Let’s Dive into Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is more than just a pocketknife; it’s a testament to functional design and reliable performance. This knife, born from the collaboration between Kershaw and the legendary Ken Onion, is designed to be a dependable tool for everyday carry and emergency situations. Its combination of a high-performance blade, assisted opening, and robust construction makes it a standout in a crowded market.
I was searching for a knife that could serve multiple purposes: daily tasks, emergency preparedness, and light outdoor use. I needed a blade that could hold an edge, open quickly, and be easily carried without being overly bulky. The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion seemed to check all the boxes.
Upon unboxing, the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion felt solid and well-balanced in hand. The blackwash finish on the blade gives it a rugged, worn-in look, while the aluminum handle provides a secure grip. The assisted opening mechanism was smooth and responsive, making it easy to deploy the blade with one hand.
I considered the Benchmade Griptilian and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2, both popular choices for EDC. Ultimately, the assisted opening and the integrated glass breaker of the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion swayed my decision. It offered a unique combination of features that aligned with my specific needs.
My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. This knife felt like it could handle whatever I threw at it. I was eager to put the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion during a weekend camping trip in the Pacific Northwest. The damp environment provided a good challenge for the blade’s rust resistance. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope, and whittling kindling.
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performed admirably in the wet conditions. The blackwash finish seemed to provide adequate protection against corrosion, and the Trac-Tec inserts on the handle ensured a secure grip even with wet hands. The assisted opening was reliable, even with slightly numb fingers in the cold.
The knife was easy to use right out of the box. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism made one-handed deployment effortless. The liner lock was solid and provided a secure lockup, inspiring confidence during use.
The only minor issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the pocket clip. It required some adjustment to make it easier to clip onto my pocket. Otherwise, the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performed flawlessly during its first outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. It has accompanied me on numerous outdoor adventures, including hiking, fishing, and hunting trips. It has also become my go-to EDC knife for everyday tasks.
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has held up remarkably well with minimal signs of wear and tear. The blade has maintained its sharpness, requiring only occasional touch-ups. The anodized aluminum handle has resisted scratches and fading.
Maintaining the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is relatively simple. I typically clean the blade with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point to ensure smooth operation. The handle can be wiped down with a mild soap and water solution.
Compared to other knives I’ve owned, the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and performance. Its assisted opening, combined with the robust blade and handle materials, makes it a standout choice for everyday carry and outdoor use.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.4 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting ability and portability.
- Closed Length: 4.5 inches. This makes it compact enough for comfortable everyday carry.
- Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. This offers excellent corrosion resistance, good edge retention, and ease of sharpening.
- Serrated: Plain edge. This is ideal for general-purpose cutting tasks.
- Handle Material: 6061-T6 anodized aluminum. This is lightweight, strong, and resistant to corrosion.
- Opening Method: SpeedSafe Assisted Opening. This allows for fast and easy one-handed deployment of the blade.
- Additional Features: Lanyard hole, reversible pocket clip, carbide glass breaker. These add to the knife’s versatility and utility.
- Quantity: 1. This is a single knife.
- Package Type: Box. This is standard packaging.
- Blade Type: Folding Blade. This makes it safe and easy to carry.
These specifications combine to create a durable, reliable, and versatile knife suitable for a wide range of tasks. The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is well-suited for everyday carry, outdoor activities, and emergency situations. The choice of materials and the inclusion of useful features demonstrate a focus on both performance and practicality.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion excels in its primary function: cutting. The Sandvik 14C28N blade is sharp, holds an edge well, and is easy to sharpen when needed. The assisted opening mechanism is reliable and responsive, making the knife quick to deploy.
The knife’s strengths lie in its combination of a sharp blade, a secure grip, and a fast opening mechanism. However, the pocket clip could be improved, as it can be initially stiff. Overall, the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is excellent. The materials used are durable and well-finished. The knife feels solid and well-balanced in hand.
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is generally user-friendly, although the assisted opening takes a little getting used to initially. The liner lock is easy to operate, and the handle is comfortable to grip. The reversible pocket clip allows for both tip-up and tip-down carry.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is built to last. The durable materials and solid construction ensure that it can withstand regular use and exposure to the elements. With proper care, this knife should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintaining the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is straightforward. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help to keep the blade sharp and the mechanism functioning smoothly. The knife is relatively easy to disassemble for more thorough cleaning and maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion does not come with many accessories, but it includes a reversible pocket clip for convenient carry. The lanyard hole allows for attaching a lanyard or other accessories.
While there are limited customization options specifically for the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion, the knife is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards. Some users may choose to replace the handle scales with custom options for a more personalized look.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Pros
- SpeedSafe assisted opening provides rapid, one-handed blade deployment.
- Sandvik 14C28N steel offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Trac-Tec handle inserts ensure a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- BlackWash finish hides scratches and adds a rugged aesthetic.
- Reversible pocket clip allows for versatile carry options.
Cons
- The pocket clip can be initially stiff.
- The glass breaker is effective but could be uncomfortable in some carry positions.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for:
- Everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile knife.
- Outdoor adventurers who need a durable tool for cutting tasks.
- Emergency responders and security personnel who require a knife with a glass breaker.
Individuals who prefer a smaller, more discreet knife or who require a specialized blade shape might want to skip this product.
Must-have accessories include a quality knife sharpener and lubricating oil for the blade mechanism. A durable sheath or carrying case can also help protect the knife during transport.
Conclusion on Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, durable, and versatile EDC knife. Its combination of a high-performance blade, assisted opening, and comfortable handle makes it a standout in its class.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, the thoughtful design, and the overall performance of the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion. It provides excellent value for the money.
I would highly recommend the Kershaw Blur Black/Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone looking for a dependable and capable EDC knife. Its combination of features, durability, and performance make it an excellent choice for a wide range of tasks. Upgrade your EDC today and experience the Kershaw difference!