No, Jelly Roll Morton didn't own a Gallagher Glide Lock™ 2 folder at the turn of the last century. But if he had carried one into an ornately decorated saloon, it would have looked right at home. Barry Gallagher designed the Glide Lock folder series in the great tradition of the personal folder from times gone by, with a nod to the classic style of the era.
New this year is the Glide Lock 2, with a 2.88" modified drop point blade in satin finish and handle with a swell at the pommel for increased grip. Scales are silver/blue swirled CPL.
The sleek look of Barry's Glide Lock 2 depends on two modern technologies.
The first is the patent-pending Glide Lock mechanism invented by knifemaker Charles Kain of Indianapolis, Indiana. It relies on a sliding stainless steel mechanism hidden within one bolster. Slide the bolster out, and it creates a tang to rotate the blade open. Slide the bolster back and the blade is locked open. To close, slide the bolster out and rotate the blade closed with your index finger. Slide the bolster back to lock the Glide Lock closed. It's fast, lightweight, compact, and secure.
The second new technology is the development of CPL composite materials. The swirls that result from injection molding resemble those found in natural materials such as amber, jade and mother-of-pearl. However, the CPL material is tougher, stronger, and lighter than those natural materials, and can be used both on the Glide Lock scales and back spacer. The variegated swirls make each knife unique.
Barry Gallagher combined all this into a gentleman's folder that fits comfortably in the hand and securely in any pocket. It features a high-carbon AUS 4 stainless steel spear point 2.88" blade in a brushed finish. The stainless steel liners and bolster receive a vibratory finish.
We call these stylish and functional new designs "gentleman's knives," but of course, you don't have to be a gentleman to own one. Patent Pending
Barry Gallagher is a custom knifemaker
whose workshop is in Lewistown,
Montana. He began making knives
part-time in 1993 for local sportsmen and
outdoor enthusiasts.