First Impressions of Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a tool that screams preparedness. A collaboration between Kershaw and renowned knife designer Ken Onion, this knife isn’t just about cutting; it’s about being ready for anything. From the partially serrated blade to the carbide glass breaker, this knife seems designed to be a reliable companion in emergencies.
I was looking for a folding knife that could handle everyday tasks but also serve as a dependable tool in emergency situations. The Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker with its added glass breaking feature was a strong contender.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel and purposeful design. The black anodized aluminum handle feels robust, while the Trac-Tec inserts provide a reassuring grip. Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian, which focuses on pure cutting performance, the Blur feels more geared towards utility and rescue situations. I also considered a SOG Escape, but the Blur’s SpeedSafe assisted opening and more robust glass breaker swayed my decision. My initial impression was excitement; this felt like a serious tool, not just another pocket knife.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker during a weekend camping trip in the Ozark mountains. The humid conditions provided a good test for the Trac-Tec grip, while various camp tasks, from preparing kindling to cutting rope, challenged the blade’s edge. The SpeedSafe assisted opening proved invaluable when I needed a quick, one-handed deployment.
The knife performed exceptionally well, even with wet hands, and the recurve blade made quick work of slicing through thick cord. The serrations proved useful for quickly sawing through some tough branches, making fire prep much easier. After the first day, I noticed a slight stiffness in the opening mechanism, but a quick cleaning and lubrication resolved the issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker has held up remarkably well. The Cerakote blade finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after being used to cut through abrasive materials like cardboard and rope. The anodized aluminum handles remain scratch-free, and the Trac-Tec inserts are still providing a secure grip.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick rinse and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to my older Gerber multi-tool, which required constant attention to prevent rust, the Blur is incredibly low-maintenance. Overall, the Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Specifications
- Blade Length: 3.4 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting power and portability.
- Closed Length: 4.5 inches. Compact enough for comfortable pocket carry.
- Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N. This is a high-performance stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Serrated: Serrated. Offers enhanced cutting ability for fibrous materials like rope and seatbelts.
- Overall Length: 7.9 inches. Provides a comfortable and secure grip during use.
- Included Accessories: Pocket Clip. Allows for convenient and secure carry.
- Handle Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. Lightweight and incredibly durable.
- Handle Finish: Anodized. Provides a scratch and fade-resistant finish.
- Blade Finish: Cerakote. Enhances blade protection and performance.
- Blade Shape: Recurve, Drop Point. The recurve provides excellent slicing capability, while the drop point offers versatility for various tasks.
- Opening Method: SpeedSafe Assisted Opening. Allows for quick and easy one-handed deployment.
- Additional Features: Lanyard Slot. Provides an option for attaching a lanyard for added security.
- Carbide Glass Breaker: This is a key feature making it a useful tool in emergency situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker performs admirably in a variety of roles. The Sandvik 14C28N blade holds an edge well and sharpens easily, making it a reliable cutting tool. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is incredibly fast and reliable, allowing for immediate deployment in critical situations.
The partially serrated edge excels at cutting through tough materials, while the recurve blade provides excellent slicing performance. A minor weakness is that the recurve can be tricky to sharpen for those unfamiliar with sharpening curved blades. Overall, the Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker meets and exceeds expectations for a multi-purpose folding knife.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The anodized aluminum handles offer a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The Trac-Tec inserts provide added traction, ensuring a firm hold during demanding tasks.
The knife has a solid, substantial feel without being overly heavy, making it comfortable for extended carry. There is a slight learning curve with the SpeedSafe mechanism, but after a few practice deployments, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure years of reliable use. The Cerakote blade finish provides excellent corrosion resistance, while the anodized aluminum handles are incredibly durable.
Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s required to keep the knife in top condition. The blade is relatively easy to sharpen, even for those with limited experience.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker comes with a reversible pocket clip, allowing for right or left-handed carry. The lanyard slot provides an option for attaching a lanyard for added security. Aftermarket customization options are limited, but the standard configuration is well-equipped for most users.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
Pros
- SpeedSafe Assisted Opening: Provides incredibly fast and reliable one-handed deployment.
- Sandvik 14C28N Blade Steel: Offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
- Carbide Glass Breaker: An essential tool for emergency situations.
- Trac-Tec Handle Inserts: Ensure a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand years of demanding use.
Cons
- Recurve Blade Can Be Difficult to Sharpen: Requires specific sharpening techniques.
- Limited Customization Options: Fewer aftermarket accessories compared to some other knives.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?
The Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for first responders, law enforcement officers, and anyone who prioritizes preparedness. It is also great for survivalists, outdoor enthusiasts, and those who want a reliable everyday carry knife with added emergency functionality.
Those who prefer a smaller, lighter knife or those who prioritize ease of sharpening might want to skip this product. Must-have accessories include a quality sharpening system designed for recurve blades and a durable belt sheath for alternative carry options.
Conclusion on Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion
The Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a well-designed and highly functional tool that offers excellent value for the price. Its robust construction, reliable performance, and added emergency features make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who values preparedness.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and the versatility of the knife. I would personally recommend the Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker to anyone looking for a dependable everyday carry knife with the added capability to handle emergency situations. Be prepared, be safe, and add the Kershaw Blur Glass Breaker to your kit today.
