Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

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

The Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a mid-sized, all-steel pocketknife designed for everyday carry and light to medium-duty tasks. From the renowned Kershaw Originals line, this knife features a distinctive reverse tanto blade with a strong belly curve, offering both piercing power and slicing efficiency. What immediately caught my attention was the “sharky” look, combined with the practical functionality expected from a Kershaw knife.

I needed a reliable, compact knife that could handle daily tasks without being overly bulky. My old pocketknife, a generic gas station find, had a wobbly blade and was constantly dulling. I wanted something more durable and with better edge retention, leading me to explore Kershaw’s offerings.

Unboxing the Kershaw Gravel, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the all-steel construction and the smooth BlackWash finish. The assisted opening mechanism felt snappy and secure, a major upgrade from my previous knife. The deep-carry pocket clip was another welcome addition, promising discreet and comfortable carry.

I considered the Kershaw Leek and the Kershaw Blur, both popular EDC options. Ultimately, the Gravel’s unique blade shape and all-steel construction appealed to me more than the Leek’s slender profile or the Blur’s aluminum handle. I was also drawn to the frame lock, which I prefer over liner locks for its added security.

My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of a durable, stylish, and functional EDC knife. The Kershaw Gravel seemed to strike a perfect balance between form and function, and I was eager to put it to the test. Would it live up to the Kershaw reputation for quality and value?

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

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals during a weekend camping trip in the local state park. The weather was damp and humid, providing a good test of the knife’s grip and rust resistance. I used it for a variety of tasks, from preparing kindling for the campfire to cutting paracord and opening food packages.

The Kershaw Gravel performed admirably in the less-than-ideal conditions. The BlackWash finish provided a surprisingly secure grip, even with damp hands. The assisted opening mechanism worked flawlessly every time, allowing for quick and easy one-handed deployment.

I didn’t need much time to get accustomed to the knife. The contoured handle felt comfortable in my hand, and the frame lock was easy to operate with one hand. My only initial concern was the blade’s “sharky” profile, which felt a bit aggressive for some of the more delicate tasks.

There were no immediate issues after the first use. The blade remained sharp, and the frame lock felt solid and secure. The deep-carry pocket clip kept the knife securely in my pocket without being overly noticeable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes and letters to more demanding tasks like whittling wood and cutting rope. The knife has held up exceptionally well.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear after months of use. The BlackWash finish has effectively concealed any minor scratches or scuffs. The blade still feels solid, and the frame lock remains tight and secure.

Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe the blade clean after each use and occasionally apply a small amount of lubricating oil to the pivot point to maintain smooth action. The Kershaw Gravel is significantly easier to maintain than my previous knives, which required frequent sharpening and rust removal.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Kershaw Gravel has exceeded my expectations. It’s more durable, sharper, and easier to maintain. The assisted opening mechanism and deep-carry pocket clip are also major improvements.

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

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) – This compact blade length makes it ideal for EDC while still being substantial enough for most tasks. The smaller blade ensures that the knife is convenient to carry and use in various situations.
• Blade Steel: 8Cr13MoV – This Chinese-made stainless steel offers a good balance of edge retention, hardness, and corrosion resistance. This steel is widely used in budget and mid-range knives, making it a reliable choice for everyday use.
• Blade Finish/Coating: Black-oxide BlackWash™ finish – This finish provides a durable, non-reflective coating that helps protect the blade from rust and wear. The BlackWash finish also gives the knife a stylish, worn look.
• Closed Length: 3.5 inches (8.9 cm) – The compact closed length ensures comfortable pocket carry. This small form factor makes it an unobtrusive addition to your daily carry.
• Handle Material: Stainless steel – The stainless steel handle provides excellent durability and a solid feel. The handle contributes to the knife’s overall robustness and longevity.
• Handle Finish/Coating: Black-oxide BlackWash™ finish – Matching the blade, this finish provides a non-reflective, durable surface. The consistent finish enhances both the aesthetic appeal and the grip.
• Overall Length: 5.8 inches (15 cm) – This length provides a good balance between compactness and usability. The overall size makes it versatile for a range of cutting tasks.
• Weight: 2.7 oz. (78 g) – This lightweight design makes it comfortable for everyday carry without adding unnecessary bulk. The light weight ensures that it won’t weigh you down during extended use.
• Opening Action: Assisted SpeedSafe® – Kershaw’s SpeedSafe® assisted opening provides quick and easy one-handed deployment. This feature allows for rapid access to the blade in any situation.
• Lock Type: Frame lock – The frame lock offers a strong and secure blade lockup. This lock type is known for its reliability and ease of use.
• Pocketclip: Reversible deep-carry (right/left tip-up) – The reversible pocketclip allows for convenient carry on either side, with a deep-carry design that keeps the knife discreet. This feature offers versatility for different carry preferences.

These specifications are important because they contribute to the knife’s overall performance and usability. The steel quality ensures durability, while the assisted opening and frame lock provide secure and easy operation.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals excels in its intended role as an EDC knife. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. The assisted opening mechanism is smooth and reliable, allowing for quick one-handed deployment.

Its strengths include its durable construction, sharp blade, reliable assisted opening, and comfortable handle. The blade’s unique shape can be a slight weakness for some tasks that require a more traditional blade. The aggressive point and belly curve make precision cutting slightly more challenging.

The Kershaw Gravel exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range. It offers features and performance comparable to more expensive knives.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Gravel’s all-steel construction gives it a solid and durable feel. The BlackWash finish provides a non-reflective surface and enhances the grip. The contoured handle fits comfortably in the hand, even during extended use.

The knife is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive design. The assisted opening mechanism and frame lock are easy to operate with one hand. There is no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Gravel is built to last. Its all-steel construction and durable finish ensure it can withstand daily use. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication will keep it in top condition for years.

The knife is easy to maintain and repair. The simple design makes it easy to disassemble and clean. Replacement parts are readily available if needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals comes with a reversible deep-carry pocket clip. There are no other included accessories. Customization options are limited due to the knife’s all-steel construction.

Aftermarket pocket clips might be an option. However, the frame lock mechanism doesn’t readily allow for extensive modifications. The knife is designed to be functional and durable as is, rather than highly customizable.

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

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

The Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is perfect for everyday carry users, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable pocketknife. It is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a stylish design and a secure frame lock. It will appeal to those looking for value.

Those who need a knife for specialized tasks requiring a more traditional blade shape might want to consider other options. Someone looking for extensive customization options should also skip this product.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality lubricating oil to maintain the smooth action of the assisted opening mechanism.

Conclusion on Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Gravel Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a well-built, reliable, and stylish EDC knife that offers exceptional value. Its all-steel construction, assisted opening, and secure frame lock make it a standout choice in its price range.

The price is absolutely justified by the quality and performance of the knife. It offers features and durability comparable to more expensive knives.

I would highly recommend the Kershaw Gravel to anyone looking for a dependable EDC knife that won’t break the bank. If you want a stylish, durable, and functional pocketknife, the Kershaw Gravel is an excellent choice. Add it to your cart today!