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				 ratcheting mechanism on Spanish Navajas 
 
			
			I have for a long while wondered what is the function of the ratcheting mechanism on the locks of traditional Spanish navajas.  It makes it impossible to open them silently.  The only advantage I can see is that it could not be accidentally closed on the hand while opening the knife; perhaps if someone kicked it in mid-open?  I have read that it acts much as the rattle on a rattlesnake; announcing imminent danger.  If any of you experts have an idea, I would love to know.  Thank you.
 Richard.
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