First Impressions of Kershaw Lockback
The Kershaw Lockback presents itself as a classic, no-nonsense folding knife, a staple for everyday carry and light utility tasks. Kershaw, a name synonymous with quality and affordability, aims to deliver a reliable tool in a compact package with this model. Is it a groundbreaking design? No. Does it promise to be a dependable companion? Absolutely, and that’s what piqued my interest.
I needed a backup knife, something small and lightweight to stash in my daypack for hiking and fishing trips. The Kershaw Lockback’s simple design and compact size seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was its modest size and weight. The brown wood handle gives it a traditional look, while the satin finish on the stainless steel blade offers a touch of modern appeal. The knife felt sturdy in hand, and the lockback mechanism engaged with a reassuring click.
Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian or Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Kershaw Lockback is significantly smaller and lighter. It’s not designed for heavy-duty tasks, but its size and simplicity make it a more convenient option for everyday carry. I chose the Kershaw Lockback for its portability and budget-friendly price point.
My initial impression was one of quiet satisfaction. It’s not flashy, but it feels like a solid, dependable tool. I was eager to put it to work and see how it performed in real-world situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Lockback to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Kershaw Lockback was a weekend fishing trip to a local lake. I used it primarily for cutting line, opening packages of bait, and cleaning small fish. The blade’s sharpness made quick work of these tasks, and the lockback mechanism provided a secure and stable feel.
The weather was damp, and the wooden handle became slightly slippery when wet. However, I didn’t experience any significant issues with grip. After the first use, I did notice a minor amount of play in the blade when fully extended.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kershaw Lockback has held up remarkably well for a knife in its price range. There are some minor scratches on the blade, but the edge has remained reasonably sharp. I’ve touched it up a couple of times with a sharpening steel, and it readily regained its edge.
The wooden handle has darkened slightly with use, but it hasn’t shown any signs of cracking or warping. Cleaning the knife is a breeze; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point. Compared to some of my higher-end knives, the Kershaw Lockback doesn’t offer the same level of refinement. However, it’s proven to be a reliable and capable tool for everyday tasks.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Lockback
Specifications
- The Kershaw Lockback boasts a 2.5-inch satin finish stainless steel blade, providing a good balance between sharpness and durability. The blade length makes it ideal for smaller tasks and convenient everyday carry.
- With a 3.5-inch closed length, the knife is compact enough to easily fit in a pocket or on a keychain. Its small size contributes to its portability and discreetness.
- The brown wood handle offers a classic and comfortable grip. The wood adds a touch of warmth and natural aesthetics.
- It features stainless steel bolsters for added strength and durability. The bolsters enhance the overall construction and provide extra support to the handle.
- The knife weighs in at a mere 0.18 lbs, making it incredibly lightweight and easy to carry. Its minimal weight ensures it won’t weigh you down during everyday activities.
These specifications contribute to the Kershaw Lockback’s strengths as a lightweight, easily portable utility knife. The stainless steel blade offers good corrosion resistance, while the wood handle provides a comfortable and secure grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Lockback performs admirably as a basic utility knife. It excels at tasks such as opening boxes, cutting rope, preparing food, and other everyday chores. The blade holds a decent edge and is easy to sharpen.
The lockback mechanism provides a secure and reliable lockup, ensuring the blade remains safely in place during use. However, the blade steel is not the hardest and will require more frequent sharpening with heavy use. Overall, the Kershaw Lockback meets expectations for a knife in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kershaw Lockback’s design is simple and functional, with a focus on practicality. The wooden handle is comfortable to hold, and the stainless steel bolsters add a touch of elegance. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, and the lockback mechanism is easy to operate with one hand.
There is no learning curve involved in using the Kershaw Lockback. Its straightforward design and intuitive operation make it accessible to users of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kershaw Lockback is built to last with proper care. The stainless steel blade is resistant to rust and corrosion, and the wooden handle is durable enough to withstand everyday use. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening will ensure the knife remains in good working condition for years to come.
Maintenance is simple. Just wipe the blade clean and apply a light coating of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Lockback doesn’t come with any accessories beyond its basic packaging. There are no readily available customization options, such as different handle scales or blade finishes. However, its simplicity is part of its appeal.
Aftermarket accessories are not really necessary. Its basic design is functional and reliable as-is.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Lockback
Pros
- Lightweight and compact for easy everyday carry.
- Classic design with comfortable wooden handle.
- Reliable lockback mechanism for secure blade lockup.
- Affordable price point makes it a great value.
- Easy to sharpen and maintain.
Cons
- Blade steel requires frequent sharpening with heavy use.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Lockback?
The Kershaw Lockback is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable everyday carry knife. It’s a great option for:
- Casual campers and hikers.
- Those needing a backup knife.
- Individuals needing a simple utility knife for basic tasks.
- Anyone on a budget.
Who should skip this product? Those looking for a high-performance knife with premium materials and advanced features should look elsewhere. Tactical users requiring a fast-deployment knife or one with a more aggressive blade design should also consider other options.
A must-have addition for the Kershaw Lockback would be a small sharpening steel for maintaining the blade’s edge.
Conclusion on Kershaw Lockback
The Kershaw Lockback is a solid, dependable knife that offers excellent value for the money. It may not be the flashiest or most feature-rich knife on the market, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank. Its simplicity and reliability make it a great choice for everyday carry.
The price is certainly justified. For under $20, you get a well-made knife that will last for years with proper care.
I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Lockback to anyone looking for a basic, reliable, and affordable utility knife. Add one to your pocket or pack today!