Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer Review

Let’s Dive into Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer

The Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is a compact everyday carry (EDC) knife that packs a surprising amount of functionality and style into its diminutive frame. This collaboration between Kershaw and renowned knife designer Rick Hinderer results in a blade that’s both aesthetically pleasing and practically useful, offering SpeedSafe assisted opening and a sturdy frame lock in a pocket-friendly size. It’s designed to be discreet yet capable, a tool that disappears in your pocket until you need it.

I was looking for a smaller, more discreet knife to carry daily. I wanted something that wouldn’t attract unwanted attention in more sensitive environments but could still handle basic cutting tasks with ease. I was tired of larger, bulkier knives that felt cumbersome in my pocket.

My first impression upon unboxing the Kershaw Ember was that it felt surprisingly solid for its size. The matte-grey titanium carbo-nitride coating on the stainless steel handle and blade gave it a tactical, almost stealthy look, and the action was smooth right out of the box. The weight felt good in hand, hinting at its quality construction despite its small stature.

Compared to other small knives I’ve owned, like the Spyderco Dragonfly 2 and the Benchmade Mini Griptilian, the Kershaw Ember stands out for its assisted opening and Hinderer design. The Dragonfly 2 is incredibly lightweight, but lacks assisted opening. The Mini Griptilian is a proven performer, but often carries a higher price tag.

I was initially surprised by how comfortable the Kershaw Ember felt in my hand, despite its small size. The contours of the handle are well-thought-out, providing a secure and ergonomic grip. My first impression was positive. I was excited to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer during a weekend camping trip. It was used for tasks such as opening packages of food, cutting rope for setting up the tent, and preparing kindling for a fire. The Ember handled these tasks without issue.

The weather was relatively dry, but there was some morning dew on the ground. The titanium carbo-nitride coating provided a good grip even when the handle was slightly damp. The SpeedSafe assisted opening worked reliably, allowing for quick and easy one-handed deployment.

The Kershaw Ember was easy to use right from the start. The flipper tab is well-positioned, and the frame lock is simple to disengage. Its size made it perfect for detailed cutting tasks.

There were no issues after the first use. The blade remained sharp, and the frame lock held securely. The Ember felt like a solid, reliable tool.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer has proven to be a reliable and durable EDC option. It has been used for a variety of tasks, from opening boxes and letters to cutting zip ties and shaping small pieces of wood. It also performs well as a back-up knife in my range bag.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear, despite regular use. The titanium carbo-nitride coating has held up well, showing only minor scratches. The blade still locks up tight, and the assisted opening remains smooth.

The Kershaw Ember is easy to clean and maintain. A simple wipe down with a cloth is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I’ll apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth.

Compared to other EDC knives I’ve used, the Kershaw Ember stands out for its combination of compact size, assisted opening, and robust construction. It’s a noticeable upgrade from smaller keychain knives, and provides good value compared to more expensive premium options. It outperforms my expectations given its price point.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer

Specifications

• The Kershaw Ember boasts a 2-inch blade, making it legal to carry in many jurisdictions where larger knives are restricted. This small size is perfect for everyday tasks without being intimidating.
• The knife has a 2.88-inch closed length, making it incredibly easy to slip into a pocket or attach to a keychain. Its compact dimensions make it a true everyday carry option.
• The blade is made from 8Cr13MoV steel, a Chinese steel known for its good balance of hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance. This steel takes a decent edge and is relatively easy to sharpen.
• The overall length of the Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is 4.75 inches when open, providing enough leverage for most common cutting tasks. This provides a comfortable and controlled grip.
• A pocket clip is included, offering multiple carry positions for both left- and right-handed users. The three-position clip adds to the knife’s versatility and ease of carry.
• The handle is constructed from stainless steel, providing a durable and sturdy frame for the knife. The steel handle contributes to the knife’s overall robustness.
• The handle has a titanium finish, offering enhanced corrosion resistance and a sleek, matte-grey appearance. The finish also adds a touch of class to the knife’s design.
• The blade has a titanium carbo-nitride coating, which further enhances its corrosion resistance and provides a non-reflective finish. This coating provides added protection and a tactical look.
• The blade features both clip point and drop point characteristics, making it versatile for a variety of cutting tasks. The blade shape provides good piercing ability and slicing performance.
• It features assisted opening, allowing for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment. The SpeedSafe mechanism is a key feature that sets this knife apart.

These specifications combine to create a small, durable, and functional EDC knife that is easy to carry and use. The Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a discreet and capable cutting tool.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer performs admirably for its size. The blade is sharp enough for most everyday tasks, and the assisted opening mechanism is reliable and quick.

While it’s not designed for heavy-duty use, the Kershaw Ember handles tasks like opening packages, cutting rope, and preparing food with ease. The frame lock provides a secure lock-up, inspiring confidence during use. The Ember meets expectations for a compact EDC knife.

The design is well-executed, and the ergonomics are surprisingly good for such a small knife. However, the small size might not be suitable for users with larger hands.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer features a sleek and tactical design. The matte-grey titanium carbo-nitride coating gives it a modern and understated look.

The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a solid feel. The weight is well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold and use. There is almost no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Ember is built to last. The stainless steel handle and 8Cr13MoV blade steel are both durable and corrosion-resistant.

The knife is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point will keep it in good working order for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer comes with a three-position pocket clip. There are limited customization options available for this knife, given its compact size and design.

While aftermarket scales or blades are not readily available, the pocket clip can be swapped out with compatible Kershaw clips. Its compatibility with standard Kershaw pocket clips is a bonus.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer?

The Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is perfect for anyone looking for a discreet and capable EDC knife. It’s ideal for office workers, urban dwellers, and anyone who needs a small, reliable cutting tool for everyday tasks.

This knife may not be the best choice for those who require a large, heavy-duty knife for demanding outdoor activities or tactical applications. It is better suited for light-duty tasks.

A must-have accessory would be a sharpening stone or steel to maintain the blade’s edge. This will help keep the Kershaw Ember ready for use.

Conclusion on Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer

The Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer is an excellent EDC option that offers a great balance of size, performance, and value. Its compact size, assisted opening, and durable construction make it a reliable companion for everyday tasks.

The price is justified, given the quality of materials and construction. For under $40, you get a well-designed and functional knife that will last for years.

I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Ember Assisted Folding Knife by Rick Hinderer to anyone looking for a small, discreet, and capable EDC knife. It’s a great value and a reliable tool. Consider adding this knife to your EDC rotation today.