Let’s Dive into Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer
The Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is more than just a pocket knife; it’s a testament to efficient design and practical functionality. Manufactured by Kershaw, and designed in collaboration with Rick Hinderer, this knife boasts a blend of accessible features and a robust build making it a compelling option for everyday carry (EDC).
I was searching for a reliable, compact knife that wouldn’t break the bank, yet could handle various tasks during outdoor excursions and daily chores. The Kershaw Cryo seemed to strike the perfect balance between affordability, durability, and ease of use, based on its specs and reputation.
Unboxing the Kershaw Cryo, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel and sleek titanium carbo-nitride coating. The knife felt substantial in my hand, hinting at its robust construction despite its compact size.
I considered the Ontario RAT Model 1 and the Spyderco Tenacious as alternatives. However, the Kershaw Cryo won me over with its assisted opening mechanism and Hinderer design, which promised a blend of speed and ergonomic grip that the others seemed to lack for my specific needs. My first impression was excitement, combined with a healthy dose of anticipation to see if it would live up to the hype in real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Kershaw Cryo on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. It performed admirably when preparing kindling, food preparation, and even some light carving. The knife’s assisted opening was a game-changer when I needed quick access, especially when my other hand was occupied.
The weather was damp, but the titanium carbo-nitride coating provided a secure grip, even with slightly wet hands. The assisted opening mechanism never faltered even with some grime buildup from being used outdoors. There were no immediate issues, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it handled tasks typically reserved for larger knives.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Cryo has proven to be a reliable companion. The blade remains sharp, needing only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel, and the frame lock is still solid. I’ve used it extensively for everything from opening packages to cutting rope and preparing small game while out hunting.
There are minor scratches on the coating, but nothing unexpected for a knife that gets used daily. The knife is easy to clean with a simple wipe-down, and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps the action smooth. Compared to previous budget-friendly knives I’ve owned, the Kershaw Cryo has significantly outperformed them in terms of edge retention and overall build quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer
Specifications
The Kershaw Cryo features a 2.75-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV steel. This steel is known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it ideal for everyday use.
The closed length is 3.75 inches, resulting in an overall length of 6.5 inches when open. This compact size makes it comfortable to carry in a pocket without being too bulky.
The handle is made from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel with a titanium carbo-nitride coating. The coating provides added durability and a non-reflective surface.
The knife features SpeedSafe assisted opening for fast, one-handed deployment and a sturdy frame lock. The assisted opening mechanism ensures rapid blade deployment.
It also includes a flipper, dual thumb studs, lanyard hole, and a quad-carry pocket clip. This allows for versatile carry options.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the knife’s functionality and suitability for EDC. The blade steel balances durability and ease of maintenance, while the assisted opening and frame lock provide safety and convenience.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer performs admirably for its size and price point. The blade is sharp enough for most EDC tasks, and the assisted opening is incredibly reliable.
It excels at tasks like cutting rope, opening boxes, food preparation, and light carving. The main weakness is that the 8Cr13MoV steel isn’t as hard as premium steels, so it requires more frequent sharpening with heavy use. It exceeds my expectations for a knife in this price range, offering reliable performance and comfortable ergonomics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw Cryo boasts a solid build quality with durable materials. The weight feels balanced in hand.
The ergonomic design provides a comfortable and secure grip. The pocket clip allows for deep carry and the size makes it an ideal EDC blade.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is built to last with proper care. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling will keep it functioning smoothly for years.
Sharpening is relatively easy, and replacement parts are readily available if needed. The stainless steel construction helps prevent corrosion, ensuring long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Cryo comes with a quad-carry pocket clip for versatile carry options. There is also a lanyard hole.
While there aren’t many direct accessories from Kershaw, aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards are easily obtainable. It’s compatible with many standard pocket clips, allowing users to customize the carry style.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of users.
- SpeedSafe assisted opening provides rapid, one-handed blade deployment.
- Solid frame lock ensures secure blade lockup during use.
- Compact and ergonomic design makes it comfortable for everyday carry.
- Durable titanium carbo-nitride coating protects against wear and corrosion.
Cons
- 8Cr13MoV steel requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels.
- The titanium carbo-nitride coating can show scratches with heavy use.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer?
The Kershaw Cryo is perfect for: everyday carry enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone needing a reliable utility knife without breaking the bank.
Anyone needing a knife for heavy-duty use, requiring extreme edge retention, should skip this product. Consider something with a premium steel such as S30V or Elmax.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality sharpening steel for regular edge maintenance. Also, a lanyard can enhance grip and retrieval from the pocket.
Conclusion on Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer
The Kershaw Cryo Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is an exceptional value for its price. It offers a combination of durable construction, assisted opening, and ergonomic design that makes it a reliable EDC option.
The price is absolutely justified, given its features and performance. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for an affordable and dependable pocket knife. For the price, the Kershaw Cryo is hard to beat. Get yours today!