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, and here it is, the CRKT Snap Lock. It immediately won the Designer Knife award at the 2004 IWA show in Nuremburg, Germany, and was named “Overall Knife of the Year” at the 2004 Blade Show in Atlanta, Georgia.
Yes, there have been side opening knives before, but none quite like Ed’s. A patent is pending for his unique opening and locking mechanism. And although Ed’s customs are jewelry-like in their materials and finish, we recognized that the Snap Lock could be a very functional daily utility knife.
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. Left and right removable pocket/money clips are included. The blade can pivot a full 360 degrees with no clip, or 180 degrees in either direction with either 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 is available in both Razor-Sharp or Combined Razor-Sharp and Triple-Point™ Serrated edges. Five 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.”
