Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

Let’s Dive into Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a standout rescue knife designed for emergency situations. Manufactured by Kershaw, this knife boasts a bright orange handle for high visibility, a carbide glassbreaker, and a built-in cord cutter, making it a versatile tool for first responders and everyday carry. Its 8Cr13MoV blade steel offers a balance of sharpness and ease of resharpening.

I was looking for a reliable, multi-purpose knife to keep in my truck for emergencies. I wanted something more than just a cutting tool; I needed something that could help me extract someone from a vehicle if necessary. The Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals, with its glassbreaker and seatbelt cutter, seemed like the perfect fit.

Upon unboxing, the bright orange handle immediately caught my eye. The textured, glass-filled nylon felt secure in my hand, even with gloves on. The knife had a solid weight, suggesting durability without being overly bulky.

Compared to other rescue knives I’ve used, like the SOG Escape and Gerber Hinderer CLS, the Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals struck a better balance between functionality and affordability. The SOG Escape felt a bit flimsy, and the Gerber Hinderer CLS was significantly more expensive. Kershaw seemed to hit the sweet spot.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to add this tool to my emergency kit and felt confident that it would perform when needed. The SpeedSafe assisted opening was smooth and fast, reinforcing my initial excitement.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals during a training exercise with my local volunteer fire department. We simulated a vehicle extrication, practicing breaking windows and cutting seatbelts. The carbide glassbreaker worked flawlessly, shattering the tempered glass with minimal effort.

The knife performed well even in wet conditions. The textured handle provided a secure grip even when my hands were damp. The SpeedSafe assisted opening remained reliable.

The knife felt natural in my hand, requiring no real learning curve. The flipper made opening the blade quick and easy. There were no immediate issues with the knife after its initial use; it performed exactly as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of keeping the Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals in my truck, it has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for various tasks, from cutting rope and opening boxes to practicing extrication techniques. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.

The black-oxide coating on the blade has prevented rust, even in humid conditions. Regular cleaning with a dry cloth has been sufficient to maintain the knife’s functionality. Compared to my previous EDC knife, the Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals provides added peace of mind with its rescue features and has not disappointed me so far.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Kershaw.
• Blade Length: 3.5 inches. This provides ample cutting surface while remaining manageable for everyday carry.
• Closed Length: 4.88 inches. This compact size makes it easy to store in a pocket or gear bag.
• Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV. This steel is known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• Overall Length: 8.5 inches. This length provides a comfortable grip and good leverage.
• Included Accessories: Pocket Clip.
• Handle Material: Glass-Filled Nylon. This material is lightweight, durable, and provides a secure grip.
• Handle Color: Bright Orange. The high visibility is essential for a rescue knife.
• Handle Finish: Textured.
• Blade Finish: Black Oxide.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point.
• Opening Method: SpeedSafe Assisted Opening.
• Quantity: 1.
• Blade Type: Folding Blade.

These specifications are crucial for the Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals’ intended purpose. The blade material ensures it can hold an edge, while the assisted opening and glassbreaker provide rapid access in emergency situations. The bright orange handle is a standout safety feature.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals performs exceptionally well as both a cutting tool and a rescue device. The blade is sharp enough for most everyday tasks, and the assisted opening makes deployment quick and easy. Its strength lies in its secondary functions, such as the glassbreaker and seatbelt cutter.

One weakness is that the blade steel, while good, may require more frequent sharpening than premium steels. However, the ease of sharpening makes this a minor issue. It meets and exceeds expectations for a value-priced rescue knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid, with no noticeable blade play or looseness in the handle. The glass-filled nylon handle is comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. The knife is lightweight, but it still feels substantial.

The design is user-friendly, with intuitive placement of the flipper and liner lock. There’s no significant learning curve. The deep-carry pocket clip is a thoughtful addition.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is built to last. The black-oxide coating provides excellent corrosion resistance. Basic cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are sufficient for maintenance.

With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service. The durable materials and simple design contribute to its longevity. The blade is easy to resharpen as needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals comes with a deep-carry pocket clip. There are limited customization options available, as it’s primarily designed as a functional tool rather than a showpiece. However, aftermarket lanyards can be added to enhance grip and visibility.

The knife is compatible with most standard knife maintenance tools. Aftermarket sharpening stones and lubricants can be used to maintain the blade. The focus is on utility, not customization.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals?

Perfect for: First responders, law enforcement officers, EMTs, and anyone looking for a reliable rescue knife to keep in their vehicle or emergency kit. Campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a versatile cutting tool with added safety features can also benefit from Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals.

Who should skip this product? Those who prioritize premium blade steel or extensive customization options may want to consider a higher-end knife.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A good quality sharpening stone and some knife lubricant are recommended for maintaining the blade and pivot point. A brightly colored lanyard can also be added for enhanced visibility.

Conclusion on Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a well-designed and affordable rescue knife that offers exceptional value for its price. Its key features, such as the glassbreaker, cord cutter, and assisted opening, make it an invaluable tool for emergency situations. While the blade steel may not be top-of-the-line, it’s more than adequate for its intended purpose.

The price is definitely justified considering the functionality and durability of this knife. I would highly recommend the Kershaw Barricade Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable rescue knife. Add one to your emergency kit today – you won’t regret it!