Abstract: A folding tool (14, 60) including a locking mechanism for keeping a knife blade (2, 72) or other tool blade in an extended position or a folded position with respect to a handle (1, 62). A locking body (3, 90, 90′, 142, 150, 162) extending between the sides (16, 18, 64, 68) of the handle (1, 62) is moveable transversely, between a locking position and a releasing position. A flat locking face (42, 102) of the locking body (3, 90) engages a flat engagement surface (44, 104) on the blade (2, 72) when the blade is in the extended position. A ball detent including a projecting ball surface (98) and a mating detent cavity (112) may be used to keep the blade in its folded position with respect to the handle. Another detent includes inclined surfaces (128, 132).

Abstract: A folding tool (14, 60) including a locking mechanism for keeping a knife blade (2, 72) or other tool blade in an extended position or a folded position with respect to a handle (1, 62). A locking body (3, 90, 90′, 142, 150, 162) extending between the sides (16, 18, 64, 68) of the handle (1, 62) is moveable transversely, between a locking position and a releasing position. A flat locking face (42, 102) of the locking body (3, 90) engages a flat engagement surface (44, 104) on the blade (2, 72) when the blade is in the extended position. A ball detent including a projecting ball surface (98) and a mating detent cavity (112) may be used to keep the blade in its folded position with respect to the handle. Another detent includes inclined surfaces (128, 132).