Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife

The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife immediately strikes you as a compact and capable everyday carry (EDC) tool. Manufactured by Kershaw, a name synonymous with quality and affordability, the Turismo boasts a stealthy black PVD-coated stainless steel handle and a gently curved blade, hinting at its versatility. I was drawn to the Turismo because I needed a low-profile knife that wouldn’t weigh me down during hikes but could still handle basic camp tasks and everyday cutting chores.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-built for its size. The stainless steel handle gives it a reassuring heft, and the black PVD coating provides a tactile grip. Compared to my larger, more robust folding knives like my Benchmade Griptilian or my Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Turismo is noticeably smaller and lighter, making it ideal for pocket carry. I chose the Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife over similarly sized options like the CRKT Squid because of its flipper opening mechanism and the overall aesthetic design of the handle.

My initial impression was positive – the knife felt like a solid value proposition from a trusted brand. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios.

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

First Use Experience

My first field test with the Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife occurred during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I primarily used it for tasks like preparing kindling for the campfire, cutting paracord, and opening food packages. The blade performed admirably, slicing through wood and rope with relative ease.

The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife handled well even with slightly damp hands; however, I didn’t encounter any extreme conditions like heavy rain. The flipper opening mechanism was smooth and reliable, allowing for quick deployment when needed. After the first day of use, I noticed no immediate issues or functional drawbacks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. The stainless steel handle shows minimal signs of wear, and the blade has retained its edge reasonably well with only occasional stropping. I typically use it for everyday tasks like opening boxes, cutting zip ties, and light food preparation.

The frame lock remains secure, and the flipper action hasn’t become loose or gritty. Cleaning the knife is simple: a quick rinse with water and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps it functioning smoothly. Compared to some of my higher-end knives with premium blade steels, the 8Cr13MoV steel of the Turismo requires more frequent sharpening, but the overall durability and reliability have been impressive for a knife in this price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife boasts a blade length of 2.9 inches, making it compact and easy to carry. This size is ideal for everyday tasks without being overly bulky.
• The closed length is 3.9 inches, further contributing to its pocket-friendly design. The overall length when open is 6.75 inches, providing a comfortable grip for most users.
• The blade material is 8Cr13MoV, a stainless steel known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. While not a premium steel, it offers excellent value for the price point.
• The handle is constructed from stainless steel with a black PVD coating for enhanced durability and a stealthy appearance. This material choice ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion.
• The blade thickness is 0.121 inches, providing a good balance between slicing ability and strength. The weight is a manageable 3.3 oz, making it comfortable for extended carry.
• Other specifications include a satin blade finish, a leaf-shaped blade, a frame lock mechanism for secure blade lockup, and a flipper opening method for quick and easy deployment. The custom backspacer with hexagon-shaped cutouts adds a touch of visual interest.

These specifications combine to deliver a practical and reliable folding knife suitable for a wide range of EDC tasks.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife performs admirably for its intended purpose: everyday cutting tasks. The blade’s gently curved belly provides excellent slicing power, making it suitable for opening boxes, preparing food, and cutting rope. The flipper opening mechanism is fast and reliable, allowing for one-handed deployment.

While the 8Cr13MoV steel requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels, it is relatively easy to sharpen and maintains an adequate edge for most tasks. The frame lock provides a secure lockup, ensuring safe use. The knife meets my expectations for a budget-friendly EDC option.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife‘s design prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The stainless steel handle provides a solid and comfortable grip, and the black PVD coating adds a touch of sophistication. The compact size and slim profile make it easy to carry in a pocket without being obtrusive.

The flipper tab is well-positioned for easy deployment, and the frame lock is easily accessible for closing the blade. There is virtually no learning curve; the knife is intuitive and user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife is built to last. The stainless steel handle and blade are resistant to corrosion, and the frame lock provides a secure and reliable locking mechanism. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Cleaning is straightforward: a quick rinse with water and a drop of oil on the pivot point are usually sufficient. Sharpening the blade is also relatively easy, thanks to the properties of 8Cr13MoV steel.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife does not come with many included accessories. However, due to its simple construction and the prevalence of aftermarket parts for Kershaw knives, some degree of customization is possible. Potential options include aftermarket pocket clips or lanyards.

Unfortunately, specific grips or scales are not readily available due to the integral stainless steel handle design. As for compatibility, any standard Kershaw pocket clip should work.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife?

The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable EDC knife. It’s an excellent choice for casual campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a practical cutting tool for everyday tasks. It would make an excellent first knife or backup knife.

Individuals who require a more heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks or those who prioritize premium blade steels may want to consider other options. Someone who wants to deeply customize their knife might also not enjoy it as much.

A small sharpening stone would be a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife

The Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife is an impressive budget-friendly EDC option. It delivers excellent performance, durability, and functionality at a very attractive price point. The price is absolutely justified.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this knife to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable everyday carry tool. Pick up a Kershaw Turismo Folding Knife today and experience the value for yourself!