Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a compact and eye-catching everyday carry (EDC) option. Designed by the renowned Ken Onion and manufactured by Kershaw, this knife boasts SpeedSafe assisted opening, a high-carbon blade, and a vibrant pink anodized aluminum handle. It’s a blend of practicality and style, catering to those who appreciate a touch of personality in their tools.

I was searching for a small, lightweight knife that could easily slip into my pocket or pack without adding bulk. Functionality was key, but I also wanted something that stood out from the typical tactical aesthetic. The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion seemed to fit the bill perfectly.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately drawn to the vibrant pink handle and the knife’s surprisingly solid feel for its size. The bead-blasted blade had a clean, matte finish, and the assisted opening felt smooth and reliable. The overall build quality exuded a sense of durability that defied its compact dimensions.

Compared to similar knives like the Spyderco Ladybug 3 or the SOG Key Knife, the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion offered a more robust feel and a more secure grip. The Ladybug 3 is even smaller and lighter, but it lacks the assisted opening and feels less substantial. The SOG Key Knife, while compact, is more of a novelty item than a serious EDC tool.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The knife felt well-built, the assisted opening was smooth and snappy, and the pink handle added a unique touch that I appreciated. I was excited to put it to the test in real-world scenarios.


Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion during a weekend camping trip. I used it for a variety of tasks, from opening food packages and cutting cordage to preparing kindling for a campfire. The knife performed admirably in each scenario.

During the camping trip, I encountered some light rain. The anodized aluminum handle remained grippy even when wet, and the blade showed no signs of corrosion after being exposed to moisture. The assisted opening mechanism continued to function flawlessly, even with slightly damp hands.

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. The SpeedSafe assisted opening allowed for quick, one-handed deployment, and the small size made it easy to maneuver for intricate cutting tasks. I experienced no issues or surprises during the initial testing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has held up remarkably well. There are a few minor scratches on the anodized aluminum handle, but the blade remains sharp and free of rust. The assisted opening mechanism still functions smoothly and reliably.

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has proven to be exceptionally durable for its size. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes to cutting through thick cardboard, and it hasn’t shown any signs of loosening or developing play in the blade. The 420HC steel has maintained its edge well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a sharpening steel.

Maintaining the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is incredibly simple. I typically clean it with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a drop of lubricating oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth. The blade’s bead-blasted finish also resists fingerprints and smudges, making it easy to keep clean.

Compared to previous small EDC knives I’ve owned, the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, reliability, and ease of use. It’s a well-designed and well-built tool that has quickly become an indispensable part of my everyday carry.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 1.9 inches. This compact blade length makes the knife legal to carry in many jurisdictions.
  • Closed Length: 2.88 inches. The small closed length allows for comfortable pocket carry.
  • Blade Material: 420HC. 420HC steel offers a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
  • Designer: Ken Onion. Ken Onion is a renowned knife designer known for his innovative designs and smooth action mechanisms.
  • Knife Application: Folding Blade. This is a folding knife designed for everyday carry.
  • Overall Length: 4.8 inches. The overall length provides a comfortable grip while still being compact.
  • Handle Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. 6061-T6 Aluminum is lightweight and durable, offering a comfortable and secure grip.
  • Handle Color: Pink. The pink handle offers a unique and stylish look.
  • Handle Finish: Anodized. The anodized finish provides scratch resistance and strengthens the aluminum.
  • Blade Finish: Bead Blast. The bead blast finish provides a matte look and helps to hide scratches.
  • Blade Shape: Drop Point. The drop point blade shape is versatile and suitable for a variety of cutting tasks.
  • Opening Method: Assisted Opening. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism provides quick and easy one-handed deployment.
  • Weight: 0.2 lb. The light weight makes it comfortable to carry all day.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion‘s overall performance and user experience. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry, while the durable materials and assisted opening mechanism ensure that it’s reliable and functional. The pink handle adds a touch of personality, making it a stylish and practical EDC option.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performs its job exceptionally well. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is quick and reliable, allowing for easy one-handed deployment.

One of the strengths of the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is its compact size and lightweight design. This makes it easy to carry in a pocket or purse without adding bulk. The assisted opening is also a major plus, as it allows for quick and easy deployment. A potential weakness is that the small blade might not be ideal for heavy-duty cutting tasks.

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion meets and even exceeds expectations for a small EDC knife. It’s well-built, reliable, and easy to use, making it a great option for anyone looking for a compact and stylish everyday carry knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion features a well-designed and ergonomic handle made from 6061-T6 Aluminum. The handle is lightweight and comfortable to grip, even for extended periods of use. The pink anodized finish adds a touch of style and provides a scratch-resistant surface.

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is incredibly user-friendly. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is intuitive and easy to use, and the liner lock is secure and reliable. There is virtually no learning curve required to operate this knife.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion should last for many years. The 420HC blade is durable and corrosion-resistant, and the anodized aluminum handle is scratch-resistant. The knife is also backed by Kershaw‘s reputation for quality and craftsmanship.

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is easy to maintain and repair. The blade can be sharpened with any standard sharpening tool, and the handle can be cleaned with a damp cloth. If any parts need to be replaced, Kershaw offers excellent customer support and replacement parts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes with a pocket clip for easy carry. There are limited customization options available for this knife, as it’s primarily designed for everyday carry rather than tactical applications. However, aftermarket lanyards can easily be added through the lanyard hole.

While there aren’t many direct aftermarket accessories, the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is compatible with most universal knife maintenance tools. Sharpening stones, lubricating oils, and cleaning cloths from various brands will work perfectly with this knife.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Pros

  • Compact and Lightweight: Perfect for discreet everyday carry.
  • SpeedSafe Assisted Opening: Provides quick and easy one-handed deployment.
  • Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
  • Stylish Design: The pink anodized aluminum handle adds a unique touch.
  • Easy to Maintain: The blade and handle are easy to clean and care for.

Cons

  • Small Blade: May not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting tasks.
  • Limited Customization Options: Few aftermarket accessories available.


Who Should Buy Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for anyone looking for a small, stylish, and reliable everyday carry knife. It’s a great option for:

  • Casual Users: Individuals who need a small knife for everyday tasks like opening packages and cutting cordage.
  • College Students: Perfect to have on a key chain.
  • Outdoor Enthusiasts: Campers, hikers, and anglers who need a compact and lightweight knife for general use.
  • Anyone Who Appreciates Style: The pink handle adds a unique touch that sets it apart from other EDC knives.

This knife is not ideal for:

  • Individuals who need a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks.
  • Those who prefer a more tactical or minimalist aesthetic.

A must-have accessory is a quality knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a well-designed and well-built EDC knife that offers a great balance of functionality and style. Its compact size, lightweight design, and SpeedSafe assisted opening make it a convenient and reliable tool for everyday tasks. The pink anodized aluminum handle adds a unique touch that sets it apart from other EDC knives.

The price is justified by the quality of the materials, the craftsmanship, and the overall performance of the knife. Kershaw has a reputation for producing high-quality knives, and the Chive Pink is no exception.

I would personally recommend the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone looking for a small, stylish, and reliable everyday carry knife. It’s a great value for the price and a welcome addition to any EDC setup. If you’re looking for a knife that’s both functional and fashionable, the Kershaw Chive Pink Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is an excellent choice. Grab yours today and experience the perfect blend of practicality and personality!

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