Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife

The Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife is a striking addition to any knife enthusiast’s collection. Manufactured by Kershaw, a name synonymous with quality and innovation, this knife immediately catches the eye with its vibrant blue aluminum handle and distinctive Damascus steel blade. This knife boasts SpeedSafe assisted opening, a feature Kershaw is famous for, and a liner lock mechanism, promising both speed and security.

I needed a reliable and stylish everyday carry (EDC) knife. I was looking for something that could handle daily tasks while also being visually appealing and made with quality materials.

My first impression upon unboxing the Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife was overwhelmingly positive. The knife felt solid and well-built in my hand. The blue aluminum handle provided a comfortable and secure grip, and the Damascus blade was simply stunning to look at.

I considered the Benchmade Bugout and the Spyderco Para 3 Lightweight before ultimately choosing the Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife. The Bugout felt too lightweight for heavier tasks, and while I appreciated the Spyderco’s blade shape, the Kershaw’s assisted opening and striking aesthetics won me over.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with anticipation. I was eager to put this knife through its paces and see how it performed in real-world situations.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife on a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and whittling small pieces of wood for kindling. The knife performed admirably in each task.

The Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife handled well even when my hands were slightly damp. The textured aluminum handle provided a secure grip, and the SpeedSafe assisted opening was reliable every time, even with a bit of dust present.

The SpeedSafe mechanism took almost no time to master. The blade deployed smoothly and locked securely into place with the liner lock.

The only minor issue was that the Damascus blade required a little extra cleaning after cutting some particularly sticky tree sap. The sap tended to cling to the intricate patterns of the steel, but it was easily resolved with a bit of warm water and soap.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife has held up remarkably well. It is a consistent presence in my EDC rotation.

The blade has retained its edge incredibly well, showing only minimal signs of wear despite frequent use. There are no noticeable scratches or blemishes on the blade or handle.

Maintaining the Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife is straightforward. I periodically clean the blade with a microfiber cloth and apply a small amount of lubricating oil to the pivot point to ensure smooth action.

The Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife far outperforms my previous EDC knives in terms of edge retention and overall durability. The SpeedSafe mechanism is as reliable as the day I got it, and the liner lock continues to provide a secure and confident lock-up.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife

Specifications

The Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife features a 3.4-inch Damascus steel blade. The closed length is 4.5 inches, and the overall length is 7.9 inches.

The handle is constructed from 6061-T6 blue anodized aluminum with Trac-Tec inserts for enhanced grip. It has a liner lock for secure blade lockup and a pocket clip for convenient carry. The SpeedSafe assisted opening provides rapid deployment.

The Damascus steel blade is not just visually appealing; it provides excellent edge retention and cutting performance. The aluminum handle keeps the knife lightweight and durable.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife excels at a variety of cutting tasks. From slicing through cardboard boxes to more delicate tasks like food preparation, the blade’s sharpness and maneuverability make it a versatile tool.

The strengths of this knife lie in its rapid deployment, secure grip, and beautiful Damascus blade. A minor improvement could be made by offering a deep-carry pocket clip for even more discreet carry.

The Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife not only meets expectations but exceeds them. The combination of aesthetics, functionality, and durability makes it a standout EDC option.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife is exceptional. The materials feel premium, and the knife has a solid, confidence-inspiring weight. The handle is comfortable and ergonomic, fitting naturally in my hand.

The SpeedSafe mechanism makes the knife incredibly user-friendly. The intuitive design requires minimal learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife should last for years. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure its longevity.

The knife is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. Basic tools are all that’s required for routine upkeep.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip that can be configured for tip-up or tip-down carry. Aftermarket options include various replacement pocket clips and lanyard beads to personalize the knife.

While the Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife is primarily designed as-is, many aftermarket pocket clips designed for Kershaw knives will be compatible. This allows for personalization of carry style and appearance.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Blur Linerlock A/O Blue Dam Folding Knife