There are many different types of folding knives on the market, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of folding knives and what each one is best used for. We will also provide information on how to choose the right folding knife for your needs. So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced knife collector, read on to learn more about folding knives!
The first folding knives were reportedly invented in ancient Rome, according to existing records. Despite their higher purchase price and reduced dependability, folding knives quickly became popular. The reason for this is that these blades kept smaller and could be carried with you almost everywhere without the danger of being injured.
Today, folding knives are available in a variety of styles and sizes to suit a wide range of requirements and usage patterns. Lets take a closer look at the different types of folding knives and learn what are their pros and cons.
Automatic folding knives
These are folding knives that are opened with the help of a button. The blade is opened by pressing a thumb stud or flipper. They all have an internal mechanism that opens the folding knives when pressure is applied to the stud and some even include springs, which are released in order to eject the folding knife's blade upon release of a button.
These folding knives can be either manual or automatic folding knives (also known as switchblades). Automatic folding knives do not need gravity to open nor any physical force, such as flipping them with your wrist. Instead they use spring-loaded mechanisms which will deploy their folding blades at the press of a button on top of each handle side, or via sliding lever instead of just being flipped out like regular folding pocketknives would require through inertia alone.
Automatic folding knives are illegal in some states in Australia, so it's important to do your research before purchasing one.
The folding knife mechanisms come in different shapes and sizes, as well as a vast array of prices. There is no definitive answer on which automatic folding knife is best for you; it all depends on what you're looking for in a blade. For example, if you're into camping and hiking then you'll want an automatic folding knife that has a robust build and can withstand outdoor use. However, if you're looking for something small and discreet that can be carried around with ease, then there are plenty of smaller options available that still pack a punch.
It's important to keep in mind the laws surrounding automatic folding knives before making your purchase. In many Australian states they are strictly prohibited. Do your research and make sure you know what folding knife is right for you before buying!
Types of Automatic Folding Knives Mechanisms:
- Button Lock Automatic Knife Mechanism. A button lock automatic knife has a small, circular button located on the knife spine near the handle. This button must be depressed or pushed in order for folding the knife to open and close. The blade will be held in place by a spring-loaded locking bar until you press it down with your thumb. As soon as you do so, folding becomes possible again!
- Liner Lock Automatic Knife Mechanism. Folding knives with liner locks are very similar to those who employ button locks but instead of having buttons on their spines near handle area these folding knives feature liners along either side which must be depressed in order for folding the knife to open and close. Liner lock folding knives are typically made with a stronger locking mechanism than those that use button locks, as well as blades made from better quality materials.
- Frame Lock Automatic Knife Mechanism. Frame lock folding knives have a solid piece of metal which serves as the "frame" into which the blade is mounted. This frame also houses the firing button and spring-loaded lever that opens the folding knife's blade. Frame locks automatically close when released unlike liner locks which stay open once deployed until manually closed by depressing the liner lock buttons again. The frame lock automatic knife mechanisms are considered to be some of the strongest folding knives available on the market.
- Slide Lock Automatic Knife Mechanism. Slide lock folding knives are probably the simplest type of all the folding knives mechanisms. All that is needed to open and close the blade is a simple "slide" action which can be accomplished with either thumb or finger. The locked position for this type of folding knife is when the blade is fully opened, so it's important to make sure that you're aware of your surroundings before deploying it in order to avoid any accidents. The blades on these folding knives are typically made from lower quality materials, but they still offer good strength and durability for EDC (Everyday Carry) purposes.
- Out the Front (OTF) Auto Knife Mechanism. Folding knives with out the front auto mechanisms are considered to be some of the most dangerous folding knives available. They have blades that extend and retract from the handle in a similar fashion to switchblades, except they don't require any type of spring assist for deployment. The blades on OTF autos are typically made from high quality materials like stainless steel alloys or titanium but this also makes them one of the more expensive types of folding knives available.
What is difference between automatic knives and pocket knives?
In general, all automatic knives are pocket knives, although not all pocket knives are automatic. Pocket knives are any variety of folding knives. Where, as previously said, automatic knives are a certain sort that utilize specific mechanisms to open the blade quickly.
Regular folding knives
These are knives which do not have any mechanisms in place to deploy the blade or have a very limited mechanism. Usually it will take both hands to open this knife. The greatest advantages of such a knife are that it is legal in all states to possess and utilize them for their intended purpose.
Multitools
These are very versatile tools that can be used for many tasks. It's like a tiny tool kit that fits in your pocket. There are many gadgets and accessories available in this handy set for camping, hunting, hiking, and other outdoor activities. Typically, it contains all of the various tools you'll require while outside (even if it's in your own garden), and multi-tools usually include a folding knife, pliers, files, scissors, and blades.
Fixed blade vs folding blade
There are people who, when they buy a folding knife and use it in demanding situations (such as chopping hard wood), may be dissatisfied with the performance of the blade. They may even complain about the bad quality of the blade and search for refund.
The issue here, that each single knife design serves its unique purpose and application. You won't buy a filleting knife and attempt to chop the bones with it, getting frustrated that it isn't up to the task!
Let's us remember that folding knife is a short tang knife which connects to the handle through a pivot, allowing the blade to fold into the handle. Due to this feature any excessive pressure applied on the blade while cutting will be transferred to the pivot and eventually the handle. This is why some folding knives are not recommended for heavy duty applications. Yet their design offers convenience and versatility.
On the other hand, a fixed blade knife doesn't fold and has a tang that goes all the way through the handle. Therefore, it can withstand more pressure without breaking. That's why people use them for harder tasks such as chopping wood.