Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

First Impressions of Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a striking everyday carry (EDC) option that blends form and function. From Kershaw, a name synonymous with quality and innovation, and designed by the legendary Ken Onion, this knife promises a blend of speed, sharpness, and style. The vibrant orange anodized aluminum handle immediately grabs your attention, while the trusted SpeedSafe assisted opening hints at rapid deployment.

I was looking for a reliable, yet easily visible knife for general outdoor tasks and light tactical applications. I wanted something that wouldn’t get lost in the underbrush, and a dependable blade that could be quickly deployed one-handed.

Unboxing the Kershaw Leek Orange, I was immediately struck by its slim profile and lightweight feel. The orange anodized aluminum handle felt smooth and comfortable, and the blade arrived razor sharp. The assisted opening mechanism snicked open with authority, a testament to Kershaw’s engineering.

Compared to my Benchmade Griptilian and Spyderco Paramilitary 2, the Leek feels significantly lighter and more compact. While those knives are arguably more robust for heavy-duty tasks, the Leek offers superior portability and discreet carry. I chose the Leek primarily for its slim design and assisted opening, features I found lacking in my other EDC options.

My first impression was one of excitement. The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion seemed to perfectly balance aesthetics, functionality, and portability, exceeding my initial expectations.

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

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The tasks ranged from preparing food to cutting cordage and whittling kindling. The Leek performed admirably in dry conditions, proving to be a surprisingly capable slicer.

While hiking, I encountered a brief rain shower. The aluminum handle became slightly slick, and I had to maintain a firmer grip. The blade, however, remained unaffected, and I continued using it for various camp chores.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening was effortless, even with slightly damp hands. It took no time to become accustomed to the flipper deployment and the liner lock. I was impressed by the ease of one-handed operation. The knife felt natural in my hand, and it was comfortable during extended use, with no hot spots forming during whittling.

After the first use, I was pleasantly surprised by its cutting ability and ease of carry. I did notice a slight tendency for the handle to become slippery when wet, but it wasn’t a major issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has proven to be a reliable companion. I’ve used it for everything from opening packages to field dressing small game. The knife’s performance has remained consistent, and the edge retention of the 14C28N steel is impressive.

The orange anodized aluminum handle has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scratches and wear marks. The bead blast finish on the blade has also resisted corrosion, although some slight discoloration is noticeable. The SpeedSafe mechanism still operates smoothly, with no signs of slowing or malfunctioning.

Maintenance is simple. I occasionally clean the blade with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of oil to the pivot point. Sharpening is relatively easy, and the blade responds well to stropping. Compared to my experience with softer steels, the 14C28N requires less frequent sharpening.

The Leek has surpassed my expectations for a knife in its class. It consistently outperforms cheaper EDC knives in terms of edge retention, deployment speed, and overall build quality.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Specifications

• The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion features a 3-inch blade made from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. This steel is known for its good balance of hardness, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.
• The closed length of the knife is 4 inches, with an overall open length of 7 inches. This makes it compact enough for pocket carry but still provides ample blade length for most tasks.
• The handle is constructed from 6061-T6 anodized aluminum. This material offers excellent strength-to-weight ratio and is resistant to corrosion. The anodized finish provides a durable and visually appealing surface.
• Designed by Ken Onion, the Leek incorporates Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism. This allows for rapid and easy one-handed blade deployment.
• The knife includes a reversible pocket clip for tip-up or tip-down carry. This caters to both left- and right-handed users.

These specifications are significant because they directly impact the knife’s performance and usability. The blade steel ensures a sharp, durable edge. The lightweight handle and compact size make it comfortable for everyday carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion excels as a versatile EDC knife. It performs admirably in various cutting tasks, from slicing cardboard to preparing food. The modified drop-point blade offers a good balance of slicing ability and piercing capability.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening is a standout feature, providing fast and reliable blade deployment. The liner lock is secure and easy to operate, ensuring the blade remains locked open during use.

One strength is its slim profile, making it exceptionally comfortable to carry in a pocket. A potential weakness is the aluminum handle which can become slippery in wet conditions. Despite this, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a lightweight EDC knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion boasts a sleek and modern design. The bright orange anodized aluminum handle is eye-catching and provides a comfortable grip. The knife feels well-balanced and lightweight in hand.

The design is inherently user-friendly. The SpeedSafe mechanism is intuitive, and the reversible pocket clip adds to its versatility. There is virtually no learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is built to last. The 14C28N blade is resistant to corrosion and wear, and the anodized aluminum handle is durable and scratch-resistant. With proper care, this knife should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional sharpening are all that’s required to keep the Leek in top condition. The knife disassembles easily for thorough cleaning and lubrication.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes standard with a reversible pocket clip. This allows for tip-up or tip-down carry on either the left or right side.

Aftermarket customization options are limited, but replacement pocket clips and screws are readily available. While the Leek isn’t designed for extensive modification, its existing features are well-executed and cater to a wide range of users.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

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Who Should Buy Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is perfect for:

• Those seeking a reliable and stylish everyday carry (EDC) knife.
• Individuals who prioritize rapid one-handed blade deployment.
• Anyone who wants a lightweight and discreet pocket knife.
• Users looking for a knife with good edge retention and ease of sharpening.

Who should skip this product?

• Users who require a heavy-duty knife for demanding tasks.
• Individuals who need a knife with a secure grip in wet conditions.

A must-have accessory is a quality knife sharpener. While the 14C28N steel holds an edge well, regular sharpening is essential for maintaining peak performance.

Conclusion on Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is an outstanding EDC option that delivers a winning combination of style, speed, and performance. Its slim profile, rapid assisted opening, and durable blade make it a versatile tool for a wide range of tasks. While the handle can be slippery when wet, this minor drawback is overshadowed by its many strengths.

The price is certainly justified for the quality and features you receive. The Kershaw Leek offers excellent value for money compared to similar knives on the market.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Kershaw Leek Orange Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone seeking a reliable and stylish EDC knife. It’s a fantastic tool that will quickly become an indispensable part of your everyday carry. Add this vibrant and versatile knife to your collection today!