Ed Van Hoy is a well-known Virginia custom knifemaker and instructor who has a flair for the dramatic and unusual. When his custom Snap Lock™ was given the "Most Innovative Knife Award" at the American Knifemakers' Guild Show, we knew we had to offer a production version, which was the original larger CRKT Snap Lock. It immediately won the Designer Knife award at the 2004 IWA show in Nuremberg, Germany, and was named "Overall Knife of the Year" at the 2004 Blade Show in Atlanta, Georgia.
The next question was, "When can I get a smaller personal version?" Ultimately, we were able to create the Snap Lock 2 at 70% of the original size, resulting in a little gem with a 1.75" (44 mm) blade, weighing only 1.5 ounces (43 g).
When closed, the AUS 4 stainless steel wishbone frame is a 100% effective blade edge guard; when open, it is a minimal but very usable handle. The harder you grip the handle, the more it locks the blade in place, thanks to twelve positive locking surfaces between the frame and locking lugs, so it is a very safe and secure system.
Ed's cam locking system features two thumb wheels, for truly ambidextrous use. The pocket/money clip is removable. The blade can pivot a full 360 degrees with no clip, or 180 degrees with the stainless steel clip in place. Simply press the thumb wheel and rotate the blade. Opening and closing can be accomplished with one hand and is truly slick and quick.
The AUS 4 stainless steel blade itself has a subtle drop point shape, almost a Wharncliffe, and has a Razor-Sharp edge. Four lightening holes also add a decorative touch.
Blade, frame, and clip have a contemporary bead-blast finish.
It has been called a "far-out folder" but the more you handle and carry the Snap Lock, the more you realize it is one great work tool. All-steel construction means it is just about indestructible, and will last for years. The handle itself is likely the biggest "spring" ever devised for a knife-locking mechanism, so it will last for the life of the knife.
"The decisions of the jury were almost unanimous," stated Margaret Spindler, Chair of the IWA jury and consultant for the Knife Award. The jury commented, "Everything in one: gadget, ornament, utensil and money clip."
I bought this knife for my husband's birthday to replace a K.I.S.S. one that the 'feds' at the Hoover Dam confiscated before they allowed us in for a tour. :( It's a really cool looking knife but to call it a money clip is a joke. The clip is way too small and my husband feared it would snap over time. We'll return it and buy another K.I.S.S.
Adam
2011-06-06 Rochester, NY
I love mine Excellent little knife, everyone that sees it thinks it's fantastic. it's amazing how sturdy it is the clip broke off, not a problem because it is easily removable, I think it looks cooler with out it anyways. the thumb knob on mine also loosened but I just put a dab of super glue on the screw and tightened it no longer comes loose but could potentially a problem... Overall: Love it, never leave home without it
Daniel
2011-04-11 Blairsville, GA
Just ordered my third one of these. Don't lay them down anywhere. They will be taken. I know, like I said this is my third knife. Great little unit. Really handy and a great conversation piece.
the blade stays sharp, it fun to show people... but the thumb knob to open it loosens every time I open it. This is very frustrating. It now sits in a drawer. CRKT Response: This should not happen. Please send it in and we will repair or replace it.
Dale
2010-07-05 Mount Joy, PA
Just ordered my second one. Lost my first on vacation. First thing I did on getting home was to find order a replacement.
Dale
Braden
2009-10-13 Morgan Hill, CA
I was originally looking to buy a nice camping/backpacking knife, but bought this one because of its unique opening function. I have been very satisfied with it. The only real problem is the opening mechanism does get a bit loose after regular use, however the blade and handle still stay in a fixed position. Good for anyone looking for a unique yet functioning pocket knife
Michael
2009-10-02 Howell, MI
Nice pocket knife. A little wide due to thumb wheel used to open and close the blade. Everyone who uses it is fascinated by the design. The uniqueness of the function is the main reason I purchased the knife
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.jpg "(5120) Snap Lock 2 - Plain Edge - Designed by Ed Van Hoy")
.jpg "(5120) Snap Lock 2 - Plain Edge - Designed by Ed Van Hoy")
