Imagine needing a tool that’s always ready for action, from opening stubborn packages to helping you out in the great outdoors. That’s where a good knife comes in. But with so many choices, picking the perfect Kershaw knife can feel like a puzzle. You want a knife that’s tough, reliable, and fits your hand just right, but knowing which one is best for *you* can be tricky.
That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of Kershaw knives. We know the frustration of owning a knife that doesn’t quite cut it, or the confusion of staring at a wall of options. This post will cut through the noise and give you the clear information you need.
By the end of this article, you’ll understand what makes Kershaw knives stand out and how to choose one that’s a perfect match for your needs. Get ready to discover your next favorite everyday carry companion!
Our Top 5 Kershaw Knife Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Kershaw Knife Detailed Reviews
1. Kershaw Filter Frame Lock Knife Stainless Steel (3.25″ BlackWash) 1306BW
Rating: 9.2/10
Meet the Kershaw Filter Frame Lock Knife. This folding pocket knife from Kershaw’s Starter series is an excellent choice for your everyday carry. It boasts a cool, machined look and opens smoothly. You’ll appreciate its comfortable grip and reliable performance for all sorts of tasks.
What We Like:
- The 3.25-inch blade is made of 4Cr14 steel, which resists rust well.
- The BlackWash coating on the blade and handle looks great and helps hide wear.
- The contoured stainless steel handle feels good in your hand and offers a secure hold.
- Opening the knife is super fast and easy with the assisted opening and flipper.
- The frame lock keeps the blade safely in place when it’s closed.
- Its full steel design with the BlackWash finish gives it a unique, rugged appearance.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4Cr14 steel is a good value but might not hold an edge as long as more premium steels.
- While the BlackWash finish hides scratches, it can sometimes feel a bit rough to the touch.
The Kershaw Filter knife offers a stylish and functional design at a great price. It’s a solid option for anyone needing a dependable everyday pocket knife.
2. Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife
Rating: 9.1/10
The Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife is a fantastic tool made right here in the USA. It’s designed for everyday carrying and use. The beige handle looks nice, and the knife feels good in your hand. This is a manual folding knife, meaning you open it by hand. It’s built to be tough and reliable for all your daily tasks.
What We Like:
- It’s made in the USA, which means good quality.
- The CPM MagnaCut steel blade is super strong and stays sharp for a long time.
- It resists rust and corrosion, so you don’t have to worry about it getting damaged easily.
- The DuraLock system keeps the blade securely open, making it safe to use.
- The KVT ball-bearing system lets you open the knife very smoothly and quickly.
- The deep-carry pocketclip lets you carry it discreetly and can be moved for left or right-handed users.
- It’s lightweight at only 2.9 ounces, so it won’t weigh you down.
What Could Be Improved:
- The beige handle might show dirt more easily than darker colors.
- While the BlackWash finish hides scratches well, some users might prefer a different look.
The Kershaw Bel Air is a solid, American-made pocket knife that offers premium features for everyday carry. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing knife.
3. Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife
Rating: 8.7/10
The Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife is a fantastic choice for anyone needing a reliable, everyday tool. Its small size and light weight make it easy to carry anywhere, and it’s built tough for all sorts of jobs.
What We Like:
- It’s super light but still really strong.
- The black blade is super sharp and ready for anything.
- Opening it is a breeze with the SpeedSafe assisted opening.
- It’s easy to open with just one hand using the flipper.
- The liner lock keeps the blade safely in place when open.
- You can carry it your favorite way with the reversible pocket clip or lanyard hole.
- It’s really affordable for such a good knife.
What Could Be Improved:
- The handle has cutouts to save weight, but some might prefer a solid grip.
- The 2.75-inch blade might be a bit small for tougher tasks.
This Kershaw Appa is a great value for its price and performance. It’s a handy knife that won’t weigh you down.
4. Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife; 2.9 in. 4Cr13 Black-Oxide Blackwash Finish Blade
Rating: 8.8/10
Introducing the Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife, a reliable and affordable tool that’s ready for anything. Whether you’re tackling chores around the house or heading out for an outdoor adventure, this knife is a helpful companion. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in your pocket, bag, or purse, so it’s always within reach.
What We Like:
- It’s a value-priced, affordable tool for everyday tasks.
- The SpeedSafe assisted opening and flipper make it quick and easy to deploy.
- The sturdy frame lock keeps the blade securely in place.
- It has a 3-position pocket clip for versatile carrying options (right and left, tip-up or tip-down).
- Its size is perfect for comfortable pocket carry (4-inch closed length).
- The sharp edge and precision tip make it excellent for slicing and cutting.
- It’s ready for a wide range of activities, from opening packages to camping.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4Cr13 blade steel is good for general use but might not hold an edge as long as premium steels for very demanding tasks.
- While durable, the stainless steel handle might show scratches over time with heavy use.
The Kershaw Misdirect is a dependable, useful knife that won’t break the bank. It’s a great choice for anyone needing a solid pocketknife for daily use and outdoor fun.
5. Kershaw Clash Black Serrated Pocketknife
Rating: 8.9/10
The Kershaw Clash Black Serrated Pocketknife is a popular choice for anyone needing a reliable, everyday tool. Many Kershaw fans consider it the ideal pocketknife for daily tasks. It’s a great option if you want a tough, all-around utility knife that won’t break the bank. This version comes in a sleek black finish.
What We Like:
- The 8Cr13MoV steel blade holds its sharp edge well and is very strong.
- The partially serrated edge makes it easy to cut through tough materials like rope or fabric.
- The black-oxide coating on the blade helps it perform better and look good.
- The sturdy handle is made of glass-filled nylon, giving you a firm and comfortable grip.
- Opening the knife is quick and simple with the assisted flipper, allowing for one-handed use.
- The liner lock keeps the blade securely in place when you’re using it.
- It has a reversible pocketclip so you can carry it on either side of your pocket, tip-up or tip-down.
- Kershaw offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty, so you can trust the quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 8Cr13MoV steel is good for the price, higher-end steels might hold an edge for longer.
- The black-oxide coating, while functional, can show wear over time with heavy use.
This Kershaw Clash is a solid, affordable pocketknife that handles many jobs with ease. It’s a dependable companion for your daily adventures.
Kershaw Knives: Your Guide to Finding the Perfect Blade
Kershaw knives are known for being tough and reliable. They make knives for all sorts of jobs, from everyday tasks to serious outdoor adventures. Choosing the right Kershaw can make a big difference in how well your knife performs. This guide will help you pick the best one for you.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re looking at Kershaw knives, keep these important things in mind:
- Blade Type: Kershaw offers many blade shapes.
- Drop Point: This is a common shape. The tip is strong and good for many tasks like cutting rope or preparing food.
- Tanto Point: This blade has a sharp, angular tip. It’s great for piercing and prying.
- Spey Point: This blade has a rounded tip. It is safer for tasks where you don’t need to pierce.
- Clip Point: This blade has a concave clip near the tip. It makes the tip sharper and better for detail work.
- Opening Mechanism: How the knife opens is important for safety and speed.
- Manual Opening: You open these knives by hand. They are simple and reliable.
- Assisted Opening (SpeedSafe®): Kershaw’s SpeedSafe® technology helps the blade open quickly with a slight push. This is very convenient.
- Outright Purchase: Some models are designed to be purchased outright, meaning they are designed for immediate use and do not require special opening mechanisms.
- Locking Mechanism: This keeps the blade securely open when you use it.
- Liner Lock: A metal liner inside the handle locks the blade. It’s common and works well.
- Frame Lock: The handle frame itself locks the blade. These are strong and safe.
- Lockback: A mechanism on the spine of the handle locks the blade.
Important Materials
The materials Kershaw uses make a big difference in how good the knife is.
- Blade Steel: This is what the blade is made from.
- Stainless Steel: Most Kershaw blades use stainless steel. It resists rust and is easy to sharpen. Common types include Sandvik 14C28N, 8Cr13MoV, and CPM S30V. Higher numbers or letters like “CPM” often mean better quality steel that holds an edge longer.
- Carbon Steel: Some knives use carbon steel. It can be very sharp and tough, but it can rust if not cared for.
- Handle Materials: This is what the handle is made of.
- G10: This is a strong and lightweight material made from fiberglass. It gives a good grip.
- Aluminum: Aluminum handles are light and durable. They can feel cool to the touch.
- Zytel/FRN: These are strong plastic materials. They are lightweight and affordable.
- Wood: Some Kershaw knives have wooden handles. They look nice but can be less durable than other materials.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a Kershaw knife great or not so great.
- Blade Sharpness and Edge Retention: A good knife stays sharp for a long time. High-quality steel and good sharpening techniques improve this. Cheaper steel or poor sharpening reduce it.
- Fit and Finish: This means how well the knife is put together. There shouldn’t be any gaps or rough edges. A well-made knife feels solid and smooth. Poor fit and finish can make a knife feel cheap and less reliable.
- Durability: A durable knife can handle tough jobs without breaking. Strong materials and good construction make a knife last longer. Using the knife for jobs it wasn’t designed for can reduce its durability.
- Ease of Use: A good knife is comfortable to hold and easy to open and close. A comfortable grip and a smooth opening mechanism make it a pleasure to use. A knife that is hard to open or uncomfortable to hold is frustrating.
User Experience and Use Cases
Kershaw knives are made for many different people and jobs.
- Everyday Carry (EDC): Many Kershaws are perfect for daily tasks like opening packages, cutting string, or making quick repairs. They are usually lightweight and easy to carry.
- Outdoor Activities: For camping, hiking, or fishing, you need a strong knife. Kershaws with durable blades and comfortable grips are great for these adventures.
- Work and Hobbies: Whether you’re a construction worker, a gardener, or a DIY enthusiast, there’s a Kershaw that can help. Knives with tough blades and good grip are useful for demanding tasks.
- Collecting: Some people collect Kershaws for their design and craftsmanship. Limited editions and special models are popular with collectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes Kershaw knives a good choice for beginners?
A: Kershaw knives are often a good choice for beginners because they offer a great balance of quality and affordability. Their SpeedSafe® assisted opening is easy to use, and many models are very durable, making them forgiving for new users. They are also widely available.
Q: How do I clean and maintain my Kershaw knife?
A: You should clean your Kershaw knife regularly. Wipe the blade with a soft cloth to remove dirt or debris. You can use a little mild soap and water if needed, but always dry it thoroughly. Oil the pivot point with a drop of knife oil to keep it opening smoothly. Avoid harsh chemicals.
Q: Are Kershaw knives made in the USA?
A: Yes, many Kershaw knives are proudly made in the USA. They also have manufacturing facilities in other countries, but their American-made models are known for their high quality and craftsmanship.
Q: What is the difference between a manual knife and an assisted opening knife?
A: A manual knife requires you to open the blade fully with your thumb or finger. An assisted opening knife, like those with Kershaw’s SpeedSafe®, uses a spring to help the blade open quickly after you start it with a slight push or flick.
Q: How do I choose the right blade steel for my needs?
A: For general everyday use, steels like 8Cr13MoV or Sandvik 14C28N are excellent. If you need a blade that stays sharp for a very long time and you don’t mind a bit more maintenance, look for steels like CPM S30V or D2. For extreme toughness, some carbon steels might be an option, but they require more care to prevent rust.
Q: Can I use my Kershaw knife for heavy-duty tasks like prying?
A: While some Kershaw knives are very tough, most are not designed for heavy prying. Prying can damage the blade or the locking mechanism. It’s best to use tools designed for prying, like a pry bar, to avoid breaking your knife.
Q: How important is the handle material for a knife?
A: The handle material affects the knife’s grip, weight, and durability. G10 and aluminum offer excellent grip and strength. Zytel/FRN is lightweight and affordable. The best material depends on what you will use the knife for and what feels most comfortable in your hand.
Q: What does “edge retention” mean?
A: Edge retention means how long a knife’s blade stays sharp. A knife with good edge retention can be used many times before it needs to be sharpened again. Higher-quality steels generally have better edge retention.
Q: Are Kershaw knives good for self-defense?
A: While a knife can be used for self-defense, it’s important to know the laws in your area regarding carrying knives. Kershaw makes many sturdy folding knives that can be carried discreetly. However, using a knife for self-defense should always be a last resort.
Q: How do I know if a Kershaw knife is a good value for the money?
A: A good value Kershaw knife will have good quality steel, a reliable locking mechanism, and comfortable handle materials for its price. Reading reviews and comparing features to the cost will help you determine if a particular model offers good value.
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.