentionally, which increases safety during use.
Robust construction: Back Lock knives are often very durable and resistant, ideal for intensive use.
Versatility: These knives are suitable for a wide range of uses, from everyday tasks to outdoor adventures.
Disadvantages of back lock knives
Space requirements: Due to the spring construction, back-lock knives often require more space in the handle, which can affect the design.
Maintenance: With long-term use, it may be necessary to clean and lubricate the mechanism to ensure proper function.
Which Manufacturers use Back Lock technology?
Buck Knives
A pioneer in the Production of Back Lock knives, especially appreciated for robustness.
Almost every renowned Manufacturer relies on the proven Back Lock to ensure a safe and reliable locking mechanism. In addition, companies such as Cudeman, Joker, Lionsteel, Maserin, Otter, Nieto, Real Steel and Moki use the proven design to make their folding knives suitable for various uses.
Hunting folding knives with back lock
Hunting folding knives with back lock combine safety, ease of use and robustness, making them an excellent choice for hunters. Hunting folding knives with a break-open blade have been specially developed for the needs of hunters. These knives combine the advantages of the proven Back Lock mechanism with a purposefully shaped blade that is ideal for breaking open game.
Different Blade shapes of the Back Lock knives and their properties
Back-Lock knives are available with different Blade shapes, each offering different properties and Intended uses. Here are the typical Blade shapes commonly used on Back-Lock knives, along with a description of their shape and Intended use:
1. droppoint blade
- Shape: The spine of a droppoint blade slopes gently towards the tip, resulting in a stable and rounded point. The cutting edge has a distinct belly.
- Intended use: Droppoint blades are versatile and particularly popular for outdoor, Hunting and everyday tasks. They are well suited for precise cuts, carving and general cutting tasks as the tip is robust and easy to control.
2. clippoint blade
- Shape: The spine of the blade drops abruptly towards the tip, forming a concave, "clipped" shape. The tip is sharp and tapered.
- Intended use: Clippoint blades offer a particularly sharp and precise tip that is ideal for piercing work and detailed cuts. They are often found on Hunting and tactical knives and are appreciated when a sharp point is required.
3. spear point blade
- Shape: The blade is symmetrical, with the back of the blade and the cutting edge running evenly towards the tip. It is reminiscent of a spear point.
- Intended use: Spearpoint blades offer a good balance between cutting power and piercing ability. They are useful for precision work and offer a very pointed tip that is well suited to piercing tasks. This Blade shape is found on tactical and survival knives.
4. tanto blade
- Shape: The tanto blade has an angular, almost rectangular tip that is very robust. It usually has two cutting edges - a main cutting edge and a second, shorter cutting edge at the tip.
- Intended use: Tanto blades are ideal for Hardness and piercing work. The strong tip is particularly resistant to breakage, which makes them suitable for tactical use and situations in which the tip is subjected to high loads.
5. wharncliffe blade
- Shape: The spine of the blade runs straight or curves slightly downwards until it meets the almost straight cutting edge. The tip is relatively blunt compared to other Blade shapes.
- Intended use: Wharncliffe blades are particularly suitable for precise cutting work and are often used for manual and detailed work. They are less intended for piercing work, but are well suited for carving and cutting on Flat surfaces.
6. sheepsfoot blade
- Shape: The back of the blade is strongly rounded and meets the cutting edge at a flat Angle, which is straight. This shape has a blunt tip.
- Intended use: Sheepsfoot blades are designed for cutting tasks where a low risk of injury is important. They are particularly suitable for cutting on surfaces, as the straight cutting edge offers maximum control. This Blade shape is often used on rescue knives.
Each of these Blade shapes offers specific advantages that make them particularly suitable for certain tasks. Back-Lock knives can effectively utilise almost any of these Blade shapes due to their robust locking mechanism, making them versatile tools for a variety of uses.
Conclusion on Back Lock knives
Back Lock knives are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a safe, robust and versatile folding knife. Their reliable locking mechanism and user-friendly handling make them a popular tool for a wide range of uses.
