Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

Let’s Talk About Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a mid-sized, all-steel knife designed for everyday carry. Manufactured by Kershaw, this knife features SpeedSafe assisted opening, a stonewashed drop-point blade, and a comfortable, contoured handle, making it a practical tool for a variety of tasks. I’ve always appreciated the balance between functionality and affordability that Kershaw delivers, and I was eager to see if the Valve lived up to that reputation.

I was looking for a durable, easy-to-carry knife that could handle basic cutting tasks without being overly bulky. My previous EDC knife, a larger fixed blade, was often inconvenient to carry daily. I needed something more discreet and versatile for everyday tasks, from opening packages to light campsite chores.

Upon unboxing the Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals, I immediately noticed its solid feel and clean design. The all-steel construction gave it a reassuring weight, and the stonewashed blade finish looked both durable and stylish. The assisted opening mechanism felt smooth and responsive, a promising sign of quality.

I considered a few other knives in this price range, including the CRKT Squid and the Ontario RAT Model 2. I ultimately chose the Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals because I liked the SpeedSafe assisted opening and the all-steel construction, features that felt more robust than the CRKT’s frame lock or the Ontario’s plastic handle. Plus, the deep-carry pocket clip was a major selling point for comfortable EDC.

My first impression was positive; the knife felt well-built and looked like a reliable tool. I was excited to test its performance in real-world situations, hoping it would become a staple in my EDC setup. I also felt that the value was very high, considering the price point.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals during a weekend camping trip in the Angeles National Forest. I used it for various tasks, including preparing kindling, cutting rope, opening food packages, and general camp maintenance. The dry conditions presented no immediate challenges, but I made sure to expose it to morning dew to simulate a wet environment.

The knife performed well in dry conditions. The stonewashed blade showed no issues with the limited moisture I exposed it to. The blade opened quickly and locked securely, making cutting tasks efficient.

The knife was easy to use right out of the box. The SpeedSafe assisted opening made one-handed operation effortless. The contoured handle provided a comfortable grip, even when my hands were slightly damp.

I didn’t encounter any major issues during the initial use. The frame lock felt a little stiff at first, but it smoothed out with repeated use. The only minor surprise was how quickly the stonewashed finish seemed to show initial scratches, though it didn’t affect the knife’s performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals has held up remarkably well. It has become a constant companion in my EDC rotation. It has been used during hunting, hiking, fishing, and everyday carry tasks.

The knife has proven to be durable. The blade remains sharp after moderate use, and the frame lock continues to provide a secure lock-up. The stonewashed finish has accumulated some scratches, but this adds to its character rather than detracting from its functionality.

Maintenance is simple. I occasionally clean the blade with a dry cloth and apply a drop of oil to the pivot point to maintain smooth action. The stainless steel handle resists corrosion, requiring minimal upkeep.

In comparison to my previous EDC knives, the Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals has exceeded my expectations in terms of portability and ease of use. While it may not be as robust as a fixed blade for heavy-duty tasks, its compact size and assisted opening make it a more practical choice for everyday carry. It is a knife I would recommend, without reservation, to anyone seeking a reliable, every day tool.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Specifications

• Blade Length: 2.25 inches (5.7 cm): This compact blade length makes the knife legal to carry in many jurisdictions and is sufficient for most everyday tasks. The blade is large enough to be useful, yet small enough to remain discreet.
• Blade Steel: 4Cr14: While not a premium steel, 4Cr14 offers good corrosion resistance and edge retention for its price point. This makes it a practical choice for an EDC knife that might be exposed to moisture or demanding use.
• Blade Finish/Coating: Stonewashed finish: The stonewashed finish helps to hide scratches and wear, maintaining the knife’s appearance over time. It also provides a non-reflective surface, which can be advantageous in tactical situations.
• Closed Length: 3.25 inches (8.3 cm): The compact closed length makes the knife easy to carry in a pocket without being too bulky. This is ideal for EDC.
• Handle Material: Stainless steel: Stainless steel provides excellent durability and corrosion resistance. It also gives the knife a solid, substantial feel in the hand.
• Handle Finish/Coating: Bead-blasted finish: The bead-blasted finish offers a good grip without being overly abrasive. This enhances the knife’s comfort and control during use.
• Overall Length: 5.5 inches (14 cm): The overall length provides a good balance between portability and functionality. The knife is compact enough to carry comfortably, yet large enough to provide a secure grip and effective cutting action.
• Weight: 3 oz. (85 g): The lightweight design makes the knife easy to carry all day without feeling burdensome. This is particularly important for EDC.
• Opening Action: Assisted SpeedSafe: Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening allows for quick and easy one-handed deployment of the blade. This can be crucial in situations where you need to access the knife quickly.
• Lock Type: Frame lock: The frame lock provides a secure and reliable blade lock-up. This prevents the blade from closing unintentionally during use, enhancing safety.
• Pocketclip: Single-position deep-carry (right tip-up): The deep-carry pocket clip allows the knife to sit low in the pocket for discreet carry. The single-position design may not be ideal for everyone, but it works well for right-handed users.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals performs admirably for its intended purpose. The blade is sharp and capable of handling a variety of cutting tasks. The assisted opening mechanism works reliably, providing quick access to the blade when needed.

The knife’s strengths lie in its portability, ease of use, and solid construction. The only minor weakness is that the 4Cr14 steel requires more frequent sharpening than higher-end steels, especially with frequent use. However, this is a minor drawback considering the knife’s price point.

The knife meets and exceeds expectations for an EDC knife in its price range. It offers a good balance of functionality, durability, and affordability. This makes it a great option for both experienced knife users and those new to EDC.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals features a clean and functional design. The all-steel construction gives it a solid, substantial feel in the hand. The contoured handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended use.

The knife is user-friendly with minimal learning curve. The assisted opening mechanism is intuitive, and the frame lock is easy to operate with one hand. The only potential issue for some users is that the pocket clip is only configured for right-handed, tip-up carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is built to last with proper care. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion, and the frame lock provides a secure and reliable lock-up. The stonewashed finish helps to hide scratches and wear.

The knife is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are sufficient to keep it in good working order. The blade is relatively easy to sharpen using basic sharpening tools.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals comes with a single-position deep-carry pocket clip. No other accessories are included.

Customization options are limited due to the knife’s design. However, some users may choose to replace the pocket clip with an aftermarket option, if one can be found that is compatible. Due to the lower cost of this product, customization may not be the most practical path.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals?

The Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. It is particularly well-suited for:

• Everyday carry enthusiasts
• Hikers and campers
• Anyone needing a convenient and functional cutting tool

This knife may not be the best choice for:

• Those who prefer a left-handed carry option
• Users who require a high-end steel for demanding cutting tasks

Must-have accessories or modifications? A good sharpening stone or system would be useful for maintaining the blade’s edge.

Conclusion on Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is a solid and reliable EDC knife that offers excellent value for its price. Its SpeedSafe assisted opening, all-steel construction, and comfortable design make it a practical choice for a variety of tasks. The minor drawbacks, such as the single-position pocket clip and the need for more frequent sharpening, are outweighed by its overall performance and durability.

The price of $36.76 is more than justified for the quality and features offered. This knife provides a great balance of functionality and affordability.

I would absolutely recommend the Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to anyone looking for a dependable and affordable EDC knife. It’s a great tool for everyday tasks and outdoor adventures alike.

So, if you’re in the market for a new EDC knife, give the Kershaw Valve Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals a try. You won’t be disappointed!