How to close a pocket folding knife ?

Closing a folding knife, such as a model from La Grande Coutellerie Claude Dozorme, requires knowing the specific mechanism of your knife. This ensures safe handling and helps preserve the craftsmanship and durability of the tool.

Here is a detailed guide covering the mechanisms used in Claude Dozorme folding and pocket knives.

Identifying the mechanism of a Claude Dozorme folding knife

Claude Dozorme knives feature a variety of innovative and reliable locking systems. Below is an overview of the main mechanisms and how to close each one.

Secret mechanism

This historic system, originally used on advertising knives, was reinterpreted in 2015 by the Dozorme manufacture for Le Thiers® and Laguiole models. It incorporates a discreet, ingenious lock.

- To open: press the closed blade when the tip is pointing upward.

- To close: press the folded blade while pointing the tip downward.

Back lock mechanism

Push the lever on the back of the handle upward to release the blade. This allows you to unfold it; then close the latch to lock the blade open.

- To close: push the latch upward again to free the blade, fold it back gently, then allow the latch to return to its place.

Ultra-flat liner knife

This knife uses a Liner Lock mechanism that secures the blade during use.

- To close: press the thin metal bar inside the handle toward the centre with your thumb to disengage the lock, then fold the blade smoothly.

Cam mechanism

To release and close the blade, pull on the small tab located under the bolster.

Push-button knife

Press the button on the blade to begin opening it, then continue to open it slowly.
The opening and closing rely on a liner lock system.

- To close: push the liner aside to release the blade and fold it.

Ball-bearing mechanism (RLT Pocket knife)

This system ensures smooth, fluid operation.

- To close: apply slight pressure to the blade to disengage the mechanism, then fold it carefully.

Slipjoint knife (springlock)

To close this type of knife, apply gentle pressure on the blade while maintaining a firm grip on the handle to overcome the spring tension. This is the most common mechanism in pocket knives.

Modernised piedmontese system

Its simple, robust flat-spring system relies on friction rather than a locking mechanism.

- To close: apply light pressure to the back of the blade and fold it safely.

General procedure for closing a folding knife

Step 1: Ensure a secure grip

Hold the handle firmly, keeping the blade facing outward and the cutting edge angled downward, away from your hand and body.

Step 2: Unlock the blade

Depending on your knife’s mechanism, activate the lock (push-button, liner bar, cam, spring, etc.).
For models without a lock, apply controlled pressure to the back of the blade.

Step 3: Fold the blade with care

Bring the blade back into the handle slowly, keeping your fingers clear of the cutting edge to avoid injury. Always guide the blade gently — never let it snap shut, as it may damage the edge on knives without a “poncetage” buffer.

Step 4: Check that the knife is fully closed

Make sure the blade is fully folded and that the locking system, if present, has properly re-engaged.

Tips to maintain safety and preserve quality

- Clean and lubricate the mechanism regularly to ensure smooth closing.

- Take the time to understand your knife’s specific mechanism, especially the more innovative ones like the Secret system or back-lock models.

- Always be mindful of the cutting edge when handling your knife to avoid injuries.