Kershaw Pocket Knives Review

Kershaw Knives are some of the most reputable and popular knives in the industry and are known for being incredibly sharp and innovative. Kershaw owns Shun Knives and Zero Tolerance Knives and has also partnered with Ken Onion. Through this partnership, Kershaw has begun to use the SpeedSafe opening mechanism in the pocket knives which makes them a lot safer to use.

Kershaw prides itself on being able to supply its customers with pocket knives that prove to be useful for a multitude of different scenarios. With that being said, the company chooses not to focus on just one particular style and type of pocket knife.

The following are reviews of just a few of the best Kershaw Pocket Knives that are available and are good for everyday carry.

1. Kershaw Shuffle Multifunction Pocket Knife

The Kershaw Shuffle Multifunction Pocket Knife features a 2.4-inch steel drop point blade that has a non-reflective matte bead blasted finish that adds to its strength and durability. These materials have also been found to be incredibly resistant to corrosion and they maintain a nice, sharp edge for the pocket knife. It includes a convenient clip so that it can be worn every day and the clip also allows you to adjust the tip position and the side you wish to carry it on.

Pros

• Manual opening knife with a thumb stud for one-handed opening
• The liner lock keeps the blade securely in place
• There are pre-drilled holes in the handle so that it can be carried left- or right-handed
• Also features a bottle opener, screwdriver tip, and a lanyard hole
• Glass-filled nylon handle for a non-slip grip
• Holds its edge and is both strong and durable

Cons

• Bottle opener may be difficult to use
• May be too heavy to be placed on a keychain
• May be difficult to open until it is broken in

2. Kershaw 1990 Brawler Multifunction Folding Pocket Knife with SpeedSafe

The Kershaw Brawler Pocket Knife utilizes SpeedSafe assisted opening technology and has a liner lock and flipper. The blade length is three inches and the overall length of this pocket knife is approximately 7.1 inches. This pocket knife allows for better cutting and is easy to sharpen when needed. It is both practical and functional and can be opened quickly and easily with just one hand.

Pros

• Modified tanto blade like you see in tactical and rescue knives
• Ideal for piercing and cutting because the point is being supported
• Also has a grind or a swedge that helps to narrow the blade
• Angled handle is ideal for comfort and jimping offers traction
• Easy one-handed operation
• Glass-filled nylon handle for a better grip
• Four-position pocket clip for every day carry

Cons

• The steel may begin to dull very quickly

3. Kershaw Ken Onion Leek Folding Knife with SpeedSafe

The Kershaw Ken Onion Folding Knife features SpeedSafe assisted opening and a frame lock. The included pocket clip is also reversible and the blade length of this pocket knife is three inches, with an overall length of approximately seven inches. This pocket knife is ideal for hunters and is suitable for anyone—left- or right-handed. The stainless steel also offers strength and longevity and the blade will stay sharp for extended periods of time.

Pros

• SpeedSafe system ensures safety and will not open or close accidentally
• One-handed operation for when you need a free hand
• Suitable and lightweight enough for everyday carry
• Includes a pocket clip for easy accessibility and convenience
• The DLC-coated handle produces a non-reflective surface
• Titanium oxide coating for a scratch-resistant finish

Cons

• The spring assist is very sensitive; make sure safety lock is engaged
• Holds fingerprints and requires cleaning to keep its shine

4. Kershaw 1550 Blackout Folding Knife with SpeedSafe

The Kershaw Blackout Folding Knife features SpeedSafe technology and has a locking liner and durable coating. The Blackout is one of the first Ken Onion Knives and continues to remain a positive addition to their product lineup. It has a scratch-resistant Tungsten DLC coating and a glass reinforced nylon handle for durability. It is a suitable knife for everyday carry, and the texture of the handle provides a firmer grip. The blade length is 3 ¼ inches with an overall length of 7 ¾ inches.

Pros

• Ideal for work or outdoor tasks and everyday carry
• SpeedSafe technology for a manually assisted opening system
• Includes a liner lock to help prevent the knife from closing on accident
• Has a single position pocket clip for convenience and accessibility
• Stainless steel blade improves its strength and durability

Cons

• Handle may become slippery when oily
• Cannot change the side on which it clips

5. Kershaw Knockout Folding Knife with SpeedSafe

The Kershaw Knockout Folding Knife has a SpeedSafe assisted opening, a flipper, thumb stud, and sub-frame lock. There is a deep carry pocket clip included, and the handle was drilled to allow for four positions for carrying and can tip up and down and left to right for easy accessibility and carrying. The blade length is 3.25 inches, and the overall length of the knife is approximately 7.9 inches. Because only part of the handle and frame are steel, the knife retains a very lightweight feel and is comfortable to carry and use. The blade is a modified drop point blade and stainless steel.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight, so it is easy to carry for everyday use
• SpeedSafe assisted opening with a flipper, thumb stud, and sub-frame lock
• Deep carry pocket clip so it can be carried down inside the pockets
• DLC- coated blade for durability
• The knocked-out piece in the frame is replaced with a stainless-steel plate to form a subframe lock
• Handle is drilled for four-position carry

Cons

• Will not employ if the thumb stud and flipper are used at the same time

Final Thoughts

While deciding which Kershaw Pocket Knife would be best suited for you, keep in mind that all the pocket knives in this review were built with sharp blades, innovative and safe designs, and are suitable for everyday carry and use. They can tackle a multitude of different tasks whether you are an avid hunter or you need it for smaller work tasks.