Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

Is the Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion All Talk?

For years, I’ve relied on my gear to perform, no matter the environment – from the controlled chaos of a workshop to the unpredictable wild. When a seasoned colleague mentioned their everyday carry (EDC) rotation needed a reliable workhorse that wouldn’t break the bank, my ears perked up. I was on the hunt for a folding knife that could handle everyday tasks without fuss, but still feel substantial and well-built. My previous go-to had become a bit too specialized, leaving me wanting something more versatile for general utility. I considered a few other brands known for affordable durability, but kept coming back to the reputation of Kershaw for offering quality at a fair price. Upon first inspection, the Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion felt solid. The black oxide finish gave it a stealthy, no-nonsense appearance, and the grip felt surprisingly secure in my hand, hinting at a no-frills, reliable tool.

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

First Use Experience

My initial foray with this knife was in my home workshop, tackling common tasks like opening boxes, stripping wire, and cutting through various packaging materials. The Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion proved remarkably adept at these everyday chores. Its SpeedSafe assisted opening was quick and consistent, deploying the blade with a satisfying snap each time. Even when my hands were slightly greasy from a project, the textured glass-filled nylon handle provided a confident grip. I did notice that the black oxide finish, while aesthetically pleasing, seemed to pick up minor scuffs from heavier use, but this was purely cosmetic and didn’t affect performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use as my daily driver, the Clash Black has held up admirably. It’s been my constant companion for opening mail, breaking down cardboard for recycling, trimming zip ties, and even preparing food during a weekend camping trip. The blade has maintained a decent edge, requiring only occasional touch-ups on a sharpening stone to keep it slicing efficiently. There’s been no looseness in the pivot, and the lock-up remains solid, which is crucial for safety and confidence in a folding knife. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick rinse under warm water and a light oiling of the pivot point are usually sufficient. Compared to some budget knives that loosen up or dull rapidly, this Kershaw has shown impressive resilience.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Specifications

The Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion boasts a 3.1-inch drop-point blade crafted from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. This steel is a solid choice for an EDC knife, offering a good balance of edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. The blade features a black-oxide coating, which not only provides a stealthy look but also offers a degree of protection against rust and glare. My unit came with a partially serrated edge, which is a practical addition for tasks involving fibrous materials, allowing it to zip through rope or paracord with relative ease. The glass-filled nylon handle measures 4.25 inches when closed, making it a comfortable size for most hands without being overly bulky. The overall length of the knife is 7.4 inches, a versatile size that isn’t too small for utility work nor too large for discreet pocket carry.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism, activated by either the thumb stud or the flipper, is a standout feature for this price point. It provides a swift and reliable one-handed deployment, which is incredibly convenient in various situations. The reusable pocket clip is another well-thought-out detail, offering right tip-up or left tip-down carry, catering to different user preferences. The liner lock system secures the blade firmly in the open position, providing a safe and dependable lockup.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – cutting – the Clash Black performs admirably for its intended purpose. The drop-point blade is versatile, allowing for both fine detail work and more robust cutting tasks. The partial serration is genuinely useful; I found myself reaching for it specifically when dealing with anything that required sawing, like cutting through a stubborn plastic clamshell or a thick piece of cordage. The plain edge portion still handles general slicing duties well, though it does require more frequent sharpening than premium steels. The assisted opening is consistently fast and smooth, making it a pleasure to deploy quickly when needed.

However, the 8Cr13MoV steel, while good for the price, does have its limitations. It will dull faster than higher-end steels like S30V or VG-10, meaning more frequent sharpening is necessary to maintain optimal performance. Also, while the black-oxide finish looks great initially, it can show wear over time with heavy use, although it has held up better than I initially expected. The liner lock is secure, but like many liner locks, it requires a firm flick of the thumb to disengage for closing, which takes a little practice to master for smooth, one-handed operation.

Design & Ergonomics

Ken Onion’s design influence is evident in the Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion, giving it a modern, functional aesthetic. The forward-curving blade design, as mentioned in the product description, does contribute to a comfortable grip and aids in slicing. The glass-filled nylon handle is grippy without being abrasive, and the subtle finger contours provide additional purchase, especially during strenuous cutting. The all-black finish lends it a discreet and professional look, making it suitable for various environments, from the workshop to casual outings.

The reversible pocket clip is a welcome addition for ambidextrous users or those with specific carry preferences. It sits securely in the pocket, providing a firm hold without snagging excessively on fabric. The thumb stud and flipper are well-placed, allowing for easy manipulation of the assisted opening mechanism. My only minor ergonomic quibble would be that the handle can feel a bit slippery if your hands are extremely wet or oily, though the texture does mitigate this significantly compared to smooth plastic or metal handles.

Durability & Maintenance

For an EDC knife in its price range, the durability of the Clash Black is quite impressive. The glass-filled nylon handle is robust and resistant to impacts, and the steel blade, while not the hardest, is tough enough to withstand regular use without chipping or bending. The pivot system has remained smooth, and the liner lock has maintained its integrity through consistent opening and closing cycles. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving keeping the pivot clean and occasionally applying a light lubricant. I haven’t experienced any significant wear or tear beyond superficial scuffs on the coating, which is standard for a black-finished knife that sees regular use.

The knife is designed to be a workhorse, and it feels like it can take a beating. Unlike some knives where components feel flimsy or prone to failure, the Clash Black has a reassuring solidity to it. The partially serrated blade requires a bit more attention when sharpening, but it’s manageable with the right tools. Overall, I anticipate this knife will last for many years with basic care, which is excellent value considering its affordable price point.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes with a reusable pocket clip pre-installed, which is standard for most folding knives. This is a functional and essential accessory that enhances its carryability. Beyond the included clip, there isn’t extensive customization offered for this specific model in terms of interchangeable parts like blades or handle scales, which is typical for knives in this segment of the market. However, the knife is designed to work well as-is, and for its intended use as an EDC tool, it doesn’t necessarily require additional accessories to be effective. If one desired, aftermarket pocket clips could be sourced from various knife supply stores, but the stock clip performs its job adequately.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Who Should Buy Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

The Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a reliable, no-nonsense folding knife for everyday carry and general utility tasks. It’s perfect for students, workshop enthusiasts, mechanics, mail carriers, or anyone who needs a dependable cutting tool that won’t break the bank. If you’re looking for your first good quality folding knife, this is an excellent starting point.

However, this knife might not be the best fit for serious outdoorsmen who demand extreme edge retention in harsh conditions, or for collectors seeking high-end materials and finishes. Those who require a knife for specialized tactical or survival applications might need to look at options with more premium steel and potentially more robust lock mechanisms. For those who want to get the most out of it, a good sharpening stone or sharpening system is a recommended accessory to keep the blade in top cutting form.

Conclusion on Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Clash Black Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion lives up to its promise of affordable quality. It delivers on its core functionality with a reliable assisted opening mechanism, a versatile blade design, and a comfortable, durable handle. While the 8Cr13MoV steel and black-oxide finish have their compromises compared to higher-end knives, they are more than adequate for its intended EDC role. For its price, the value proposition is outstanding, offering a tool that feels substantial, performs reliably, and is built to last through daily chores. I would wholeheartedly recommend this knife to anyone in need of a trustworthy, budget-friendly folding knife that punches well above its weight class. It’s a solid performer that makes everyday tasks a little bit easier, without demanding a hefty investment.