What’s the one tool you reach for most often, ready for any task that comes your way? For many, it’s a reliable knife. But when it comes to choosing a Kershaw knife for your everyday carry (EDC), the sheer variety can feel overwhelming. You want something tough, useful, and that feels just right in your hand, but where do you even begin?
Finding that perfect EDC Kershaw can be tricky. You might worry about getting a knife that’s too big, too small, or not quite up to the job. It’s a common problem, and it’s easy to feel lost in all the different models and features. But don’t worry, we’re here to help clear the confusion.
By the time you finish reading this, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what makes a great EDC Kershaw. We’ll break down what to look for, explore some top choices, and help you pick a knife that will become your trusted companion. Let’s dive in and find the Kershaw that’s perfect for you.
Our Top 5 Kershaw Knife For Edc Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Kershaw Knife For Edc Detailed Reviews
1. Kershaw Brawler Pocketknife
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kershaw Brawler Pocketknife is a tough and handy tool for all sorts of jobs. Its modified tanto blade is great for piercing and cutting through difficult materials. This knife is designed for everyday carry, offering a good balance of features and value.
What We Like:
- The modified tanto blade is strong and good for punching through things.
- The 8Cr13MoV steel holds its edge well and is easy to sharpen.
- The black-oxide coating protects the blade and hides scratches.
- It opens quickly with the flipper and Kershaw’s assisted opening.
- The liner lock keeps the blade safely in place.
- The glass-filled nylon handle is lightweight and comfortable to hold.
- It has a pocketclip that can be moved for different carrying styles.
- The knife is backed by Kershaw’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 8Cr13MoV steel is good for the price, higher-end steels might hold an edge longer.
- The black-oxide coating, while protective, can eventually wear off with heavy use.
The Kershaw Brawler is a reliable and affordable option for anyone needing a dependable EDC knife. It offers solid performance without breaking the bank.
2. Generic 6.7in EDC Pocket Folding Knife
Rating: 8.5/10
The Generic 6.7in EDC Pocket Folding Knife is a handy tool for anyone needing a reliable blade for daily tasks. Its green aluminum handle is both comfortable and tough, making it easy to carry and use. This knife is designed for convenience and versatility, fitting easily into your pocket with its built-in belt clip.
What We Like:
- The 440C steel blade is strong and stays sharp, perfect for cutting through various materials.
- The aviation aluminum handle is lightweight and feels good in your hand.
- The button lock system is safe and easy to operate with one hand, allowing for quick deployment.
- It’s very portable, weighing only 60g for the knife itself, making it great for your pocket.
- The green color of the handle adds a touch of style.
- It’s a versatile tool for camping, fishing, and many everyday jobs.
- This knife makes a thoughtful gift for men and women on any occasion.
What Could Be Improved:
- The blade length (2.75 inches) might be a bit short for some heavy-duty tasks.
- While durable, the aluminum handle might show scuffs or scratches over time with rough use.
- The “assisted” opening mechanism isn’t explicitly detailed, which might matter to some users.
This knife offers good value for its price and features. It’s a solid choice for everyday carry and light outdoor adventures.
3. Kershaw Kapsule EDC Pocket Knife
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kershaw Kapsule EDC Pocket Knife is a small but mighty tool designed for everyday tasks. Its sleek black design with a cool blue accent makes it look good and feel comfortable in your hand. This knife is easy to open and close, making it a safe and reliable companion.
What We Like:
- It’s designed by Jens Ansø, so it looks great and is easy to use.
- The blade is made of strong steel that stays sharp.
- The handle has a special texture for a good grip.
- It opens easily with a slider and locks securely.
- It’s small and light, perfect for carrying in your pocket without being noticed.
- The stonewashed blade hides scratches, keeping it looking nice.
- It comes with a deep-carry pocket clip for easy and hidden carrying.
- Kershaw backs it with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 1.9-inch blade might be too small for some tougher jobs.
- The manual opening might be slower than an assisted-opening knife.
This Kershaw Kapsule is a fantastic little knife for your pocket. It’s a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable tool for everyday cutting tasks.
4. Kershaw Appa Folding Serrated Tactical Pocket Knife
Rating: 8.6/10
The Kershaw Appa Folding Serrated Tactical Pocket Knife is a fantastic tool for your everyday needs. It’s small and light, making it easy to carry wherever you go. You can use it for many tasks, like opening boxes or cutting rope. Its design makes it both strong and easy to handle.
What We Like:
- It is very lightweight, weighing just under 2 ounces, but still feels sturdy.
- The assisted opening with the flipper makes it quick and easy to open with one hand.
- The 2.75-inch serrated blade is sharp and good for cutting through tough materials like tape and rope.
- It has a liner lock to keep the blade securely in place when open.
- You can carry it in different ways thanks to the reversible pocket clip and lanyard hole.
- The cutouts in the handle help keep the weight down while maintaining strength.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a longer blade for more demanding tasks.
- The serrated edge might not be ideal for tasks that require very clean, precise cuts.
This Kershaw Appa is a reliable and convenient pocket knife. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a practical everyday carry tool.
5. Kershaw Select Fire (1920); Multifunction Pocketknife with 3.4-Inch 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel Blade
Rating: 9.1/10
The Kershaw Select Fire (1920) is more than just a knife; it’s a handy multi-tool that fits right in your pocket. It has a strong 3.4-inch blade made of 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, which stays sharp and is easy to sharpen. The black handle is made of tough glass-filled nylon and even has a place to store its included screwdriver bits. This knife is built for doing lots of different jobs, making it a great addition to your everyday carry gear.
What We Like:
- The blade is a good size and made of strong steel that holds an edge well.
- It comes with a handy bit set that includes two flathead and two Phillips bits, plus a 1/4-inch hex drive.
- The glass-filled nylon handle feels sturdy and has a neat swing-out bit carrier.
- Safety is important, and the liner lock keeps the blade securely in place when open.
- It’s lightweight at only 5 oz., making it comfortable to carry.
- The reversible pocketclip allows for comfortable carrying on either side.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 8Cr13MoV steel is good for the price, it might not hold an edge as long as higher-end steels.
- The bit carrier, while clever, might feel a little less robust than a separate multi-tool.
The Kershaw Select Fire is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable knife with added utility. It offers good value for its features and durability.
Kershaw Knives for Everyday Carry: Your Essential Guide
Choosing the right Kershaw knife for your everyday carry (EDC) is a big decision. You want a tool that’s reliable, comfortable, and ready for anything. This guide will help you find the perfect Kershaw companion.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out your Kershaw EDC knife, keep these important features in mind:
- Blade Steel: This is what your blade is made of. Different steels have different strengths.
- Opening Mechanism: How does the knife open? Speed and ease of use are key.
- Locking Mechanism: This keeps the blade securely open when you use it.
- Handle Material: What the handle is made of affects grip and durability.
- Blade Shape: Different shapes are good for different tasks.
- Size and Weight: You want a knife that’s comfortable to carry all day.
Important Materials
The materials used in a Kershaw knife greatly affect its performance and how long it lasts.
Blade Steel
Kershaw uses a variety of steels, each with its own pros and cons.
- 4Cr14MoV: This is a good budget-friendly steel. It’s easy to sharpen but might not hold an edge as long as others.
- 8Cr13MoV: A step up from 4Cr14MoV. It offers a good balance of sharpness, edge retention, and toughness.
- Sandvik 14C28N: This is a popular choice. It’s known for being corrosion-resistant and holding a sharp edge well.
- CPM-S35VN: A premium steel. It’s very tough, holds an edge for a long time, and is resistant to wear.
Handle Materials
The handle is what you hold, so it needs to feel good and be tough.
- G10: This is a strong composite material. It’s lightweight, grippy, and doesn’t absorb moisture.
- FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon): Another good synthetic material. It’s durable and offers a decent grip.
- Aluminum: This metal is lightweight and can look very stylish. It might be a bit slippery if it gets wet.
- Stainless Steel: Very strong and durable, but can be a bit heavier.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a Kershaw knife better or not as good.
Things That Make it Better
- High-Quality Steel: Steels like CPM-S35VN will keep their sharpness longer.
- Smooth Opening: A knife that opens quickly and easily is a joy to use.
- Solid Lock-Up: The blade should feel completely secure when it’s open. No wiggling!
- Comfortable Handle: A handle that feels good in your hand makes a big difference.
- Good Fit and Finish: When all the parts of the knife fit together well, it shows good craftsmanship.
Things That Make it Less Good
- Lower-Quality Steel: Steels that dull quickly mean more sharpening.
- Stiff Opening: If the knife is hard to open, it’s frustrating.
- Loose Lock: A blade that wiggles when locked is dangerous.
- Slippery Handle: A handle that you can’t grip well is not safe.
- Poor Fit and Finish: Gaps or rough edges can mean the knife wasn’t made with care.
User Experience and Use Cases
Your Kershaw EDC knife should be a helpful tool for many daily tasks.
Common Uses
- Opening Packages: Easily cut through tape and cardboard.
- Cutting Rope or String: Handy for many situations.
- Light Food Prep: Slice fruit or prepare snacks.
- General Utility: From trimming loose threads to poking small holes, a knife is useful.
What Users Say
Many people love Kershaw for their value and performance. They often mention that Kershaw knives are tough and reliable for their price. Some users prefer knives that are very lightweight, while others want something more substantial. The ease of opening, especially with Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening, is a big plus for many.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature to look for in a Kershaw EDC knife?
A: The most important features are the blade steel for sharpness and durability, and the locking mechanism for safety.
Q: Are Kershaw knives good for beginners?
A: Yes, many Kershaw knives are excellent for beginners because they offer good quality at a reasonable price and are easy to use.
Q: What is SpeedSafe technology?
A: SpeedSafe is Kershaw’s assisted opening system. A spring helps the blade open quickly and easily with just a push of a stud or flipper.
Q: How do I maintain my Kershaw EDC knife?
A: Keep your knife clean and dry. Sharpen the blade regularly and lubricate the pivot if needed.
Q: Is it legal to carry a Kershaw knife everywhere?
A: Knife laws vary by location. Always check your local laws before carrying any knife.
Q: Which Kershaw knife is best for opening boxes?
A: Many Kershaw knives work well for opening boxes. Look for a blade shape with a good belly, like a drop-point or clip-point.
Q: How often should I sharpen my Kershaw knife?
A: This depends on the steel and how often you use the knife. Sharpen it when it no longer cuts easily.
Q: Can I take my Kershaw knife on an airplane?
A: No, you cannot carry a knife in your carry-on luggage on an airplane. It must be checked in your luggage.
Q: What’s the difference between a liner lock and a frame lock?
A: A liner lock uses a piece of metal inside the handle to lock the blade. A frame lock uses the handle itself to secure the blade.
Q: Which Kershaw knife is the most durable?
A: Knives made with premium steels like CPM-S35VN and tough handle materials like G10 are generally the most durable.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!