Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife

The Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife immediately caught my eye as a blend of practicality and sleek aesthetics, promising a reliable everyday carry (EDC) option. Kershaw has a reputation for quality, and the Iridium, with its reverse tanto blade, DuraLock technology, and black anodized aluminum handle, seemed like a solid contender in the crowded folding knife market. This knife’s potential as a versatile tool for various everyday tasks made me eager to put it through its paces.

My previous EDC knife, a bulkier, heavier model, had become cumbersome and less convenient for daily tasks. I sought a lighter, more streamlined knife that still offered a robust blade and secure locking mechanism. The Kershaw Iridium‘s compact size and DuraLock system seemed to address these concerns directly.

Unboxing the Kershaw Iridium, I was immediately struck by its lightweight feel and the smooth action of the blade deployment. The black anodized aluminum handle felt comfortable and secure in hand, and the reverse tanto blade was sharp right out of the box. The initial impression was one of quality and thoughtful design.

I considered a few other options, including a Benchmade Bugout and a Spyderco Paramilitary 2, both popular EDC choices. Ultimately, the Kershaw Iridium‘s unique blade shape and the promise of the DuraLock system’s strength and ease of use swayed my decision. The price point also played a role, as the Iridium offered a similar feature set to the others at a more accessible cost.

Initially, I was quite excited. The Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife seemed to deliver on its promise of a practical, stylish, and reliable EDC knife. I couldn’t wait to see how it would perform in real-world use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Iridium during a weekend camping trip, where I used it for various tasks ranging from food preparation to cutting rope for setting up my tent. The reverse tanto blade proved particularly useful for piercing packaging and making clean slices through tough materials.

The knife handled well in slightly damp conditions, although I made sure to wipe the blade dry after each use. Deployment was smooth and reliable, even with slightly wet hands. The ergonomics felt natural, and I didn’t experience any discomfort during extended use. A pleasant surprise was how effortless cutting tasks were, from initial piercing to a continuous slice.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of carrying and using the Kershaw Iridium, it has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear on the handle, and the blade has retained its edge impressively.

The D2 steel blade shows no signs of rust, and the DuraLock mechanism remains as solid and reliable as it was on day one. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the pivot point are all it takes to keep it in top condition. It outperforms my previous EDC knife due to its superior ergonomics and significantly easier carry profile.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife

Specifications

The Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife features a 3.4-inch blade made of D2 steel, known for its excellent edge retention and wear resistance. The knife has a closed length of 4.5 inches and an overall length of 7.9 inches, making it a compact yet capable tool.

The handle is crafted from aluminum, providing a lightweight and durable grip, and the DuraLock ensures secure blade lockup. These specifications are crucial because they dictate the knife’s performance, durability, and ease of carry. The D2 steel ensures that the blade stays sharp longer, while the aluminum handle keeps the weight down for comfortable everyday carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Iridium performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. The reverse tanto blade excels at piercing and slicing, making it ideal for opening boxes, cutting rope, and preparing food.

Its strengths lie in its reliable deployment, secure lockup, and comfortable ergonomics. The only minor area for improvement might be the texturing on the handle, which could be slightly more aggressive for enhanced grip in extremely slippery conditions. It meets my expectations for a high-quality EDC knife and even exceeds them in terms of blade shape versatility.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife features a sleek, modern design with a focus on ergonomics. The black anodized aluminum handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the reverse tanto blade offers a unique aesthetic appeal.

The lightweight construction and slim profile make it easy to carry in a pocket without feeling bulky or cumbersome. The knife is user-friendly, with an intuitive thumb stud for quick and easy one-handed opening.

Durability & Maintenance

Thanks to its quality materials and robust construction, the Kershaw Iridium is built to last. The D2 steel blade is highly resistant to wear and corrosion, while the aluminum handle can withstand everyday abuse.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife comes with a reversible deep-carry pocket clip, allowing for convenient and discreet carry. While there are no factory-offered customization options like different handle colors or blade finishes, the knife’s standard configuration is well-suited for most users.

The pocket clip is compatible with aftermarket replacements, and some users may choose to add a lanyard for enhanced grip and retention. Beyond these minor tweaks, the Kershaw Iridium is designed as a complete package and doesn’t necessarily require any modifications to perform optimally.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife?

The Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife is perfect for everyday carry enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone who needs a reliable and versatile cutting tool. It is especially well-suited for those who appreciate a sleek design, secure locking mechanism, and durable blade.

Those who require a knife with a more aggressive grip or who prefer a larger blade may want to consider other options. Additionally, if you frequently work in extremely wet or muddy conditions, a knife with a more textured handle might be a better choice. A must-have accessory is a quality sharpening stone to maintain the blade’s edge over time.

Conclusion on Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife

The Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife is an outstanding EDC option that combines practicality, durability, and style. Its D2 steel blade, DuraLock mechanism, and lightweight aluminum handle make it a reliable tool for a wide range of tasks.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the knife’s excellent performance. I would highly recommend the Kershaw Iridium to anyone looking for a dependable and versatile EDC knife. If you’re searching for a knife that offers both functionality and aesthetics, the Kershaw Iridium Folding Knife is a great choice that won’t disappoint.