Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals isn’t just another pocketknife; it’s a purpose-built tool designed with emergency situations in mind. Crafted by Kershaw, known for its quality and innovation, the Drivetrain boasts features like a seatbelt cutter, glass breaker, and a D2 steel blade, positioning it as a potential lifesaver for first responders and everyday drivers alike. Its SpeedSafe assisted opening promises quick access to the blade, while the glass-filled nylon handle ensures a secure grip.

I needed a reliable knife not only for everyday tasks but also one that could potentially be used in emergency situations. The Drivetrain’s integrated seatbelt cutter and glass breaker immediately caught my eye as features absent in my existing EDC.

Upon unboxing, the Drivetrain felt solid and well-constructed. The glass-filled nylon handle has a nice texture providing a secure grip, and the stonewashed finish on the blade gives it a rugged, ready-for-anything appearance. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism snapped the blade open with authority, inspiring confidence.

I considered the SOG Escape and Benchmade Triage. I chose the Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals primarily for its innovative seatbelt cutter design, which seemed more intuitive and less prone to accidental deployment than the hook-style cutters on the other knives. Plus, the Ken Onion design pedigree sealed the deal.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism; this knife has the potential to be a genuinely useful tool in a crisis, provided it lives up to its claims during testing.

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

First Use Experience

I tested the Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals over a week-long camping trip and a simulated emergency scenario at a local fire department training facility. The camping trip provided opportunities to assess the blade’s cutting performance on rope, wood, and food packaging.

The conditions were varied, ranging from dry and sunny to damp and cool. The D2 steel blade performed admirably, maintaining a sharp edge even after repeated use. Deploying and using the seatbelt cutter was easily done in the dry environment with a simulated seatbelt.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening was incredibly quick and reliable, even with slightly wet hands. There was no time to get used to it because it was so naturally ergonomic.

The carbide glass breaker worked effectively on the training vehicle window with minimal effort, however the seatbelt cutter, on the first attempt, did not slice smoothly without a little maneuvering.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The stonewashed blade finish effectively hides scratches and wear marks.

The knife remains sturdy and dependable. I’ve only had to touch up the blade’s edge a couple of times with a ceramic rod.

Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point keeps everything running smoothly. The Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals outperforms other folding knives I’ve used, particularly in its specialized emergency functions.

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

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.2 inches of D2 high-carbon tool steel, providing a good balance between cutting power and maneuverability. This allows for detailed cutting tasks while still offering enough length for heavier work.
• Overall Length: 7.6 inches. This provides a comfortable grip and allows for sufficient leverage.
• Handle Material: Glass-filled nylon. The textured handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or gloved hands.
• Blade Finish: Stonewash. This conceals scratches and wear, maintaining the knife’s appearance over time.
• Blade Shape: Recurve, Drop Point. This offers a versatile blade profile suitable for slicing, piercing, and general utility work.
• Opening Method: SpeedSafe Assisted Opening. This allows for rapid deployment of the blade with a single hand.
• Included Accessories: Pocket Clip. This provides convenient carry options.
• Designer: Ken Onion. Ken Onion’s reputation for innovative and ergonomic knife designs speaks for itself.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the knife’s performance in various situations, from everyday tasks to emergency scenarios.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals performs exceptionally well in its intended role as a multi-purpose emergency tool. The blade is sharp and holds its edge well, making it suitable for a variety of cutting tasks.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening is fast and reliable, allowing for quick access to the blade when time is of the essence. The glass breaker is effective, and the seatbelt cutter design is innovative and easy to use (after a little practice).

The knife’s strengths lie in its specialized emergency features and durable construction. The primary weakness I’ve found is that the seatbelt cutter requires a very specific angle to work flawlessly every time. The Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals meets and, in some cases, exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals features a solid build quality with durable materials. The glass-filled nylon handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet or gloved hands.

The knife is relatively lightweight, making it easy to carry and handle for extended periods. There is no significant learning curve; the SpeedSafe assisted opening and intuitive seatbelt cutter design make it easy to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is built to last, with a robust D2 steel blade and a durable glass-filled nylon handle. With proper care, the knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s needed to keep the knife in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The knife comes with a standard pocket clip. There are no official accessories or customization options directly from Kershaw.

However, aftermarket pocket clips may be available from third-party manufacturers. The Ken Onion design ensures that the dimensions are quite standard for pocket clips.

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

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

• Perfect for: First responders (EMTs, firefighters, law enforcement), paramedics, safety-conscious drivers, and anyone looking for a reliable emergency tool.
• Who should skip this product? Those who prioritize purely tactical features or require a more general-purpose EDC knife.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality sharpening stone or ceramic rod to maintain the blade’s edge, and potentially an aftermarket pocket clip if you prefer left-side carry.

Conclusion on Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed emergency tool that delivers on its promises. Its innovative features, durable construction, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile addition to any preparedness kit or everyday carry setup.

At $66.79, the price is justified given the specialized features and quality materials. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who prioritizes safety and preparedness.

The Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals offers peace of mind knowing you have a reliable tool at your disposal in a crisis. Invest in your safety; add the Kershaw Drivetrain Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to your cart today!