First Impressions of Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is more than just a pocketknife; it’s a statement. For years, I’ve trusted Kershaw for their reliability and innovative designs, particularly those from the legendary Ken Onion. The promise of a sleek, assisted-opening knife in a striking jewel-tone purple immediately caught my eye.
As a gear specialist, I’m always searching for tools that blend functionality with a touch of personality. My weathered hands have seen countless tactical knives, but I’ve been on the hunt for an EDC (Everyday Carry) blade that’s less “operator” and more refined. This purple Leek seemed like the perfect candidate to fill that void.
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion arrived in a simple box. The first thing I noticed was the anodized aluminum handle; it felt smooth and surprisingly lightweight. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism engaged with a satisfying snap, bringing the Sandvik 14C28N blade to life.
Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, which is a workhorse of a knife, the Leek is significantly slimmer and lighter. It’s also far less intimidating in appearance than my Cold Steel Recon 1. I chose the Leek because I needed a stylish, non-threatening EDC option with a reliable blade and assisted opening.
My first impression of the Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion was excitement. I was eager to put this eye-catching blade through its paces and see if it could live up to the Kershaw name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion was a weekend camping trip in the Ozark Mountains. I used it primarily for food preparation, such as slicing vegetables and opening packages. The modified drop-point blade proved to be incredibly versatile for detailed cutting tasks.
The weather was damp, with occasional light rain. The anodized aluminum handle provided a secure grip even when slightly wet. The SpeedSafe assisted opening was a godsend when I needed to quickly deploy the blade with one hand.
The only initial issue I noticed was that the slim profile, while great for pocket carry, made for a slightly less secure grip when applying significant force. I quickly adapted my grip to compensate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes and letters to more demanding tasks like cutting rope and shaping kindling. The blade has held its edge impressively well.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the handle. The purple anodizing has resisted scratches and fading, maintaining its vibrant color. The blade, with its bead-blasted finish, shows some minor scuffs, but they blend in well and don’t detract from the overall appearance.
Maintaining the Leek is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after use keeps the blade clean and prevents corrosion. The assisted-opening mechanism has remained smooth and reliable with occasional lubrication. This outperforms my previous EDC knife, a Gerber Paraframe, in terms of both edge retention and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Specifications
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion boasts impressive specifications for an EDC knife. The blade length is 3 inches, making it legal for carry in most jurisdictions. The closed length is 4 inches, which is excellent for comfortable pocket carry.
The blade material is Sandvik 14C28N high-performance stainless steel, known for its excellent balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. The handle is constructed from 6061-T6 anodized aluminum, which offers a lightweight yet durable grip. Other key specs include an overall length of 7 inches, a bead blast finish on both the blade and handle, a drop point blade shape, and a liner lock. The pocket clip is reversible, and a lanyard slot is included for added carry options.
These specifications translate to a knife that is both capable and convenient. The blade steel holds a good edge, while the aluminum handle keeps the weight down. The reversible clip and lanyard slot add to the versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion excels at everyday cutting tasks. The blade’s sharp edge and slim profile make it ideal for slicing, piercing, and detail work. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is incredibly fast and reliable, allowing for effortless one-handed deployment.
Its strengths lie in its portability, ease of use, and cutting performance. The main weakness is that the slim handle may not be ideal for users with larger hands or those who require a more substantial grip for heavy-duty tasks. The knife meets expectations as a high-quality EDC blade.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion features a sleek and modern design. The purple anodized aluminum handle is not only visually appealing but also comfortable to hold. The knife weighs very little, making it virtually disappear in your pocket.
The knife is user-friendly, with a smooth and reliable SpeedSafe opening mechanism. There is virtually no learning curve; even novice knife users will find it easy to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is built to last. The Sandvik 14C28N blade is resistant to corrosion and holds its edge well. The anodized aluminum handle is scratch and fade-resistant.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The knife is also relatively easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning and sharpening.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes standard with a reversible pocket clip. There aren’t many aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Leek, but its design lends itself well to lanyard attachments. Some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a custom aftermarket option.
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is compatible with universal knife sharpeners and lubricants. This ensures you can maintain its performance with readily available products.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Pros
- Stylish jewel-tone purple anodized aluminum handle. Makes it a visually appealing and unique EDC knife.
- Razor-sharp Sandvik 14C28N blade. Known for excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- SpeedSafe assisted opening. Provides fast and reliable one-handed blade deployment.
- Slim and lightweight design. Excellent for comfortable pocket carry without adding bulk.
- Reversible pocket clip and lanyard hole. Offers versatile carry options.
Cons
- Slim handle may not be ideal for users with large hands or heavy-duty tasks.
- Bead blast finish on the blade is prone to showing minor scratches over time.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for anyone seeking a stylish, reliable, and lightweight EDC knife. It is an excellent choice for urban professionals, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a touch of color in their everyday gear. The knife is perfect for light to medium-duty tasks.
Those who require a larger, more robust knife for demanding tasks like heavy cutting or prying should skip this product. Also, users with exceptionally large hands might find the handle too slim for a comfortable and secure grip.
A must-have accessory is a quality knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s razor-sharp edge. Regular lubrication of the assisted-opening mechanism is also recommended to ensure smooth and reliable operation.
Conclusion on Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a standout EDC knife that perfectly balances style and functionality. Its sharp blade, reliable assisted opening, and striking purple handle make it a joy to use and carry. The Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a testament to Kershaw’s commitment to quality and innovation.
The price of $85.89 is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and performance. The blade steel, assisted-opening mechanism, and anodized handle all contribute to its overall value.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kershaw Leek Purple Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish EDC blade. Elevate your everyday carry with this exceptional knife; you won’t be disappointed.