First Impressions of Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife
The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife arrives as a solid contender in the everyday carry (EDC) and work knife market. Offered by Kershaw, a brand known for blending quality and affordability, the Lateral aims to be a reliable tool without breaking the bank. Its assisted opening, partially serrated blade, and ergonomic handle texture immediately suggest a focus on practical utility and ease of use.
I needed a new EDC knife that could handle both mundane tasks and more demanding situations. My old knife’s locking mechanism had become unreliable, and I wanted something with a bit more versatility, specifically the added cutting power of a serrated edge.
Unboxing the Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife, I was immediately struck by its all-black aesthetic. The knife felt sturdy and well-balanced in my hand, with a reassuring weight that didn’t feel overly bulky. The assisted opening was snappy and smooth, and the handle texture provided a secure grip.
Compared to my old Gerber Paraframe and a CRKT M16-01S that I’ve used, the Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife seemed like a good middle-ground. I was choosing it for its balance of features, reputation for durability, and the appeal of Kershaw’s assisted opening mechanism, which the others lacked.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed like a well-designed, practical knife, but the real test would be how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I primarily tested the Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife during a week-long camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. This allowed me to use it for a variety of tasks, from food preparation and cutting rope to light wood processing for kindling.
The knife performed admirably in diverse conditions. The assisted opening was particularly useful when I needed to quickly deploy the blade with one hand, such as when managing a campfire in the rain. There were no surprises or issues after the first few uses; it just worked as expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife has proven to be a dependable tool. The black coating on the blade has shown some minor wear around the edges, but the blade itself remains sharp and functional.
Maintenance has been simple. I clean the blade with a damp cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point every few weeks to keep the action smooth. Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife feels significantly more robust and the blade holds its edge much longer.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife
Specifications
The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife boasts several key specifications. Its wide, drop-point blade features a slight recurve and a partially serrated edge, offering versatility for various cutting tasks. The assisted opening ensures quick and easy deployment.
These specifications translate to a practical and efficient tool for a variety of situations. The partially serrated edge excels at cutting tougher materials like rope and webbing, while the drop-point blade is suitable for finer tasks. The assisted opening provides a significant advantage in situations where quick blade deployment is necessary.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife performs its intended job very well. The blade is sharp and holds an edge, the assisted opening is reliable, and the handle provides a secure and comfortable grip.
The main strength is its versatility. The partially serrated blade makes quick work of rope and other fibrous materials, while the plain edge section is great for finer cutting tasks. The only weakness I’ve noticed is that the tip of the blade, due to its drop point design, isn’t ideal for precision piercing.
Overall, the Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife meets and even slightly exceeds my expectations. The balance of features and solid construction make it a great value for the price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife features an all-black design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The handle is made of a textured polymer that provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
The knife feels well-balanced in the hand, and the swooping handle design fits naturally in the palm. There is essentially no learning curve to it; the assisted opening is intuitive, and the blade locks securely in place.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife appears to be built to last. The blade is made of a durable steel that holds an edge well, and the handle is constructed from a tough polymer that can withstand considerable abuse.
Maintenance is straightforward; the blade is easy to clean, and a few drops of oil on the pivot point will keep the action smooth. The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife should provide many years of reliable service with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife comes with a reversible, extra-deep-carry pocket clip. This allows for discreet and comfortable carry.
While there are no factory customization options, the standard Kershaw design allows for aftermarket pocket clips to be installed.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife
Pros
- Assisted opening for rapid blade deployment. Provides quick and effortless one-handed operation.
- Partially serrated blade enhances cutting versatility. Allows easy cutting of rope and tough materials.
- Ergonomic handle texture provides a secure grip. Ensures comfortable and confident handling in all conditions.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance. Built to withstand demanding use.
- Affordable price point represents excellent value. Provides high quality without breaking the bank.
Cons
- Black coating on the blade is prone to scratching. Shows cosmetic wear over time.
- Drop point blade tip not ideal for precision piercing. Limited for very fine, detailed work.
Who Should Buy Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife?
The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife is perfect for individuals who need a reliable and versatile EDC knife. This includes construction workers, first responders, outdoorsmen, and anyone who values a dependable cutting tool for everyday tasks.
Those who require a specialized knife for intricate tasks, such as surgical procedures or detailed carving, might want to skip this product. Additionally, if aesthetics are a primary concern, the coating wear might be a turn-off.
A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone or system to maintain the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife
The Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife is a solid and dependable tool that offers excellent value for its price. Its assisted opening, partially serrated blade, and ergonomic handle make it a versatile and user-friendly option for a variety of tasks.
The price is certainly justified. It offers comparable features and durability to knives costing significantly more.
I would absolutely recommend the Kershaw 1645BLKST Lateral Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable EDC or work knife. If you need a dependable cutting tool that won’t break the bank, this is a fantastic choice. Go get one!