Abstract: A lockable tool with a sliding scale release is formed with a frame and a tool coupled to the frame with a locking mechanism to lock the tool into an extended or retracted configuration. A release mechanism is attached a scale on the side of the frame. The scale is coupled to the frame. The tool is constructed such that sliding the scale along a longitudinal axis of the frame automatically unlocks the tool from the extended or retracted configurations. The tool can open and/or close automatically. The tool, such as a knife, can swing open or extend out a front opening in the frame.