A leaf spring assisted opener for a folding tool such as a folding knife. The folding tool includes tool pivotally carried by a handle. The tool defines a tang at the proximal end. A leaf spring is carried within the handle for assisting in the opening of the tool. The leaf spring defines an elongated, arcuate configuration having a distal end adapted to engage the tang of the tool. When in the closed orientation, the leaf spring is biased toward the tang of the tool, thus holding it in the closed position. The tang of the tool defines a shoulder strategically positioned such that as the tool is pivoted from the closed position, the leaf spring eventually engages the shoulder and begins to release the tension in the leaf spring. At this point, the tension in the spring serves to open the tool the remainder of the rotation.