Axis lock opinion?

R

riderV3

Joined
Nov 29, 2010
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I just want to know the general opinion about axis lock...

The only axis lock I have is a SOG mini X-ray.

I like the look of the lock and action but I've never put it through any hard use...

So I just want to know generally how solid is the lock up?

How does it compare to frame lock?

Thanks!
 
I've had 6 or 7 Benchmade's with the Axis lock pass through my hands. It's a great lock, really easy to operate and it seems plenty strong to me. There are some videos on Youtube of a guy sticking a Griptilian in sand and it would lock just fine. It's a very reliable locking mechanism.

But, some people have complained about the omega springs breaking but I haven't had that happen yet (knock on wood). I only have two Axis knives left (580 and 942), but they aren't going anywhere.
 
virtually all knife collectors agree it's one of the finest locks available. it's imperfect, but the axis lock and the framelock is something we can almost all agree on.
 
SOG does not use the Axis lock, it is a variation with simiar mechanics. The lockup is good with the Axis system, I havent has any problems with them. I did hear about the issues with the Omega springs too.
 
It's the best lock out there in my opinion. It's very strong, wears well, doesn't decenter the blade, retains the blade, is fast and smooth to open, is ambidextrous, and is quick to close. BTW, the SOG uses the arc lock, which is one of many variations on the axis lock. I think that the original axis lock functions better than all of them, though.
 
The lock up is very good. I've had two omega springs break on two different knives, but in both cases the knife would still solidly lock open.
 
RevDevil said:
SOG does not use the Axis lock, it is a variation with simiar mechanics. The lockup is good with the Axis system, I havent has any problems with them. I did hear about the issues with the Omega springs too.
Click to expand...

My experience also, although I only have 1 Axis Lock I've had it for 11 years and have never had a problem, I know if ya don't keep 'em clean and lubed moisture can settle on the omega springs and allow oxidization/rust to get a hold and eventually weaken the spring and break but again that's not been the case with mine, it's still one of my favorite EDCs.
 
Probably my second favorite lock to frame locks. Easy to open and close with both hands. Haven't had any problems with them, so I'm satisfied.
 
I think the Axis lock is a darn good design but I don't drink the Axis lock Kool-Aid and never will. I just think it's a pretty darn good design but with it's own flaw(s) like all other designs.

The two things I don't care for with the Axis lock is the feeling and tone of the closing detent. I feel like the detent starts too early and snaps before I'm ready for it sometimes (by design I believe) and I don't care for that metal on metal feeling and sound when you close the Axis lock firmly, that "boing" sound and feeling. I tend to respond to that sound and feeling a lot like finger nails on a chalk board. It's just me though.

Then there is of course the potential for the Omega Spring to break at a bad time. Not the end of the world as I know they are reasonably reliable but it's still a risk none the less.
 
The Benchmade axis lock is one of my favorites. Along with the Spyderco compression lock. Both are very strong and dependable locks.
 
The Axis Lock is so smooth, it's addictive. I've had more Axis Lock knives than I can remember, and I have never had any problem with them.
 
I will take an AXIS lock over a frame lock every time. I think it is the best engineered lock available and also one of the strongest. There is one in my pocket every single day.
 
Meh, not a big fan. I have limited experience with the design compared to a lot of folks here, but the experience was not to my taste. It's not a bad lock but I don't find it to be anything special.
 
PropThePolecat said:
Can Benchmades Axis-locking knives be closed one-handed, as easy as for example a linerlock?
Click to expand...

Even easier - just pull the lock back with your thumb and forefinger and flip the blade shut.

ETA: The one thing I really like about this type of lock is that your fingers never have to be in the blade's path when closing it.
 
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