Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

Let’s Talk About Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a compact, budget-friendly knife designed for everyday carry. Made by Kershaw, a company known for its quality and innovation, the Diode boasts a 3Cr13 blade, glass-filled nylon handle, and a unique backspacer that doubles as a screwdriver. What initially drew me to the Kershaw Diode was my constant need for a small, unobtrusive tool that could handle basic tasks without weighing me down. I was tired of lugging around larger knives for simple cutting jobs.

My search criteria included a lightweight design, a reliable blade, and a price point that wouldn’t break the bank. The Kershaw Diode seemed to tick all those boxes. The Diode arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was that it was even smaller and lighter than I had anticipated. The textured glass-filled nylon handle felt surprisingly solid for such a compact knife.

I considered the CRKT Pilar and the Ontario Rat II before settling on the Kershaw Diode. While the Pilar had a more robust feel and a premium steel option, its price point was higher. The Rat II, although a great knife, was slightly larger than I wanted for a keychain or pocket carry. I was definitely excited about the potential of the Kershaw Diode as a convenient and practical everyday tool.

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

First Use Experience

I first put the Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to use on a weekend camping trip. I used it for tasks like opening food packages, cutting rope, and preparing kindling. The Diode handled these tasks surprisingly well, despite its small size.

While the blade isn’t designed for heavy-duty work, it proved more than adequate for everyday tasks. It was a little awkward to use while wearing gloves, but that’s to be expected given its compact size. After the first use, I noticed that the liner lock was a little stiff, but it smoothed out with use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals has held up admirably. The blade remains relatively sharp, even after cutting through cardboard and other abrasive materials. There are no signs of rust or corrosion, despite occasional exposure to moisture.

The glass-filled nylon handle shows no signs of wear and tear, and the liner lock remains secure. Cleaning is easy; I simply wipe the blade with a cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point occasionally. Compared to some of my more expensive knives, the Diode requires minimal maintenance. It definitely outperforms other budget knives I’ve owned in terms of durability and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Specifications

• Blade Length: The 1.6-inch blade is compact, making it ideal for small tasks and easy carry. This length is perfect for everyday carry and compliance with strict legal requirements.
• Blade Steel: The 3Cr13 blade steel is a budget-friendly option known for its corrosion resistance. While not the hardest steel, it sharpens easily and is suitable for general use.
• Blade Finish: The bead-blasted finish provides a matte appearance and helps to hide scratches. This finish also reduces glare, making it a practical choice for outdoor use.
• Closed Length: At 2.9 inches closed, the Diode is incredibly compact and pocket-friendly. Its minimal size makes it easy to carry in a pocket, on a keychain, or in a small bag.
• Handle Material: The glass-filled nylon handle is durable and lightweight. This material provides a good grip, even in wet conditions.
• Overall Length: The 4.5-inch overall length makes the Diode easy to maneuver and control. This size is manageable for a variety of tasks.
• Weight: Weighing in at only 1.1 ounces, the Diode is incredibly lightweight. Its featherweight design makes it barely noticeable when carried.
• Lock Type: The liner lock provides a secure and reliable blade lockup. This lock mechanism is simple and easy to operate.
• Opening Method: The manual opening with a nail nick is simple and reliable. This method keeps the design clean and uncluttered.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals performs admirably for its intended purpose as a small, everyday carry knife. It’s perfect for opening packages, cutting string, and other light-duty tasks. The blade holds an edge reasonably well, though it does require occasional sharpening with regular use.

The Diode’s strengths lie in its portability and ease of use. Its compact size and lightweight design make it a great choice for anyone who wants a knife that won’t weigh them down. The main weakness is the blade steel; it’s not as durable as higher-end steels and will require more frequent sharpening. Overall, the Diode meets expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals features a simple, yet functional design. The glass-filled nylon handle is textured to provide a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The knife feels surprisingly comfortable in the hand, despite its small size.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the nail nick opening, but it becomes second nature after a few uses. The liner lock is easy to disengage with one hand. The design is undeniably user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction and materials, the Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals should last for years with proper care. The 3Cr13 blade steel is corrosion-resistant, and the glass-filled nylon handle is extremely durable. Maintenance is simple; just wipe the blade clean after use and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point occasionally.

Repairing the Diode would likely involve replacing the entire knife, as spare parts are not readily available. The simple design contributes to its overall reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals doesn’t come with a lot of extras, focusing on a minimalist approach. It does feature an oversized lanyard hole in the backspacer that doubles as a slotted screwdriver. There aren’t many customization options available for the Diode.

The lanyard hole could be used to attach a small length of paracord or a keychain. The Diode isn’t really designed to be heavily customized, but rather to be a reliable, low-profile tool.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals?

The Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is perfect for anyone looking for a compact, affordable, and reliable everyday carry knife. It’s ideal for students, office workers, and anyone who needs a small tool for basic tasks. Casual campers and hikers who want a lightweight backup knife would also find the Diode useful.

This product isn’t ideal for those who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks. Users with large hands may also find the Diode too small to comfortably use. A small length of paracord attached to the lanyard hole would be a useful addition.

Conclusion on Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Overall, the Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a solid choice for anyone seeking a small, lightweight, and affordable everyday carry knife. While it’s not designed for heavy-duty tasks, it performs admirably for its intended purpose. The price is definitely justified, given the quality of materials and construction.

I would definitely recommend the Diode to anyone looking for a budget-friendly EDC option. If you need a reliable and unobtrusive knife for everyday tasks, the Kershaw Diode Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a great choice. Add it to your cart today and experience the convenience of having a capable tool always within reach!