Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife

The Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife is a sleek, all-black rendition of a classic EDC blade, brought to us by Kershaw. Known for their quality and affordability, Kershaw knives often find their way into the pockets of both seasoned outdoorsmen and everyday users. This particular model boasts a durable PVD coating and a trailing point blade, promising solid performance and a discreet aesthetic. I was looking for a reliable and low-profile knife to add to my everyday carry, something that wouldn’t attract unwanted attention but could handle a variety of tasks.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the knife’s weight and solid feel. The all-black PVD coating gives it a stealthy, almost tactical look, while the stainless steel handle provides a reassuring heft. I was immediately impressed with the fit and finish; the blade was centered, the lockup was solid, and the SpeedSafe assisted opening felt smooth and responsive.

I considered the CRKT Squid and the Ontario RAT Model 2 as alternatives. The Squid is smaller and more compact, but I wanted something with a bit more blade length. The RAT Model 2 is a workhorse, but I preferred the slimmer profile and assisted opening of the Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife. My initial impression is one of quiet confidence; this knife seems ready to work hard and look good doing it.

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

First Use Experience

I first put the Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife to the test during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I used it for various camp chores, including preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling kindling. The knife performed admirably, with the trailing point blade proving particularly useful for slicing and detailed cutting tasks.

The 8Cr13MoV steel held its edge well through repeated use, even after processing some moderately hard wood. The conditions were dry and mild, and the knife handled everything with ease. The SpeedSafe opening was quick and reliable, even with slightly damp hands, allowing for rapid deployment when needed.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife has proven to be a dependable EDC tool. The PVD coating shows minimal signs of wear, even after being carried in my pocket alongside keys and other everyday items. The blade steel has maintained its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to keep it razor-sharp.

Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point are all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to some of my other knives with more exotic steels and complex locking mechanisms, the Kershaw Outright is refreshingly low-maintenance. It consistently outperforms my expectations for a knife in this price range, offering a blend of solid performance and robust reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife

Specifications

• The Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife features a 3-inch blade crafted from 8Cr13MoV steel. This steel offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The overall length is 7.1 inches, with a closed length of 4.4 inches, making it a comfortable size for everyday carry. The handle is made of stainless steel with a black PVD coating, providing a secure grip and a discreet look.
• It weighs 4 ounces, offering a substantial feel without being overly bulky in the pocket. The blade thickness is 0.11 inches, contributing to its slicing ability while maintaining reasonable strength.
• The blade shape is a trailing point, ideal for slicing and general-purpose cutting tasks. It features a frame lock mechanism for secure blade lockup and utilizes Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening system with a flipper.

These specifications translate to a knife that’s well-suited for a variety of EDC tasks. The steel is easy to sharpen, the size is convenient for carry, and the design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife performs its job exceptionally well, providing a reliable cutting tool for everyday tasks. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is fast and positive, allowing for quick one-handed deployment. The trailing point blade excels at slicing, making it useful for everything from opening packages to preparing food.

The frame lock provides a secure and confident lockup, eliminating any blade play during use. The knife is comfortable to hold and use for extended periods, thanks to its well-designed handle. While it’s not designed for heavy-duty tasks like batoning wood, it handles general cutting chores with ease.

Design & Ergonomics

The all-black design of the Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife gives it a sleek and understated appearance. The stainless steel handle provides a solid and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The knife feels well-balanced in the hand, contributing to its overall usability.

There’s a slight learning curve associated with the frame lock, but it becomes second nature after a few uses. The flipper tab is well-positioned and easy to access, making the SpeedSafe assisted opening system reliable and intuitive. The knife is slim enough to carry comfortably in a pocket without being too bulky or intrusive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife is built to last, with a robust stainless steel frame and a durable PVD coating. The 8Cr13MoV blade steel is relatively easy to sharpen and maintains its edge well with regular stropping. The knife is simple to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance, requiring only a few basic tools.

With proper care, the Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife should provide years of reliable service. The stainless steel construction and PVD coating offer excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for use in a variety of environments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife does not come with a plethora of accessories, focusing instead on delivering a solid knife right out of the box. There aren’t many direct aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this model, but standard pocket clips can be replaced if desired. Some users may choose to replace the screws with titanium hardware for added durability and a customized look.

The knife is compatible with various aftermarket sharpening systems, allowing users to maintain the blade’s edge to their preferred level of sharpness. The simplicity of the design minimizes the need for extensive customization, as it performs admirably in its stock configuration.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife?

The Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. It’s well-suited for:

• Everyday users who need a practical cutting tool for various tasks.
• Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a lightweight and durable knife for camping and hiking.
• Tactical users who appreciate the discreet all-black design.

Those who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks, or those who prefer premium blade steels, may want to consider other options. A must-have accessory would be a quality sharpening stone or system to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife

The Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife is a solid performer that offers excellent value for the money. Its sleek design, reliable SpeedSafe assisted opening, and durable construction make it a dependable EDC tool. The price is certainly justified for the features and performance offered.

I would absolutely recommend the Kershaw Outright Black Folding Knife to anyone looking for an affordable and practical everyday carry option. It’s a well-rounded knife that’s sure to impress with its performance and value. Add this knife to your pocket and experience the difference a quality EDC blade can make.