Columbia River Van Hoy Snap Lock Razor Sharp Edge Ed Van Hoy is a well known Virginia custom knifemaker and instructor who has a flair for the dramatic and unusual. When his custom Snap Lock was given the "Most Innovative Knife Award" at the American Knifemakers' Guild Show a production version had to be made and here it is the CRKT Snap Lock. It immediately won the Designer Knife award at the 2004 IWA show in Nuremburg Germany and was named "Overall Knife of the Year" at the 2004 Blade Show in Atlanta Georgia. Yes there have been side opening knives before but none quite like Ed's. A patent is pending for his unique opening and locking mechanism. And although Ed's customs are jewelry-like in their materials and finish Columbia River recognized that the Snap Lock could be a very functional daily utility knife. When closed the AUS 4 stainless steel wishbone frame is a 100% effective blade edge guard; when open it is a minimal but very usable handle. The harder you grip the handle the more it locks the blade in place thanks to twelve positive locking surfaces between the frame and locking lugs so it is a very safe and secure system. Ed's cam locking system features two thumb wheels for truly ambidextrous use. Left and right removable pocket/money clips are included. The blade can pivot a full 360 degrees with no clip or 180 degrees in either direction with either stainless steel clip in place. Simply press the thumb wheel and rotate the blade. Opening and closing can be accomplished with one hand and is truly slick and quick. The AUS 4 stainless steel blade itself has a subtle drop point shape almost a Wharncliffe. Five lightening holes also add a decorative touch. Blade frame and clip have a contemporary bead blast finish. It has been called a "far out folder" but the more you handle and carry the Snap Lock the more you realize it is one great work tool. All steel construction means it is just abou
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