Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife

The Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife presents an intriguing blend of utility and discreet design, immediately piquing my interest as a long-time knife enthusiast. Kershaw, a name synonymous with quality and innovation, has delivered something truly unique here: a manual, out-the-front (OTF) folder designed by Jens Ans. This knife promises to be an excellent EDC (Everyday Carry) option, particularly for those seeking a non-threatening tool that still packs a punch.

I was seeking a knife that could easily handle daily tasks like opening boxes and packages, but without the aggressive appearance that might make some people uncomfortable. The Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife’s spear point blade and smooth, sliding deployment seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Upon unboxing, the Kapsule feels surprisingly solid for its size and weight. The glass-filled nylon handle provides a comfortable grip, enhanced by unique texturing, and the stonewashed finish on the blade gives it a rugged, practical look. The blue anodizing on the slider is a nice touch, adding a subtle pop of color without being ostentatious. Compared to a traditional folding knife like a Benchmade Griptilian or a more tactical-oriented Gerber Strongarm, the Kapsule distinguishes itself through its unique opening mechanism and less intimidating appearance. I chose the Kapsule over these options primarily for its discreetness and its innovative OTF design. My first impression was one of pleasant surprise; I was excited to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for the Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife were everyday tasks around the house and in my workshop. I used it to open boxes, cut rope, and trim zip ties. The knife performed admirably, with the 8Cr13MoV steel blade providing a sharp, clean cut.

I also tested it during a weekend camping trip, where it came in handy for food preparation and general camp chores. Although I didn’t encounter any extreme conditions, the knife performed well in light rain. Deploying the blade with gloves on required a little extra effort, but it was still manageable. After the first use, I was impressed with its cutting ability and ease of carry.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and capable tool. The stonewashed finish on the blade has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear. The button lock remains secure, and the blade deployment is still smooth and consistent.

Maintaining the Kapsule has been simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. I’ve also applied a small amount of oil to the blade pivot and sliding mechanism to keep everything moving smoothly. Compared to other knives I’ve owned, the Kapsule requires very little maintenance. Its durable construction and reliable performance have certainly exceeded my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 1.9 inches. This compact blade length makes the Kapsule highly portable and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

• Closed Length: 3.25 inches. The closed length ensures it fits comfortably in a pocket without being cumbersome.

• Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV. This Chinese-made stainless steel offers a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.

• Serrated: Plain. The plain edge makes it versatile for a wide range of cutting tasks.

• Knife Application: Folding Blade. The folding design enhances portability and safety.

• Overall Length: 5 inches. The overall length provides a comfortable grip and sufficient cutting surface.

• Blade Shape: Spear Point. The spear point blade is ideal for piercing and detail work.

• Handle Material: Nylon. The nylon handle is lightweight, durable, and provides a secure grip.

• Blade Finish: Stonewashed. The stonewashed finish helps to hide scratches and wear, maintaining the knife’s appearance over time.

• Blade Thickness: 0.108 inches. This thickness provides a good balance of strength and cutting ability.

• Lock Type: Button Lock. The button lock is a secure and reliable mechanism for keeping the blade open.

• Blade Grind: Flat. The flat grind enhances slicing performance.

• Handle Color: Black. The black handle is discreet and professional-looking.

• Weight: 2 oz. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day.

• Opening Method: Manual opening. The manual OTF opening is smooth and reliable.

• Hand: Ambidextrous. The ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both right- and left-handed users.

• Handle Length: 3.25 inches. This length provides a comfortable and secure grip.

• Color: Black. The overall black color scheme enhances its discreet appearance.

These specifications combine to create a highly functional and portable knife. The choice of materials and design elements contribute to its overall performance and user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife performs admirably for its intended purpose as a utility and EDC knife. The 8Cr13MoV blade is sharp and holds an edge well enough for most everyday tasks. Its spear point design allows for precise cutting and piercing.

The OTF manual opening mechanism is smooth and reliable, requiring minimal effort to deploy the blade. While not as fast as an automatic OTF knife, the manual action is still quick and easy to use with one hand. The button lock provides a secure lockup, ensuring the blade stays in place during use. The Kapsule meets my expectations for a compact and discreet EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. The glass-filled nylon handle is lightweight yet durable, providing a comfortable and secure grip. The unique texturing on the handle further enhances grip, even in wet conditions.

The slim profile and lightweight design make it easy to carry in a pocket or on a belt without being intrusive. The ambidextrous design is a plus for both right- and left-handed users. There is a slight learning curve to the OTF manual opening mechanism, but it becomes intuitive with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife is built to last, thanks to its durable materials and solid construction. The 8Cr13MoV blade is resistant to corrosion and wear. The stonewashed finish helps to hide scratches and scuffs.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the blade pivot and sliding mechanism will keep it in top condition. With proper care, the Kapsule should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife doesn’t come with many accessories, focusing on simplicity and functionality straight out of the box. Aftermarket customization options are limited due to its unique OTF design; there are no readily available replacement scales or blades. However, you can potentially customize the carry clip or add a lanyard for personalized carry.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Kapsule Folding Knife