Let’s Dive into Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion isn’t just another pocketknife; it’s a statement. Designed by the renowned Ken Onion and manufactured by Kershaw, this knife boasts a unique composite blade, combining two distinct steels for optimal performance. The SpeedSafe assisted opening, slim profile, and versatile blade shape make it a compelling option for everyday carry.
I’ve been searching for a lightweight, yet durable EDC knife that could handle both delicate tasks and more demanding cutting chores. The Leek, with its promise of edge retention and strength through its composite blade, seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the sleek design and lightweight feel. The stainless-steel handle felt solid, and the wavy copper line of the composite blade was undeniably eye-catching. Build quality seemed excellent, with no noticeable flaws in the fit and finish.
I considered the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2 before settling on the Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion. The Bugout, while incredibly lightweight, felt a bit too fragile for my liking. The Paramilitary 2 is a great knife, but a bit bulky for pocket carry. The Leek seemed to strike a nice balance.
My first impression was excitement. I appreciated the overall design and the promise of having two high performance steels working together in one blade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test came during a weekend camping trip in the Cascade Mountains. I used the Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion for everything from preparing food to whittling kindling for the campfire. The knife performed admirably in slicing vegetables and fruits.
The weather was intermittently wet, and I was curious how the steel handle would perform. Despite the moisture, the stainless-steel handle provided a surprisingly secure grip. I did not need time to get used to the Leek; the slim profile and assisted opening made it intuitive to use from the start.
After initial use, I was impressed with the blade’s sharpness and edge retention.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-daily carry, the Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has proven to be a reliable companion. There are minimal signs of wear on the blade, and the SpeedSafe mechanism continues to function smoothly. The pocket clip remains tight and secure.
The D2 steel edge requires occasional stropping to maintain its razor sharpness, but that’s to be expected with this type of steel. Cleaning is straightforward; I simply wipe the blade and handle with a clean cloth after use. The Leek definitely outperforms other EDC knives I’ve used in terms of edge retention and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Specifications
The Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion features a 3-inch blade, making it legal for carry in most jurisdictions. The closed length is 4 inches, and the overall length is 7 inches. The blade material is a composite of D2 tool steel on the cutting edge and Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel on the spine.
The handle is made of 410 steel with a composite finish, and the blade has a bead-blasted finish. SpeedSafe assisted opening allows for rapid deployment. The knife also includes a pocket clip and a lanyard slot. These specifications matter because they dictate the knife’s performance, durability, and ease of carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion excels at slicing and precision cutting tasks. The D2 steel cutting edge holds an incredibly sharp edge, allowing for clean and effortless cuts. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is quick and reliable.
The knife’s main strength lies in its composite blade. Its performance greatly exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion boasts a sleek and ergonomic design. The slim profile makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket, and the contoured handle provides a secure grip. The knife is very user-friendly with the assisted opening system being easy to master.
Durability & Maintenance
The combination of D2 tool steel and Sandvik 14C28N ensures excellent durability. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep the Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion in top condition. This knife should last for years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes standard with a reversible pocket clip. There are aftermarket scales and hardware available for those who want to customize the knife’s appearance. The knife is also compatible with most standard lanyards.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Pros
- Exceptional edge retention due to the D2 steel cutting edge.
- Fast and reliable SpeedSafe assisted opening.
- Slim and lightweight design for comfortable pocket carry.
- Unique and eye-catching composite blade.
- Durable construction with stainless steel handle.
Cons
- Stainless steel handle can be slippery when wet.
- The tip is very fine and prone to breaking if abused.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?
The Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for anyone looking for a high-quality EDC knife with exceptional cutting performance. It’s well-suited for everyday tasks, camping, and other outdoor activities. People who need a solid EDC knife that has good edge retention and quick deployment will find this knife indispensable.
Those who prefer a more robust, heavy-duty knife might want to skip this product. Someone who frequently subjects their knives to hard use tasks such as batoning or prying should pass on this knife.
A sharpening stone or strop is a must-have accessory to maintain the D2 steel edge.
Conclusion on Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a fantastic EDC knife that offers exceptional value for its price. The composite blade technology provides a unique combination of edge retention and durability, and the SpeedSafe assisted opening makes it quick and easy to deploy. The price is justified for the steel quality and the composite process.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Kershaw Leek Composite Blade Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone in the market for a reliable and stylish EDC knife. Add this outstanding tool to your collection today and experience the difference!