Chinook concerns!!! (Lock issue)

afee · #1

I have Chinook 903, a few weeks old as a warrenty upgrede (thanks mike).

Despite my praises, I have found some things I would call falts with the Chinook. The first few ar minor, but the lock issues near the end are a big issue.

The point is a bit delicate, and might not sustain real abuse, but its not designed to be abused in prying type work, so I won't take issue. I am a bit dissapointed with the knifes lack of versatility however. Mine has a single clip mount, for tip down, right hand carry. Personally, i like tip up. Not a big issue, but its how i personnaly feel comfortable. I would like to see an optional mount position. I also feel for my left handed firends. While the knife itself is as ambidextorese as they come, the clip is locked on the right hand side. Either a left handed version or an optional mount position would be wonderful. Fortunatly, that might be addressed in newer versions.

In addition, there is only one adjustment point on the whole knife, and that is the blade pivot. I would like to see the pressure fit pins replaced with liner screws to facilitate adjustment, cleaning and repair, need be. Overall, not a preformance issue, but the makings for a more user friendly package.

I'm also a bit concerned with the lock design. Although it is exceedingly stong, I am worried about the lock type choice itself. It has solid lock up with no blade play, and is rock solid when my hand rides high on the grip. However, when my hand slides down on the grip, the preassure from my hand can force the lock open, possibly resulting in accidental closing. With a blade as heavy and shapr as the Chinook, i see that as a real concern for those using it in either hard working conditions, or, in the worse case scenarion, in a defensive situation.

While being of good size, with great materials, I am not convinced this knife would be a good choice for those with smaller hands that may be holding the knife over the lock, or those who would submit it to harsh and depaning use, again due to lock issues. A great look and overall feel, but i would stongly suggest the lock either be redesigned or replaced with a more abuse friendly design.

Ferret · #2

I had trouble disengaging the lock intentionally so I'd be amazed at your Herculean strength if you could get it to close accidentally. <img src="smile.gif" width=15 height=15 align=middle>

sgtmike88 · #3

I have to agree with Ferret. The sound of my Chinook locking up is as scary as the sound of locking the action on a loaded Remington 870 shotgun. I have trouble getting the lock on the Chinook to disengage intentionally, too. I can't imagine being able to do it unintentionally.

Brian_Turner · #4

Another vote for "****! How hard do you have to press this thing?"

This is one tough b*tch to unlock!

#5

Hi Afee. If you can accidently unlock the Chinook, we would really like to know how you are doing it. It was specifically designed to avoid that possiblility.

Out of curiosity, if not a lockback, what lock would you replace it with?

sal

afee · #6

Hey guys- I'm actually not stressing the knife at all. I never really work my knives that hard, and thats why this is so supprising. I wish i had a digital camera or a scanner so i could show you what I'm talking about. Sal, I'll email you personnaly to try and better describe the issue. If i can find the spyderco number, I'll call Mike and try to leave a detailed message as to what is going on here.

As far as locks go, i don't really know. I personaly have had good luck with both liners and lockbacks in the past. This is the first I've had that I could consistantly open without trying.

I love the Rolling lock, but there are ownership issues there. Maybe a compression? Maybe even this lock, just tweaked a bit. I'm having a hard time better describing the problem, so I'm also having a hard time making suggestions based on it.

akbell · #7

Chinook - I have small hands and have NO trouble with the lock! For an all purpose knife I can't think of any thing I would change, except the clip position. I agree it should be drilled and tapped to accept eithe point up or down. Other than that I am seriously considering carryibg it instead of my Emerson CQC7. If the clip position is changed then they should offer to upgrade the knives in the field.

akbell · #8

Chinook - I have small hands and have NO trouble with the lock! For an all purpose knife I can't think of any thing I would change, except the clip position. I agree it should be drilled and tapped to accept eithe point up or down. Other than that I am seriously considering carryibg it instead of my Emerson CQC7. If the clip position is changed then they should offer to upgrade the knives in the field.

ChuteTheMall · #9

Thumbs down on tip down.

I'm waiting for the tip up option.

Just staying loyal to the Delicas and Enduras that brought me here!

#10

Hi Akbell. Welcome to the Spyderco forum.

Afee. If the knife is not safe for you, you should get it back to us with a clear explanation of the problem. We have not encountered this comment before. Perhaps the problem is in your particular piece?

sal

akbell · #11

Sal, why do you think I have a safety problem???? I love my chinook as you can see if read my post. All I want is the option of changing the direction of carry.

jyork · #12

Got my numbered collector Chinook a month or so ago. I liked it so much that I had to buy myself another one to carry. Great knife, solid. I like the tip down carry, but thats my personal opinion. I can understand where some would want the possibility to change the clip. I have the same issue as some, its hard to close at times. That lock doesn't want to move for anything. But the heft and the great feel in the hand make this a real joy to carry. Another good one Sal.

Jey