Let’s Dive into Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is more than just a pocketknife; it’s a statement. Designed by the legendary Ken Onion and manufactured by Kershaw, this knife boasts a sleek, all-black aesthetic coupled with the renowned SpeedSafe assisted opening system. Its slim profile and razor-sharp Sandvik 14C28N blade make it an appealing everyday carry (EDC) option.
I was searching for a reliable, discreet, and stylish EDC knife that could handle a variety of tasks, from opening packages to more demanding cutting chores. My old knife was bulky and slow to deploy. I needed something more streamlined and efficient.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion’s understated elegance. The DLC-coated blade and handle felt solid and well-constructed, exuding quality. It felt lighter than I expected given the all-steel construction.
Compared to my old Gerber Paraframe and a CRKT Drifter, the Kershaw Leek stood out for its assisted opening and slimmer profile. While the Gerber felt too flimsy and the CRKT lacked assisted opening, the Leek seemed to strike the perfect balance of size, speed, and strength. I picked the Kershaw Leek for its reputation, sleek design, and the promise of fast, one-handed deployment.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. This wasn’t just a knife; it was a tool that I felt confident carrying every day. I was eager to put the Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion on a weekend camping trip in the Deschutes National Forest. It served admirably for various tasks, from preparing kindling to opening food packages. The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performed well in the dry, dusty conditions of the forest.
The Leek’s SpeedSafe assisted opening made one-handed operation effortless. I did not need any time to get accustomed to it. The slim blade profile was also perfect for detailed cutting.
No major issues arose during the first use, although the black finish showed a few minor scratches after some particularly vigorous wood carving. This gave the Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion character.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-daily use, the Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has proven to be remarkably durable. The blade has retained its edge well, requiring only occasional stropping. The black DLC coating is showing some wear, especially around the edges, but there are no signs of rust or corrosion.
Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication with knife oil keeps the action smooth. The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion outperforms my previous EDC knives in terms of edge retention, deployment speed, and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting power and ease of carry.
- Closed Length: 4 inches. This makes it highly pocketable.
- Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. This steel is known for its excellent balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- Handle Material: 410 steel with a black Cerakote finish. This offers a durable and comfortable grip.
- Overall Length: 7 inches. Provides sufficient cutting reach.
- Weight: Approximately 3 ounces. This is lightweight for comfortable everyday carry.
- Opening Method: SpeedSafe assisted opening with flipper and thumb stud. It provides quick, one-handed deployment.
- Locking Mechanism: Frame lock and Tip-Lock slider. This ensures secure blade lockup.
- Pocket Clip: Reversible (right tip-up, left tip-down). This offers versatile carry options.
- Designer: Ken Onion. He is a renowned knife designer known for innovative and functional designs.
- Blade Finish: Cerakote. This provides enhanced protection and performance.
- Blade Shape: Drop Point. This is a versatile shape for slicing and piercing.
- Handle Finish: Stainless.
- Additional Features: Lanyard Slot. This offers another carry option.
These specifications make the Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion a highly functional and reliable EDC tool. The combination of high-quality materials and thoughtful design contributes to its overall performance and user satisfaction.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion excels at its intended job: providing a reliable and readily available cutting tool for everyday tasks. The blade is incredibly sharp right out of the box, easily slicing through cardboard, rope, and even tougher materials like leather. The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion’s SpeedSafe mechanism works flawlessly, deploying the blade with satisfying speed and authority.
The knife’s strengths lie in its slim profile, sharp blade, and assisted opening. The only potential weakness is the DLC coating’s susceptibility to scratching, although this is purely cosmetic. It definitely meets my expectations for an EDC knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is thoughtfully designed with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. The slim profile makes it disappear in your pocket, while the contoured handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion feels balanced and well-made.
The knife is exceptionally user-friendly. The SpeedSafe opening is intuitive, and the frame lock is easy to disengage. There is virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion, with proper care, should last for many years. The Sandvik 14C28N steel is known for its durability, and the frame lock provides a solid and reliable locking mechanism.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication will keep the Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion in top condition. Disassembly for deep cleaning is also relatively straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes with a reversible pocket clip. This allows for tip-up or tip-down carry on either the left or right side. The lanyard hole provides another carry option.
Aftermarket customization options are limited, but replacement pocket clips are readily available. Many users choose to add custom lanyards for personalization and enhanced grip.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Pros
- Fast, One-Handed Opening: The SpeedSafe assisted opening makes deployment quick and easy.
- Razor-Sharp Blade: The Sandvik 14C28N steel provides excellent edge retention.
- Slim and Lightweight: Easy to carry discreetly in a pocket.
- Durable Construction: The steel handle and frame lock provide a robust and reliable platform.
- Stylish Aesthetics: The all-black finish is both functional and visually appealing.
Cons
- DLC Coating Scratches: The black coating can show wear with heavy use.
- Slim Handle: People with larger hands may find the handle too slim.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?
The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for anyone seeking a reliable, stylish, and easily carried EDC knife. This includes everyday users, office workers, and light-duty tradesmen. The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is also great for campers.
Those who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks like batoning wood or prying should skip this product. You will need something more robust. A must-have accessory is a quality knife sharpener or honing steel to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a well-designed and executed EDC knife that offers a compelling combination of performance, style, and value. The price is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and reliable performance.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a slim, fast, and capable everyday carry knife. This knife has definitely earned a permanent spot in my pocket. Get yours today and experience the Kershaw Leek Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion’s exceptional quality and performance.