The locking mechanism is true and works almost effortlessly. For transferring angles, lightly tighten the blade, pick up your angle and then lock the blade in place. The tapered and knurled brass locking knob is easily gripped and will please you with its graceful appearance. This knob fits perfectly between the thumb and index finger – a short travel to tighten will have you on your way with confidence that the blade will stay put! The precisely ground 7″ blade is machined from steel and subsequently hardened and satin-chromed for zero glare use.