Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

Let’s Dive into Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion isn’t just another pocketknife; it’s a statement. This knife, designed by the legendary Ken Onion, combines tactical functionality with everyday carry practicality, making it a compelling option for anyone needing a reliable blade. For years, I’ve carried various knives, searching for the perfect balance between strength, sharpness, and ease of use, and the Blur Tanto seemed to promise that elusive combination.

My search started when I needed a more robust knife for outdoor adventures and occasional emergency situations. My previous folding knife, while decent, lacked the piercing power and serrated edge needed for cutting through tougher materials like rope and webbing. The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion caught my eye with its aggressive tanto blade, assisted opening, and reputation for quality.

Unboxing the knife, I was immediately struck by its sleek, matte black finish and solid feel. It felt substantial without being overly heavy, and the Trac-Tec inserts on the handle provided a reassuring grip. Compared to my old knife and other similarly priced options from SOG and CRKT, the Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion felt superior in terms of material quality and overall construction. I chose it for its unique blade shape, known for its piercing capabilities and the added versatility of the partial serration.

I was excited to put it to the test. The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion seemed like the perfect tool for my needs, promising both performance and durability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion was on a weekend camping trip in the mountains. I needed to cut several lengths of paracord for setting up a tarp and preparing firewood. The serrated portion of the blade sliced through the paracord effortlessly, and the tanto tip made quick work of stripping bark from branches.

The knife performed admirably in damp conditions. The black Cerakote coating on the blade provided excellent corrosion resistance, and the Trac-Tec inserts maintained a secure grip even with wet hands. The SpeedSafe assisted opening was incredibly convenient, allowing for quick, one-handed deployment when I needed it most. The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the opening mechanism, which I anticipated would loosen with use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the blade or handle, and the assisted opening mechanism has smoothed out considerably. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes at home to preparing food during fishing trips, and it has consistently performed well.

The blade has retained its sharpness remarkably well. I only needed to touch it up with a honing steel a few times. Cleaning the knife is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot point keeps it in top condition. Compared to some other knives I’ve owned that require more frequent sharpening and maintenance, the Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion stands out for its ease of care and consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Specifications

• The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion features a 3.4-inch blade made of Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. This steel is known for its excellent corrosion resistance and ability to hold a sharp edge.
• The knife has a closed length of 4.5 inches and an overall length of 7.9 inches. This size makes it easy to carry in a pocket without being too bulky.
• The handle is made of 6061-T6 anodized aluminum with Trac-Tec inserts. This material provides a durable and secure grip.
• It also features SpeedSafe assisted opening, a reversible pocket clip (right tip-up, left tip-down), and a lanyard slot. These features enhance the knife’s usability and carry options.
• The blade has a black Cerakote finish for added corrosion resistance and a non-reflective surface. Note that older models feature a black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the knife’s performance and user experience. The blade steel and coating determine its sharpness and resistance to the elements, while the handle material and design ensure a comfortable and secure grip. The assisted opening mechanism allows for quick and easy deployment, which can be critical in emergency situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion excels in its primary function: cutting. The tanto blade shape provides excellent piercing power, making it ideal for penetrating tough materials. The partial serration adds versatility, allowing it to easily cut through rope, webbing, and other fibrous materials.

The knife’s strengths lie in its sharpness, durability, and ease of use. The assisted opening is fast and reliable, and the handle provides a secure grip even in wet conditions. One minor weakness is that the tanto blade shape can be slightly less versatile for general slicing tasks compared to a drop-point blade. However, the overall performance is outstanding, and it meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical folding knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion boasts a sleek and functional design. The black anodized aluminum handle and black Cerakote blade give it a discrete, tactical look.

The handle is ergonomically designed to fit comfortably in the hand, and the Trac-Tec inserts provide excellent grip. The knife has a solid feel without being too heavy, making it easy to carry all day. There is minimal learning curve, and the assisted opening mechanism is intuitive to use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is built to last. The high-quality materials and solid construction ensure that it can withstand heavy use.

The Sandvik 14C28N blade steel is highly resistant to corrosion, and the Cerakote coating provides an additional layer of protection. The knife is easy to maintain; regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes with a reversible pocket clip. This allows for both right and left-handed tip-up or tip-down carry, which is a great feature for versatility.

While there are no specific customization options directly from Kershaw, the knife is compatible with many aftermarket pocket clips and lanyard beads. Some users may choose to replace the pocket clip for a different style or material, or add a lanyard for easier retrieval.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for:

• Outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and durable knife for camping, hiking, and fishing.
• Law enforcement and military personnel who require a tactical knife for emergency situations.
• Everyday carry users who want a high-quality and versatile folding knife.

Who should skip this product? Someone looking for a dedicated slicing knife might prefer a drop-point or clip-point blade shape.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A sharpening steel to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is an exceptional folding knife that combines tactical functionality with everyday practicality. Its high-quality materials, durable construction, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone needing a dependable blade. The price is justified by the overall quality and performance of the knife.

I would personally recommend the Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile, and reliable folding knife. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a law enforcement professional, or simply someone who appreciates a well-made tool, the Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is sure to impress. Invest in the Kershaw Blur Tanto Black Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion today and experience the difference a quality knife can make!