Let’s Dive into Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer
The Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer isn’t just another blade; it’s a statement of practical design blended with tactical prowess. Designed in collaboration with renowned knife maker Rick Hinderer and brought to life by Kershaw, this knife boasts assisted opening, a robust stainless-steel build, and a versatile drop-point blade, making it a serious contender for everyday carry (EDC). This knife is a perfect blend of form and function, appealing to both seasoned outdoorsmen and everyday users alike.
My search for the perfect EDC knife led me to the Cryo II. I needed something durable, reliable, and easily deployed for various tasks, from opening packages to more demanding outdoor applications.
Upon unboxing, the Cryo II felt solid and well-balanced. The matte grey titanium carbo-nitride coating gave it a sleek, understated look, while the stainless-steel handle provided a confident grip. It felt like a tool built to last.
Compared to my Spyderco Delica 4 and Benchmade Griptilian, the Cryo II stood out due to its assisted opening and robust stainless steel build. While the others are lighter, the Cryo II felt more substantial, capable of handling tougher tasks. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of a hard-use EDC knife that wouldn’t break the bank.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer was during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. It quickly became my go-to tool for everything from preparing kindling to opening stubborn food packages. The assisted opening was incredibly smooth and fast, even with slightly damp hands.
The Cryo II performed admirably in the varied conditions. The blade held its edge well while processing wood, and the stainless-steel handle provided a secure grip even when wet from rain. Getting used to the SpeedSafe assisted opening system took only a few minutes. I appreciate how the flipper tab acts as a finger guard when the knife is open.
The only minor issue I encountered was the stiffness of the pocket clip initially. After a bit of adjustment, it was perfect, but it was a slight inconvenience initially.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer has proven to be a reliable companion. The blade has retained its edge well, only requiring occasional touch-ups. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the blade coating and handle finish.
The knife is relatively easy to clean and maintain. I simply wipe down the blade and handle with a damp cloth after use and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point occasionally. Comparing this knife to my previous EDC, a Gerber Paraframe, the Cryo II far outperforms it in terms of durability, edge retention, and overall build quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer
Specifications
The Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer features a 3.25-inch blade crafted from 8Cr13MoV steel, known for its good balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The blade boasts a matte grey titanium carbo-nitride coating, enhancing its durability and scratch resistance. The closed length is 4.38 inches, and the overall length is 7.75 inches, making it a substantial yet pocketable knife.
The handle is made from stainless steel with a titanium finish, offering a robust and comfortable grip. Its weight is well-balanced, contributing to a confident feel in hand. The assisted opening mechanism, utilizing Kershaw’s SpeedSafe technology, allows for rapid and effortless one-handed deployment. This feature is incredibly useful in situations where quick access is crucial.
The inclusion of a four-position deep-carry pocket clip allows for customized carry options (left/right, tip-up/down). This is a thoughtful addition that caters to individual preferences and needs. The lockbar stabilization prevents lock over-travel, increasing the knife’s lifespan and reliability. This is a very important safety feature.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer performs exceptionally well as an EDC knife. The blade’s drop-point shape is incredibly versatile, suitable for a wide range of tasks from slicing and piercing to more demanding cutting chores. The assisted opening mechanism is smooth and reliable, providing instant access to the blade when needed.
The knife’s strengths lie in its durability, ease of use, and versatile blade shape. While the stainless-steel handle adds to its robustness, it can feel slightly slick in extremely wet conditions. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is impressive for its price point. The materials used are durable and well-finished, contributing to the knife’s overall robustness. The weight feels substantial without being overly heavy, striking a good balance between strength and comfort.
The design is ergonomic and user-friendly, with a comfortable handle that provides a secure grip. The assisted opening mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate, requiring minimal learning curve. The four-position pocket clip enhances its everyday carry practicality.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is built to last, thanks to its durable materials and robust construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring occasional cleaning and lubrication of the pivot point.
The blade’s coating offers additional protection against corrosion and scratches, further extending its lifespan. The stainless-steel handle is resistant to rust and wear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer comes standard with a four-position deep-carry pocket clip. While there are limited aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Cryo II, the lanyard hole offers a customizable option for adding a paracord lanyard or fob. Some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style or color for a more personalized look.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer
Pros
- Fast and reliable SpeedSafe assisted opening. This feature makes one-handed deployment quick and easy.
- Durable stainless-steel construction. The robust build ensures the knife can withstand heavy use.
- Versatile drop-point blade. The blade shape is suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.
- Secure grip, even in wet conditions. The handle design provides a comfortable and confident hold.
- Affordable price point. Offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Stainless steel handle can be slick when extremely wet.
- Pocket clip can be very stiff initially.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer?
The Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is perfect for: EDC enthusiasts seeking a reliable and affordable knife, outdoor adventurers needing a versatile cutting tool, and tactical users requiring rapid blade deployment. It is ideal for anyone who values durability, functionality, and ease of use in their everyday carry knife.
Who should skip this product? Those prioritizing ultra-lightweight carry might find the Cryo II a bit too hefty. Users needing specialized blade shapes for specific tasks might prefer a different knife altogether.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening stone or steel for maintaining the blade’s edge is essential. A paracord lanyard can enhance grip and personalization.
Conclusion on Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer
The Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is a well-designed and well-built EDC knife that offers exceptional value for the money. Its robust construction, versatile blade, and reliable assisted opening mechanism make it a dependable tool for various tasks. The price is absolutely justified, considering the quality and features offered.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kershaw Cryo II Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer to anyone in the market for a durable and functional EDC knife. If you’re looking for a dependable blade that can handle everyday tasks and outdoor adventures without breaking the bank, look no further. Pick up a Cryo II today and experience the difference!