Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is an iconic everyday carry (EDC) knife, known for its slim profile, assisted opening, and razor-sharp blade. Designed by the legendary Ken Onion, this knife promises a blend of style, functionality, and portability. As someone who appreciates a well-designed and reliable cutting tool for both everyday tasks and tactical situations, I was eager to see if the Leek lived up to its reputation.

I’ve always gravitated toward knives that offer a combination of practicality and ease of carry. I was searching for a lightweight, slim knife that could handle everything from opening packages to more demanding cutting tasks during outdoor adventures. The Leek’s assisted opening and reputation for sharpness were particularly appealing.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the knife’s sleek design and lightweight feel. The stainless steel handle gives it a clean, modern look, and the build quality seemed solid. Compared to other knives I’ve owned, like my heavier duty Benchmade Griptilian or my more compact Spyderco Delica, the Leek felt significantly slimmer and more pocket-friendly. This difference in size and weight was a major factor in choosing the Leek, prioritizing easy carry without sacrificing cutting performance.

Initially, I was excited about the Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion. The assisted opening mechanism was snappy and responsive, and the blade felt incredibly sharp right out of the box. However, I was also slightly concerned about the slim profile, wondering if it would provide enough grip for more demanding tasks.

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

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion on a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope for setting up my tent, and opening packages of freeze-dried meals. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions.

The Leek’s blade sliced through vegetables and meat with ease, and the serrated section proved useful for quickly cutting through synthetic ropes. The assisted opening mechanism allowed for quick and effortless blade deployment, even with one hand. However, when things got wet due to an unexpected rain shower, the smooth stainless steel handle became a bit slippery, requiring a firmer grip.

I didn’t experience any immediate issues, but the handle slipperiness in wet conditions was a concern that needed further evaluation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has proven to be a reliable EDC option. The blade has retained its sharpness remarkably well, even after frequent use. A touch-up on a ceramic sharpening rod every few weeks keeps it razor-sharp.

Despite its slim profile, the Leek has held up well to everyday wear and tear. The stainless steel handle shows minimal signs of scratching, and the blade’s bead blast finish hides minor imperfections effectively. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous EDC knives, the Leek has exceeded my expectations in terms of portability and ease of maintenance.

While it may not be the ideal choice for heavy-duty tasks like batoning wood, it excels as a lightweight and versatile cutting tool for everyday use.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Specifications

The Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion boasts impressive specifications for an EDC knife. The 3-inch blade is crafted from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, known for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. The knife features a 4-inch closed length and a 7-inch overall length, making it compact and easy to carry.

The handle is made from 410 Steel with a bead blast finish, providing a sleek and durable grip. The knife also includes a pocket clip that can be configured for tip-up or tip-down carry. The assisted opening mechanism, designed by Ken Onion, allows for rapid blade deployment with either the flipper or thumbstud. These specifications combine to create a knife that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performs exceptionally well as an EDC knife. Its razor-sharp blade effortlessly handles a wide range of cutting tasks, from opening boxes to preparing food. The serrated section is particularly useful for cutting through tough materials like rope and webbing.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism is incredibly reliable and provides quick, one-handed blade deployment. The knife’s slim profile and lightweight design make it comfortable to carry in a pocket without feeling bulky. While the handle can be slippery when wet, this can be mitigated with a more conscious grip. Overall, the Leek meets and often exceeds expectations for a knife in its class.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion features a well-thought-out design with excellent ergonomics. The slim stainless steel handle is comfortable to hold for extended periods, although it can become slippery when wet. The blade’s drop-point shape provides versatility for both slicing and piercing tasks.

The reversible pocket clip allows for convenient carry in either tip-up or tip-down configuration, catering to personal preferences. The knife’s overall weight and balance are excellent, making it a pleasure to use. There is minimal learning curve due to the intuitive design.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and construction. The Sandvik 14C28N blade is resistant to corrosion and holds its edge well, requiring only occasional sharpening. The stainless steel handle is durable and easy to clean.

The knife’s simple design makes maintenance straightforward. Disassembly for thorough cleaning is possible with basic tools. With proper care, the Leek should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes standard with a reversible pocket clip and a lanyard hole for added carry options. While there are limited direct accessories available specifically for the Leek, its popularity has led to a variety of aftermarket options. These include custom pocket clips, handle scales, and lanyard beads.

The Leek is also compatible with most universal knife sharpening systems.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

The Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for anyone seeking a lightweight, stylish, and reliable EDC knife. It’s an excellent choice for office workers, college students, and urban dwellers who need a versatile cutting tool for everyday tasks. Hikers and campers looking for a compact and lightweight knife for food preparation and light camp chores will also appreciate the Leek.

This knife may not be suitable for individuals who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding outdoor activities or tactical applications. Those who prefer a more robust grip may also find the Leek’s slim handle less comfortable. A must-have accessory for the Leek is a quality knife sharpener to maintain its razor-sharp edge.

Conclusion on Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a standout EDC knife that combines style, functionality, and portability in a compact package. Its sleek design, razor-sharp blade, and assisted opening mechanism make it a joy to use for a variety of everyday tasks. While the smooth handle can be slippery when wet, this is a minor drawback compared to its numerous strengths.

The Leek’s price is justified by its quality construction, high-performance blade steel, and reliable assisted opening system. I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Leek Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone looking for a lightweight and versatile EDC knife that won’t break the bank. Upgrade your everyday carry with the Leek and experience the perfect blend of form and function.