Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

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

The Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a compact and stylish everyday carry (EDC) knife designed for versatility. Known for its SpeedSafe assisted opening, the Scallion offers rapid blade deployment, making it a handy tool for various tasks. I’ve always appreciated Kershaw’s commitment to quality and innovative designs, and the Scallion, designed by the renowned Ken Onion, promised to be no exception.

I needed a reliable and discreet knife for everyday tasks, something that wouldn’t weigh me down or draw unwanted attention. The Kershaw Scallion seemed to strike the perfect balance between functionality and portability. Unboxing the Scallion, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and lightweight feel; the black glass-filled nylon handle felt solid, and the blade’s bead blast finish gave it a tactical look.

Compared to my larger, bulkier folding knives, the Scallion’s slim profile was a welcome change. I considered the Spyderco Delica 4 and the Benchmade Bugout, both excellent knives, but the Scallion’s assisted opening and more budget-friendly price point swayed me. My initial impression was excitement – a well-built, compact knife that seemed perfect for my EDC needs, it felt comfortable in my hand and the assisted opening was lightning fast.

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

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion during a weekend camping trip. I used it for various tasks, from opening food packages to cutting rope for setting up the tent. The knife performed admirably in dry conditions, the assisted opening allowed one-handed operation which proved useful when my other hand was occupied.

The blade remained secure during use, and the liner lock provided confidence. However, when it started raining, the handle became slightly slippery, requiring a firmer grip. There were no issues after first-time use, but the slight decrease in grip when wet was noted.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has held up remarkably well. I carry it daily, using it for tasks ranging from opening boxes to more demanding cutting jobs around the house. The blade has retained its edge reasonably well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a honing steel.

There are no major signs of wear and tear, other than some minor scratches on the bead blast finish, which is to be expected. Maintenance is simple: I clean the blade and pivot point with a dry cloth after each use and occasionally apply a drop of oil to keep the action smooth. Compared to some of my higher-end knives, the Scallion may not have the same level of steel performance, but its ease of carry and quick deployment make it a reliable and practical tool for everyday life.

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

Specifications

The Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion features a 2.4-inch blade made of 420HC stainless steel. This steel provides a good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. The closed length is 3.5 inches, making it very pocketable, and the overall length when open is 5.75 inches.

The handle is constructed from black glass-filled nylon, providing a lightweight and durable grip. The knife weighs in at 2.5 ounces, making it incredibly light for EDC. It also features SpeedSafe assisted opening for quick, one-handed blade deployment, a liner lock for secure blade lockup, a single-position pocket clip (left, tip-down), and a lanyard hole. These specifications make the Scallion a well-rounded and convenient EDC option.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performs admirably for its intended purpose – everyday cutting tasks. The 420HC steel takes a decent edge and is relatively easy to resharpen, making it suitable for tasks like opening boxes, cutting cordage, and food preparation. Its strength lies in its speed and ease of deployment thanks to the SpeedSafe mechanism, and secure lock-up due to the liner lock.

While the 420HC steel may not hold an edge as long as premium steels like CPM S30V or M390, it offers a good balance of performance and value. One minor weakness is the handle, which can become a bit slippery when wet. Overall, the Scallion meets and exceeds expectations for a knife in its price range and intended use.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is thoughtfully designed with a focus on portability and ease of use. The glass-filled nylon handle is lightweight and comfortable, although the texture could be more aggressive for better grip in wet conditions. The slim profile allows it to disappear in your pocket, making it ideal for everyday carry.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening is a standout feature, allowing for quick and effortless blade deployment with either the thumb studs or the flipper tab. There’s minimal learning curve, it feels intuitive and easy to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is built to last with proper care. The 420HC blade is corrosion-resistant and relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional sharpening and cleaning. The glass-filled nylon handle is durable and resistant to impacts.

Maintenance is straightforward: wipe the blade clean after each use, apply a drop of oil to the pivot point occasionally, and sharpen as needed. With reasonable care, the Scallion should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes with a single-position pocket clip, which can be mounted for left-side, tip-down carry. There aren’t many aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Scallion, but some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style or material.

Customization options are limited due to the knife’s design, but some users may opt to replace the handle scales with custom-made ones for a personalized look. The knife is compatible with standard lanyard attachments through the lanyard hole.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

The Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. It’s ideal for college students, office workers, and anyone who needs a convenient tool for everyday cutting tasks. The Scallion is also a great option for those who prefer a smaller, more discreet knife that won’t weigh them down.

Those who require a knife for heavy-duty tasks or prefer a blade with exceptional edge retention may want to consider other options with higher-end steel. A must-have accessory would be a sharpening stone or honing steel to maintain the blade’s edge over time.

Conclusion on Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a well-designed and practical EDC knife that offers excellent value for the money. Its SpeedSafe assisted opening, lightweight construction, and durable materials make it a reliable tool for various everyday tasks. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end knives, its performance and functionality are more than adequate for most users.

At a price of $89.79, the Scallion is a justifiable purchase for anyone in need of a dependable EDC knife. I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Scallion Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone looking for a budget-friendly and versatile everyday carry knife. Add the Kershaw Scallion to your cart today and experience the convenience and reliability it offers!