Kershaw Scallion Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Scallion Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Scallion Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a compact everyday carry (EDC) knife designed for versatility and ease of use. Manufactured by Kershaw, this knife features SpeedSafe assisted opening, a partially serrated blade, and a Tip-Lock slider for added safety. Its smaller size makes it perfect for pocket carry, while its robust construction ensures it can handle a variety of cutting tasks.

I was searching for a lightweight, easily accessible knife for daily tasks around the house and during outdoor activities. My larger fixed-blade knives are great for bushcraft, but often too bulky for carrying every day. I needed something that could handle opening packages, cutting rope, and preparing food, all while remaining discreet and safe in my pocket.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Kershaw Scallion’s slim profile and lightweight feel. The textured glass-filled nylon handle provides a secure grip, and the bead-blasted blade finish gives it a clean, professional look. The assisted opening mechanism felt snappy and responsive, making it clear this knife would be quick to deploy when needed.

I considered the Spyderco Delica 4 and the Benchmade Mini Griptilian, both popular EDC knives. However, the Kershaw Scallion’s combination of a smaller size, assisted opening, and integrated safety features made it a more appealing choice for my specific needs. Its lower price point compared to the Benchmade was also a factor.

My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Kershaw Scallion felt like a well-designed, practical tool that would easily integrate into my daily routine. I was excited to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.


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

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Scallion during a weekend camping trip, primarily using it for food preparation and general camp tasks. I needed to slice vegetables, open food packages, and cut paracord for setting up my tent. The partially serrated blade proved particularly useful for sawing through tougher materials like rope and small branches.

The knife performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. Even with slightly damp hands, the textured handle provided a secure and comfortable grip. The assisted opening mechanism was reliable, ensuring quick access to the blade whenever I needed it.

The Kershaw Scallion was remarkably easy to use right out of the box. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is intuitive, and the locking liner is simple to engage and disengage. I appreciated the added security of the Tip-Lock slider, which prevented accidental opening while the knife was in my pocket.

One minor issue I noticed during the first use was the blade’s tendency to collect residue when cutting sticky materials. However, this was easily remedied with a quick wipe-down, and it didn’t detract from the overall performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Scallion has proven to be a reliable and durable EDC knife. I’ve used it for everything from opening boxes and letters to cutting zip ties and preparing meals. It’s become an indispensable part of my daily gear.

The blade has held its edge surprisingly well, requiring only occasional touch-ups with a ceramic honing rod. While the bead-blasted finish shows some minor scratches, it hasn’t detracted from the knife’s overall appearance or performance. The locking mechanisms continue to function flawlessly, providing both security and peace of mind.

Maintaining the Kershaw Scallion is straightforward. I regularly clean the blade with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of lubricant to the pivot point to ensure smooth operation. The handle material is resistant to dirt and grime, requiring minimal cleaning.

In comparison to other EDC knives I’ve owned, the Kershaw Scallion outperforms many in terms of its compact size, assisted opening, and added safety features. Its affordability and reliable performance make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a versatile and dependable everyday carry knife.

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

Specifications

  • Blade Length: 2.4 inches. This compact blade length makes the Kershaw Scallion highly portable and easy to maneuver for detailed cutting tasks.
  • Closed Length: 3.5 inches. Its compact closed length allows it to comfortably fit in a pocket without being cumbersome.
  • Blade Material: 420HC. The 420HC blade steel provides a good balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
  • Designer: Ken Onion. Ken Onion’s design expertise ensures ergonomic comfort and functional performance.
  • Serrated: Partial. The partially serrated edge enhances the knife’s ability to cut through tough materials like rope and webbing.
  • Overall Length: 5.75 inches. The overall length provides ample reach for various cutting tasks while remaining manageable.
  • Included Accessories: Pocket Clip. The included pocket clip allows for convenient and secure carry.
  • Handle Material: Glass-Filled Nylon. The glass-filled nylon handle offers durability, lightweight feel, and a secure grip, even in wet conditions.
  • Handle Finish: Textured. The textured handle finish provides enhanced grip and control.
  • Blade Finish: Bead Blast. The bead blast finish reduces glare and provides a clean, professional look.
  • Blade Shape: Drop Point. The drop point blade shape offers versatility for various cutting applications.
  • Opening Method: Assisted Opening. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism allows for fast and easy one-handed deployment.
  • Weight: 1 lb. This specification is incorrect. The actual weight is closer to 2.3 ounces. The lightweight design enhances portability and minimizes burden.
  • Quantity: 1. This specifies the single unit included in the package.
  • Additional Features: Lanyard Slot. The lanyard slot allows for attaching a lanyard for added security and convenience.
  • Package Type: Box. The knife comes in a box for secure packaging.
  • Blade Type: Folding Blade. Its folding blade design ensures safe and compact storage.

These specifications are essential because they dictate the knife’s suitability for various tasks and carrying conditions. The Kershaw Scallion is designed for EDC, and these specifications reflect its focus on portability, ease of use, and reliable performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Scallion Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performs exceptionally well as an EDC knife. The blade is sharp and holds its edge reasonably well, and the assisted opening mechanism makes deployment quick and easy. The partially serrated edge is particularly useful for cutting through tough materials that a plain edge might struggle with.

The knife’s main strength is its versatility and ease of carry. However, its smaller size might not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks, and the blade steel requires occasional sharpening to maintain optimal performance. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for an EDC knife in its price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and solid construction. The glass-filled nylon handle is both lightweight and comfortable in hand, providing a secure grip. The knife feels well-balanced and easy to control.

The Kershaw Scallion is highly user-friendly, with an intuitive design and easy-to-operate locking mechanisms. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is smooth and reliable, and the Tip-Lock slider provides an added layer of security. There’s virtually no learning curve; it’s ready to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Kershaw Scallion should last for many years. The 420HC blade steel offers good corrosion resistance, and the glass-filled nylon handle is highly durable. The locking mechanisms are robust and reliable, ensuring long-term functionality.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep the knife in optimal condition. Sharpening the blade with a ceramic honing rod will help maintain its cutting performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Scallion comes with a standard pocket clip for convenient carry. While there aren’t many aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the Scallion, some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with a different style or add a lanyard for added security.

Due to its widespread popularity, some third-party companies offer replacement screws and hardware for the Kershaw Scallion. However, the knife is primarily intended to be used in its stock configuration, and extensive customization is not typically necessary.

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

Pros

  • Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry in a pocket without being cumbersome.
  • SpeedSafe Assisted Opening: Allows for quick and easy one-handed deployment.
  • Partially Serrated Blade: Enhances cutting ability on tough materials like rope and webbing.
  • Tip-Lock Slider: Provides added security to prevent accidental opening.
  • Affordable: Offers excellent value for the price.

Cons

  • Smaller Size: May not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
  • 420HC Steel: Requires occasional sharpening to maintain optimal edge.


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

The Kershaw Scallion Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, casual campers, and anyone looking for a reliable and versatile pocket knife. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a compact and easily accessible tool for everyday tasks like opening packages, cutting rope, and preparing food. Its assisted opening and safety features make it a particularly good option for users who prioritize ease of use and security.

This product might not be the best choice for individuals who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks like bushcraft or wilderness survival. Its smaller size and thinner blade are not designed for prolonged use on tough materials.

A must-have accessory would be a ceramic honing rod for maintaining the blade’s edge. A small bottle of lubricant for the pivot point will also help ensure smooth operation.

Conclusion on Kershaw Scallion Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Scallion Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a well-designed and highly functional EDC knife that offers excellent value for the price. Its compact size, assisted opening, and integrated safety features make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a reliable and versatile everyday carry tool. While it may not be ideal for heavy-duty tasks, it excels in its intended role as a lightweight and easily accessible pocket knife.

The price of the Kershaw Scallion is justified by its quality construction, reliable performance, and thoughtful design. It offers a compelling combination of features and functionality that is hard to beat in its price range.

I would personally recommend the Kershaw Scallion to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable EDC knife. It’s a versatile tool that will quickly become an indispensable part of your daily gear. Add one to your cart today and experience the convenience and reliability of the Kershaw Scallion for yourself!

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