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.