Tri-Ad Lock

The Tri-ad® LOCK
"Undoubtedly, Cold Steel makes the safest, strongest folders on the planet. It’s one of many qualities that separates Cold Steel from our competitors." Our latest improvement is our patent-pending Tri-Ad® lock. Andrew Demko is the originator of the Tri-Ad’s® novel locking mechanism. It’s a successor to a patented lock design originally created by the very talented John PerMar.

The “STOP Pin”:
The cornerstone of the Tri-Ad’s® strength, among other subtle refinements, is the inclusion of a new “stop pin” which re-distributes the load of vertical positive and negative pressures on the lock.The stop pin receives all positive pressure (pressure on the cutting edge) and transfers it into the handle frame and liners where it can be more effectively absorbed. Negative pressures on the lock produced, for example, by prying, digging, piercing or even abusive spine whacks are redistributed because the stop pin receives the forward pressure from the rocker and transfers it into the liners protecting the rocker and its pivot from failing.

Selfadjusting:
Finally, outside of keeping the lock free from the buildup of pocket lint in the mechanism, the Tri-Ad® lock requires very little maintenance. It’s designed to be self adjusting, in the sense that, over time as parts begin to wear, the Tri-Ad’s® design will allow it to adapt so the locking bar always wedges deeper in the lock channel between the stop pin and the shoulder of the precision cut tang notch. This feature allows for a very safe and secure lock-up.

The strenght of the Tri-ad® LOCK:
The exclusive Tri-Ad® Locking Mechanism is incredibly strong. Here the Code 4 is shown holding 250 lbs. Some of our folders can hold up to 600 Lbs!

Negative pressures
on the lock are transferred to the rocker, pushing it forward into the blade tang. The stop pin effectively absorbs most of this force and re-distributes it into the frame and liners.

Positive pressures
on the cutting edge is transferred from the stop pin into the handle frame and liners where it can be more effectively absorbed.

The blade is shouldered around the stop pin for increased resistance to wear and tear. The stop pin buffers against, and redistributes the force pressure from the blade.

Extra space is provided to allow the rocker to fall deeper into the notch over time in response to normal wear and tear.

The full surface of the lock and blade tang mate flush together.The slightly angled lock tends to force the lock inwards under pressure instead of outward.

The rocker pin hole is made with extra space on either side to allow for self adjustment.

Please see the video and you will be show, why Cold-Steel's Tri-ad Lock is so strong.