Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin Review

Let’s Dive into Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin

The Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin is a no-nonsense, budget-friendly EDC (Everyday Carry) option designed by renowned knife maker RJ Martin. Kershaw aimed to deliver a practical and reliable tool with the Volt II, featuring SpeedSafe assisted opening, a versatile blade shape, and a secure grip. This knife is designed for those who need a dependable cutting tool without breaking the bank.

My trusty old Gerber folder, a gift from my grandfather, finally gave up the ghost after a particularly brutal encounter with some stubborn paracord on a recent camping trip. I needed a replacement, something that could handle similar tasks but with a bit more oomph. I wanted a knife that was easy to deploy, reliable, and wouldn’t be the end of the world if I happened to lose it on the trail.

Out of the box, the Kershaw Volt II feels solid. The glass-filled nylon handle provides a surprisingly secure grip, and the blade came reasonably sharp. It’s not the flashiest knife in the world, but it feels like a tool, not a trinket.

I considered the Ontario RAT Model 1 and the CRKT Drifter before settling on the Volt II. The RAT Model 1 is a fantastic knife, but its larger size wasn’t ideal for EDC. The CRKT Drifter is slimmer, but I wanted something with assisted opening for quick deployment. My initial impression was positive; it seemed like a well-built, practical knife at a great price point. I was eager to see how it would perform in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Kershaw Volt II on a weekend hiking and camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. It was immediately put to use prepping kindling for a fire, cutting rope for securing the tent, and opening food packages. The partial serrations proved particularly useful for quickly sawing through thicker cords.

The weather was fairly mild, but there was some light rain. The textured nylon handle provided a solid grip even when wet. I found the SpeedSafe assisted opening system to be incredibly fast and reliable.

After the first day, I was impressed by how easily the knife deployed and how comfortable it was to use. There were no immediate issues, and the blade held its edge well after some moderate use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Kershaw Volt II has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages at home to more demanding tasks like cutting tree limbs while clearing trails. There are some minor scratches on the bead-blasted finish of the blade, but nothing unexpected for a knife that’s seen regular use.

The assisted opening mechanism is still snappy and reliable. I’ve cleaned the knife a few times, applying a small amount of oil to the pivot point. It’s incredibly easy to maintain, and the blade is simple to sharpen.

Compared to my old Gerber, the Kershaw Volt II feels more robust and easier to deploy one-handed. While the Gerber had sentimental value, the Volt II outperforms it in every practical aspect. The glass-filled nylon handle feels more secure than the slicker metal handle on the Gerber, especially in wet conditions.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin

Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.25 inches. This provides a good balance between cutting power and ease of carry.
• Closed Length: 3.88 inches. Compact enough to comfortably fit in a pocket.
• Blade Material: 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. This offers a good balance of edge-holding capability, strength, and corrosion resistance.
• Designer: RJ Martin. The influence of a respected knife designer is evident in the overall design and functionality.
• Serrated: Partial. The serrations are very effective for cutting through fibrous materials.
• Overall Length: 7.1 inches. A comfortable length for most users.
• Included Accessories: Pocket Clip. A reversible pocket clip allows for tip-up or tip-down carry.
• Handle Material: Glass-Filled Nylon. This material provides a durable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
• Handle Finish: Textured. The textured finish enhances grip and prevents slippage.
• Blade Finish: Bead Blast. A matte finish that is resistant to scratches and glare.
• Blade Shape: Drop Point. A versatile blade shape suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• Opening Method: Assisted Opening. The SpeedSafe assisted opening system provides fast and easy one-handed deployment.
• Additional Features: Clip. The reversible pocket clip adds to the knife’s versatility.

These specifications contribute to a knife that’s both practical and reliable. The 8Cr13MoV steel is easy to sharpen and holds an edge well enough for most everyday tasks. The glass-filled nylon handle is lightweight yet strong, providing a secure and comfortable grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Volt II performs admirably for its intended purpose: everyday carry and general utility. The blade is sharp enough for most tasks, and the serrations make quick work of rope, cord, and webbing.

The knife’s strengths lie in its ease of use, reliable assisted opening, and comfortable grip. One potential weakness is that the 8Cr13MoV steel might require more frequent sharpening than some higher-end steels. I have noticed the blade needing a touch up more frequently than some of my other knives, but it’s a minor inconvenience.

The Volt II meets my expectations for a budget-friendly EDC knife. It’s reliable, easy to use, and comfortable to carry.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Volt II has a simple but effective design. The glass-filled nylon handle is lightweight and provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions.

The knife is very user-friendly, and there’s no learning curve involved. The assisted opening is intuitive, and the pocket clip is easy to adjust for either tip-up or tip-down carry.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Volt II seems built to last. The 8Cr13MoV steel is relatively tough, and the glass-filled nylon handle is very durable.

The knife is easy to maintain. A quick wipe down after use and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all that’s required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Volt II comes with a reversible pocket clip. There are no other included accessories.

There are limited customization options available for the Volt II. However, the pocket clip can be easily swapped for aftermarket options, and the lanyard hole allows for the addition of a lanyard or fob. Some users might consider replacing the screws with higher-quality replacements.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin?

The Kershaw Volt II is perfect for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable EDC knife. This includes campers, hikers, preppers, or anyone who needs a dependable cutting tool for everyday tasks.

This knife might not be the best choice for those who prefer high-end steels or extensive customization options. Collectors or those seeking a “showpiece” knife should also look elsewhere.

A sharpening stone or system would be a must-have accessory to maintain the blade’s edge. A small bottle of knife oil is also recommended for lubricating the pivot point.

Conclusion on Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin

The Kershaw Volt II Serrated Assisted Folding Knife by RJ Martin is a solid choice for anyone seeking an affordable and reliable EDC knife. It offers excellent value for the price, with features like SpeedSafe assisted opening, a secure grip, and a versatile blade shape.

The price is absolutely justified. You get a lot of knife for your money.

I would definitely recommend the Kershaw Volt II to anyone looking for a dependable and budget-friendly EDC option. It’s a practical and functional tool that will serve you well in a variety of situations. Pick one up today and experience the reliability and convenience of the Kershaw Volt II for yourself!