Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife immediately strikes you as a no-nonsense tool ready to tackle demanding tasks. Manufactured by Kershaw, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the knife world, the Analyst offers a tanto blade, SpeedSafe assisted opening, and a BlackWash finish for a blend of practicality and aesthetics. I was on the hunt for a reliable EDC (Every Day Carry) knife that could handle both the mundane and the unexpected, and the Analyst seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

My search began with a need for a more robust knife to replace my aging, flimsy folder. I frequently find myself needing a knife for tasks ranging from opening packages to cutting rope on camping trips, and my previous knife simply wasn’t up to the task. I was specifically looking for a blade with a strong tip for piercing and a partially serrated edge for sawing, making the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife’s tanto combo edge particularly appealing.

Upon unboxing the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife, I was immediately impressed by its solid feel. The glass-filled nylon handle provides a secure grip, and the weight feels substantial without being cumbersome. The BlackWash finish on the blade gives it a worn-in, rugged look that I appreciate, and the SpeedSafe assisted opening is smooth and responsive.

I considered other options like the CRKT M21-04G and the SOG Trident AT, both popular tactical folders. However, the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife stood out due to its combination of blade shape, assisted opening, and Kershaw’s reputation for quality, all at a reasonable price point. It felt like the best balance of features and value for my needs.

My first impression of the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife was one of excitement and anticipation. It felt like a well-built, capable tool that would serve me well in a variety of situations. I was eager to put it to the test and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

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

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the local mountains. This provided a diverse environment to assess its cutting ability on various materials. The trip involved setting up camp, preparing food, and general camp maintenance, offering ample opportunity to evaluate the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife’s performance.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife handled these tasks with ease, even in damp conditions. The glass-filled nylon handle provided a secure grip even when wet, and the serrated portion of the blade made quick work of cutting through thick rope. The tanto tip proved useful for piercing packaging and making precise cuts.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife deployed quickly and reliably thanks to the SpeedSafe assisted opening. It required very little practice to get used to the action. I encountered no initial issues and was immediately impressed with its performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes and letters at home to more demanding tasks like cutting zip ties and shaping wood during home improvement projects. The blade is still very sharp after a few months of use.

Despite frequent use, the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The BlackWash finish effectively hides scratches, and the blade remains securely locked in place during use. The pocket clip has maintained its tension, ensuring secure carry.

Maintaining the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife is simple. I occasionally clean the blade with a damp cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. The glass-filled nylon handle is easy to wipe clean.

Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife outperforms them in almost every way. The blade holds its edge longer, the assisted opening is faster and more reliable, and the overall build quality is significantly higher. It has quickly become my go-to knife for everyday tasks.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife

Specifications

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife boasts a 3.25-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV steel, known for its balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. Its closed length is 4.25 inches, resulting in an overall length of 7.5 inches when opened. The handle is constructed from black glass-filled nylon, offering a durable and textured grip.

The knife weighs in at 3.5 ounces, a comfortable weight for everyday carry. It features a tanto blade shape with a combo edge (partially serrated). The blade thickness is 0.108 inches.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife incorporates a liner lock mechanism for secure blade lockup. It utilizes a flipper for quick and easy one-handed opening via SpeedSafe assisted opening. All of these specifications directly contribute to the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife’s performance and user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife performs admirably across a range of cutting tasks. The 8Cr13MoV steel blade holds an edge well, allowing for clean and efficient cuts. The tanto tip is excellent for piercing, while the serrated edge handles tougher materials like rope and webbing with ease.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife’s main strengths are its fast assisted opening, secure grip, and versatile blade shape. Its main weakness is that the liner lock, while functional, can be a bit stiff to disengage initially. The blade is secure, but can be a bit hard to close at first.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife has exceeded my expectations for an EDC knife in its price range. It provides a reliable and capable cutting tool that is well-suited for both everyday tasks and more demanding outdoor activities.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife exhibits a well-thought-out design, prioritizing both functionality and aesthetics. The black glass-filled nylon handle is textured for a secure grip, even in wet or gloved hands. The BlackWash finish on the blade adds a touch of ruggedness.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife is designed to be user-friendly. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is intuitive and easy to operate with one hand. The deep-carry pocket clip allows for discreet and comfortable carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife is built to last, with durable materials and a solid construction. The 8Cr13MoV steel blade is corrosion-resistant and holds an edge well, while the glass-filled nylon handle can withstand considerable abuse. The BlackWash finish protects the blade from scratches and wear.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife is relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the pivot point will keep the action smooth and prevent corrosion. Sharpening the blade is straightforward thanks to the properties of the 8Cr13MoV steel.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife comes with a deep-carry pocket clip that can be reversed for tip-up or tip-down carry on either side. This provides flexibility for both right- and left-handed users. Beyond that, customization options are limited.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife is compatible with most standard knife sharpening tools. It could possibly have aftermarket pocket clips if desired. The lack of extensive customization options is not a major drawback for a knife in this price range.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife?

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife is perfect for anyone seeking a reliable and versatile EDC knife. It is ideally suited for:

• Outdoor enthusiasts. Campers, hikers, and fishermen will appreciate its durable construction and versatile blade.
• Tradespeople and DIYers. The tanto blade can take care of cutting tasks easily.
• Everyday carry users. Anyone who needs a dependable knife for everyday tasks like opening packages, cutting rope, or preparing food.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife might not be the best choice for collectors seeking high-end materials or extensive customization options. It is not designed for heavy-duty tasks that would require a fixed-blade knife.

A must-have accessory for the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife is a good quality knife sharpener. This will ensure that the blade remains sharp and ready for use. A knife lubricant is also recommended to keep the action smooth and prevent corrosion.

Conclusion on Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife is a well-designed and capable EDC knife that offers excellent value for the price. Its combination of durable materials, versatile blade shape, and reliable assisted opening make it a standout performer in its category. It’s a knife I’ve come to depend on and would recommend to others looking for a solid EDC.

The Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife‘s price of $49.99 is justified by its quality construction and performance. It provides a cost-effective solution for anyone needing a reliable and versatile cutting tool.

I would personally recommend the Kershaw Analyst Folding Knife to anyone looking for a dependable EDC knife that can handle a variety of tasks. It is a worthwhile investment that will provide years of reliable service. Don’t hesitate – add this versatile and reliable knife to your gear collection today!