Framelock

Framelock is a locking mechanism for folding knives that combines simplicity with high mechanical resistance. When opened, the blade rests against part of the handle itself, usually made from a single piece of metal, most commonly titanium or stainless steel. When the knife is opened, the flexible part of the frame bends inward and locks firmly behind the heel of the blade. This results in direct contact between the solid metal element and the blade, which guarantees stable locking even under high pressure during cutting.

The advantage of the framelock is the absence of a separate internal element – the frame serves both as a supporting structure and a safety mechanism. As a result, the resulting construction is more resistant to wear and tear and less susceptible to damage when dirty. With a properly designed contact surface angle, the contact point wears in slightly over time, which improves the reliability of the lock without the risk of spontaneous release.

Framelock is often combined with a steel insert at the end of the lock arm, which reduces friction and prevents excessive wear. This allows for smoother movement when closing and at the same time extends the life of the mechanism. In practice, such a lock can withstand heavy loads, such as cutting pressure of several hundred newtons, without deformation or unwanted blade folding.

The design is minimalist, as the frame is usually part of the handle itself, without the need for additional parts. This has made the framelock the preferred solution for premium work and tactical knives, where maximum reliability, low weight, and long life in demanding conditions are required.