Abstract: A needle (1), in particular a machine knitting needle, for instance for use in circular knitting machines, has a closing member (4), which is supported both pivotably and longitudinally displaceably. The motion of the closing member is controlled externally by a control element (5). The needle (1) of the invention makes do with especially short working strokes, both for the needle (1) and for the control element (5). It is sturdy, and among other purposes it is suitable for especially fine pitches and for higher number of systems in circular knitting machines.

Abstract: A compound needle comprises a closing element with two closing element springs. These are designed to be asymmetrical relative to each other or at least provided with clearances or openings which, during the operation of the compound needle, are made to overlap with a corresponding cutout or other openings in the basic compound needle member, so that deposits can be removed to the needle channel. An asymmetric design of the closing element springs prevents the closing element from being wedged into the closing element channel, even if the deposit removal is incomplete. As a result, the compound needle wear is reduced considerably and the operational safety is increased.