Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

Let’s Talk About Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is not your average everyday carry. Kershaw has clearly aimed for a blend of bold aesthetics and reliable functionality with this knife. The most striking feature is undoubtedly the bright blue PVD coating, a departure from the usual tactical blacks and grays, promising scratch resistance and a unique look. I was looking for an EDC knife that was more stylish than utilitarian without sacrificing performance, and the Outright caught my eye immediately.

My search for a new EDC knife began when my trusty (but admittedly boring) black folding knife finally gave up the ghost after years of faithful service. I needed a replacement that could handle daily tasks, be easily carried, and, most importantly, not look like every other knife on the market. I was tired of the ubiquitous black tactical knives. I wanted something with some personality. The Kershaw Outright promised exactly that.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the vibrant blue color. It’s even more eye-catching in person than in the photos. The weight feels good in the hand; substantial enough to feel sturdy, but not so heavy as to be cumbersome. The G10 overlay on the handle provides a nice texture for grip. Build quality seems solid. There are no immediately obvious flaws.

I considered the Civivi Elementum and the Ontario Rat Model 1 before choosing the Kershaw Outright. The Elementum is a fantastic knife, but a little too minimalist for my taste. The Rat Model 1 is a workhorse, but it’s more function than fashion. The Outright seemed to strike the right balance of style, functionality, and affordability. I was definitely excited to put it to the test.


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

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Kershaw Outright was a weekend camping trip in the local state park. I used it for various tasks around the campsite, from preparing kindling to opening food packages. The upswept blade proved to be excellent for slicing. The assisted opening mechanism made one-handed operation a breeze.

The weather was a bit damp, but the G10 handle provided a secure grip even with slightly wet hands. The blade held its edge well throughout the weekend. There were no noticeable issues after the first use, and the blue PVD coating seemed resistant to scratches.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Kershaw Outright has proven to be a reliable EDC companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes to cutting rope. It has held up remarkably well. There are only minor signs of wear on the pocket clip.

The Kershaw Outright requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down after use is generally sufficient. I’ve touched up the edge a couple of times with a ceramic honing rod, but the 8Cr13MoV steel has excellent edge retention for the price point. It’s outperformed several of my previous EDC knives in terms of durability and edge retention.

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

Specifications

  • The Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals boasts a 3-inch blade, constructed from 8Cr13MoV steel. This steel is known for its balance of edge retention, toughness, and ease of sharpening.
  • The knife has a 4.5-inch closed length, making it a comfortable size for pocket carry, and an overall length of 7.1 inches when open, providing a substantial feel in hand.
  • It weighs in at 4 ounces, striking a good balance between robustness and carry comfort.
  • The handle features a blue PVD-coated steel frame with a black G10 overlay. This provides both visual appeal and enhanced grip.
  • The trailing point blade shape is versatile for slicing and general utility tasks.
  • The knife features SpeedSafe assisted opening with both a flipper and thumb stud.
  • A frame lock mechanism provides secure blade lockup.
  • The included accessory is a single-position pocket clip.

These specifications translate to a knife that is well-suited for everyday carry and general utility tasks. The blade steel offers a good balance of performance and ease of maintenance. The assisted opening and frame lock contribute to convenient and safe operation.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals performs admirably for its intended purpose. The blade is sharp out of the box and maintains a decent edge. The assisted opening is fast and reliable. The frame lock provides a secure lockup with no blade play.

The main strength of the Outright is its blend of style and functionality. It’s a capable EDC knife that doesn’t look like every other tactical folder. The only potential weakness is that the bright blue color may not appeal to everyone. Overall, the Outright meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for a knife in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kershaw Outright is its most distinguishing feature. The bright blue PVD coating is eye-catching and adds a touch of personality. The G10 handle overlay provides a comfortable and secure grip.

The weight and balance are excellent. It sits comfortably in the hand. There’s a slight learning curve with the SpeedSafe assisted opening, but it quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals appears to be built to last. The 8Cr13MoV steel blade is durable and corrosion-resistant. The PVD coating seems to be scratch-resistant. The frame lock is robust and reliable.

Maintaining the Outright is simple. Regularly cleaning the blade and pivot area will keep it functioning smoothly. Sharpening the blade with a ceramic honing rod will maintain its edge.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals comes with a single-position pocket clip. There aren’t many readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Outright. However, some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style or add a lanyard. Due to the construction, extensive modifications are not recommended, but maintaining its factory setup will ensure it functions as Kershaw intended.

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

Pros

  • Eye-catching and unique blue PVD coating.
  • Reliable SpeedSafe assisted opening.
  • Durable 8Cr13MoV blade steel.
  • Comfortable G10 handle overlay.
  • Affordable price point.

Cons

  • Blue color might not appeal to all users.
  • Single-position pocket clip limits carry options.


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

The Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is perfect for anyone looking for an affordable, reliable, and stylish EDC knife. It’s a great choice for:

  • Everyday users who want a practical yet visually appealing knife.
  • Campers and hikers who need a reliable tool for light tasks.
  • Anyone who appreciates a knife with a unique design.

This knife might not be the best choice for users who prefer a more traditional or tactical look, or those who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks. A must-have accessory would be a quality sharpening stone or honing rod to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Overall, the Kershaw Outright Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is an excellent value for the money. It offers a unique combination of style, functionality, and affordability. The bright blue PVD coating sets it apart from the crowd, while the 8Cr13MoV blade steel and SpeedSafe assisted opening ensure reliable performance.

The price is definitely justified, especially considering the quality of materials and construction. I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Outright to anyone looking for a stylish and capable EDC knife that won’t break the bank. Pick one up and add a splash of color to your everyday carry!

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