Originally Posted by jeep45238

Rifles are more effective, but we carry pistols because it's more convenient.

It's also illegal to carry a rifle in many jurisdictions, the one where I live for example.

Fixed blades are beefier, but we carry folders because it's more convenient.

True, but you can find a lot of fixed blades that are about the same size as your average folder. Unfortunately fixed blades are illegal in many jurisdictions as well...

Either way you'll be going against the stop pin in all likelyhood - and it's not going to over an extended period of time. Compare the lock bar on a Kershaw to say, a CRKT M16 - there's no comparison in the thickness of the locking bar. Do the same with an Axis lock, vs. a liner. Look at how deep the notch is on a quality lock back.

I can't argue with any of the above.

I really don't see a quality, $50+ knife lock failing if you use it as a knife, and not a mallet or wedge. Toss in that 99%+ of all forces on the blade are not going against the lock, but against the stop pin, and I think that most people look at the lock for the wrong reason.

I have to disagree with you here. I've seen locks fail. Yeah, it may be unlikely, but it's far from impossible. Why take the chance?

in all seriousness, when it comes to a self defense with a knife - my first, primary plan of action is get away from the blade and draw my gun. The knife fight is the last thing I want any part of.

I'm right with you on this one!

I don't do liner locks or frame locks - I don't like putting my finger infront of the blade to take off the lock.

To each his own.