Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife

The Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife immediately grabs your attention with its unique karambit-inspired blade shape and tactical aesthetics. Manufactured by Kershaw, a brand known for its quality and affordability, the Outlier promises a blend of practicality and eye-catching design. Its assisted opening mechanism and compact size further enhance its appeal as a versatile everyday carry (EDC) tool.

As someone who appreciates a good balance of form and function in my gear, the Outlier piqued my interest. I needed a compact, reliable knife that could handle various tasks, from opening boxes and cutting rope to more demanding outdoor activities. The promise of rapid deployment and a comfortable grip were key factors in my decision to explore this offering from Kershaw.

Unboxing the Outlier, I was immediately struck by its solid feel and clean lines. The tan handle provides a nice contrast to the blackwash (BW) finish on the blade, giving it a rugged yet refined appearance. The knife feels well-balanced in hand, suggesting good ergonomics for extended use.

I considered the SOG Gambit and the CRKT Provoke before settling on the Kershaw Outlier. The Gambit felt a bit too aggressive for everyday carry, and the Provoke’s Kinematic deployment system, while innovative, seemed more complicated than necessary. The Kershaw Outlier appeared to offer a more streamlined and practical approach to a karambit-style folding knife.

My first impression was definitely positive; the Kershaw Outlier seemed to deliver on its promise of a tactical yet utilitarian tool. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Outlier during a weekend camping trip. The primary uses were preparing kindling for the campfire, opening food packages, and general camp chores like cutting rope. The Kershaw Outlier’s assisted opening proved invaluable when I needed to quickly deploy the blade with one hand.

The knife performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The tan handle offered a secure grip even when my hands were damp from rain, and the blackwash finish seemed resistant to corrosion. I was impressed by how easily the blade sliced through rope and cardboard.

The Outlier took a little getting used to initially due to the curved blade. Mastering the optimal grip for various cutting tasks required some practice. There were no significant issues, but the liner lock felt slightly stiff at first, easing up after repeated use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of near-daily carry, the Kershaw Outlier has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. There are minimal signs of wear on the blade coating. The handle remains sturdy and comfortable, and the assisted opening mechanism is still as snappy as day one.

The blade requires only occasional sharpening to maintain a keen edge. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it free of debris. I noticed a slight loosening of the pivot screw after a few weeks of heavy use, but a simple adjustment with a Torx wrench quickly resolved the issue.

Compared to my previous EDC knife, a traditional drop-point folder, the Kershaw Outlier offers superior cutting performance for certain tasks, particularly those requiring a curved blade. Its compact size and assisted opening make it more convenient for quick access and one-handed operation. The Kershaw Outlier is an upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2.63 inches (6.68 cm). The blade’s compact size makes it legal to carry in many jurisdictions and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
• Closed Length: 5 inches (127 mm). The compact design allows for comfortable carry in a pocket or on a belt.
• Lock Type: Linerlock. The linerlock provides a secure and reliable blade lockup.
• Additional Features: Assisted Opening, Pocket Clip. Assisted opening allows for rapid deployment, while the pocket clip provides convenient and secure carry.
• Color: Brown (Tan). The tan handle provides a subtle, tactical look and excellent grip.

These specifications combine to create a knife that is both practical and easy to carry. The assisted opening is especially beneficial for situations where a quick response is necessary. The compact size ensures it won’t weigh you down during everyday activities.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Outlier excels in its intended role as a utility and tactical knife. The curved blade shape is particularly effective for slicing and ripping tasks. The assisted opening is smooth and reliable, allowing for quick deployment with minimal effort.

The knife’s strengths include its compact size, rapid deployment, and secure grip. The main weakness is that the curved blade can be less versatile than a traditional straight-edged blade for certain cutting tasks, such as carving. It still meets and exceeds expectations in its intended role as a utility karambit.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Outlier’s build quality is excellent for its price point. The materials used are durable and well-finished, and the knife feels solid in hand. The ergonomic design of the handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended use.

The knife is user-friendly, although the curved blade takes some getting used to. The assisted opening is intuitive and easy to operate, and the linerlock is simple to engage and disengage. The Kershaw Outlier is designed for ease of use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Outlier is built to last. The materials used are resistant to wear and tear. The blade coating provides good protection against corrosion.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s needed to keep the knife in top condition. A drop of oil on the pivot point will ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Outlier comes standard with a pocket clip, which can be configured for tip-up or tip-down carry. There are limited customization options available directly from Kershaw. However, the knife is compatible with aftermarket pocket clips and lanyards.

The Kershaw Outlier also offers modification of the scales if a user wants to customize the look. Be sure to check if any scale modifications will void the Kershaw warranty first.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife?

The Kershaw Outlier is perfect for EDC enthusiasts, tactical gear aficionados, and anyone who appreciates a reliable and stylish knife. It is particularly well-suited for those who frequently need to open boxes, cut rope, or perform other utility tasks. The Kershaw Outlier would also be good for first responders.

Individuals who require a highly versatile blade for carving or other intricate cutting tasks might want to consider a traditional straight-edged knife instead. Also, those who prefer a manual opening mechanism over assisted opening might find the Kershaw Outlier less appealing.

Must-have accessories include a sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge and a small Torx wrench for adjusting the pivot screw. A lanyard can also be added for enhanced grip and retention.

Conclusion on Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife

The Kershaw Outlier BW Tan 2.63in A/O Folding Knife is a well-designed and executed tool that offers a compelling blend of style, functionality, and value. Its unique blade shape, rapid deployment, and ergonomic design make it a standout option in the crowded EDC knife market. While the curved blade might not be ideal for every task, it excels in its intended role as a utility and tactical knife.

At a price of $49.39, the Kershaw Outlier represents excellent value for money. Its durable construction and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a high-quality EDC knife. The Kershaw Outlier is worth the money.

I would personally recommend the Kershaw Outlier to anyone looking for a compact, reliable, and stylish knife. It’s a versatile tool that can handle a wide range of tasks. Pick up a Kershaw Outlier today and experience the difference a quality knife can make!