Let’s Talk About Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals
Folding knives are essential tools for anyone who spends time outdoors or appreciates practical everyday carry items. The Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals aims to blend industrial aesthetics with modern functionality, offering a compelling package for both tactical users and everyday carriers. I was immediately drawn to its unique two-material handle and the promise of Kershaw’s renowned SpeedSafe assisted opening.
I needed a reliable, robust knife that could handle everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks on the trail. I was also seeking a knife with a unique design that stood out from the sea of similar-looking folders.
Upon unboxing, the Oblivion impressed me with its solid feel and striking visual design. The combination of stainless steel and glass-filled nylon in the handle felt substantial, and the bead-blasted blade gave it a purposeful look. The Oblivion weighed in at 5.1 ounces, giving it a comfortable heft without being overly bulky.
I was also considering the Kershaw Blur and the CRKT M21-04. I ultimately chose the Oblivion because of its unique industrial design and the two-material handle, which I found more visually appealing than the all-aluminum handle of the Blur or the G10 of the CRKT.
My first impression was one of excitement. The knife felt well-built, the assisted opening was snappy, and the design was even more appealing in person than in the product photos.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to the test during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The Oblivion handled tasks such as preparing kindling, cutting rope, and food preparation with ease.
Despite some light rain, the handle provided a secure grip, and the blade remained sharp throughout the weekend. The assisted opening mechanism was particularly useful when needing to quickly deploy the blade with one hand. No issues arose during the initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kershaw Oblivion has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The blade has held its edge well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness.
I’ve noticed some minor scratches on the stonewashed finish of the handle, but this only adds to the knife’s character. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed. Compared to my older Gerber folder, the Oblivion has held up much better in terms of edge retention and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals
Specifications
- The Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals features a 3.5-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV steel. This steel is known for its balance of toughness, edge retention, and ease of sharpening.
- The knife has a closed length of 4.6 inches and an overall length of 8.1 inches. These dimensions make it a comfortable size for everyday carry without being overly large.
- The handle is constructed from stainless steel with a stonewash finish and glass-filled nylon. The stainless steel provides strength and durability, while the glass-filled nylon adds grip and visual appeal.
- It weighs 5.1 oz. The weight provides confidence in its durability.
- The Oblivion features SpeedSafe assisted opening, a frame lock, a lockbar over-travel stop, a reversible pocket clip, a lanyard hole, and a custom pivot. These features enhance the knife’s functionality, safety, and user experience.
These specifications are crucial for a folding knife designed for both everyday carry and more demanding tasks. The 8Cr13MoV blade offers a good balance of properties, and the handle materials provide both durability and grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals performs admirably in a variety of cutting tasks. The blade’s spear point shape is well-suited for piercing, slicing, and detail work.
The SpeedSafe assisted opening is incredibly fast and reliable, making one-handed deployment effortless. The frame lock provides a secure lock-up, giving confidence during heavy use. The Oblivion meets expectations for a knife in its price range and even exceeds them in terms of design and aesthetics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals boasts a unique and eye-catching design. The two-tone handle, combined with the bead-blasted blade, gives it a modern and industrial look.
The handle is ergonomically designed and fits comfortably in the hand, providing a secure grip. The Oblivion is user-friendly with a smooth assisted opening.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is built to last. The stainless steel and glass-filled nylon handle is resistant to wear and tear, and the 8Cr13MoV blade is tough enough to withstand regular use.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply clean the blade and handle after use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. With proper care, the Oblivion should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals comes with a reversible deep-carry pocketclip. This allows for comfortable and discreet carry in either the left or right pocket.
While there are no specific customization options offered directly by Kershaw for this model, the lanyard hole allows for the addition of a lanyard or fob. Also, the knife should be compatible with aftermarket pocket clips designed for Kershaw knives.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals
Pros
- Fast and reliable SpeedSafe assisted opening. This allows for quick, one-handed blade deployment.
- Durable and comfortable two-material handle. The handle provides a secure grip and adds to the knife’s unique aesthetic.
- Good edge retention from the 8Cr13MoV blade. This steel offers a good balance of toughness and ease of sharpening.
- Secure frame lock mechanism. The frame lock provides a solid lock-up, ensuring safety during use.
- Reversible pocket clip for ambidextrous carry. This allows for convenient and discreet carry for both left- and right-handed users.
Cons
- The stonewash finish on the handle can show scratches over time. Though aesthetic, it may bother some users.
- 8Cr13MoV steel requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels. It’s a trade-off between cost and edge retention.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals?
The Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is perfect for: everyday carry enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, tactical users, and anyone looking for a reliable and stylish folding knife at a reasonable price. It excels as a general-purpose knife for a wide range of tasks.
Those seeking a knife with premium steel and ultimate edge retention should skip this product. A must-have modification is a high-quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals
The Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals offers an excellent combination of style, functionality, and value. Its unique design, reliable assisted opening, and durable construction make it a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a new folding knife.
At a price of $41.99, the Oblivion is an outstanding value. I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Oblivion Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to anyone looking for a stylish, reliable, and affordable EDC knife. Grab yours today and experience the Oblivion!