Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife

The Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife is a new offering from Kershaw, a company renowned for producing quality knives at reasonable prices. This knife boasts assisted opening, a wide drop point blade with a recurve, and an ergonomic handle design. My initial interest was piqued by its description as an ideal work knife for the toolkit, hinting at a robust and practical design for everyday tasks.

I’ve been searching for a reliable EDC (Every Day Carry) knife that can withstand demanding tasks without breaking the bank. My current EDC blade, while functional, lacks the ergonomic grip and blade shape I need for certain cutting tasks. The promise of an assisted opening mechanism and a recurved blade specifically designed for difficult cuts made the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife a very appealing option.

Upon unboxing, the knife felt solid and well-balanced in hand. The handle texture immediately stood out as being particularly grippy. The assisted opening was snappy and decisive, giving the impression of a reliable tool ready for action.

I considered the CRKT M16-14SFG and the SOG Trident AT before settling on the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife. The CRKT, while robust, felt a bit bulky for EDC. The SOG, though feature-rich, was slightly above my desired price point. The Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife seemed to strike the perfect balance between functionality, durability, and affordability.

My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife presents as a well-designed and robust tool. I’m excited to put it through its paces and see if it lives up to its promise as an ideal work knife.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife involved a weekend camping trip in the local mountains. The knife was used for tasks ranging from preparing kindling for the campfire to food preparation and general camp chores. The recurved blade proved exceptionally useful for slicing through rope and shaping wood, demonstrating its intended functionality.

The weather during the trip was a mix of sunshine and light rain. Even with slightly damp hands, the textured handle provided a secure and confident grip. The assisted opening performed flawlessly, allowing for quick and easy deployment of the blade in all conditions. I was initially concerned about the recurve of the blade being difficult to sharpen, but that was not immediately apparent.

The knife felt comfortable in hand, and the ergonomics allowed for extended use without fatigue. The only minor issue I encountered was the placement of the pocket clip, which occasionally snagged on my clothing during active movement. Overall, the initial experience was overwhelmingly positive, with the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife performing admirably in a variety of outdoor tasks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife continues to impress. I’ve carried it daily, using it for everything from opening packages to more demanding tasks like cutting heavy-duty zip ties and breaking down cardboard boxes. The blade has retained its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel.

Despite the regular use, the knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The blade coating has held up well, with only a few minor scratches visible. The assisted opening mechanism remains as snappy and reliable as the day I unboxed it.

Maintaining the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after use is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a small amount of lubricating oil to the pivot point to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife has proven to be significantly more durable and reliable, consistently exceeding my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife

Specifications

The Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife features Kershaw’s Assisted Opening, enabling quick and easy one-handed blade deployment. Its wide drop point blade with a slight recurve enhances cutting power and versatility. The handle is ergonomically designed with a swooping texture for a secure grip.

The knife also has a reversible extra-deep-carry pocket clip, allowing for discreet carry. The price of the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife is $59.99. These specifications highlight the knife’s focus on practicality, ease of use, and affordability.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife excels at a wide range of cutting tasks. The assisted opening is fast and reliable, allowing for instant blade deployment when needed. The recurved blade provides excellent slicing power, making it ideal for tasks that require a clean, efficient cut.

The knife’s main strength lies in its balance of cutting performance and ease of carry. A potential weakness is that the recurve may require practice for new sharpeners. Overall, the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife meets and often exceeds expectations for an EDC work knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife is impressive for its price point. The materials used feel robust and durable, providing confidence in the knife’s long-term reliability. The handle design is particularly noteworthy, offering a comfortable and secure grip even in wet or slippery conditions.

The knife is exceptionally user-friendly, with no significant learning curve required. The assisted opening mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate, and the blade locks securely in place during use.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and quality materials, the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife is expected to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are recommended to maintain optimal performance. The knife’s simple design makes it relatively easy to disassemble and clean, ensuring long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife does not come with a wide array of accessories. The reversible pocket clip is included, allowing for left- or right-handed carry. Aftermarket accessories may include replacement pocket clips or custom handle scales, although the stock configuration is generally well-regarded.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife?

The Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife is perfect for individuals seeking a reliable and affordable EDC knife. This includes tradesmen, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing a robust tool for everyday tasks. It is also an excellent choice for those new to assisted opening knives, offering a user-friendly and practical design.

Those seeking a highly specialized knife for specific tactical applications might prefer a different model. Individuals who prioritize extremely lightweight knives might also consider alternative options. A sharpening system designed for recurved blades would be a must-have accessory for new users.

Conclusion on Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife

The Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife is a solid and dependable EDC knife that offers excellent value for its price. Its assisted opening mechanism, versatile blade shape, and ergonomic handle make it a practical choice for a wide range of users. The price is definitely justified.

I would absolutely recommend the Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC option. It’s a well-designed tool that delivers on its promise of performance and durability. Pick up a Kershaw 1645X Lateral Folding Knife today and experience the difference a quality knife can make!