Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife

The Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife, manufactured by Kershaw, immediately strikes you as a no-nonsense, reliable everyday carry (EDC) tool. Its simple design, featuring a D2 steel blade and a textured glass-filled nylon handle, promises durability and functionality without unnecessary frills. I’ve always appreciated Kershaw’s ability to deliver quality at a reasonable price, and the Cargo seemed to fit that bill perfectly.

I was looking for a robust folding knife that could handle a variety of tasks, from opening packages to more demanding outdoor cutting chores. I needed something that felt secure in my hand, held a good edge, and wouldn’t break the bank.

Upon unboxing, the Kershaw Cargo felt solid and well-balanced. The handle texture provided a secure grip, and the blade opened smoothly with the thumb stud.

Compared to my Spyderco Tenacious, which is another popular EDC knife, the Cargo felt a bit more robust, though slightly heavier. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, the Kershaw Cargo offers a simpler, more utilitarian design and a significantly lower price point. Ultimately, I chose the Kershaw Cargo for its promising combination of durability, affordability, and practical design.

My first impression was positive, a pleasant surprise for a knife in this price range. I was eager to put it to the test.

Check Best Price HERE

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

First Use Experience

I took the Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest to really put it through its paces. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and whittling some tinder for the campfire.

Even in slightly damp conditions, the textured handle provided a reliable grip, preventing slippage. The Kershaw Cargo’s D2 steel blade proved sharp and effective, easily slicing through both natural and synthetic materials. The thumb stud deployment was smooth and consistent right out of the box, requiring no adjustment.

After my initial use, I was impressed with the knife’s performance. The blade did require a touch-up after the weekend.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife continues to perform admirably. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes at home to more demanding tasks like cutting zip ties and trimming small branches in my yard.

The blade shows minimal signs of wear, and the stonewashed finish effectively hides scratches. A little bit of oil keeps it going.

Compared to previous experiences with other EDC knives, the Kershaw Cargo has proven to be a reliable and durable workhorse. Its simplicity and robust construction make it a dependable tool for everyday tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.2 inches. This length provides a good balance between cutting power and portability for everyday carry.
• Closed Length: 4.3 inches. The compact closed length makes it easy to carry in a pocket without being cumbersome.
• Blade Material: D2 Steel. D2 steel offers excellent edge retention and good wear resistance, making it suitable for various cutting tasks.
• Designer: Kershaw Originals. This indicates the knife was designed in-house by Kershaw’s team, ensuring a design that aligns with their brand philosophy.
• Serrated: Plain. A plain edge is more versatile for general cutting tasks and easier to sharpen than a serrated edge.
• Knife Application: Folding Blade. The folding design makes it convenient and safe for everyday carry.
• Overall Length: 7.5 inches. The overall length provides ample reach and leverage for various cutting applications.
• Blade Shape: Clip Point. The clip point blade offers a fine point for piercing and detailed cutting tasks.
• Handle Material: GFN (Glass-Filled Nylon). GFN is a lightweight and durable material that provides a secure grip.
• Blade Finish: Stonewash. The stonewash finish helps to hide scratches and wear, maintaining the knife’s appearance over time.
• Blade Thickness: 0.125 inches. This thickness provides a good balance between cutting ability and blade strength.
• Sheath Material: No Sheath. As a folding knife, it relies on its pocket clip for carry, eliminating the need for a separate sheath.
• Handle Color: Black. The black handle provides a sleek and understated appearance.
• Weight: 2.3 oz. The lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry throughout the day.
• Opening Method: Thumb Stud. The thumb stud allows for easy one-handed opening of the blade.

These specifications combine to create a practical and reliable EDC knife. The choice of materials and design elements ensures a balance of durability, functionality, and ease of use.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife performs its intended function as an EDC knife exceptionally well. It’s a capable cutter, a reliable tool, and comfortable to use.

Its strengths lie in its sharp D2 steel blade, secure grip, and easy one-handed opening. The mid-lock design feels very secure.

The Kershaw Cargo meets and even exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range. It’s a testament to Kershaw’s commitment to quality and value.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with the glass-filled nylon handle providing a secure and comfortable grip. The knife feels solid in hand, inspiring confidence during use.

The design is user-friendly, with the thumb stud allowing for easy one-handed opening. There’s virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Cargo is built to last, thanks to its durable materials and solid construction. D2 steel, when properly maintained, will resist corrosion.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and sharpening. With reasonable care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife does not come with many accessories. It is ready to go out of the box.

Because of its simple design, there are not a lot of customization options. The deep-carry pocket clip is reversible for left or right hand carry.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Cargo Folding Knife