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10 Best Kershaw Knives 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife, SpeedSafe Opening, 2.75 inch Black Blade and Handle, Small, Lightweight Every Day Carry

Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife, SpeedSafe Opening, 2.75 inch Black Blade and Handle, Small, Lightweight Every Day CarryKershaw

The Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife is a solid choice for those in need of a compact, lightweight everyday carry knife. Key strengths include its 2.75-inch black stainless steel reverse tanto blade which is sharp and versatile for tasks like cutting tape, boxes, and rope. The blade's reverse tanto shape provides a strong tip, making it effective for piercing and precision cuts. The knife's SpeedSafe Assisted Opening mechanism ensures quick and easy one-handed blade deployment, which is further secured by a reliable liner lock once open. This makes the knife both safe and user-friendly in various situations.

The handle, made of plastic with several cutouts, keeps the knife lightweight at just under 2 ounces, making it comfortable for prolonged carrying. The handle design also includes a reversible pocket clip and a lanyard hole, offering multiple carrying options to suit personal preferences. However, the plastic handle may not be as durable or premium-feeling as other materials like G10 or aluminum often found in higher-end knives.

With an overall length of 6.5 inches when open and 3.6 inches when closed, the Kershaw Appa is compact enough for easy portability. The knife is suitable for a variety of uses, particularly for hiking and everyday tasks, but may not be ideal for extremely heavy-duty applications due to its lightweight build. Additionally, the knife is backed by a limited lifetime warranty, providing some assurance of its quality and longevity.

In conclusion, the Kershaw Appa Folding Tactical Pocket Knife offers good value for its price, particularly for those needing a reliable, lightweight, and versatile everyday carry knife, but users should be mindful of the plastic handle's potential limitations.

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#2

Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife; 2.9 in. 4Cr13 Black-Oxide Blackwash Finish Blade, Stainless Steel Stonewash Finish Handle Equipped with SpeedSafe Assisted Opening, Flipper and Frame Lock (1365)

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Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife; 2.9 in. 4Cr13 Black-Oxide Blackwash Finish Blade, Stainless Steel Stonewash Finish Handle Equipped with SpeedSafe Assisted Opening, Flipper and Frame Lock (1365)Kershaw

The Kershaw Misdirect Pocketknife is a compact and affordable option for anyone looking for a reliable everyday carry tool. With a 2.9-inch blade made from 4Cr14 stainless steel, it offers decent edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for a variety of tasks from opening packages to outdoor activities like camping or fishing. The black-oxide blackwash finish gives it a sleek look while also reducing glare, which can be useful in many situations.

One of the standout features is the SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism, which enables quick and easy access to the blade with just a flick of the flipper. This makes it user-friendly, especially for those who might struggle with traditional folding knives. The sturdy frame lock ensures the blade stays securely in place during use, providing an extra layer of safety.

The pocketknife's dimensions are comfortable for carrying, with a closed length of 4 inches and a weight of 3.2 ounces, making it light enough to fit easily in a pocket or bag. The 3-position pocket clip also offers versatility in how you carry it, accommodating both right and left-handed users. The 4Cr14 blade material, while decent for general use, may not hold a sharp edge as long as higher-end steels, requiring more frequent sharpening. Additionally, the stainless steel handle, while sturdy, could be slippery when wet, potentially affecting grip during use. Hand washing is also required for care, which might be a slight inconvenience for users seeking low-maintenance options.

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#3

Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife, Made in the USA, Black 3.4 inch CPM MagnaCut Steel Blade, EDC Design, Duralock Locking Mechanism, Manual Folder, Black Handle, Pocketclip

Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife, Made in the USA, Black 3.4 inch CPM MagnaCut Steel Blade, EDC Design, Duralock Locking Mechanism, Manual Folder, Black Handle, PocketclipKershaw

The Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife is a solid option for anyone in need of a reliable everyday carry (EDC) knife. One of its main strengths is the blade, made from CPM MagnaCut steel, which is known for its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. This means that it will stand up well to regular use, whether you’re camping or just tackling everyday tasks. The black DLC coating not only adds a sleek look but also provides extra protection to the blade.

Opening the knife is a breeze thanks to the KVT ball-bearing system and thumb studs, making it user-friendly for both left and right-handed individuals. The DuraLock mechanism is a standout feature, ensuring that the blade remains securely open during use. Additionally, the deep-carry pocket clip is easily reversible, allowing for versatile carrying options, which is great for personal preference.

While this knife is lightweight at 2.9 ounces, some users might find the 3.1-inch blade a bit short for certain tasks. Although the design is modern and stylish, it may not appeal to those who prefer a more traditional look. Maintenance is also important; regular cleaning and oiling of the moving parts are required to keep the knife in optimal condition.

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Buying Guide for the Best Kershaw Knives

When choosing a Kershaw knife, it's important to consider how you plan to use it. Kershaw offers a wide range of knives, from everyday carry (EDC) to specialized outdoor and tactical knives. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best knife for your needs. Here are the main specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Blade MaterialThe blade material determines the knife's durability, sharpness, and resistance to corrosion. Common materials include stainless steel, high-carbon steel, and various alloys. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and easy to maintain, making it ideal for everyday use. High-carbon steel is harder and holds an edge longer but requires more maintenance to prevent rust. Choose stainless steel for general use and high-carbon steel for tasks requiring a sharper, longer-lasting edge.
Blade LengthBlade length affects the knife's versatility and ease of carry. Shorter blades (under 3 inches) are more portable and suitable for everyday tasks like opening packages. Medium blades (3-4 inches) offer a balance between portability and functionality, making them good for both EDC and outdoor activities. Longer blades (over 4 inches) are better for heavy-duty tasks and outdoor use but can be less convenient to carry. Consider your primary use to determine the best blade length for you.
Blade ShapeBlade shape influences the knife's cutting performance and suitability for different tasks. Common shapes include drop point, tanto, and clip point. Drop point blades are versatile and good for general use, with a strong tip for piercing. Tanto blades have a strong, angular tip, making them ideal for piercing tough materials. Clip point blades have a thinner, sharper tip, suitable for precision tasks. Choose a blade shape based on the specific tasks you plan to perform.
Handle MaterialHandle material affects the knife's grip, comfort, and durability. Common materials include G-10, aluminum, and stainless steel. G-10 is a lightweight, durable composite that offers excellent grip, even in wet conditions. Aluminum is lightweight and strong but can be slippery when wet. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean but heavier. Consider the conditions in which you'll use the knife and your preference for weight and grip to choose the right handle material.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism ensures the blade stays securely in place during use, enhancing safety. Common types include liner lock, frame lock, and back lock. Liner locks are easy to use with one hand and are common in EDC knives. Frame locks are similar but use the handle frame for added strength. Back locks are very secure but require two hands to operate. Choose a locking mechanism based on your preference for ease of use and the level of security you need.
Opening MechanismThe opening mechanism determines how quickly and easily you can deploy the blade. Options include manual, assisted, and automatic. Manual knives require you to open the blade with your hand, offering more control. Assisted opening knives use a spring mechanism to help deploy the blade quickly. Automatic knives open with the push of a button but may be restricted in some areas. Consider your need for speed and convenience when choosing an opening mechanism.

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