Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

Let’s Dive into Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a value-packed, tactically-inspired folder designed to bridge the gap between everyday carry and more demanding tasks. From opening packages to assisting with camp chores, the Brawler aims to be a reliable companion without breaking the bank. Its modified tanto blade and SpeedSafe assisted opening are immediately appealing, promising both utility and rapid deployment.

I’ve always been on the lookout for a dependable knife that can handle various outdoor and tactical scenarios without costing a fortune. I needed a blade that could withstand moderate abuse, maintain a decent edge, and be deployed quickly when needed. The Brawler’s aggressive design and accessible price point piqued my interest.

Upon unboxing, the Kershaw Brawler felt solid in hand, though noticeably lightweight. The glass-filled nylon handle provided a secure grip, and the black oxide blade finish gave it a purposeful, tactical aesthetic. Initial impressions suggested a well-built knife for its price range.

Compared to my Gerber Paraframe (a minimalist EDC knife) and my SOG Trident (a more robust tactical folder), the Kershaw Brawler seemed to offer a middle ground. The Paraframe lacks the Brawler’s assisted opening and blade strength, while the Trident is heavier and more expensive. I chose the Brawler for its balance of features, price, and portability.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The Kershaw Brawler seemed to be a promising entry-level tactical knife. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could live up to its name.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Brawler during a weekend camping trip in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, cutting rope, and opening food packages. The SpeedSafe assisted opening proved incredibly useful when I needed quick access to the blade.

The knife performed well in moderately humid conditions, though the handle became slightly slick when wet. The blade’s tanto shape made it effective for piercing and slicing through materials, but the edge rolled slightly after prolonged use on hardwood. I needed no real time to get used to the knife, its comfortable grip and intuitive operation making it easy to deploy and use safely.

After the first day, I noticed some minor blade play, which was a slight disappointment, but not unexpected at this price point. The Brawler handled basic camp tasks competently.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Brawler has held up reasonably well, considering its price. There are noticeable scratches on the black oxide finish, and the blade play has worsened slightly. The black-oxide finish is showing wear but protecting against corrosion.

Durability is acceptable. There are no major structural issues, but the assisted opening mechanism feels less snappy than when new. The knife is relatively easy to clean with soap and water, and I occasionally apply a thin coat of oil to the blade and pivot point.

Compared to my experience with higher-end knives, the Kershaw Brawler doesn’t offer the same level of edge retention or overall durability. However, given its price, it’s a solid performer for general utility tasks and light to medium-duty outdoor use.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3 inches. The 3-inch blade is a good compromise between utility and portability, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Closed Length: 4.13 inches. This compact size allows for comfortable carry in a pocket or on a belt.
• Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV. The 8Cr13MoV steel offers a decent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening, making it a practical choice for a budget-friendly knife.
• Knife Application: Folding Blade. The folding design makes it easy and safe to carry.
• Overall Length: 7.1 inches. This provides a comfortable and secure grip for most users.
• Included Accessories: Pocket Clip. The pocket clip allows for convenient and secure carry.
• Handle Material: Glass-Filled Nylon. The glass-filled nylon handle is lightweight and durable, providing a solid grip even in wet conditions.
• Handle Color: Black. The black color gives the knife a sleek and tactical appearance.
• Blade Finish: Black Oxide. The black oxide finish provides corrosion resistance and reduces glare.
• Blade Shape: Tanto. The tanto blade shape is strong and effective for piercing and slicing.
• Opening Method: Assisted Opening. Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening system allows for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
• Quantity: 1. The item includes one knife.
• Blade Type: Folding Blade. The folding design makes it easy and safe to carry.

These specifications make the Kershaw Brawler a practical and versatile knife for everyday carry and outdoor use. The blade material, assisted opening, and ergonomic handle contribute to its overall performance and usability.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Brawler performs admirably for its intended purpose. It excels at everyday tasks such as opening boxes, cutting rope, and preparing food. Its tanto blade is particularly effective for piercing and making controlled cuts.

The knife’s main strength is its SpeedSafe assisted opening, which allows for quick and easy one-handed deployment. A potential weakness is the 8Cr13MoV blade steel, which may require more frequent sharpening than higher-end steels. The Kershaw Brawler mostly meets expectations as an affordable and reliable EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Kershaw Brawler is generally good, considering its price point. The glass-filled nylon handle feels sturdy and provides a secure grip, even when wet. The knife is lightweight and comfortable to carry in a pocket.

The Kershaw Brawler is relatively user-friendly, with an intuitive design and easy-to-use assisted opening mechanism. There is no significant learning curve. The handle is ergonomically shaped to fit comfortably in the hand.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Kershaw Brawler should last for several years of regular use. The black oxide finish provides some protection against corrosion, but regular cleaning and oiling are recommended. The knife is easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance, and replacement parts are readily available from Kershaw.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Brawler comes with a four-position pocket clip, allowing for tip-up or tip-down carry on either the left or right side. There are limited customization options available directly from Kershaw. However, aftermarket accessories such as lanyards and replacement pocket clips can be found online.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals?

The Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is perfect for:

• First-time knife buyers looking for a reliable and affordable EDC option.
• Outdoor enthusiasts and campers who need a versatile tool for basic tasks.
• Tactical users who need a fast-deploying knife for self-defense or utility purposes.

This knife might not be the best choice for:

• Users who require a knife with superior edge retention and durability for heavy-duty tasks.
• Collectors who prioritize high-end materials and craftsmanship.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• A sharpening stone or kit to maintain the blade’s edge.
• A lanyard for added security and ease of retrieval.

Conclusion on Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Brawler Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a solid and versatile knife that offers excellent value for the price. Its SpeedSafe assisted opening, aggressive tanto blade, and durable handle make it a practical choice for everyday carry and light to medium-duty outdoor use.

The price is definitely justified. It’s an excellent tool for those who don’t want to break the bank but need a dependable blade.

I would personally recommend the Kershaw Brawler to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable EDC knife. If you’re seeking a capable knife that won’t empty your wallet, give the Brawler a shot – you might be surprised by its performance.