Armbar-

There are definitely sidelocks with intercepting sears.
With so many different patterns of side/bar/back/island locks out there, I can't say how to externally identify whether or not a sidelock will or won't have intercepting sears.

This quick 'peek up the skirt' version of ID for the boxlocks is good eye-opener for everyone here who didn't otherwise know what to look for, and what it really means in terms of mechanical function and design.

Great selection-process knowledge for those out shopping!

Cheers
Tinker