First Impressions of Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo
The Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo isn’t just a knife; it’s a statement piece. Produced by Santa Fe Stoneworks, known for their exquisite handle inlays, paired with the dependable Kershaw Leek, this knife marries aesthetics with everyday functionality. The polychrome turquoise and Mother of Pearl handle immediately sets it apart, promising a blend of beauty and cutting-edge utility.
I was drawn to this knife because I needed a reliable everyday carry (EDC) option that was also visually appealing. My previous EDC knife, while functional, lacked any personality. I wanted something that reflected my appreciation for both craftsmanship and practicality.
The unboxing experience was impressive. The knife arrived in a well-presented box, highlighting the quality of the materials. The weight feels perfect in hand—substantial enough to feel secure, yet light enough for comfortable all-day carry. The polished steel of the frame lock and blade juxtaposes perfectly with the vibrant inlays.
Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian or Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo offers a distinct aesthetic. While the other two are purely functional, the Leek provides a touch of artistry. I ultimately chose this knife for its unique combination of practical design and artistic flair.
My initial impression was one of excited anticipation. The Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo appears to be a well-crafted knife that balances art and utility. It is something I’m eager to carry and use regularly.
Real-World Testing: Putting Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo during a weekend camping trip in the nearby mountains. The knife was used for various tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope, and opening packages. It was a good test of its practicality.
The knife performed admirably, even in the damp morning air. The blade held its edge well when slicing vegetables for dinner. The assisted opening mechanism proved to be quick and reliable.
The handle provided a secure grip, even with slightly wet hands. I appreciated the slim profile for comfortable pocket carry during hikes. No immediate issues arose, though I was initially hesitant to expose the inlaid handle to overly rough tasks.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo has held up remarkably well. There are only minor signs of wear on the pocket clip, but the blade and handle remain in excellent condition. The assisted opening is still snappy.
The blade’s edge retention is impressive, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain sharpness. Cleaning is simple with a quick wipe down after each use. The frame lock remains solid and secure.
Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo has surpassed my expectations in both aesthetics and functionality. It provides a level of refined style and reliable performance that I highly appreciate in an EDC knife. It’s held up better than I expected.
Breaking Down the Features of Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo
Specifications
The Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo features a 3-inch bead blast finish 14C28N Sandvik stainless steel blade. The closed length is 4 inches, making it easy to carry. The stainless-steel back handle is complemented by a polychrome turquoise and Mother of Pearl inlay, adding to its unique aesthetic.
- Blade Length: 3 inches. This length provides a good balance between utility and portability.
- Closed Length: 4 inches. The compact size is excellent for everyday carry.
- Blade Material: 14C28N Sandvik stainless steel. This steel offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- Lock Type: Framelock. This provides a secure and reliable blade lockup.
- Weight: 0.24 lb. The lightweight design ensures comfortable all-day carry.
- Additional Features: Assisted Opening, Lanyard Hole, Pocket Clip. These features enhance the knife’s functionality and convenience.
These specifications contribute to the knife’s overall performance and appeal. The choice of materials and thoughtful design elements makes the Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo a highly desirable EDC knife. The Sandvik steel is crucial for someone who doesn’t want to sharpen constantly.
Performance & Functionality
The Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo performs admirably in various tasks. The blade is sharp and capable of slicing through various materials with ease. The assisted opening mechanism is smooth and efficient, making it quick to deploy the blade with one hand.
The knife’s strengths lie in its ease of carry, quick deployment, and aesthetic appeal. One potential weakness is the inlaid handle, which might not be as durable as a solid-steel or G10 handle for very heavy use.
It meets and slightly exceeds my expectations. The knife’s overall performance is commendable, and the artistic handle makes it a joy to carry and use. It has become my go-to EDC.
Design & Ergonomics
The Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo features excellent build quality. The materials used are high-quality, and the craftsmanship is evident in the precise fit and finish. The knife is lightweight and comfortable in hand, thanks to the slim profile.
The design is user-friendly. The assisted opening and frame lock are easy to operate. The knife has a subtle learning curve, which means you don’t have to be an expert to start using it.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo should last for many years. The stainless-steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the frame lock is robust. The inlaid handle, while beautiful, requires some extra care to prevent scratches and damage.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the blade and pivot point will keep the knife in optimal condition. Sharpening the blade is also relatively easy, thanks to the properties of 14C28N Sandvik steel.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo comes with a pocket clip for convenient carry. There are limited customization options specific to this model due to the unique handle inlay. However, it is compatible with standard Kershaw Leek aftermarket parts such as replacement pocket clips.
Pros and Cons of Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock TurquoPros
- Unique and visually striking handle inlay. The polychrome turquoise and Mother of Pearl handle sets it apart from other knives.
- High-quality 14C28N Sandvik stainless steel blade. It offers a great balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- Assisted opening mechanism. Provides quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
- Slim and lightweight design. Makes it comfortable for everyday carry.
- Secure framelock. Ensures reliable blade lockup during use.
Cons
- Inlaid handle requires extra care. The delicate inlay may be prone to scratches or damage with rough use.
- Limited customization options. The unique handle limits aftermarket modifications.
Who Should Buy Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo?
Pros
- Unique and visually striking handle inlay. The polychrome turquoise and Mother of Pearl handle sets it apart from other knives.
- High-quality 14C28N Sandvik stainless steel blade. It offers a great balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- Assisted opening mechanism. Provides quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
- Slim and lightweight design. Makes it comfortable for everyday carry.
- Secure framelock. Ensures reliable blade lockup during use.
Cons
- Inlaid handle requires extra care. The delicate inlay may be prone to scratches or damage with rough use.
- Limited customization options. The unique handle limits aftermarket modifications.
The Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo is perfect for individuals who appreciate both functionality and aesthetics in their EDC knife. It is also well-suited for collectors. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and visually appealing tool.
Those who prioritize extreme durability above all else might want to consider a knife with a more rugged handle material, such as G10 or Micarta. Users who frequently engage in heavy-duty cutting tasks might find the inlaid handle less practical than a solid-steel handle.
A small sharpening stone or strop is a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A microfiber cloth for cleaning the blade and handle will also help preserve its appearance.
Conclusion on Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo
The Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo is a remarkable EDC knife that seamlessly blends art and utility. Its unique handle, combined with the reliable Kershaw Leek platform, makes it a standout choice.
The price is justified given the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the knife’s overall aesthetic appeal. The cost reflects the time and skill required to produce its unique artistic qualities.
I would highly recommend the Santa Fe Stoneworks Kershaw Leek Framelock Turquo to anyone seeking a stylish and functional EDC knife. It’s not just a tool; it’s a piece of art you can carry every day. Get yours today and experience the perfect blend of beauty and performance.