Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife Review

Let’s Talk About Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife

The Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife is a collaboration between Kershaw and Al Mar Knives, blending classic design with modern technology. This knife boasts SpeedSafe assisted opening, a robust frame lock, and G-10 scales for enhanced grip. It’s designed for everyday carry and tactical applications, offering both speed and reliability.

I’ve always appreciated a good, solid folding knife. I wanted a knife that could handle daily tasks but also be ready for more demanding situations. The Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 seemed like the perfect balance of these qualities.

The knife arrived in standard Kershaw packaging, nothing fancy, but secure. My initial impression was positive; it felt solid and well-built, not like a cheap knock-off. The black oxide finish gave it a sleek, tactical look.

Compared to my older Spyderco Tenacious and a Gerber Paraframe, the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 felt more substantial and refined. The assisted opening was noticeably faster than the manual opening of the Tenacious, and the handle felt more secure than the minimalist Paraframe. I picked it because of the assisted opening and the promise of a more secure grip.

I was definitely excited; it felt like a step up in quality and design from my previous EDC knives. The assisted opening mechanism was snappy, and the overall feel was confident and ready for action.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife on a camping trip in the local state park. I used it for various tasks like cutting rope, preparing kindling, and opening food packages. The blade held its edge well and felt comfortable during prolonged use.

In slightly damp conditions, the G-10 handle provided a surprisingly secure grip. The SpeedSafe assisted opening functioned flawlessly, even with slightly wet hands. I was immediately impressed with the quick deployment and solid lockup of the blade.

The knife was easy to use right out of the box, requiring no adjustment period. The SpeedSafe mechanism is intuitive, and the flipper tab provided reliable deployment every time. There were no unexpected issues after the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. I use it for everything from opening boxes at work to more demanding tasks around the house and yard. It’s become my go-to EDC knife.

The black oxide coating on the blade has shown minimal signs of wear, even with frequent use. The G-10 handle remains in excellent condition, and the frame lock is still solid and secure. I’ve only had to touch up the blade with a sharpening steel a couple of times.

Maintaining the knife is straightforward; I simply clean it with a damp cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point occasionally. Compared to my previous knives, the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 definitely outperforms them in terms of both durability and ease of maintenance. It feels like a knife built to last.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.5 inches – A versatile length suitable for a variety of tasks, from everyday cutting to more demanding outdoor chores. This length is ideal for EDC without being overly bulky.
• Closed Length: 4.25 inches – Compact enough to comfortably carry in a pocket without being obtrusive. The closed length makes it easy to conceal if needed.
• Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV – A Chinese stainless steel known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. It’s a great steel for an EDC knife in this price range.
• Overall Length: 7.75 inches – Provides a comfortable grip and good leverage for cutting tasks. This length feels well-balanced in the hand.
• Handle Material: G10 – A durable and grippy composite material that provides excellent traction, even in wet conditions. The G10 scales offer a secure and comfortable grip.
• Blade Type: Folding – Offers convenience and portability, making it an ideal EDC knife. The folding design allows for safe storage and carry.
• Handle Material: Polished Contoured G10 Front – Provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The contoured design enhances ergonomics.
• Contoured Steel Back with Black-Oxide Coating – Adds to the overall durability and provides a sleek, tactical look. The black-oxide coating enhances corrosion resistance.
• Black-Oxide Coating – Enhances corrosion resistance and provides a non-reflective finish. The coating also adds to the knife’s tactical appearance.
• Weight: 3.8 oz. – Lightweight enough for comfortable everyday carry. It’s not too heavy to weigh down your pocket.
• Assisted blade style – SpeedSafe assisted opening for fast and easy one-handed deployment. The assisted opening mechanism is a key feature for quick access.
• Single-position pocket clip – Allows for convenient and secure carry in a pocket or on a belt. While not ambidextrous, it provides a reliable carry option.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the overall performance and user experience. The 8Cr13MoV steel provides a good balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening. The G10 handle ensures a secure grip, and the assisted opening provides quick and reliable deployment.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife performs its job exceptionally well. The blade is sharp and holds its edge reasonably well, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is incredibly fast and reliable.

The main strength is the SpeedSafe mechanism and the secure grip provided by the G10 handle. One area for improvement would be the pocket clip; an ambidextrous clip would be a welcome addition. It definitely meets my expectations for an EDC knife in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent for a knife in this price range. The materials feel durable and well-assembled, and the overall weight is comfortable for everyday carry. The knife feels well-balanced in the hand.

The design is user-friendly, with an intuitive assisted opening mechanism. There’s no significant learning curve; it’s easy to pick up and use immediately. The ergonomics are well-thought-out, providing a comfortable and secure grip.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife should last for years. The materials are durable, and the construction is solid. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening.

Accessories and Customization Options

The knife comes with a single-position pocket clip. There are no included accessories, but aftermarket pocket clips may be available. Customization options are limited, but you could potentially replace the scales or clip with aftermarket parts.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife?

Perfect for everyday carry (EDC), outdoor enthusiasts, and tactical users who need a reliable and fast-deploying knife. It is also good for those who appreciate a sleek and tactical design. This knife is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a dependable and affordable assisted opening knife.

Someone prioritizing premium steel or extensive customization options might want to skip this product. Also, left-handed users might find the single-position pocket clip inconvenient.

A sharpening steel is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A good quality knife lubricant will also help to keep the SpeedSafe mechanism functioning smoothly.

Conclusion on Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife

The Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife is an excellent EDC option that provides a great blend of performance, durability, and value. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is a standout feature, and the G10 handle offers a secure and comfortable grip. The 8Cr13MoV steel provides a good balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening.

The price is definitely justified, considering the quality and features you get. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable assisted opening knife.

If you’re in the market for a solid, dependable, and tactically styled EDC knife, the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife is definitely worth considering. Grab yours today and experience the Kershaw quality!