What makes a knife more than just a tool? Think about the sturdy feel in your hand, the satisfying *click* when it opens, and the feeling of complete readiness. For decades, Kershaw knives have delivered that exact feeling to millions of people. They are famous for making tough, reliable blades that everyday folks and serious adventurers trust.
But let’s be honest: looking at the Kershaw catalog can feel overwhelming. Do you need SpeedSafe technology? Is the steel quality worth the extra cost? Many people get stuck trying to balance budget, size, and the perfect locking mechanism. Choosing the wrong knife means you might end up with something too heavy for your pocket or too flimsy for the job at hand.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down the best Kershaw models based on what you need—whether you are opening boxes, camping, or just need a reliable EDC (Everyday Carry) companion. By the end of this post, you will know exactly which Kershaw knife belongs in your pocket.
Top Kershaw Knife Recommendations
- BEL AIR POCKET KNIFE: A bold and functional EDC knife designed for top-tier everyday performance, the Kershaw Bel Air features a powerful reverse tanto blade and lightweight aluminum handle.
- TANTO PLAIN EDGE BLADE: The 3.1” blade is made from CPM MagnaCut steel that excels in edge retention, toughness and corrosion resistance. BlackWash helps to hide scratches and gives the blade a rugged, broken-in look.
- LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM HANDLE: Blade is paired with a contoured aluminum handle finished with a bright-nickel Cerakote for a secure, comfortable hold. Reversible pocketclip allows for right- or left-handed carry in tip-up position.
- DESIGNED FOR SAFETY: This folding pocket knife features a KVT ball-bearing system and thumb stud for smooth and secure blade deployment. The DuraLock mechanism uses a crossbar lock to secure the blade while open.
- KERSHAW QUALITY: Since 1974, Kershaw has been committed to designing quality knives, built for those who take pride in what they carry. Bel Air measures 7.3” overall, with a 3.1” blade and 2.9 oz weight.
- KERSHAW CLASH BLACK SERRATED POCKETKNIFE: Kershaw fans call the Clash the perfect EDC. It’s a top choice for those looking for an affordable, all-purpose utility pocketknife, now in a black-oxide finish.
- DROP POINT PARITALLY SERRATED EDGE BLADE: Made from 8Cr13MoV blade steel for edge-holding capability, strength, and hardness. The partial serrations add versatility to zip through fibrous materials. Black-oxide coating enhances performance.
- DURABLE GLASS-FILLED NYLON HANDLE: A beefy, glass-filled nylon handle with deep index-finger indentation contours for a comfortable, secure grip. Black handle. Includes reversible pocketclip for right, tip-up/down carry.
- DESIGNED WITH SAFETY IN MIND: Equipped with Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening and built-in flipper for fast, easy one-handed blade release. Liner lock secures blade safely in place during use.
- SIZE SPECIFICATIONS: Blade Length: 3.1in. Closed Length: 4.25in. Overall Length: 7.5in. Weighing in at 4.3oz. Backed by Kershaw’s Limited Lifetime Warranty.
- Everyday carry folder combining smooth performance with an elevated, ergonomic design
- D2 blade steel offers a durable, sharp edge for work tasks; stonewashed finish stands up to hard-use and hides visible wear
- Contoured olive G10 handle with gold-anodized aluminum trim rings and backspacer for an enhanced look and feel
- Smooth opening with manual KVT bearings and DuraLock mechanism; weight-relieved liners for balance and strength
- Deep-carry pocketclip is reversible for left/right carry; integrated lanyard loop. Measures 7.55 inches opened, 4.4 inches closed, weighs 3.1 ounces, a lighter knife.
- APPA POCKET KNIFE: The Kershaw Appa combines tactical style and strength with its all-black design and reverse tanto blade, making it the perfect lightweight tactical knife for a variety of everyday tasks.
- REVERSE TANTO PLAIN EDGE BLADE: The 2.75” blade is made from stainless steel that offers improved edge retention, strength and hardness. Black-oxide finish helps to hide scratches and gives the blade an industrial look.
- GLASS-FILLED NYLON HANDLE: The all-black, glass-filled nylon handle features added handle texture for a secure, comfortable hold. Includes a reversible pocketclip and integrated lanyard hole for versatile carry options.
- DESIGNED FOR SAFETY: This folding knife is equipped with assisted opening for quick, confident blade deployment. Liner lock holds the blade securely in place.
- KERSHAW QUALITY: Since 1974, Kershaw has been committed to designing quality knives, built for those who take pride in what they carry. Appa weighs just under 2 oz, and measures 6.5” overall, with a 2.75” blade.
- MISDIRECT POCKET KNIFE: Part of Kershaw’s Everyday Starter Series, the Misdirect is a durable, easy-to-use assisted opening pocket knife with a reverse tanto blade and stainless steel handle.
- REVERSE TANTO PLAIN EDGE BLADE: Made from high-performance 4Cr14 blade steel, the 3” blade is highly durable, resharpens easily, and holds its edge. BlackWash finish helps to hide scratches and gives the blade a rugged, broken-in look.
- STAINLESS STEEL HANDLE: The sleek, bead-blasted stainless steel handle is both durable and comfortable. Pocketclip supports right- or left-handed tip-up carry, and right-handed tip-down carry.
- DESIGNED FOR SAFETY: This folding knife is equipped with assisted opening for quick, confident blade deployment. Frame lock secures the blade firmly in place while open.
- KERSHAW QUALITY: Since 1974, Kershaw has been committed to designing quality knives, built for those who take pride in what they carry. Misdirect measures 7” overall with a 3” blade and 3.2 oz weight.
- LEEK POCKET KNIFE: With a 3” blade and full matte gray design, the Kershaw Leek might just be your new favorite EDC. Slim design and deep-pocket carry make this an ideal folding pocket knife for daily tasks or outdoor adventures.
- DROP POINT PLAIN EDGE BLADE: Made from high-performance Sandvik 14C28N steel, the drop point blade is highly durable, resharpens easily and holds its edge. Bead-blasted finish gives the blade a matte look.
- CONTOURED STEEL HANDLE: The silver 410 stainless steel handle is contoured for a natural, secure grip and bead-blasted for a matte finish. Reversible pocketclip supports right-handed use in either tip-up or tip-down position.
- DESIGNED FOR SAFETY: This folding knife is equipped with assisted opening for quick, secure blade deployment. Frame lock secures blade open while in use and tip-lock slider keeps blade locked closed when folded.
- KERSHAW QUALITY: Since 1974, Kershaw has been committed to designing quality knives, built for those who take pride in what they carry. Leek measures 7” overall, with a 3” blade and 3 oz weight.
- USA-made rescue folder built for emergency professionals and everyday preparedness
- Premium CPM MagnaCut blade for long-lasting edge retention; BlackWash finish offers rugged look that hides everyday wear
- Blunt tip and partially serrated edge optimized for cutting seatbelts and rope without accidental punctures
- Durable G10 handle with black-anodized aluminum backspacer provides a secure grip; DuraLock ensures confident lockup and smooth operation
- Carbide glassbreaker tip for rapid vehicle escape or rescue situations; deep-carry pocketclip is reversible left/right carry
- Stylish design with gray-anodized aluminum handle scale. Measures 7.9 inches opened, 4.5 inches closed. Weighs 3.3 ounces.
- DuraLock secures the blade open using a solid steel crossbar; pull the ambidextrous lock back to safely close the knife
- D2 high-carbon tool steel is highly wear resistant, tough, offers excellent edge retention; two-tone blade finish with stonewashed flats and satin grinds
- Opens easily with KVT ball-bearing system and thumb studs
- Deep-carry pocketclip is easily reversible for left/right carry; bronze-anodized backspacer and lanyard hole
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Kershaw Knife
Kershaw makes great knives for many different jobs. Buying a new knife can be exciting, but knowing what to look for helps you pick the best one. This guide will help you understand the important things about Kershaw knives.
Key Features to Look For
When you look at a Kershaw knife, check these main parts:
- **Opening Mechanism:** How fast can you open the knife? Kershaw is famous for its **SpeedSafe assisted opening**. This means the blade springs open quickly with a light push on the flipper or thumb stud. Some knives use a manual opening, which is simpler.
- **Lock Type:** The lock keeps the blade safely open while you cut. Look for strong locks like the **Liner Lock** or **Frame Lock**. These locks hold the blade securely, which is very important for safety.
- **Pocket Clip:** Where does the knife sit in your pocket? Most good knives have an adjustable pocket clip. You can often move it to carry the knife tip-up or tip-down, depending on what feels best for you.
Important Materials Matter
The materials used decide how long your knife lasts and how sharp it stays.
Blade Steel
The steel is the most important part of the blade. Kershaw uses many types. You often see steels like **14C28N** or **Sandvik 13C20V**. These steels hold an edge well and resist rust. Higher-end models might use premium steels like **CPM-S30V** or **M390**, which stay sharp even longer but might cost more.
Handle Materials
The handle needs to be tough and comfortable. **G10** is a popular material. It is a strong, grippy fiberglass that feels good in your hand and does not slip when wet. **Stainless Steel** handles are very durable and look sleek, but they can sometimes feel a bit heavy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all knives are made the same, even from the same brand.
What Makes a Kershaw Better?
- **Fit and Finish:** Look closely at how the parts fit together. High-quality knives have smooth actions and no gaps between the handle scales and the liners.
- **Blade Coating:** Some blades have a special coating, like **DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon)**. This coating makes the blade tougher, reduces glare, and helps prevent scratches.
- **Blade Grind:** The way the edge is sharpened matters. A **hollow grind** slices very well, while a **drop-point** shape is strong for general tasks.
What Can Lower Quality?
Cheaper models sometimes use thinner steel or simpler handle materials. If the action feels sticky or the lock wobbles, the quality might be lower. Always check reviews to see if a specific model has common issues.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about what you will use your knife for most often.
Everyday Carry (EDC)
For carrying every day, you want something light and easy to open. Smaller knives with smooth opening mechanisms are best for opening boxes or cutting string. A lightweight G10 handle works great here.
Outdoor Tasks
If you plan to use the knife for camping or tougher jobs, choose a model with a thicker blade and stronger lock, like a Frame Lock. A blade made from tougher steel will handle rougher use better.
Kitchen/Specialty Use
Kershaw also makes specialized tools. For slicing food, look for a very thin, sharp edge. For heavy-duty work, choose a thicker spine for strength.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kershaw Knives
Q: Is Kershaw a good brand for knives?
A: Yes, Kershaw is a very respected brand. They make reliable knives at many different price points.
Q: What is SpeedSafe technology?
A: SpeedSafe is Kershaw’s system that helps the blade open very quickly with a little help from your finger.
Q: Are Kershaw knives made in the USA?
A: Some of their best knives, often called “USA Made,” are built in Oregon. Others are made overseas to keep prices lower.
Q: How do I sharpen my Kershaw knife?
A: You can use a whetstone or a good quality pull-through sharpener. Always follow the original angle of the factory edge.
Q: What is the difference between a Liner Lock and a Frame Lock?
A: A Liner Lock uses a thin piece of metal inside the handle to hold the blade. A Frame Lock uses the main handle scale itself to lock the blade.
Q: Are Kershaw knives legal to carry everywhere?
A: This depends on where you live. Check your local laws about blade length and locking mechanisms before carrying any knife.
Q: Do Kershaw knives rust easily?
A: Stainless steel blades resist rust well. However, you should clean and dry your knife after using it in wet or salty conditions.
Q: What is the best steel for hard use?
A: Steels like D2 or premium powdered steels (like S30V) offer the best toughness and edge retention for heavy jobs.
Q: How do I clean the opening mechanism?
A: Use a small amount of light knife lubricant (like mineral oil or specialized pivot lube) on the pivot point. Wipe away any dirt or lint.
Q: Should I get an assisted opening or a manual knife?
A: If you need fast, one-handed access, get assisted opening. If you prefer simplicity and fewer moving parts, choose a manual knife.