When it comes to everyday carry (EDC) folding knives, the lock is one of the most important features. A solid lock keeps the blade secure while you’re using it, and lets you close it safely when you’re done.
Over the years, makers have come up with all kinds of lock styles—each with its own strengths, quirks, and fan base. Here are the six main lock types you’ll run into on modern EDC knives.
1. Frame Lock (Reeve Integral Lock)
Credit goes to Chris Reeve Knives for introducing the first production frame lock, originally called the Reeve Integral Lock.
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The outer frame of the knife itself slides over to hold the blade open.
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As you grip the knife, your hand naturally reinforces the lock, making it even stronger.
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To close, just push the lock bar back and fold the blade in.
Frame locks are a favorite on custom and high-end knives, like those from Attention to Detail Mercantile.
2. Liner Lock
Think of the liner lock as a cousin to the frame lock. Instead of the outer frame, a metal liner inside the handle moves into place when the blade opens.
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The liner presses against the blade to keep it from closing.
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To disengage, push the liner aside with your thumb or index finger, then fold the blade shut.
Simple, reliable, and easy to use—it’s no wonder liner locks are one of the most common designs out there.
3. Button Lock
Knives like the Protech Malibu use a button lock that’s smooth, secure, and fun to use.
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When the blade opens, a button pops into place to hold it steady.
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The button is usually recessed into the handle so you won’t press it by accident.
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To close, press the button in and the blade folds safely.
Button locks have become increasingly popular because they’re intuitive and fidget-friendly without sacrificing safety.
4. Bar Lock (AXIS Lock & Variations)
The bar lock took off thanks to Benchmade’s AXIS lock.
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As the blade opens, a bar slides across the tang and locks it in place.
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Since the mechanism sits high on the handle, it’s not in the way of your grip.
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To close, just pull the bar back and fold the blade shut.
Other makers have put their own spin on the design—like Microtech’s RAM Lock, which adds front knurling so you can push forward and reinforce the lock while in use.
5. Back Lock (Top Lock & Shark Lock)
The back lock (sometimes called a top lock) is a classic design you’ll see on plenty of Spydercos.
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The lock sits along the spine of the handle and snaps into place when the blade opens.
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To disengage, press the back tab down and fold the blade shut.
A well-known variation is Demko’s Shark Lock. When the blade opens, it clamps down tightly, and if you push forward on the lock during use, it engages even harder. To close, pull the lock back and fold it up.
6. Compression Lock
Exclusive to Spyderco, the compression lock is a clever twist on the back lock design.
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The mechanism sits along the spine but toward the inside of the handle.
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It keeps the blade securely locked while staying out of the way of your grip.
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To close, push the tab over and fold the blade in.
Fans love it because it’s strong, safe, and easy to use—a signature Spyderco feature that’s earned a loyal following.
Final Thoughts
From the rugged frame lock to the innovative compression lock, every design has its place in the EDC world. Some are simple and time-tested, others more modern and refined. The right one for you comes down to personal preference and how you like to use your knife.
At KnifeJoy, we carry a wide range of locking mechanisms—from Chris Reeve frame locks to Protech button locks to Spyderco compression locks—so you can find a folder that feels just right in your hand.