What Makes Kershaw Broadside Stand Out?
The Kershaw Broadside, crafted by the esteemed Kershaw brand, enters a crowded market, but immediately distinguishes itself as a robust and reliable tool. Its D2 blade steel, coupled with Kershaw’s smooth KVT deployment and secure Duralock technology, promise a cutting experience that is both efficient and safe. I’ve spent years wading through various knives, from delicate folders to burly fixed blades, searching for a tool that seamlessly blends everyday carry practicality with the resilience needed for demanding tasks. This quest is what led me to the Broadside.
My search criteria always prioritize blade steel, lock strength, and overall ergonomics, all points the Kershaw Broadside seemed to address well. Upon unboxing, the Broadside makes a strong impression with its substantial feel and the immediately grippy texture of the tan G10 handle. The blade arrived perfectly centered, and the action was remarkably smooth right out of the box. Compared to similarly priced knives like the Ontario Rat Model 1 in D2 or the Civivi Elementum, the Broadside presents a more substantial feel and, crucially, the added security of the Duralock mechanism, which swayed my decision.
The Rat offers great value, and the Elementum is sleek, but the Kershaw Broadside’s robust build and unique lock resonated more with my needs. Initial excitement was high; the knife felt solid and well-made. It struck me as a tool ready for serious work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Broadside to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for the Kershaw Broadside was a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I needed a reliable knife for various tasks, from preparing kindling to food prep and gear maintenance. The Broadside performed admirably in dry conditions. Its D2 steel held an edge remarkably well while processing firewood and slicing through rope, making camp chores easier.
The Broadside proved easy to use, with the thumb stud offering quick and reliable blade deployment. There were no initial issues. The handle felt secure even with gloved hands, instilling confidence in each cut.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Broadside has proven to be a dependable companion. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The D2 blade shows no signs of corrosion, and the G10 handle remains unscathed, despite being subjected to dirt, mud, and occasional accidental impacts. Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down after use and occasional lubrication of the pivot point keep the action smooth.
Compared to my previous EDC knife, a Benchmade Griptilian, the Broadside feels more robust and inspires greater confidence in heavy-duty cutting tasks, though it lacks the fidget-friendliness of the Axis lock. So far, the Broadside has outperformed expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Broadside
Specifications
- The Kershaw Broadside features a spear point blade made from D2 blade steel. This is noteworthy because D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel known for its exceptional edge retention and decent corrosion resistance.
- It uses a Kershaw KVT ball-bearing opening for smooth, fast deployment via a thumb stud. This allows for easy one-handed opening, making it suitable for various situations where quick access is needed.
- The Broadside incorporates Kershaw’s Duralock technology for secure blade lockup. Duralock offers ambidextrous operation and provides a strong and reliable lock, ensuring safety during use.
- The handle is crafted from tan G10, a fiberglass laminate known for its strength, durability, and excellent grip, even in wet conditions. The G10 handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, enhancing control and reducing the risk of slippage.
- It features a reversible deep-carry pocket clip for convenient and discreet carry. This allows users to carry the knife tip-up on either the left or right side, catering to individual preferences.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Broadside excels in its intended role as a versatile cutting tool. The spear point blade offers a good balance between slicing and piercing capabilities. The D2 steel provides exceptional edge retention, requiring less frequent sharpening, which is ideal for extended use in the field. While the saber grind offers a good blend of strength and cutting ability, it might not be ideal for very fine slicing tasks compared to a full flat grind.
The knife meets expectations and even exceeds them in some areas, particularly in lock strength and overall robustness. There’s little to improve, though some might prefer a different blade grind depending on their specific needs.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw Broadside boasts a robust build with high-quality materials. The weight feels substantial in hand, conveying a sense of durability without being overly cumbersome. The G10 handle offers excellent grip and comfort. The ergonomics are well-considered, with the handle filling the hand comfortably and providing a secure hold even during extended use.
The knife is user-friendly. The smooth KVT deployment and intuitive Duralock mechanism minimize any learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and materials, the Kershaw Broadside is expected to last for years with proper care. The D2 blade steel is tough and resists wear well. The G10 handle is virtually indestructible in normal use. Maintenance is relatively straightforward: cleaning after use, occasional lubrication of the pivot, and sharpening as needed will keep the Broadside in optimal condition.
The D2 blade requires a bit more care than stainless steel to prevent corrosion, but the added edge retention is worth the trade-off.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Broadside comes with a reversible deep-carry pocket clip. There are no specific factory customization options. Aftermarket accessories, such as lanyards and replacement pocket clips, are readily available from various Kershaw dealers.
The knife is compatible with universal knife maintenance tools like sharpening stones and lubricants. Potential buyers should know there aren’t many direct “bolt-on” customization parts readily available, but the knife is designed to function well as is.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Broadside
Pros
- Robust D2 Blade Steel: Offers excellent edge retention and durability for demanding tasks.
- Secure Duralock Mechanism: Provides a strong, reliable, and ambidextrous lockup for safe use.
- Grippy G10 Handle: Ensures a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Smooth KVT Deployment: Allows for quick and easy one-handed opening.
- Reversible Deep-Carry Pocket Clip: Offers convenient and discreet carry options.
Cons
- The Saber grind may not be optimal for very fine slicing.
- D2 steel requires more maintenance to prevent corrosion compared to stainless steel.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Broadside?
The Kershaw Broadside is perfect for tradesmen, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone needing a reliable and durable everyday carry knife. It is well-suited for those who prioritize a strong lock and excellent edge retention. Those seeking a highly specialized slicing knife or those unwilling to maintain a D2 steel blade might want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone designed for high-carbon steels. Some users might benefit from adding a lanyard for enhanced grip and retrieval.
Conclusion on Kershaw Broadside
The Kershaw Broadside is a well-built, robust, and reliable knife that offers excellent value for its price. The D2 blade steel, secure Duralock mechanism, and grippy G10 handle make it a standout performer in its class. At $89.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction.
I would personally recommend the Kershaw Broadside to anyone looking for a dependable and versatile EDC knife that can handle demanding tasks with ease. Check it out today; you won’t be disappointed!