Which Lil Native?

[dreadpirate]

Compression lock or back lock? I assume the back lock is thinner?

[SG89]

Compression lock 100 percent. I've carried one almost every day since they were first released a couple years ago. The compression lock has the most varieties available and also has more custom scale options.

[dreadpirate]

Compression lock 100 percent. I've carried one almost every day since they were first released a couple years ago. The compression lock has the most varieties available and also has more custom scale options.

Thanks. I know you are a proponent of the Lil Native so I am glad I got your feedback.

[benben]

Compression lock or back lock? I assume the back lock is thinner?

I love my CL Lil Native, Spydergirl88 twisted my arm! Having said that, I’d love to try a LB model, and I’m sure I’d love it too. Pretty hard to go wrong either way!

[Mstach07]

Both models are the same width.

[rabbitanarchy14]

i only would carry the compression lock. no lockbacks.

[Doc Dan]

The compression lock sticks out through the cutout for the tab and ca pinch your finger. Also, it relies only on a detent to keep it closed. The backlock is simply awesome. It clicks into place with authority. I love it.

[VooDooChild]

Backlock has more options for the clip. It is also a spoon clip which some might not like as much as the wire clip, but I am going to argue it is stronger. Backlock has a lanyard hole. Also spydercos Golden factory probably makes some of the best backlocks on the planet. I would actually put the action of the lil native backlock behind that of the native 5 and chief, but even then its still a better backlock than just about any other example of that lock type you will find. Backlock is also ambidextrous.

Then you get into the debate of lock types. Compression lock should be stronger. Backlock has a self close property. Etc...

[Wartstein]

.... Compression lock should be stronger.....

I do NOT want to start yet another general lock type discussion (!), but just out of technical interest:
Why do you think the comp.lock "should be stronger"?

In the tests I am aware of, both locktypes are way more than strong enough, but pushed to the limit, the backlock is still a bit stronger than the comp.lock.

[Wartstein]

Compression lock or back lock? I assume the back lock is thinner?

If you have general experience with both locktypes (which I almost assume), you will have a preference anyway, and both are great choices.

Just in case you should not, some points to consider just concerning the two locktypes (and keep in mind, I am clearly biased and a backlock guy!)

- Comp. lock is a great and ingenious design, easy to use one handed and to flick for most people right from the beginning (so not much practice involved and necessary).

- Backlock is safer in the pocket, and if you use your knife frequently and/or practice a bit imho more versatile in having more safe ways (concerning the fingers and the risk of accidently dropping the knife) in one handed use.
I also find the closed back of a backlock knife more comfortable in extended use than the open back (and by that "gap" at the spine of the handle) of most comp.lock knives.
- I don´t have a Lil Native, but from what I hear it features the great backlock of the "Native family" which is particullary well designed and executed imho.

Edit: Just had a look at your profile, dreadpirate, should have done so before, cause you certainly have experience with both locktypes anyway and my post above is rather obsolete)

[elena86]

In this case I recommend the backlock version. It's a Golden made backlock so it's bulletproof, two slabs of G10 and no liners, simple, efficient and easier to manipulate given the short handle. More than that, people who own both say that the backlock version with that spoon pocket clip has no in-hand hotspots, I own the baklock Lil'Native and I can confirm so ....

[Ric]

Thickness is the same.
Remember its a TANK.
It's a Para 3 but shrunken only horizontally.
The para 3 lightweight feel (and is also) lighter.
The ricasso also digs a big in your finger when close the compression lock.

Small backlocks are available, both have thinner blades (chaparral, dragonfly).
But smaller compression lock are not out there.

[Ric]

Compression lock will be available in Rex45 soon.

[Notsurewhy]

Thickness is the same.
Remember its a TANK.
It's a Para 3 but shrunken only horizontally.
The para 3 lightweight feel (and is also) lighter.
The ricasso also digs a big in your finger when close the compression lock.

Small backlocks are available, both have thinner blades (chaparral, dragonfly).
But smaller compression lock are not out there.

The Rhino is a slightly smaller compression lock.

[Ric]

@notsurewhy
Thanks, is it still available?

[Doc Dan]

.... Compression lock should be stronger.....

I do NOT want to start yet another general lock type discussion (!), but just out of technical interest:
Why do you think the comp.lock "should be stronger"?

In the tests I am aware of, both locktypes are way more than strong enough, but pushed to the limit, the backlock is still a bit stronger than the comp.lock.

Yep, every time.

[JuPaul]

@notsurewhy
Thanks, is it still available?

It is. Regular production.

[abbazaba]

Backlock version FTW. I find the comp lock difficult on small knives.

[Mstach07]

I own both models, actually multiple of both. I have found a liking for each. I cannot day one is better than the other. I haven’t found issues with the comp lock on such a small knife. I have medium to large size hands. I do prefer the back lock due to the 4 way adjustable clip position. I carry tip down back packet and the knife deploys more efficiently in this configuration as compared to tip up.

[kennethsime]

Once they come out with a compression lock native I'll get a compression lock lil' native. I'd like a matching set! Just OCD like that.