Are the piano locks that much better?

[BassClefJeff84]

I am about to buy a powerlock, but the one they have at lowes has the old style lock.  I was wondering if the piano locks were any better. I dont see why they would be, but hey, you never know.


-Jeff

[PyroJames]

I have the old Powerlock (exposed gears, single lock bar) and I never had any problems with it.  I've tested the PowerAssist when it first came out and the piano locks didn't seem to be a major improvement.  Yes, it does stop clumping but clumping has always been a minor issue on the Powerlock (on my Powerlock anyways).

In my opinion, it's not really worth buying a Powerlock just for the piano locks.  If you don't mind the exposed gears (which look cool, IMO), the older powerlock is fine. 

However, if you're going to use the screwdriver or socket adaptor on your powerlock, you may want to consider getting the new version that has the gears covered as it's easier on your hands. 

[eodtech]

I have had SOG's with and without and there is no difference in my experience

[WH867]

I   prefer the old style.    I like the clumping

[I'm Still Bison]

If you have biggish hands,like me,clumping can be a positive.

[PyroJames]

If you have big thumbs, piano locks can be ineffective.

[Anthony]

I like the old locks and coulden't get used to the piano locks on the newer SOG I used for a while.

But that may be because I used the "old" SOG for a long time and was used to the old locking mech.  So if it's your first SOG, you might get used to the piano locks.  The new locks do reduce clumping, so if you're a clump fan keep that in mind.

[BassClefJeff84]

What is clumping? im a noob

[WH867]

What is clumping? im a noob

That is when you pull one tool out of the handle and several others come with it and you have to push back in the ones you don't want.

[resaw]

Like many others I love the clumping, it's useful.  However, I dislike the way the lock is a little chincy and allows for movement of the implement.  Also, in some hand positions the lock can be inadvertently released.  Do the piano locks stop implement movement at all, or is it the same?  I would like to see the quality of the leatherman wave lock on a SOG.  I gave up my wave because the SOG is customizable and the pliers don't seize, but I sure miss the solid locking mechanism.