There’s no doubt that spring-assisted knives are all the rage right now. They’re popping up everywhere, and they’re incredibly handy tools for a good reason. But how do they work?
Indeed, we might be in the midst of a knife renaissance, with several options to choose from for blades. But one of the newer types of knives on the market, spring-assisted knives, is quickly gaining popularity.
In this article, we’ll explore how these knives work and some of their benefits.
What Are Spring-Assisted Knives?
The term “spring-assisted” refers to how the user opens the blade. The blade is opened manually in a standard pocket knife, either with your thumb or another finger. Since fixed blade knives don’t have a retractable blade, they don’t have a spring.
With a spring-assisted knife, a small spring located in the handle helps open the blade once you’ve initiated the opening motion. These knives need little to no effort from the user to deploy. They’re usually much faster, and some have complicated mechanics that enable the blade to release off the handle with a single button press.
The History of Spring-Assisted Knives
Spring usage to assist knife opening is a historical idea in 180that Henry Harper, an English chef, and author, promoted in his book “The Book of the Table.” Harper suggested using a coiled spring to help open a blade. However, no known knife from this period exists.
In 1980, the assisted-opening knife was patented by Michael Walker. This patent is for using a torsion bar (a metal bar that twists) to assist in opening the blade. It’s this technology that is still used in many assisted-opening knives today.
The first spring-assisted knives hit the market in the early 1990s. They were created by a company called Kershaw and based on the same era’s Japanese design. At the time, Kershaw’s knives were some of the only spring-assisted knives available.
The knives became popular with law enforcement and the military due to their speed and ease of use. They were so popular that Kershaw’s original patent ran out, and the market was flooded with cheap knock-offs. However, in 2005 Kershaw re-patented their design, and the knives once again became popular.
What Does A Spring-Assisted Knife Looks Like?
The vast majority of spring-assisted knives look very similar to one another. They typically have a dark handle with a light-colored blade. It makes it easy to see the opening mechanism when the knife is in your hand.
Most assisted knives have a thumb stud (a small protrusion on the blade that you use to open the knife) or a button to help open the blade. Some knives have a switch on the spine of the blade. This type of knife is typically larger and designed for more heavy-duty use.
Spring-Assisted Knives: Features and Qualities
Several features and qualities make spring-assisted knives unique, including:
✅Spring design
The most crucial component is knives with blades that open with a bit of help from a spring. The assisted opening mechanism is located in the handle of the knife. So, when you apply pressure to the blade with your thumb or finger, the spring helps to open it—thus the name “spring assisted.”
Some knives also have a different locking mechanism that keeps the blade from accidentally closing. It is especially beneficial for people who are using the knife for self-defense.
✅Locking mechanism
Another vital feature of spring-assisted knives is the locking mechanism. It is a mechanism that locks the blade in place when it’s open, preventing it from accidentally closing and cutting you.
The locking mechanism is engaged when the blade is open and can be released by pressing a button or thumb stud on the handle.
✅Pocket clip
Most knives also come with a pocket clip, which allows you to attach the knife to your pocket or belt for easy access. The pocket clip is usually located on the back of the knife, opposite the blade.
Some assisted knives also come with a belt clip, which attaches the knife to your belt so that it’s easier to access.
✅Thumb studs
The vast majority of spring-assisted knives have thumb studs on the blade. It is a small protrusion that you use to open the knife. The thumb stud is located on the blade to open the knife with your thumb easily.
✅Heavy-duty blades
While most spring-assisted knives have blades designed for everyday use, there are also knives with heavy-duty blades. These blades are made for more intense tasks such as hunting or self-defense. The blades on these knives are typically thicker and more durable than the blades on standard assisted knives.
✅Strong grip handle
The handle on a spring-assisted knife is typically designed to provide a firm grip. It is essential because you’ll likely be using the knife with one hand, and you’ll want to make sure it doesn’t slip out of your hand. Handles with ergonomic grips are the most popular, as they provide a more comfortable grip.
How Do Spring-Assisted Knives Work?
It’s critical to understand the ins and outs of spring-assisted knives to prevent issues and dangers. As mentioned earlier, the spring-assisted opening mechanism is located in the knife’s handle. When you apply pressure to the blade with your thumb or finger, the spring helps to open it.
The assisted opening mechanism consists of the torsion bar and the cam. The torsion bar is a small metal bar located on the knife’s handle. It’s attached to the blade and helps open it when you apply pressure to it.
The cam is a small lever on the side of the handle that activates the torsion bar. When you press down on the cam, it causes the torsion bar to rotate and opens the blade.
The assisted opening mechanism separates a spring-assisted knife from a standard folding knife. A traditional folding knife doesn’t have a spring or any other mechanism to help open the blade, so you have to use your hand to open it. It can be difficult and time-consuming, especially if your hands are full.
Spring-assisted knives are so popular because they’re easy to open with one hand. You have to apply pressure to the blade, and the spring takes care of the rest.
Various Types of Spring-Assisted Knives
It’s challenging to pick amongst all the many varieties of spring-assisted knives on the market. Each is different from the other, not just in mechanics but also in style. Here are the most common types of spring-assisted knives.
🔪Military Type
Military spring-assisted knives are the greatest knives to employ for tactical needs. The blade is thicker and stronger, so it can stand up to more wear and tear.
The knife is also built for a strong grip, perfect if you need to use it with one hand. The pocket clip makes it easy to transport, and the thumb studs make it easy to open.
Military and law enforcement people typically use tactical knives. These people usually take these assisted-opening knives with them when going on a mission. But, civilians can also use those who need a strong knife for everyday tasks.
🔪Karambit style
The Karambit knife is one of the most unique and stylish knives you can buy today, and it’s also one of the most popular types of spring-assisted knives.
The Karambit is a curved knife modeled after a claw. It has a sharp, curved blade and a handle that curves up at the end. The Karambit is designed for close-quarter combat, and its unique design makes it easy to grip and use.
The Karambit is a folding knife, so it’s easy to carry in your pocket. It also has a pocket clip for easy transport. The thumb studs on the blade make it easy to open, even with one hand.
The Karambit is a popular choice for people who want a stylish and unique knife that’s also functional and easy to use.
🔪EDC Type
Everyday carry (EDC) knives are the most popular spring-assisted knives. EDC knives have a more subtle design than tactical or military knives designed for everyday tasks.
EDC knives typically have a plain blade and a simple handle. They’re also smaller and lighter than other knives, so they’re easy to carry in your pocket.
EDC knives are perfect for everyday tasks like opening boxes, cutting cords, or just having in case you need it. They’re also an excellent choice for people who want a functional knife that doesn’t stand out.
🔪Knuckle Duster
One of the most interesting and unique spring-assisted knives is the knuckle duster. These knives have knuckles that are attached to their handles. The knuckles help protect your hand during a fight. They also make it easy to grip the knife and use it with one hand.
Knuckle dusters are illegal in many states, so check your local laws before purchasing one. They’re popular with people who want a unique and powerful knife that users can use as a self-defense weapon.
Many different spring-assisted knives are on the market, but they all share one common trait: they’re easy to open with one hand.
Advantages of Spring-Assisted Knives Usage
There are many reasons you might want to consider using a spring-assisted knife. Here are just a few of them:
Small and easy to conceal: Some spring-assisted knives are small enough to fit in your pocket, so they’re easy to conceal. It is perfect for people who need a knife for everyday tasks but don’t want to carry around a large and obvious blade.
Fast and easy to open: To open a spring-assisted knife, you have to apply pressure to the blade with your thumb. It makes it fast and easy to open, even if you’re in a hurry.
Strong and durable: Spring-assisted knives are typically made from high-quality materials, so they’re strong and durable. It makes them perfect for people who need a knife that can stand up to challenging tasks.
One-hand operation: All spring-assisted knives can be opened with one hand, making them perfect for people who need a knife that they can use quickly and easily.
Multi-functional tool: Many spring-assisted knives come with various tools that you can use for everyday tasks. It makes them perfect for people who need a knife that can do it all. If you have an assisted opening pocket knife, there’s no need to carry around a separate toolbox.
Reasonable prices: You can find a quality spring-assisted knife for a reasonable price. These cheap knives come in a wide range of prices because they come in different styles, designs, and color schemes. It makes them perfect for people who want a high-quality knife but don’t want to spend much money.
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use knife perfect for everyday tasks, then a spring-assisted knife might be the right choice.
Drawbacks of Using Spring-Assisted Knives
Everything has flaws. Spring-assisted knives for sale have flaws, too. People who want to buy them should know about them.
- Remember that even though they are effortless to use, you still have to push the thumb stud. It also takes a lot of time, and sometimes you can’t afford to do it.
- Think twice before buying one without the safety lock because a spring-loaded knife with no locking mechanism can hurt you. Putting the knife in your pocket can make it press the button by itself. When it opens, it can hurt you, so don’t do that.
- Finally, some assisted-opening knives aren’t suitable for hunting or camping because they don’t open quickly enough.
How to Sharpen Spring-Assisted Knives
Sharpening spring-assisted knives are pretty much the same as sharpening any pocket knife. The only difference is that you might have to be more careful when sharpening the serrated edge.
❗Prepare your materials.
For sharpening your knife, you’ll need a sharpening stone, honing rod, water, and a cloth.
❗Wet your sharpening stone.
It is advisable to wet your sharpening stone before use. Wetting the stone will help to sharpen the blade more evenly and prevent the blade from sticking to the stone. You may use sandpaper to sharpen the knife, but it is not as effective as sharpening stone.
❗Place the blade at the right angle.
Sharpening a pocket knife is the most difficult aspect. However, with a little practice, you’ll have it down pat. While sharpening your knife, you’ll want to hold it at the right angle. This angle varies depending on the knife you’re sharpening and might vary from 15 to 30 degrees. It takes considerable practice to find the sharpening angle. However, you should be able to tell by the feeling. If you’re having trouble, you may contact the knifemaker and ask for assistance.
❗Sharpen your spring-assisted knife.
Once you have found the right angle, it’s time to start sharpening. You’ll want to use a circular motion when sharpening the blade. Apply pressure to the knife while doing this to ensure that the blade is sharpened evenly. Be sure to sharpen both sides of the blade.
❗Hone your blade.
Using a honing rod will help you keep your blade sharp. Honing rods are often made of ceramic, diamond, or steel. When using a honing rod, you’ll want to use a back and forth motion. You should also use light pressure when doing this.
❗Wipe off your knife.
After sharpening and honing your blade, wipe it off with a cloth. It will remove any excess material and help to keep your blade clean.
Now that you know how to sharpen a spring-assisted knife, you can do it yourself at home. However, if you’re not comfortable with it, you can always take it to a professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are spring-assisted knives automatic?
A: No, spring-assisted knives require you to apply pressure to the blade to open it. It opens when the user pushes the blade with their hands. Torsion bars or springs then catch the blade and push it to open to its full length where it is locked in place. An automatic knife is one in which the blade comes out of the handle when you push a button.
Q: Is a spring-assisted knife the same as a switchblade?
A: No. A switchblade is an automatic knife that opens when you press a button. Spring-assisted knives require manual pressure to open the blade.
Q: How safe are spring-assisted knives?
A: Spring-assisted knives are typically just as safe as regular knives. However, it’s important to remember that they can be dangerous if not used properly. Remember always to use caution when handling any type of knife.
Q: What is the difference between a spring-assisted and a standard-opening knife?
A: Spring-assisted knives open faster than standard-opening knives because you don’t have to use as much manual pressure to get the blade moving. Standard-opening knives require you to apply pressure to the blade with your hands to open it. It opens the knife more slowly than a spring-assisted knife.
Q: Why are spring-assisted knives illegal in some states?
A: Spring-assisted knives are often mistaken for switchblades, illegal in many states. Because spring-assisted knives open faster than standard-opening knives, they can be confused with switchblades. It’s important to remember that spring-assisted knives are not illegal in all states, and it’s always important to check your local laws before you purchase any type of knife.
Final Thoughts
Knives are a necessary tool in most households. Whether you’re a hunter, camper, or just need a knife for everyday tasks, you might want to consider a spring-assisted knife.
Spring-assisted knives are an excellent option for people who want an easy-to-use knife perfect for everyday tasks. They’re also an excellent choice for people who want a high-quality knife but don’t want to spend more money.
These knives are easy to use and perfect for people who need a versatile tool. Don’t forget to be careful when handling any type of knife. Be sure to check your local laws before you purchase a spring-assisted knife. Whether you choose to buy a standard or assisted opening knife, ALWAYS be safe and use caution.