Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

Let’s Dive into Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion isn’t just another pocketknife; it’s a statement. Designed by the legendary Ken Onion and manufactured by Kershaw, this knife combines sleek aesthetics with practical functionality, offering a compelling blend of style and substance. Its vibrant teal handle immediately catches the eye, while its assisted opening and high-quality steel blade promise reliable performance for everyday tasks.

My well-worn, black-handled EDC knife was starting to show its age, so I needed a replacement. I wanted something dependable but with a bit of personality, and the Leek’s reputation and unique color caught my attention. Upon unboxing, the teal anodized aluminum handle was even more striking than I anticipated. The knife felt surprisingly lightweight yet solid, inspiring confidence in its build quality.

Compared to my old SOG Twitch II and a Gerber Paraframe, the Leek felt more refined. The SOG, while functional, always felt a bit bulky. The Gerber, minimalist as it is, lacks the solid feel and assisted opening I was looking for. My first impression of the Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion was pure excitement. It seemed like a perfect blend of style, size, and functionality.

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

First Use Experience

I immediately put the Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to work. I tested it in my usual environment: the warehouse and office. The knife was used for cutting open boxes, slicing through packaging tape, and even performing some minor cable management.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening proved to be a game-changer, especially when juggling tools or materials. Even in slightly damp conditions after an unexpected drizzle, the textured handle provided a secure grip. I found the Leek easy to use right out of the box, its slim profile fitting comfortably in my hand. The only surprise was how smoothly the blade deployed; it took minimal effort to activate the assist.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has become an indispensable part of my daily carry. The teal handle has held up remarkably well, with only a few minor scratches visible upon close inspection. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and a drop of oil on the pivot keeps it performing flawlessly.

Compared to previous knives I’ve owned, the Leek requires less frequent sharpening. The edge retention of the Sandvik 14C28N steel is truly impressive. It outperforms cheaper stainless-steel knives in terms of both sharpness and durability, making it a clear winner in my book.

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

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3 inches. This provides ample cutting surface while maintaining a compact overall size.
• Closed Length: 4 inches. Makes it easy to carry discreetly in a pocket.
• Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N. This high-performance stainless steel offers excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance.
• Designer: Ken Onion. A renowned knife designer known for innovative and functional designs.
• Serrated: Plain. The plain edge offers versatility for a wide range of cutting tasks.
• Overall Length: 7 inches. This length balances usability and portability.
• Included Accessories: Pocket Clip. Essential for secure and convenient carry.
• Handle Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum. This lightweight and strong aluminum provides a comfortable and durable grip.
• Handle Finish: Bead Blast. Creates a matte, non-reflective surface and provides a good grip.
• Blade Finish: Bead Blast. Reduces glare and helps to hide scratches and wear.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point. A versatile blade shape suitable for slicing, piercing, and general utility.
• Lock Type: Liner Lock. A simple and reliable locking mechanism.
• Opening Method: Assisted Opening. The SpeedSafe mechanism allows for quick and easy one-handed blade deployment.
• Additional Features: Clip. Allows for tip-up or tip-down carry options.
• Quantity: 1. The package includes one knife.
• Blade Type: Folding Blade. Offers convenience and portability.

These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the knife’s overall performance and usability. The Sandvik 14C28N steel provides a sharp, long-lasting edge, while the aluminum handle keeps the knife lightweight and comfortable. The SpeedSafe assisted opening makes it quick and easy to deploy the blade in any situation.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performs admirably in a variety of roles. The blade is sharp and precise, making quick work of everyday tasks. Its slim profile makes it comfortable to carry and easy to maneuver.

The knife’s strengths lie in its sharpness, speed of deployment, and overall ease of use. The only minor weakness is that the slim handle might not be ideal for those with very large hands. The Leek exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and aesthetics.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The anodized aluminum handle feels solid and well-made. The knife’s lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day without feeling bulky.

The Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is incredibly user-friendly. The SpeedSafe mechanism is intuitive, and the liner lock is easy to engage and disengage. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and construction, the Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion should last for many years with proper care. Cleaning the blade regularly and applying a small amount of oil to the pivot point is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The anodized aluminum handle is resistant to scratches and corrosion.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes with a reversible pocket clip, allowing for both right and left-handed carry. While there aren’t many direct customization options from Kershaw, the Leek’s popularity means there’s a thriving aftermarket for scales and pocket clips. Many users also choose to add lanyards for enhanced grip and retrieval.

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

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

The Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for everyday carry (EDC) enthusiasts, office workers, warehouse personnel, and anyone who needs a reliable and stylish pocketknife for various tasks. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a balance of functionality and aesthetics.

Those who require a heavy-duty fixed blade knife for demanding tasks should skip this product. This is a sleek EDC knife, not a survival tool. A must-have accessory is a quality knife sharpener to maintain the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a stylish, functional, and reliable EDC knife. The price of $85.89 is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and innovative features.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Kershaw Leek Teal Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion! It’s a fantastic tool that will serve you well for years to come. Upgrade your EDC today and experience the difference!