Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife

The Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife is a stylish and functional addition to the Kershaw lineup, promising sharp cutting performance and a sleek design. This knife immediately caught my eye due to its modified Wharncliffe blade shape, a personal favorite for utility tasks, and the promise of D2 tool steel, a material I’ve had positive experiences with in the past. The stealthy aesthetics also appealed to my preference for understated, tactical gear.

For years, I’ve struggled to find a box cutter that isn’t flimsy or unwieldy. My old folding knife was too bulky, and the replaceable blade utility knives felt cheap and disposable. The Flyby seemed to offer a sweet spot between these two extremes.

Upon unboxing, the Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife felt surprisingly solid for its size and price point. The gray PVD handle finish and Blackwash™ blade give it a modern, almost futuristic look. The assisted opening mechanism was smooth and snappy right out of the box, and the blade arrived impressively sharp.

Compared to my older Kershaw models and a couple of other EDC knives I own, the Flyby felt more refined in its design. I was initially drawn to the Kershaw Leek for its slim profile, but the Flyby’s Wharncliffe blade and frame lock felt more robust. Compared to a bulkier Benchmade Griptilian, the Flyby offers a more streamlined and pocket-friendly experience.

I was definitely excited. The Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife promised a combination of style, utility, and performance that seemed perfectly suited to my everyday carry needs.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife to the test during a weekend camping trip. The primary tasks involved opening packages of food, preparing kindling for the campfire, and some light rope cutting. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions.

The assisted opening made one-handed operation simple, even while wearing gloves. The blade shape proved ideal for precise cuts, allowing me to easily feather sticks for fire starting. No issues arose during this first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife has become a staple in my EDC rotation. It sees daily use for everything from opening mail and packages to more demanding tasks like cutting zip ties and shaping materials for DIY projects. The edge retention of the D2 steel has been impressive.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the blade and handle. The Blackwash™ finish seems to be quite durable, resisting scratches and scuffs. Cleaning is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth is usually sufficient, and occasional lubrication of the pivot point keeps the action smooth.

Compared to some of my previous EDC knives, the Flyby has exceeded my expectations for edge retention and overall durability. It feels more robust and reliable than other knives in a similar price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Steel: D2 Tool Steel. This high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel is known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance.
• Blade Shape: Modified Wharncliffe. The straight edge and angled spine provide exceptional control and precision for various cutting tasks, making it ideal for box cutting and detail work.
• Handle Material: Stainless Steel with Gray PVD Finish. Stainless steel provides durability and corrosion resistance, while the PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) coating enhances wear resistance and gives the handle a sleek, tactical appearance.
• Locking Mechanism: Frame Lock. A reliable and robust locking system where a portion of the handle itself engages the blade to secure it in the open position.
• Opening System: Assisted Opening. Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening system allows for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
• Overall Length: Information not provided in source.
• Blade Length: Information not provided in source.
• Weight: Information not provided in source.

These specifications translate to a knife that is well-suited for everyday carry and utility tasks. The D2 steel ensures that the blade stays sharp longer, reducing the need for frequent sharpening. The Wharncliffe blade shape excels at controlled cutting, and the frame lock provides a secure and reliable locking mechanism.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well, even after extended use on various materials. The assisted opening mechanism is smooth and reliable, allowing for quick and easy one-handed deployment.

The knife’s strengths lie in its precision cutting ability and ease of use. The Wharncliffe blade allows for controlled and accurate cuts, making it ideal for detailed work. The frame lock is robust and secure, providing confidence during use. The primary weakness is the lack of jimping on the spine. It would provide a more secure grip in demanding situations.

The Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife meets and even exceeds my expectations for an EDC utility knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife is impressive, especially considering its price point. The stainless steel handle feels solid and durable, and the gray PVD finish adds a touch of class. The weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to carry and use for extended periods.

The design is user-friendly. The frame lock is easy to operate with one hand, and the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip. There is a slight learning curve with any new knife, but the Flyby is relatively intuitive to use.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife seems like it will last a long time. The D2 steel blade is known for its durability and edge retention, and the stainless steel handle is resistant to corrosion. The overall build quality is solid, suggesting that it can withstand regular use and occasional abuse.

Maintenance is simple. Keeping the blade clean and lightly lubricated will help to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion. Sharpening the D2 steel blade may require specialized tools or professional services, but it is not necessary very often.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife comes with minimal accessories. It includes the knife itself. Some aftermarket pocket clips may fit, but due to the unique handle cutout, options are limited.

The knife is not really designed for extensive customization. The focus is on its out-of-the-box performance and streamlined design.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife?

The Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a stylish, reliable, and high-performing EDC knife. It is especially well-suited for:

• Everyday Carry (EDC) Enthusiasts
• Utility Workers
• DIYers
• Anyone needing a precise cutting tool

Those who prioritize extensive customization options or require a heavy-duty knife for extreme conditions might want to skip this product.

A must-have “accessory” is a good sharpening system, specifically designed for tougher steels like D2.

Conclusion on Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife

The Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife is a fantastic EDC option that delivers exceptional performance, stylish design, and solid build quality at an affordable price. The D2 steel blade, modified Wharncliffe shape, and assisted opening mechanism make it a joy to use for a variety of tasks. While it lacks extensive customization options and jimping, these are minor drawbacks compared to its overall strengths.

At a price of $61.79, the Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife offers excellent value for money. The quality of materials and craftsmanship justify the price tag.

I would absolutely recommend the Kershaw 1404 Flyby Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and stylish EDC knife that won’t break the bank. It’s a winner. Add it to your cart today.