Abstract: A knife comprising a handle, a blade pivotally coupled to the handle, a lock pivotally coupled to the handle, and a spring having at least one transversely extending portion that contacts the lock. In a preferred embodiment, the spring is U-shaped and supported by recesses in the handle. Also in a preferred embodiment, the spring is coupled to the handle near the blade and extends rearward.

Abstract: A knife blade is locked by selectively moving a blade locking mechanism into and out of alignment with the end surface of the blade. The blade locking mechanism is replaceably mounted on the free end of a spring formed as a part of one of the side panels. The blade locking mechanism is preferably a disc which seats into a conical recess in the end of the blade.

Abstract: A lock release mechanism for a folding combination tool having a plurality of supplemental tools (e.g., a knife, screwdriver, can opener, etc.) mounted at the free end of a generally U-shaped handle for rotation from a storage position within the handle to an extended “in use” position outside the handle. The locking mechanism is characterized by a leaf spring formed at the free end of the handle that lockingly engages the mounting end or shank of one or more of the supplemental tools when such tool is rotated from the handle to its fully extended position for use. The lock release mechanism preferably includes a bulge, formed on a different supplemental tool, that extends outside the handle so that the bulge may be depressed into the handle by a user.

Abstract: A multi-purpose folding tool which features inwardly tapered handles to provide external plier jaw storage, thereby leaving greater room for supplemental tool storage inside the handles, a box-beam handle construction for greater strength, downwardly opening handles to facilitate ease of use, a unique supplemental tool locking and release mechanism, and laminated plier jaws which are riveted together for even greater strength and overall integrity.

Abstract: A multi-purpose folding tool which features inwardly tapered handles to provide external plier jaw storage, thereby leaving greater room for supplemental tool storage inside the handles, a box-beam handle construction for greater strength, downwardly opening handles to facilitate ease of use, a unique supplemental tool locking and release mechanism, and laminated plier jaws which are riveted together for even greater strength and overall integrity.