Let’s Talk About Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife
The Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife is a sleek and modern everyday carry (EDC) knife from the renowned Kershaw brand. It’s designed for those who appreciate a blend of style, functionality, and rapid deployment. This knife boasts a distinctive Wharncliffe blade shape and a vibrant blue G10 handle, making it both eye-catching and practical.
My search for the perfect EDC knife has been a long one. I needed something compact, easy to carry, and capable of handling various tasks without being overly bulky. The Kershaw Natrix caught my eye because of its unique design and the promise of assisted opening.
Upon unboxing, the Kershaw Natrix immediately impressed me with its lightweight feel and solid construction. The blue G10 handle offers a comfortable and secure grip, while the stonewash finish on the blade adds a touch of ruggedness. The assisted opening mechanism is smooth and quick, lending confidence to the build.
Compared to other EDC knives I’ve used, such as the Benchmade Griptilian and the Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Natrix stands out with its slimmer profile and more discreet carry. The Griptilian is bulkier, while the Paramilitary 2 is more expensive. I picked the Natrix for its balance of size, features, and value.
My initial impression was one of excitement. The Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife seemed to offer the perfect combination of aesthetics, functionality, and portability that I was looking for in an EDC knife.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kershaw Natrix on a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, including food preparation, cutting rope, and opening packages. The Wharncliffe blade proved to be incredibly versatile, handling both delicate and more demanding tasks with ease.
The Kershaw Natrix performed well in slightly damp conditions, as the G10 handle provided a secure grip even with wet hands. The assisted opening mechanism worked flawlessly every time, regardless of the weather. I found the knife easy to use and comfortable to hold, requiring no significant adjustment period.
The only minor issue I encountered was the stiffness of the pocket clip initially. It took a bit of effort to clip it onto my pocket, but it loosened up with use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily carry and use, the Kershaw Natrix has held up remarkably well. The stonewash finish on the blade has concealed any minor scratches, and the G10 handle remains in excellent condition. The blade is centered, and lockup is solid.
There have been no signs of significant wear and tear. The assisted opening mechanism remains as smooth and reliable as the day I unboxed it.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a clean cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s needed. Compared to some of my previous EDC knives, the Kershaw Natrix has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife
Specifications
- The Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife has a 4.25″ closed length, making it a compact option for everyday carry. This size provides a good balance between portability and usability.
- The 3.25″ blade is made of 8Cr13MoV stainless steel with a stonewash finish. This steel offers a good combination of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
- The Wharncliffe blade shape is ideal for precision cutting and slicing. Its straight edge and pointed tip make it versatile for a wide range of tasks.
- The handle is made of blue G10 material. G10 is known for its durability, lightweight properties, and excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
- The knife features SpeedSafe assisted opening. This allows for fast and easy one-handed deployment of the blade.
- It also includes a framelock mechanism. This provides a secure and reliable blade lockup.
- The extended tang adds to the safety and control of the knife during use. It prevents the user’s hand from slipping onto the blade.
- A pocket clip is included for convenient carry. This allows the knife to be easily attached to a pocket, belt, or backpack.
Performance & Functionality
The Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife performs its job exceptionally well. The blade is sharp out of the box and holds its edge reasonably well with normal use.
Its strengths lie in its compact size, rapid deployment, and versatile blade shape. The only minor weakness is that the 8Cr13MoV steel requires more frequent sharpening than some premium steels. It still is very respectable, though.
It meets and slightly exceeds my expectations for an EDC knife in its price range. The Kershaw Natrix provides a lot of value for its cost.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife is excellent. The materials used are of high quality, and the knife feels solid and well-constructed.
The lightweight design makes it comfortable to carry all day, and the ergonomic handle provides a secure and comfortable grip. The Kershaw Natrix is user-friendly, requiring no significant learning curve. The assisted opening mechanism is intuitive and easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Kershaw Natrix should last for many years. The stainless steel blade is resistant to corrosion, and the G10 handle is highly durable.
The knife is easy to maintain and repair. Sharpening the blade is straightforward, and the pivot point can be easily lubricated.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife comes with a standard pocket clip. While there are no specific accessories included, the knife is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips.
There are limited customization options available for the Kershaw Natrix. However, some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife
Pros
- Assisted opening for fast and easy blade deployment.
- Lightweight and compact for comfortable everyday carry.
- Sharp and versatile Wharncliffe blade.
- Durable G10 handle with a secure grip.
- Excellent value for the price.
Cons
- 8Cr13MoV steel requires more frequent sharpening than premium steels.
- Pocket clip can be stiff initially.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife?
The Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. It’s ideal for: casual campers, hikers, and anyone who needs a versatile cutting tool for everyday tasks.
This product might not be the best choice for those who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks or those who prefer premium blade steels. A must-have accessory is a good quality knife sharpener to keep the blade in optimal condition.
Conclusion on Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife
The Kershaw Natrix Framelock Blue Assisted Opening Folding Knife is an excellent EDC knife that offers a great balance of features, performance, and value. The price is absolutely justified for the quality and functionality you receive.
I would personally recommend this knife to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC option. Its sleek design, rapid deployment, and versatile blade make it a valuable addition to any everyday carry setup. Don’t hesitate – experience the Kershaw Natrix for yourself and elevate your EDC game today!