Imagine you’re out in the wilderness, or maybe just tackling everyday tasks around the house. What’s one tool that can make a world of difference? A good knife, of course! For decades, Kershaw Knives have been a trusted name for people who need a reliable blade. But walk into any store or browse online, and you’ll see a whole lot of Kershaw knives. It can feel overwhelming, right? How do you pick the one that’s perfect for you?
Choosing the right Kershaw knife can be tough because there are so many different styles and features. You want a knife that’s strong, sharp, and comfortable to hold. You might worry about getting one that’s too big, too small, or not suited for what you need. But don’t let that stop you! This post is here to help clear the confusion.
By the end of this article, you’ll understand what makes Kershaw knives so special. We’ll break down their popular models and what makes each one stand out. You’ll learn how to match a Kershaw knife to your specific needs, whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a DIYer, or just someone who appreciates a quality tool. Get ready to discover the perfect Kershaw knife for your pocket!
Our Top 5 Kershaw Knife Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Kershaw Knife Detailed Reviews
1. Kershaw Iridium Folding Pocket Knife
Rating: 8.9/10
The Kershaw Iridium Folding Pocket Knife is a sharp and reliable tool for your daily adventures. Its cool gray aluminum handle looks great and feels comfortable in your hand. This knife opens smoothly and locks securely, making it a pleasure to use for all sorts of tasks.
What We Like:
- The DuraLock keeps the blade safely open. You just pull back a strong steel bar to close it.
- It has a D2 steel blade. This steel is tough and holds its sharp edge for a long time.
- Opening the knife is super easy thanks to the KVT ball-bearing system and thumb studs.
- The deep-carry pocket clip lets you carry it discreetly, and you can switch it for left or right-handed use.
- The stylish gray handle and the two-tone blade finish give it a modern look.
- It’s a medium-weight knife at 3.3 ounces, so it won’t weigh you down.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the DuraLock is secure, some users might prefer a traditional liner lock for its simplicity.
- The gray aluminum handle, while stylish, could potentially show scratches more easily than other materials.
The Kershaw Iridium is a fantastic everyday carry knife that balances style and function. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable blade.
2. Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife
Rating: 9.2/10
The Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife is a fantastic tool for your everyday needs. It’s small and light, making it easy to carry in your pocket. This knife is built to handle all sorts of tasks, from opening packages to cutting through rope.
What We Like:
- It’s super light but still feels really strong.
- The blade opens quickly with just one hand using the SpeedSafe system.
- The black reverse tanto blade is really sharp and ready for action.
- You can carry it in different ways, like in your pocket or on a lanyard.
- It’s a great price for such a useful knife.
What Could Be Improved:
- The handle has cutouts to make it lighter, but some might prefer a solid grip.
- It’s pretty small, so it might not be the best choice for really tough jobs.
If you need a reliable and easy-to-carry knife for everyday tasks, the Kershaw Appa is a solid option. It offers great performance for its size and price.
3. Kershaw Shoreline Folding Pocket Knife
Rating: 9.2/10
The Kershaw Shoreline Folding Pocket Knife is a handy tool for all your daily tasks. It’s designed to be your go-to knife for anything you need to cut. Its sharp, partially serrated blade makes quick work of rope, cardboard, or other tough materials. Plus, the stonewashed finish helps keep it looking good, even after you use it a lot.
What We Like:
- It’s an all-purpose knife that’s great for everyday use.
- The 8Cr13MoV blade steel offers good strength and value.
- Opening the knife is fast and easy thanks to Kershaw’s assisted opening and flipper.
- The contoured glass-filled nylon handle feels comfortable and secure in your hand.
- The deep-carry pocketclip can be moved for left or right-handed users.
- It’s a lightweight knife, weighing only 2.6 ounces.
- The stonewashed blade hides minor scratches from use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The partially serrated blade might not be ideal for all fine cutting tasks.
- While the steel is good for the price, it’s not the hardest steel available.
The Kershaw Shoreline is a reliable and affordable folding knife. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a dependable everyday carry option.
4. Kershaw Clash Black Serrated Pocketknife
Rating: 8.9/10
The Kershaw Clash Black Serrated Pocketknife is a fantastic everyday carry knife. Many Kershaw fans think it’s the perfect choice for anyone needing a reliable and affordable utility knife. It now comes with a cool black-oxide finish that looks great and adds to its performance.
What We Like:
- The 8Cr13MoV steel blade holds its sharpness well.
- The partially serrated edge easily cuts through tough materials.
- The black-oxide coating protects the blade.
- The glass-filled nylon handle feels sturdy and comfortable.
- It has a deep finger groove for a secure grip.
- The assisted opening and flipper make it quick to open with one hand.
- The liner lock keeps the blade safely in place when you use it.
- It’s lightweight at only 4.3oz.
- The reversible pocketclip lets you carry it your way.
- Kershaw offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- While good for the price, the 8Cr13MoV steel isn’t the absolute hardest steel available.
- Some users might prefer a fully smooth blade for finer tasks.
This Kershaw Clash is a solid, dependable knife that gets the job done. It’s a smart pick for everyday tasks without breaking the bank.
5. Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife; 2.9 in. 4Cr13 Black-Oxide Blackwash Finish Blade
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet the Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife, your new go-to tool for all sorts of tasks. This knife is built by Kershaw, a name you can trust, and it won’t break the bank. It’s a helpful companion for jobs around the house and even better for your outdoor adventures. It’s small enough to carry easily, fitting right into your pocket, bag, or purse.
What We Like:
- It’s affordable, making it a great value.
- The SpeedSafe Assisted Opening and flipper make it quick and easy to open.
- The sturdy frame lock keeps the blade securely in place.
- It has a 3-position pocket clip, so you can carry it comfortably whether you’re right or left-handed, and in different ways.
- The blade has a precision tip and a sharp edge, perfect for slicing and cutting.
- It’s a versatile knife, ready for camping, fishing, working in the garage, or just opening packages.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4Cr13 blade steel is decent for the price, but it might not hold an edge as long as higher-end steels.
- The blackwash finish, while looking cool, can sometimes show scratches more readily than a plain finish.
The Kershaw Misdirect is a dependable and useful pocket knife that’s ready for whatever you throw at it. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable everyday carry knife without spending a lot of money.
Kershaw Knives: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Blade
Kershaw knives are popular for a reason. They make tough, reliable tools for everyday jobs. Whether you need a knife for opening boxes, camping, or just carrying in your pocket, Kershaw has something for you. This guide will help you choose the best Kershaw knife for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re picking out a Kershaw knife, keep these important features in mind.
Blade Shape
Different blade shapes are good for different tasks. A drop-point blade is a good all-around choice. It has a strong tip for piercing and a curved belly for slicing. A tanto blade is tough and good for heavy-duty work, like prying. A clip-point blade has a more pointed tip, which is great for detailed cutting.
Opening Mechanism
Kershaw offers a few ways to open their knives.
- Manual Opening: You open these knives with your thumb, usually with a stud on the blade. They are simple and reliable.
- Assisted Opening (SpeedSafe®): This is a popular Kershaw feature. A spring helps the blade open quickly and smoothly once you start it. It feels almost automatic.
- Outright Automatic: These blades spring out with the push of a button. They are the fastest to open but might have more rules about where you can carry them.
Locking Mechanism
A good lock keeps the blade from closing accidentally.
- Liner Lock: A metal liner inside the handle moves to lock the blade in place. It’s common and works well.
- Frame Lock: Similar to a liner lock, but the lock is part of the handle frame itself. It’s very strong.
- Lockback: A mechanism in the spine of the handle locks the blade. You press a spot to release it.
Pocket Clip
A pocket clip lets you carry your knife easily and safely. Look for clips that can be moved to different positions (tip-up, tip-down, left, or right) so you can carry the knife your way.
2. Important Materials
The materials used in a knife affect its strength, sharpness, and how long it lasts.
Blade Steel
Steel is what the blade is made of. Kershaw uses many types.
- Stainless Steel: This is the most common. It resists rust and is easy to sharpen. Many Kershaw knives use good quality stainless steels like 8Cr13MoV or Sandvik 14C28N.
- High-Carbon Stainless Steel: This steel has more carbon, making it harder and able to hold a sharper edge for longer.
- Powder Metallurgy Steel: Steels like CPM-S30V or CPM-20CV are top-tier. They are very strong, hold an edge incredibly well, and resist wear. These are often found on more expensive Kershaw models.
Handle Materials
The handle is what you hold.
- G10: This is a strong, lightweight material made from fiberglass and resin. It offers a great grip, even when wet.
- FRN (Fiber-Reinforced Nylon): Lighter and more affordable than G10, FRN is still tough and provides a good grip.
- Aluminum: This metal is light and strong. It can give a knife a premium feel.
- Stainless Steel: Steel handles are durable but can be heavier and slippery if not textured.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A few things make a Kershaw knife better or not as good.
Fit and Finish
This means how well the knife is put together. Smooth edges, no blade wobble, and a clean look all show good quality. A knife that feels solid and well-made will perform better.
Blade Sharpness and Edge Retention
A factory sharp edge is important. But how long that edge stays sharp is called edge retention. Higher-quality steels and good sharpening practices lead to better edge retention. A dull knife is not safe or useful.
Durability
A durable knife can handle tough tasks without breaking. Strong materials, a solid locking mechanism, and good design all contribute to a knife’s toughness.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How a knife feels and works in your hand is key.
Everyday Carry (EDC)
For daily use, a smaller, lighter knife with a good pocket clip is best. Assisted opening is handy for quick tasks. Models like the Kershaw Leek or Blur are popular EDC choices.
Outdoor and Camping
For camping or hiking, you need a strong, reliable knife. A thicker blade, a strong lock, and a handle with good grip are important. The Kershaw Cryo or the Kershaw Dividend are good options for the outdoors.
Tough Jobs
If you need a knife for demanding tasks, like cutting rope or even some light prying, look for a knife with a robust blade and a very strong lock. The Kershaw Camp 10 or some of the larger tactical knives are built for this.
Choosing a Kershaw knife is about finding the right balance of features, materials, and intended use. With so many great options, you’re sure to find a Kershaw that fits your needs perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kershaw Knives
Q: Are Kershaw knives good quality?
A: Yes, Kershaw knives are known for their good quality and value. They offer a range of knives from affordable options to higher-end models, all built with reliability in mind.
Q: What is Kershaw’s SpeedSafe®?
A: SpeedSafe® is Kershaw’s patented assisted opening system. A torsion bar spring helps the blade open quickly and smoothly with a push of a thumb stud or flipper.
Q: What is the best Kershaw knife for beginners?
A: For beginners, a Kershaw Cryo or a Kershaw Ken Onion Kershaw Leek is often recommended. They are easy to use, durable, and offer good performance for the price.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my Kershaw knife?
A: Clean your knife blade with a soft cloth and mild soap. Dry it thoroughly. You can oil the pivot point with a light oil to keep it opening smoothly. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: Can I carry a Kershaw automatic knife anywhere?
A: Automatic knives have different laws depending on your location. Check your local laws before carrying an automatic Kershaw knife, as some places restrict them.
Q: What’s the difference between a liner lock and a frame lock?
A: A liner lock uses a metal strip inside the handle to lock the blade. A frame lock uses a piece of the handle itself to secure the blade. Both are strong, but frame locks are often considered more robust.
Q: Are Kershaw knives made in the USA?
A: Many Kershaw knives are made in the USA, particularly their higher-end models. However, they also have manufacturing facilities in other countries for some of their more budget-friendly lines.
Q: How sharp is a Kershaw knife out of the box?
A: Kershaw knives typically come very sharp from the factory. They are known for having a good edge right away, ready for use.
Q: What kind of steel does the Kershaw Leek use?
A: The Kershaw Leek commonly uses Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, which is a fine-grained steel known for its excellent edge holding and corrosion resistance.
Q: How do I sharpen my Kershaw knife if it gets dull?
A: You can sharpen your Kershaw knife using a sharpening stone, a sharpening rod, or a guided sharpening system. Aim for a consistent angle to maintain the blade’s edge.
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!