Kershaw Dividend Composite Black Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Dividend Composite Black

The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black is a sleek, lightweight pocketknife that promises both elegance and performance. Manufactured by Kershaw, a name synonymous with quality and innovation, this knife boasts a composite blade and a black anodized aluminum handle. What immediately drew me in was the promise of a high-performance blade in an incredibly slim and pocketable package.

For years, I’ve carried a variety of tactical and EDC knives, always searching for the perfect balance between utility and convenience. Many knives are either too bulky for comfortable everyday carry or lack the necessary cutting power for more demanding tasks. My goal was to find a knife that could handle everything from opening packages to more serious outdoor tasks without weighing me down or feeling cumbersome.

Upon unboxing, the Kershaw Dividend Composite Black impressed me with its streamlined design and feather-light feel. The blade arrived razor-sharp, and the assisted opening mechanism was smooth and responsive. Compared to my heavier, bulkier folders, the Dividend felt like a breath of fresh air. It’s significantly slimmer than my Benchmade Griptilian and lighter than my Spyderco Paramilitary 2, making it a far more appealing option for daily carry.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black seemed to offer the perfect combination of style, performance, and portability. I was eager to put it to the test and see how it would perform in real-world situations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Dividend Composite Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first took the Kershaw Dividend Composite Black on a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it primarily for food preparation, cutting rope, and whittling kindling. The knife performed admirably, easily slicing through vegetables, rope, and even small branches with minimal effort.

The wet conditions didn’t seem to affect the knife’s grip or performance. The anodized aluminum handle remained secure even with damp hands, and the blade’s edge held up well despite repeated use. The assisted opening was also reliable, even when the knife was slightly wet. However, I noticed that the slim profile, while great for carry, required a slightly more deliberate grip to maintain control during tougher cutting tasks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Dividend Composite Black has proven to be a reliable and capable EDC knife. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the blade or handle. The assisted opening mechanism remains smooth and consistent.

Cleaning and maintaining the Dividend is relatively easy. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use is usually sufficient. I also apply a drop of oil to the pivot point every few weeks to keep the action smooth. Compared to some of my other knives with more complex locking mechanisms, the Dividend is much simpler to clean and maintain.

In comparison to other knives I’ve used, the Kershaw Dividend Composite Black excels in its portability and ease of carry. While it might not be as robust as a dedicated survival knife, it offers a good balance of performance and convenience for everyday tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Dividend Composite Black

Specifications

• The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black features a 3-inch blade. The size is ideal for EDC, providing ample cutting surface without being overly bulky.
• It has a black anodized aluminum handle. The aluminum construction keeps the knife lightweight and provides a secure grip.
• The knife weighs a mere 0.16 lb (2.56 ounces). This lightweight design makes it incredibly comfortable to carry in a pocket all day long.
• The overall color of the knife is black. This gives it a sleek and tactical appearance.

These specifications are crucial to the knife’s overall performance. The lightweight design makes it ideal for everyday carry. The blade length provides sufficient cutting power without being cumbersome, and the aluminum handle offers a secure and comfortable grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black performs exceptionally well for its intended purpose as an EDC knife. The blade arrives razor-sharp and maintains its edge well with regular use. The assisted opening mechanism is fast and reliable, allowing for quick and easy deployment of the blade.

While the slim profile may not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks, it’s more than capable of handling most everyday cutting needs. One minor weakness is that the anodized aluminum, while durable, can be scratched with heavy use. Overall, the Kershaw Dividend Composite Black meets and often exceeds expectations for a lightweight EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black boasts a sleek and modern design. The black anodized aluminum handle is both stylish and functional. The knife feels comfortable in the hand, although those with larger hands might find the grip slightly small.

The assisted opening mechanism is smooth and intuitive, requiring minimal effort to deploy the blade. There’s virtually no learning curve, and the knife is easy to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black is built to last with proper care. The anodized aluminum handle is resistant to corrosion and wear, and the blade is made from quality steel. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure that the knife remains in excellent condition for years to come.

Maintaining the Dividend is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black comes with a pocket clip for convenient carry. There are not many readily available aftermarket accessories specifically designed for this particular model. The handle scale design is relatively unique, limiting customization options.

However, the knife is compatible with standard Kershaw replacement pocket clips if needed. The relatively simple design means that it’s easy to disassemble and clean, which may allow for some DIY modifications for experienced users.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Dividend Composite Black

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Dividend Composite Black?

The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black is perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight and stylish EDC knife. It’s ideal for office workers, students, and urban dwellers who need a reliable cutting tool for everyday tasks. Casual campers and hikers who prioritize portability will also appreciate this knife.

Those who need a heavy-duty work knife or a dedicated survival tool should skip this product. This knife is not designed for extreme use. A must-have accessory for this knife is a sharpening stone or honing steel to maintain the blade’s razor-sharp edge.

Conclusion on Kershaw Dividend Composite Black

The Kershaw Dividend Composite Black is a well-designed and highly functional EDC knife. Its lightweight design, razor-sharp blade, and assisted opening mechanism make it a joy to carry and use. While it may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks, it excels in its role as a convenient and reliable everyday tool.

The price of $135.99 is justified given the quality of materials and craftsmanship. I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Dividend Composite Black to anyone looking for a stylish and practical EDC knife.

If you’re looking for a high-quality, lightweight EDC knife that won’t weigh you down, the Kershaw Dividend Composite Black is an excellent choice. Buy yours today and experience the difference!