Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George Review

Let’s Talk About Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George

The Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George is a robust, all-steel folder designed with the working tradesman, or anyone appreciating a durable and practical pocketknife, in mind. Inspired by the skill of boilermakers, this knife blends a distinctive, industrial aesthetic with reliable functionality. I was looking for an EDC (Everyday Carry) knife that could withstand daily wear and tear, offering both strength and a comfortable grip.

Unboxing the Kershaw Boilermaker, my initial impression was of its solid build and substantial feel. The brown stonewashed PVD coating gives it a rugged, worn-in look right out of the box, while the all-steel construction speaks to its durability. It reminded me of my old Gerber Paraframe, but with a more refined design, and a smoother assisted opening.

I considered the CRKT M16-14SFG and the SOG Trident AT before deciding on the Kershaw Boilermaker. The CRKT, while lighter, felt less substantial. The SOG, despite its impressive features, was overkill for my needs. The Kershaw offered a good balance of strength, size, and ease of carry.

Honestly, I was impressed and excited right away! The weight suggested a well-made, durable tool, and the assisted opening mechanism was smooth and reliable. The design just looked like it could handle whatever I threw at it.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for the Boilermaker was on a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, from preparing kindling for the campfire to cutting rope and opening food packages. The knife handled everything with ease, even after being exposed to damp conditions.

The conditions were somewhat wet, due to early morning dew and occasional drizzle. The brown PVD coating provided a decent grip even when my hands were slightly damp. The assisted opening made it quick to deploy the blade one-handed, which was especially useful when I needed to multitask.

The knife was easy to use right from the start. The assisted opening system is intuitive, and the frame lock is simple and secure. There were no issues during the initial use, and I appreciated the comfortable grip.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of carrying the Boilermaker daily, it has held up remarkably well. The blade still locks up tight, and the assisted opening remains smooth. The edge retention is decent, though it has required occasional touch-ups with a honing steel.

There are some minor scratches on the PVD coating, as expected from daily use. However, the steel itself shows no signs of rust or corrosion. I haven’t babied it, and it shows. It still performs flawlessly.

Cleaning the knife is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use keeps it in good condition. So far, the Boilermaker has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George

Specifications

• The Kershaw Boilermaker boasts a 3.3-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV steel. This steel provides a good balance between edge retention, ease of sharpening, and corrosion resistance.
• The closed length is 4.25 inches, and the overall length when open is 7.6 inches. This makes it a comfortable size for everyday carry without being overly bulky.
• It weighs 4.4 ounces, which is noticeable, but not excessive for an all-steel knife. The weight contributes to its feeling of robustness and durability.
• The handle is made of stainless steel with a brown PVD coating and a crisscross design to reduce weight. This handle provides a secure grip and adds to the knife’s industrial aesthetic.
• The blade has a drop point shape, making it versatile for various cutting tasks. The handle cutout reveals the Kershaw logo on the inside of the back handle.
• It features a frame lock mechanism for secure blade lockup. The assisted opening mechanism is SpeedSafe, making deployment quick and easy.

These specifications are important because they directly influence the knife’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The steel type determines how well the blade holds an edge and resists corrosion, while the handle material and design impact comfort and grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George performs admirably in various tasks. The blade is sharp enough to handle everyday cutting needs.

Its strengths lie in its ruggedness and ease of deployment. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is reliable, and the frame lock provides a secure lockup.

It meets my expectations for a durable EDC knife. The edge retention is decent, the handle is comfortable, and the assisted opening is a great feature.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a solid feel. The brown PVD coated stainless steel gives it a unique, industrial look.

The knife feels comfortable in hand, even during extended use. There is virtually no learning curve, and it’s user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The all-steel construction suggests that it will last a long time. The PVD coating provides some protection against scratches and corrosion.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. I expect to get many years of reliable use from this knife.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George comes with a single-position pocket clip. Unfortunately, there aren’t many readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model.

Its minimalist design limits customization options. However, the user can likely replace screws, and the knife is compatible with universal knife lubricants.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George?

The Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George is perfect for tradesmen, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a robust and reliable EDC knife. It would also be a great option for people who work in demanding environments where their tools are subject to heavy use and abuse.

Someone who prioritizes lightweight carry above all else should probably skip this product. A person who needs extensive customization options would probably also be disappointed.

A good knife lubricant and a sharpening stone are must-have accessories. A deep-carry pocket clip would also be a welcome addition.

Conclusion on Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George

The Kershaw Boilermaker Assisted Folding Knife by Les George is a well-built, durable, and functional EDC knife with a distinctive industrial design. It delivers on its promise of robustness and reliability.

At a price of $47.99, the value proposition is excellent. The quality of materials and construction justify the cost.

I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Boilermaker to anyone looking for a solid, dependable, and affordable EDC knife. Get yours today and experience the quality and durability for yourself.