Sal,
Many of us, myself included, love many things about the Dodo; the handle is awesome, the blade rocks.
One product-improvement or optional suggestion: Any chance of the Dodo being made in lock-back form, like the Native, et. al.?
I'd really love that!!
How about the rest of the Spydie addicts here?
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
Q For Sal: Impoved Dodo?
Jim: To expand your suggestion, maybe you should state what it is you don't like about the ball lock.
Personally, I really like the ball lock. I like the smooth and quiet locking action and it feels rock solid. IMHO, it also makes it a little easier to close the Dodo with one hand than a lockback because combined with the Dodo's small size, I can disengage the lock and close the blade without having to really rotate the knife in my hand at all.
It is definitely a polarizing topic, though - seems like people either love the ball lock or hate it. One complaint I've heard a lot is that it can be hard to release the lock if you have large fingers.
Peering though the glass at the D'Allara Rescue and the WTC Knife at the store the other day, it seemed like the ball bearing (and opening) was slightly larger than the Dodo's...but I was kind of in a hurry and didn't handle either knife or think to compare them to a Dodo side by side...
Edited by - timlara on 3/14/2004 11:23:58 AM
Personally, I really like the ball lock. I like the smooth and quiet locking action and it feels rock solid. IMHO, it also makes it a little easier to close the Dodo with one hand than a lockback because combined with the Dodo's small size, I can disengage the lock and close the blade without having to really rotate the knife in my hand at all.
It is definitely a polarizing topic, though - seems like people either love the ball lock or hate it. One complaint I've heard a lot is that it can be hard to release the lock if you have large fingers.
Peering though the glass at the D'Allara Rescue and the WTC Knife at the store the other day, it seemed like the ball bearing (and opening) was slightly larger than the Dodo's...but I was kind of in a hurry and didn't handle either knife or think to compare them to a Dodo side by side...
Edited by - timlara on 3/14/2004 11:23:58 AM
Timlara Posted: Jim: To expand your suggestion, maybe you should state what it is you don't like about the ball lock.>>>
I just feel that the lock back is more secure because, on my first Dodo, the lock failed. The knife simply closed because of light pressure on the spine.
Other Dodo owners have also reported problems. Now, I believe that these lock problems were simply bugs to work out, and I believe they've been eliminated by this time.
However, ever since the lock failure, I've harbored a small iota of distrust for the ball bearing lock.
I think the lock back mechanism is more sound and less prone to failure than the ball bearing. How often do you hear of a lock failure on a Native? Never. I can, however, recall about a half dozen lock failures of the Dodo.
Please don't misunderstand; I carry my Dodo just about every day, and I like it a lot. But if I found a lamp on the beach, rubbed it, and had a genie grant me three wishes, one might be for a lock back Dodo.
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
I just feel that the lock back is more secure because, on my first Dodo, the lock failed. The knife simply closed because of light pressure on the spine.
Other Dodo owners have also reported problems. Now, I believe that these lock problems were simply bugs to work out, and I believe they've been eliminated by this time.
However, ever since the lock failure, I've harbored a small iota of distrust for the ball bearing lock.
I think the lock back mechanism is more sound and less prone to failure than the ball bearing. How often do you hear of a lock failure on a Native? Never. I can, however, recall about a half dozen lock failures of the Dodo.
Please don't misunderstand; I carry my Dodo just about every day, and I like it a lot. But if I found a lamp on the beach, rubbed it, and had a genie grant me three wishes, one might be for a lock back Dodo.
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
jim: Experiencing lock failure is definitely a valid reason to be wary of the ball lock! (I hope you weren't injured!) I think you are right that there are still some bugs to be worked out. As with any new technology, it always seems to take a while to get to the "sweet spot" where all the advantages and compromises are balanced out in the most desirable ratio possible. In the case of the ball lock, I think this means achieving an optimal blend of smooth opening and closing combined with an obvious amount of tactile feedback that lets you know for sure that the lock has indeed engaged. For instance, with a lockback, you always get that authoritative "CLICK!" that you can both hear and feel without a doubt. This is great as far as making you feel confident that the blade is secure, but it also means that it is almost impossible to open a lockback very discreetly. In the case of my Dodo, the lock operates with a very faint "tap" and almost no sound at all. On one hand, this is a really nice feature, such as when I'm opening it in a very quiet office surrounded by sheeple and I don't want to draw attention - but other times, when I open the knife really quickly outdoors or in a busy warehouse, etc, I do find myself double checking the blade to ensure that it is actually locked. The lock hasn't let me down yet, but sometimes it is SO smooth and quiet that I am a little wary. (I have actually had problems with the lock sticking slightly when I open the knife too fast, but never with it not engaging enough.)
Overall, I think the Dodo's performance is amazing considering it is still basically a "1st Generation" knife, but it will certainly be interesting to see what kinds of tweaks it receives in the future. I don't know what the actual sales numbers are like, but based on the positive word of mouth, it seems that it is a popular enough model that it will definitely be around long enough to receive some refinements.
One of my favorite Spyderco hallmarks is the way that Sal (or Eric in this case) really listens to and respects the opinions of the end users. While clever creativity takes them a long way, I truly believe that their products excel because of their willingness to really get to the bottom of what the customer NEEDS.
Edited by - timlara on 3/15/2004 12:15:21 AM
Overall, I think the Dodo's performance is amazing considering it is still basically a "1st Generation" knife, but it will certainly be interesting to see what kinds of tweaks it receives in the future. I don't know what the actual sales numbers are like, but based on the positive word of mouth, it seems that it is a popular enough model that it will definitely be around long enough to receive some refinements.
One of my favorite Spyderco hallmarks is the way that Sal (or Eric in this case) really listens to and respects the opinions of the end users. While clever creativity takes them a long way, I truly believe that their products excel because of their willingness to really get to the bottom of what the customer NEEDS.
Edited by - timlara on 3/15/2004 12:15:21 AM
Timlara Posted: One of my favorite Spyderco hallmarks is the way that Sal (or Eric in this case) really listens to and respects the opinions of the end users. While clever creativity takes them a long way, I truly believe that their products excel because of their willingness to really get to the bottom of what the customer NEEDS.>>>
Absolutely! That's the reason I posted my request for a lock back Dodo version; because I know that when Sal sees the post, he'll give it some thought and answer it. Perhaps, if it's feasible, and if other members here express interest, it may come to pass.
I certainly meant nothing derogatory toward the Dodo; it's tied for first place as my favorite Spydie.
The handle ergonomics are absolutely phenomenal, and I think it makes the knife. The handle makes it possible to have excellent control of a great blade.
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
Absolutely! That's the reason I posted my request for a lock back Dodo version; because I know that when Sal sees the post, he'll give it some thought and answer it. Perhaps, if it's feasible, and if other members here express interest, it may come to pass.
I certainly meant nothing derogatory toward the Dodo; it's tied for first place as my favorite Spydie.
The handle ergonomics are absolutely phenomenal, and I think it makes the knife. The handle makes it possible to have excellent control of a great blade.
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
Noway to ball lock on Civie, if it must be changed from a lock back, mabey a Compression lock like the Gunting has.
I would not feel secure to anything that did not "CLICK" n let me know its locked in and ready for action, not as far as the Civie is concerned.
The day you need that blade out n open, you dont wanna have to check that it is locked down tight becuase you didnt hear that luverly solid metal on metal "click".
My 2 cents worth
MaNcEr
It's Time To Kick @$$ 'N Chew Bubble Gum
I would not feel secure to anything that did not "CLICK" n let me know its locked in and ready for action, not as far as the Civie is concerned.
The day you need that blade out n open, you dont wanna have to check that it is locked down tight becuase you didnt hear that luverly solid metal on metal "click".
My 2 cents worth
MaNcEr
It's Time To Kick @$$ 'N Chew Bubble Gum
-
spidernoiree
- Member
- Posts: 264
- Joined: Fri Sep 24, 2004 10:33 am
-
mystillwater
- Member
- Posts: 94
- Joined: Fri Sep 24, 2004 10:33 am
- Location: downingtown, pa USA
i had a problem with the lock when i first got mine as well. i sent it back and now the action of the knife is flawless. i have complete trust in the lockup. mine opens with a flick of the wrist and pops into place EVERY time. i'm very happy with my dodo (other than the crappy pocket clip that broke twice)
Guys, guys, guys....
I'm not suggesting that the ball lock be eliminated; I'd just like to see the lock back implemented as an option on the Dodo. :-)
Don't worry, I'm certain that Sal isn't going to eliminate the ball lock.
Actually, I do like the ball lock in that it's completely unique, and has a "cool factor" or "gadget factor" of 10.
The Dodo is such an excellent and popular design, I'm sure it's going to be available for many years to come. If I foresee that they're going to discontinue it, I'm going to hurry up and buy another one so I have an extra in case my first one ever wears out!
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
I'm not suggesting that the ball lock be eliminated; I'd just like to see the lock back implemented as an option on the Dodo. :-)
Don't worry, I'm certain that Sal isn't going to eliminate the ball lock.
Actually, I do like the ball lock in that it's completely unique, and has a "cool factor" or "gadget factor" of 10.
The Dodo is such an excellent and popular design, I'm sure it's going to be available for many years to come. If I foresee that they're going to discontinue it, I'm going to hurry up and buy another one so I have an extra in case my first one ever wears out!
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
Just trying to keep this near the top so Sal sees it when he gets back.
Sal, where are ya? Hope to talk soon.
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
Sal, where are ya? Hope to talk soon.
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
How about a cheaper Japan made version of the Dodo with lock-back, FRN-handles and a VG-10 blade. Maybe even the bladeshape could be modified.
Shiden
<IMG SRC="http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/avata ... 1073689062" ALT="Lux et Libertas">
Shiden
<IMG SRC="http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/avata ... 1073689062" ALT="Lux et Libertas">
I've not been impressed with the ball lock on the Dodo. I found it awkward to operate for one-handed closing; so I passed on it. It doesn't compare well to the Axis lock, IMO.
I have been very well impressed with the compression lock; although it only works well for right-handed operation. Perhaps a Dodo with a compression lock would be future upgrade.
EarthDog
I have been very well impressed with the compression lock; although it only works well for right-handed operation. Perhaps a Dodo with a compression lock would be future upgrade.
EarthDog
Hi Him, thanx for the suggestion. We'll have to watch reaction to the design before making variations. We're still refining the lock. It's a pretty new concept.
Thanx for the comments, suggestions and criticizms as well. Getting the ball lock "right" is still refinements and adjustments; the correct amount of spring tension, angles of the ramps, etc. We're also working on easier ways of releasing or unlocking as some have difficulty.
Like life, it's a work in progress.
on the up side, we have self adjusting, simple, minimal wear because the surface is always changing, extreme sgtrength, (the Dodo has an MBC rated lock).
Hi Earthdog. The Axis has been around about 10 or 12 years. Lotsa refinement time and the inventors are knife passionate so they continue to improve.
The Compression lock is a year or so older than the ball-bearing-lock and we've made numerous refinements since first production.
It will interesting to watch the evolution of the lock, much of which will come from your input.
sal
Thanx for the comments, suggestions and criticizms as well. Getting the ball lock "right" is still refinements and adjustments; the correct amount of spring tension, angles of the ramps, etc. We're also working on easier ways of releasing or unlocking as some have difficulty.
Like life, it's a work in progress.
on the up side, we have self adjusting, simple, minimal wear because the surface is always changing, extreme sgtrength, (the Dodo has an MBC rated lock).
Hi Earthdog. The Axis has been around about 10 or 12 years. Lotsa refinement time and the inventors are knife passionate so they continue to improve.
The Compression lock is a year or so older than the ball-bearing-lock and we've made numerous refinements since first production.
It will interesting to watch the evolution of the lock, much of which will come from your input.
sal
Sal Posted: ..."Thanx for the comments, suggestions and criticizms as well."
It was my pleasure, Sal. It's also a pleasure to be able to have input that the president of the company will take into account and consider. Few companies these days will listen to the customers, and you are to be applauded for seeking feedback.
As I said, I don't hate the ball bearing lock. I'd just personally love to see a lock-back version. However, I also realize that I don't speak for everyone, and that I may be a very small minority, and it might not be good business for you to embark on such an endeavor, as the demand might not be very high.
Thanks again for taking the time to consider it and reply. That's what makes Spyderco a cut above many others.
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
It was my pleasure, Sal. It's also a pleasure to be able to have input that the president of the company will take into account and consider. Few companies these days will listen to the customers, and you are to be applauded for seeking feedback.
As I said, I don't hate the ball bearing lock. I'd just personally love to see a lock-back version. However, I also realize that I don't speak for everyone, and that I may be a very small minority, and it might not be good business for you to embark on such an endeavor, as the demand might not be very high.
Thanks again for taking the time to consider it and reply. That's what makes Spyderco a cut above many others.
Sniper -- One Shot, One Kill Email: ST8PEN01@aol.com
Sal, thanks for the perspective. I've been actively collecting for about a year and a half, now; so I have come into the middle of a lot of interesting activity. The level of innovation in the knife world is inspiring, as is the respect you express for other quality designers.
Thanks for your many contributions.
EarthDog
Thanks for your many contributions.
EarthDog
-
AllenETreat
- Member
- Posts: 3156
- Joined: Fri Sep 24, 2004 10:33 am
- Location: The Constitution State USA