Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife

The Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife is a new addition to Kershaw’s budget-friendly Starter Series, boasting an upgraded 8Cr13MoV blade steel and an assisted opening mechanism. It is marketed as a versatile tool for everyday carry (EDC) and light outdoor tasks. Having spent years relying on various folding knives in demanding environments, I was eager to see how this affordable option stacked up against its pricier competitors.

My search for a reliable EDC knife that wouldn’t break the bank led me to the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife. I needed something with a robust blade that could handle basic cutting tasks while still being comfortable to carry daily. I also was keen on testing the assisted opening to have a faster one-handed opening when needed.

Unboxing the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife, I was immediately drawn to the stonewashed finish on both the blade and handle. The olive handle overlay provided a comfortable and secure grip, and the overall construction felt surprisingly solid for a knife in this price range. The assisted opening mechanism snapped the blade open with satisfying speed, hinting at its potential for practical use.

Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian and Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife felt lighter and less refined, but still promising. The Benchmade offered superior blade steel and lock strength, while the Spyderco provided a more ergonomic handle design. However, the Kershaw’s affordability and assisted opening made it an appealing alternative for less demanding tasks.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife seemed like a capable tool with a good balance of features and value. I was excited to put it to the test and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. I used it for various tasks, including preparing food, cutting rope, and whittling wood for kindling. The blade’s reverse tanto shape proved useful for piercing and slicing, and the assisted opening allowed for quick access when my hands were full.

The Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife performed admirably in dry conditions, maintaining a secure grip even with damp hands. However, when exposed to heavy rain, the stonewashed stainless steel handle became slightly slick. Despite this, the jimping on the blade spine provided additional control, preventing slippage during more demanding cuts.

The assisted opening was initially stiff, requiring some force to overcome the initial resistance. After a few dozen deployments, the action smoothed out considerably, making it easier and faster to open the blade. I did not encounter any significant issues during this first outing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. The 8Cr13MoV blade has held its edge well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a sharpening steel. The stonewashed finish has effectively concealed scratches and wear marks, maintaining the knife’s aesthetic appeal.

I have used the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife for a variety of tasks, from opening packages to cutting through thick cardboard. It has shown no signs of blade play or lock failure, indicating a solid and dependable construction. The frame lock engages securely and is easy to disengage with one hand.

Maintaining the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to keep the action smooth.

Compared to my experience with other budget folding knives, the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife has significantly outperformed my expectations. It offers a better balance of durability, performance, and value than many other options in its price range.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife

Specifications

The Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife features a 2.9-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. This steel offers a good balance of corrosion resistance and edge retention. The blade’s reverse tanto shape provides both piercing and slicing capabilities.

The knife has a closed length of 3.9 inches and an overall length of 6.8 inches, making it compact enough for comfortable everyday carry. The handle is made from stainless steel with an olive glass-filled nylon overlay, providing a secure and ergonomic grip. The stonewashed finish on the blade and handle helps to conceal scratches and wear marks.

Other specifications include a blade thickness of 0.11 inches, a frame lock, and a weight of 3.4 ounces. The flipper opening method is assisted, allowing for quick and easy one-handed deployment. A single-position deep-carry pocketclip is included for convenient carry.

These specifications contribute to the knife’s overall performance and user experience. The blade steel provides a good balance of durability and ease of sharpening. The assisted opening and frame lock ensure reliable and secure operation.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife performs its intended job well. The blade is sharp out of the box and maintains a good edge for extended use. The assisted opening is fast and reliable.

The knife’s strengths lie in its affordability, durability, and ease of use. Its main weakness is the potential for the handle to become slick in wet conditions. Overall, the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife meets expectations for a knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife features a simple and functional design. The stonewashed finish gives it a rugged and appealing look. The handle is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip.

The knife is easy to use, with no significant learning curve. The assisted opening is intuitive, and the frame lock is easy to operate with one hand. The deep-carry pocketclip allows for discreet and comfortable carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife is built to last. The 8Cr13MoV blade is resistant to corrosion and wear. The stainless steel handle is strong and durable.

Maintaining the Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife is easy. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that is required to keep it in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife does not come with many accessories. However, it is compatible with standard aftermarket pocketclips. The handle scales can potentially be replaced with custom options, although this may require some modification.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Salvage Folding Knife