Imagine this: you’re faced with a small task, like opening a package or cutting a piece of string. What’s the first thing you reach for? For many, it’s a reliable everyday carry, or EDC, knife. And when it comes to dependable EDC blades, Kershaw is a name that pops up again and again. But with so many different Kershaw models out there, how do you pick the one that’s just right for you? It can feel overwhelming, like trying to find a needle in a haystack.
Choosing an EDC knife isn’t just about having a sharp tool. It’s about finding a companion that fits your hand, your needs, and your budget. You want something that’s strong but not too heavy, easy to open but safe to carry. Maybe you’re tired of knives that dull quickly or are difficult to use. Or perhaps you’re just starting your EDC journey and need a clear path forward. This guide is here to help you cut through the confusion.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what makes a Kershaw EDC knife great. We’ll explore different features, look at popular choices, and help you understand which knife might be the perfect addition to your pocket. Get ready to discover the Kershaw EDC that will become your go-to tool for all those little everyday jobs.
Our Top 5 Kershaw Edc Knife Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Kershaw Clash Black Serrated Pocketknife | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
 |
Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife; 2.9 in. 4Cr13 Black-Oxide Blackwash Finish Blade | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
 |
Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
 |
Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
 |
Kershaw Cryo Knife | 8.7/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Kershaw Edc Knife Detailed Reviews
1. Kershaw Clash Black Serrated Pocketknife
Rating: 8.7/10
The Kershaw Clash Black Serrated Pocketknife is a tough and reliable tool. Many Kershaw fans say it’s the best knife for daily use. It’s a great choice if you need a pocketknife that can handle many jobs. This version comes with a cool black finish.
What We Like:
- The blade is made of strong 8Cr13MoV steel. It holds its sharp edge well.
- The partially serrated edge is super useful. It can cut through tough materials like rope or fabric easily.
- The black-oxide coating on the blade helps it work even better.
- The handle is made of strong glass-filled nylon. It feels good and secure in your hand.
- You can open it quickly and easily with one hand using the flipper.
- The liner lock keeps the blade safely in place when you use it.
- It’s a good size for carrying every day.
- Kershaw offers a Limited Lifetime Warranty, which is great peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- While good for its price, the 8Cr13MoV steel might not hold an edge as long as some more expensive steels.
- The black-oxide finish, while good for performance, can scratch or wear off over time with heavy use.
This Kershaw Clash is a dependable and affordable pocketknife. It’s built to be a workhorse for your everyday tasks.
2. Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife; 2.9 in. 4Cr13 Black-Oxide Blackwash Finish Blade
Rating: 8.5/10
The Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife (1365) is a handy and affordable tool that’s ready for almost anything. It’s built by Kershaw, a name you can trust. This knife is great for chores around the house or for your next outdoor adventure. It’s not too big, so it fits easily in your pocket, bag, or purse.
What We Like:
- It’s a great value for the price.
- The SpeedSafe assisted opening makes it quick and easy to deploy.
- The flipper adds another easy way to open the blade.
- It has a strong frame lock to keep the blade securely in place.
- The 3-position pocket clip lets you carry it tip-up or tip-down, on either side.
- It’s a good size for everyday carrying at 4 inches when closed.
- The black-oxide blackwash finish on the blade looks cool and helps prevent rust.
- It’s a versatile knife for tasks like opening packages, cutting rope, or even roasting marshmallows.
- The precision tip and sharp edge make it excellent for slicing and cutting.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 4Cr13 blade steel is good for general use but might not hold an edge as long as higher-end steels.
- The stainless steel handle, while durable, can be a bit slippery if your hands are wet.
The Kershaw Misdirect is a dependable and useful pocket companion. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a good knife without breaking the bank.
3. Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife
Rating: 9.3/10
The Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife is a fantastic tool made right here in the USA. It’s designed for everyday use, making it a great companion for all sorts of tasks. You’ll appreciate its smooth operation and how comfortable it feels in your hand.
What We Like:
- It’s made in the USA, so you know it’s built with quality.
- The CPM MagnaCut steel blade is super strong. It stays sharp for a long time and doesn’t rust easily.
- Opening the knife is a breeze thanks to the KVT ball-bearing system.
- The DuraLock system keeps the blade securely open, so it won’t accidentally close.
- It’s lightweight, weighing only 2.9 ounces, making it easy to carry.
- The deep-carry pocketclip lets you carry it discreetly and can be moved for left or right-handed users.
- The beige handle looks nice and is easy to hold.
What Could Be Improved:
- The beige handle might show dirt or scratches more easily than darker colors.
- While the DuraLock is secure, some users might find it takes a little practice to get used to releasing it smoothly.
This Kershaw Bel Air is a reliable and well-made pocket knife. Its premium materials and smart design make it a top pick for anyone needing a dependable everyday carry knife.
4. Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife
Rating: 9.4/10
The Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife is a fantastic companion for your daily adventures. It’s designed to be small, light, and ready for anything you throw at it. Whether you’re opening packages, cutting through rope, or tackling any number of everyday tasks, this knife makes the job easy.
What We Like:
- It’s super light but still really strong, making it perfect for carrying around every day.
- The black 2.75-inch blade has a sharp edge that cuts through things easily.
- The handle has cool cutouts that help keep it light while making it strong.
- Opening the knife is a breeze with SpeedSafe assisted opening – you can do it with one hand using the flipper.
- The blade locks securely in place when it’s open.
- You can carry it in different ways with the reversible pocketclip or the lanyard hole.
- It’s very compact when closed, measuring just 3.6 inches.
- It weighs less than 2 ounces, so you’ll barely notice it in your pocket.
What Could Be Improved:
- The handle cutouts, while good for weight, might collect dirt or debris in some environments.
- While the liner lock is secure, some users might prefer a more robust locking mechanism for heavy-duty tasks.
This knife is a great option for anyone needing a reliable and easy-to-carry tool. It’s a smart choice for your everyday needs.
5. Kershaw Cryo Knife
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kershaw Cryo Knife is a tough and good-looking everyday carry pocket knife. It was designed with help from Rick Hinderer, a famous knife maker. This knife feels great in your hand. It even won awards for being the best buy and approved gear!
What We Like:
- It’s strong and looks cool with its matte gray finish.
- The blade opens fast and easily with one hand using the flipper.
- It has a special lock that keeps the blade securely in place.
- You can carry it in four different ways to fit how you like it.
- It’s a great size for carrying every day or for outdoor adventures like hiking or camping.
- Kershaw offers a lifetime warranty, so you know they stand by their product.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the 8Cr13MoV steel is good for the price, some users might prefer a harder steel for tougher tasks.
- The assisted opening, while fast, can sometimes be a bit stiff for very small hands.
The Kershaw Cryo is a fantastic value for anyone needing a reliable and stylish pocket knife. It’s built to last and ready for whatever your day throws at it.
Your Guide to the Perfect Kershaw EDC Knife
So, you’re looking for a Kershaw EDC (Everyday Carry) knife. That’s a smart move! These knives are built tough and designed to help you with all sorts of tasks, big and small. Let’s dive in and find the best one for you.
What to Look For: Key Features of a Kershaw EDC Knife
When you’re picking out a Kershaw knife, keep these important things in mind:
- Blade Shape: Think about what you’ll use the knife for most.
- Drop Point: This is a very common shape. It’s great for most everyday jobs because the tip is strong and the edge is long.
- Tanto: This blade has a sharp, angular tip. It’s super strong and good for piercing things.
- Clip Point: This shape has a curved edge and a pointed tip where the spine dips down. It’s good for detail work.
- Opening Mechanism: How easy is it to get the blade out?
- Manual Opening: You flick the blade open with your thumb stud or a nail nick. This is simple and reliable.
- Assisted Opening (SpeedSafe®): Kershaw’s special system helps the blade pop open quickly with a small push. It’s fast and easy to use with one hand.
- Out-the-Front (OTF): The blade slides straight out the front of the handle. These are cool but can be more expensive.
- Locking Mechanism: This keeps the blade safely open when you’re using it.
- Liner Lock: A metal liner inside the handle moves to lock the blade. It’s common and works well.
- Frame Lock: The handle itself acts as the lock. These are very strong.
- Lockback: A notch in the spine locks the blade. You press a part of the handle to close it.
- Pocket Clip: This lets you carry your knife easily and securely in your pocket. Look for one that can be moved to different spots if you like.
- Size and Weight: A good EDC knife shouldn’t be too big or too heavy for your pocket. Think about what feels comfortable.
Important Materials: What Makes a Kershaw Knife Great
The materials used in a knife really matter.
- Blade Steel: This is the metal the blade is made from.
- Stainless Steel: Most Kershaw knives use stainless steel. It’s good because it resists rust and stays sharp for a long time. Some common types are 8Cr13MoV (good all-around), Sandvik 14C28N (holds an edge well), and CPM-S30V (very tough and sharp).
- Handle Material: This is what you hold onto.
- G10: This is a strong, lightweight material made from fiberglass. It gives you a good grip.
- Aluminum: This metal is light and looks nice. It can sometimes be a bit slippery.
- FRN (Fiberglass Reinforced Nylon): This is another strong and affordable plastic that is common on Kershaw knives. It offers a good grip.
Quality Matters: What Makes a Kershaw Knife Better or Worse
A few things can make a Kershaw knife stand out or fall short.
- Fit and Finish: This means how well the knife is put together. Are there any gaps? Does the blade sit straight in the handle? A well-made knife feels solid.
- Sharpness Out of the Box: A good knife should be sharp enough to use right away. Kershaw usually does a great job with this.
- Durability: Will the knife hold up to hard use? Strong steel and a good lock make a knife last longer.
- Ease of Maintenance: How easy is it to clean and sharpen the knife?
User Experience and Use Cases: How You’ll Use Your Kershaw
Kershaw EDC knives are made for everyday life.
- Opening Packages: This is a classic job for any knife.
- Cutting Rope or Cord: Whether you’re camping or just need to tie something down.
- Everyday Chores: From opening mail to trimming loose threads.
- Outdoor Adventures: For tasks around the campsite or on a hike.
- Self-Defense: While not its primary purpose, a good knife can offer a sense of security.
Kershaw EDC Knife FAQs
Q: What does EDC stand for?
A: EDC stands for Everyday Carry. It means the knife is something you can carry with you every day for different tasks.
Q: Are Kershaw knives good quality?
A: Yes, Kershaw knives are known for being good quality. They use strong materials and build them to last.
Q: What is SpeedSafe®?
A: SpeedSafe® is Kershaw’s special assisted opening system. It helps the blade open quickly and easily with a little help.
Q: How do I choose the right blade shape?
A: Think about what you will do with the knife. A drop point is good for general use, while a tanto is better for piercing.
Q: Is it safe to carry a knife every day?
A: Yes, as long as you follow your local laws about carrying knives and use it responsibly.
Q: What is the best Kershaw knife for beginners?
A: The Kershaw Cryo or the Kershaw Leek are often recommended for beginners because they are affordable and easy to use.
Q: How do I clean my Kershaw knife?
A: You can clean it with soap and water. Make sure to dry it well to prevent rust. A little oil can help keep it working smoothly.
Q: How often should I sharpen my Kershaw knife?
A: It depends on how much you use it. When it starts to feel dull, it’s time to sharpen it.
Q: Can I take my Kershaw knife on an airplane?
A: No, you cannot carry a knife in your carry-on bag on an airplane. You can check it in your luggage.
Q: Where are Kershaw knives made?
A: Most Kershaw knives are made in the USA, which is part of why they are known for good quality.
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.