Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George Review

Is the Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George Right for You?

As someone who relies on dependable tools across diverse environments, from the workshop bench to less-than-ideal field conditions, finding a versatile and robust folding knife is always a priority. My search led me to the Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George, a model that piqued my interest with its blend of classic inspiration and modern functionality. I was looking for a knife that could handle a variety of tasks without breaking the bank, something that felt solid in hand and offered a good balance of cutting power and safety. My previous daily carry had seen better days, and I needed a replacement that could stand up to regular use. Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of pragmatic design; it felt substantial, with a no-nonsense build that suggested it was ready for work. While I considered a few other tactical-style folders, their price points were significantly higher, making the XCOM a compelling option for its apparent value. My immediate feeling was one of pragmatic optimism; this knife seemed to tick a lot of the right boxes for everyday utility.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this knife were primarily around my home workshop and garden. I used it for general cutting tasks: opening mail, breaking down cardboard boxes, trimming some errant branches from a bush, and even as a makeshift pry tool for a stubborn piece of plastic (which I wouldn’t recommend, but it survived). The Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George handled these tasks with surprising ease. The blade’s bayonet grind proved effective for piercing and a clean slicing action on flatter surfaces. I found the manual opening via the thumb disk to be quite smooth, even with slightly greasy hands, although it did require a deliberate flick to engage fully.

I made a point to test it in a light drizzle one afternoon, and the black-oxide coating on the blade seemed to shrug off the moisture without any immediate signs of concern. There was a slight learning curve with the inset liner lock, which felt a bit stiff initially but loosened up considerably after a few dozen cycles. It wasn’t the most intuitive lock I’ve used, but once accustomed, it felt secure. The most notable quirk was the texture of the glass-filled nylon handle, which provided a good grip but could feel a little slick in very wet conditions without the handguard coming into play.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the XCOM has become a reliable companion for a variety of chores. It’s become my go-to for opening packages, slicing through rope, and even some light food prep when camping. The 8Cr13MoV blade steel, while not a premium alloy, has held an edge reasonably well through moderate use. I’ve needed to sharpen it a couple of times, but that’s expected for this price point and steel type.

Durability-wise, it’s shown minimal wear. There are a few minor scuffs on the black-oxide coating, but nothing that affects functionality. The glass-filled nylon handle has proven resilient, resisting nicks and scratches from accidental drops onto concrete and workshop floors. Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick rinse under the tap and a light oiling of the pivot has kept it opening and closing smoothly. Compared to some cheaper folders I’ve used in the past, which often develop blade play or stiff mechanisms quickly, the XCOM’s inset liner lock has remained consistently secure, a significant plus for a knife intended for utility.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George

Specifications

The Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George is designed with a 3.6-inch (9.2 cm) blade, which strikes a good balance between being substantial enough for many tasks and remaining reasonably compact for everyday carry. Its closed length is 4.4 inches (11.4 cm), making it comfortable in the pocket. The blade itself is crafted from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, finished with a black-oxide coating that offers some corrosion resistance and a discreet appearance.

The handle is constructed from durable, all-weather glass-filled nylon, providing a sturdy and grippy platform. This material choice contributes to the knife’s overall weight of 4.2 oz (120 g), which feels balanced in the hand without being overly heavy. The knife features a manual opening mechanism via a thumb disk, complemented by a reliable inset liner lock to keep the blade securely in place during use. A notable safety and legal consideration is the single-sided sharpening, making it a Spear Point blade that is safer and easier to handle.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary function as a cutting tool, the Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George performs admirably for its intended purpose. The Spear Point blade with its bayonet grind excels at piercing tasks, making quick work of opening boxes or puncturing materials. For slicing, it performs adequately, though it doesn’t have the finesse of a premium slicing blade due to its grind profile and the 8Cr13MoV steel, which can dull slightly faster than higher-end alloys.

The manual opening with the thumb disk is generally reliable, though it can require a firm flick to overcome the initial resistance. The inset liner lock is the workhorse here; it’s strong and positive when engaged, providing a secure lockup that inspires confidence during strenuous cutting. However, it can be a bit stiff initially, requiring some breaking-in period to become truly smooth. The single-sided blade design, while excellent for legal compliance and safety, means that certain slicing tasks might be slightly less efficient than with a double-edged blade, but this is a trade-off many will welcome.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George is a clear nod to classic military knife aesthetics, reimagined as a practical folder. The glass-filled nylon handle is robust and features molded grooves that enhance grip, particularly when paired with the integrated handguard near the blade. This handguard is a welcome feature, providing a secure place for the index finger and mitigating the risk of slipping onto the blade during forceful cuts.

The exposed liner on the spine includes jimping, which offers excellent control for thumb placement during detailed or high-force cutting tasks. The overall feel in hand is solid and secure, even if the texture of the nylon can feel a bit utilitarian. The black-oxide finish on the blade and the black handle contribute to a discreet, non-reflective appearance, which is appealing for practical users. The reversible deep-carry pocketclip is a thoughtful touch, allowing for versatile carry options without drawing undue attention.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on its construction and materials, the Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George is built for good durability within its price category. The 8Cr13MoV steel, while not the most corrosion-resistant or edge-retentive, is known for being tough and relatively easy to sharpen, making long-term maintenance achievable for most users. The glass-filled nylon handle is inherently durable and resistant to common environmental factors like moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down after use, a light rinse if exposed to dirt or debris, and periodic lubrication of the pivot mechanism are all that’s required to keep it functioning optimally. The inset liner lock is a proven mechanism that, with proper care, should offer reliable service for years. There are no obvious weak points that suggest premature failure, and the overall build quality feels substantial enough to withstand the rigors of daily utility use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George comes with a practical reversible deep-carry pocketclip, allowing it to be positioned for tip-up or tip-down carry on either the right or left side. This small but significant accessory ensures the knife rides low and unobtrusively in the pocket, a feature highly valued for everyday carry. Additionally, it features a lanyard hole, offering another method for attachment or quick retrieval, especially useful if you prefer to loop paracord through it to make the knife more visible or accessible.

Beyond these integrated features, there are limited customization options directly for the knife itself. However, its standard design means it’s compatible with many common aftermarket accessories that could enhance its utility. For instance, one could add custom paracord wraps for enhanced grip or attach small survival aids to the lanyard hole. The black-oxide finish is also a common base for custom coatings if one were so inclined, though for a knife at this price point, such modifications are unlikely for most users.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George

Who Should Buy Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George?

This folding knife is an excellent choice for individuals who need a dependable, no-nonsense tool for everyday utility tasks. It’s perfectly suited for DIY enthusiasts, home mechanics, gardeners, and anyone who regularly encounters packages, ropes, or light cutting duties. Its design also appeals to those who appreciate military-inspired aesthetics in their gear.

Those who prioritize ease of carry and legal compliance will find the single-sided blade and deep-carry clip particularly beneficial. If you’re looking for a reliable workhorse that won’t break the bank, this Kershaw model is a strong contender. However, users who require extreme edge retention, a razor-sharp slicing performance for fine tasks, or a more premium aesthetic might want to look at higher-tier options. It’s also not ideal for situations demanding sterile or specialized medical-grade equipment.

For enhanced usability, consider pairing the Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George with a small sharpening stone or rod to maintain the 8Cr13MoV blade’s edge. A basic cleaning kit for occasional maintenance will also ensure its longevity.

Conclusion on Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George

The Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George stands out as a remarkably capable and well-thought-out folding knife, especially considering its accessible price point. It successfully marries a classic military knife inspiration with the practicalities of a modern folder, offering a tool that is both functional and safe for everyday use. The robust build quality, secure grip features, and the assurance of its inset liner lock make it a dependable choice for a wide array of tasks.

While the 8Cr13MoV steel and initial stiffness of the lock are minor drawbacks, they are easily outweighed by its overall value and performance. This knife offers a fantastic blend of durability, practicality, and thoughtful design elements like the single-sided blade and reversible pocketclip. I would confidently recommend the Kershaw XCOM Folding Knife by Les George to anyone seeking a no-frills, hard-working folding knife that offers excellent utility without demanding a significant investment. It’s a tool that’s ready to get to work, right out of your pocket.