PALPaper Airplane Lab
Nakamura Lock finished shape

Folding guide

Nakamura Lock

The Nakamura Lock (popularized by Takuo Toda’s competition lineage and widely taught online) adds a locking fold at the nose so the tip stays sharp after hard throws. It is a strong choice when you want distance outdoors with careful trim.

Difficulty: MediumTime: 6 minutesDistanceSpeed
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Step 1 of 7

How to Fold a Nakamura Lock Paper Airplane

Portrait sheet and center crease

Step 1

Portrait sheet and center crease

Start with paper portrait. Fold in half lengthwise, crease, and open flat.

All folding steps

  1. Step 1

    Step 1: Portrait sheet and center crease

    Start with paper portrait. Fold in half lengthwise, crease, and open flat.

  2. Step 2

    Step 2: Fold top corners to the center

    Bring both top corners to the center crease to form a pointed tip.

  3. Step 3

    Step 3: Fold the tip down

    Fold the sharp tip down so the point sits a little above the bottom of the previous triangle folds. This sets up the lock.

  4. Step 4

    Step 4: Fold the top corners in again

    Fold the new top corners into the center crease, covering most of the downward tip — leave a small triangle peeking out at the bottom of those folds.

  5. Step 5

    Step 5: Lock the nose

    Fold that small remaining triangle upward over the layered corners to lock the nose in place.

  6. Step 6

    Step 6: Fold in half and make wings

    Fold the plane in half along the center. Fold each wing down so the top edge meets the bottom edge of the body.

  7. Step 7

    Step 7: Set the wings and throw

    Open the wings until nearly flat with a gentle dihedral. Grip behind the lock and throw hard and level for distance.

Flying Tips

  • Crease the lock firmly — a soft lock can open on a hard throw.
  • Keep both wings the same width for a straight track.
  • Outdoors, throw with the wind at your back when possible.
  • Small upward elevators help if the plane noses down late in the flight.

Paper Airplane Specifications

Difficulty
Medium
Folding time
6 minutes
Paper size
A4 or Letter
Best for
Outdoor distance throws and schoolyard contests
Flight style
Penetrating dart with a stable locked nose
Notes
Slightly more folds than a basic dart; worth the extra minute.

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Nakamura Lock FAQ

What does the “lock” do?+

It tucks a small flap over the nose layers so the tip cannot easily peel open when the plane hits air hard.

Is this the same as a classic dart?+

No. The Nakamura Lock adds the tip-down and lock sequence. The flying shape is still dart-like, but the nose structure is different.