Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

One Month Later: Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Review

After a solid month of continuous use, I’m ready to share my in-depth experience with the Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals. This EDC (Every Day Carry) knife aims to blend a tactical aesthetic with everyday practicality, a goal it largely achieves, though not without a few nuances worth discussing. My search for a reliable, affordable folder for general utility tasks led me to this particular model. I was looking for something robust enough for workshop use but still comfortable enough for pocket carry without feeling like a liability. While I considered a few other Kershaw offerings and a couple of similarly priced options from brands like CRKT, the Flitch’s specific blade shape and the promise of assisted opening at this price point were compelling. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of pleasant surprise; the knife felt solid in hand, with a reassuring weight and a well-executed finish that belied its sub-$40 price tag. The overall feel suggested a tool built for use, not just for show, which was exactly what I needed.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing began immediately after receiving the knife. I primarily used it around my workshop and for general household chores, tasks that often involve opening packages, cutting twine, stripping wire insulation, and occasionally slicing into tougher materials like cardboard or thin plastic. The Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals handled these tasks with commendable efficiency. The 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade, despite its affordability, held a decent edge through repeated use, and I found resharpening to be straightforward. I didn’t encounter any significant issues during these first few days, though I did notice that the SpeedSafe assisted opening, while quick, required a bit of deliberate fanning of the flipper to engage reliably every single time. It wasn’t a struggle, but it wasn’t quite as seamless as some higher-end assisted openers I’ve handled.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past month, this Kershaw knife has become a consistent fixture in my daily carry. It’s seen action opening mail, preparing food for camping trips, trimming errant threads on clothing, and even some light prying when a screwdriver wasn’t readily available (though I wouldn’t recommend this for anything substantial). The glass-filled nylon handle has proven remarkably durable, resisting scratches and scuffs remarkably well, which is especially appreciated given the stonewashed finish on the blade which, as advertised, does a good job of hiding minor wear. I haven’t noticed any significant blade play or loosening of the pivot screw, even with the frequent opening and closing. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after use and occasional oiling of the pivot have kept it functioning smoothly. Compared to some budget knives I’ve used in the past, which often develop stiffness or blade wobble within weeks, the Flitch has held up exceptionally well.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Specifications

The Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals boasts a 3.25-inch blade, making it a versatile size for most everyday tasks without being overly large for pocket carry. Its closed length of 4.6 inches contributes to its comfortable EDC profile, and the overall length when open reaches 7.75 inches. The blade is forged from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, a popular choice for budget-friendly knives that offers a good balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening. This steel is further enhanced by Kershaw’s heat treatment, which is known to bring out the best in this material. The blade finish is a stonewash, intentionally applied to help mask scratches from regular use, giving it a more rugged, tactical appearance.

The handle is constructed from glass-filled nylon, a material chosen for its strength, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. This is complemented by a textured finish and chamfered edges, all designed to provide a secure and comfortable grip. The black handle color offers a classic, no-nonsense look. For opening, the knife features SpeedSafe assisted opening and a built-in flipper, designed for rapid deployment. Security during use is provided by a sturdy liner lock, which is easy to disengage when ready to close. Finally, the inclusion of a reversible deep-carry pocketclip (tip-up, left/right) ensures convenient and discreet carry in a variety of pocket configurations. The knife weighs in at a substantial 4.7 ounces, giving it a solid feel in the hand.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is as a reliable cutting tool, and it performs this duty admirably for its price point. The modified drop-point blade shape with a top swedge is practical, offering a good cutting edge and a fine point for detail work. The SpeedSafe assisted opening is generally quick and responsive, though as mentioned, it sometimes requires a deliberate flick of the flipper to ensure full engagement. Once open, the liner lock is robust, providing a secure lockup with no perceivable blade play during cutting tasks. Resharpening the 8Cr13MoV steel is straightforward, allowing for quick touch-ups to maintain a keen edge.

The knife’s strengths lie in its versatility and reliability for everyday tasks. It handles tasks like opening boxes, cutting cordage, and general utility cutting with ease. Its weakness, if any, might be in its assisted opening mechanism, which, while functional, isn’t as lightning-fast or consistently smooth as on more premium assisted folders. However, for the price, its overall performance is impressive and more than sufficient for the vast majority of EDC needs. It consistently meets expectations for a durable, functional pocket knife.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals leans towards a tactical look, but its ergonomics are clearly geared towards practical daily use. The contoured grip on the handle, combined with the deep finger grooves on the underside, provides an exceptionally secure hold, even with wet or dirty hands. This is a significant plus for a knife intended for varied environments. The glass-filled nylon handle material feels robust and grippy without being overly aggressive, making it comfortable for extended periods in hand.

The stonewashed blade finish contributes to the tactical aesthetic and, importantly, hides signs of wear, maintaining a relatively clean appearance even after heavy use. The modified drop-point blade shape is aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound. The built-in flipper is well-placed and serves its dual purpose of aiding assisted opening and acting as a finger guard. While the knife has a solid feel, its 4.7-ounce weight is noticeable, making it feel more substantial than some lighter EDC options, which some users might prefer for its perceived sturdiness.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on a month of consistent use, the Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals appears to be built for good durability, especially considering its price. The glass-filled nylon handle shows minimal signs of wear, resisting scratches and impacts well, which is crucial for a knife that’s likely to see daily use. The 8Cr13MoV steel blade, while not a premium steel, has held up well, and the stonewash finish is effective at camouflaging minor abrasions, prolonging the knife’s “like-new” appearance. I haven’t encountered any cracks, stiffness in the pivot, or degradation in the locking mechanism.

Maintenance for this knife is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after use, followed by drying, is usually sufficient. Occasional lubrication of the pivot point with a light oil, such as mineral oil or a dedicated knife lubricant, keeps the assisted opening mechanism running smoothly. There are no obvious weak points that have emerged during my testing, suggesting that with basic care, this knife should provide reliable service for a considerable time for its intended purpose.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals comes with its essential accessory: a reversible deep-carry pocketclip. This clip is a standout feature, allowing for discreet tip-up carry on either the left or right side, catering to a wide range of user preferences. The clip itself is well-tensioned, holding the knife securely in the pocket without being overly difficult to deploy.

Beyond the pocketclip, customization options for this specific model are limited, which is typical for knives in this price range. The handle design is fixed, and while it accommodates most hand sizes well, there aren’t aftermarket grip scales available. The 8Cr13MoV steel is receptive to sharpening, so the “customization” largely lies in maintaining the blade’s sharpness to your preferred level. For users looking to enhance their knife’s performance or aesthetics beyond what the Flitch offers out of the box, they would typically need to consider higher-tier models or different brands.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

Who Should Buy Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals?

The Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals is an excellent choice for a broad range of users who need a dependable and affordable daily carry knife. It’s particularly well-suited for home mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, students, and anyone who requires a robust tool for general utility tasks without wanting to break the bank. Anyone who appreciates a knife that feels substantial and offers a secure grip, even when their hands are a bit dirty or wet, will find this model to be a great companion.

However, users who demand the absolute sharpest, longest-lasting edge retention, or those who prioritize the absolute lightest weight in their EDC might consider looking at knives with premium steels like S30V or CPM-20CV, or ultralight designs. For those who want the absolute fastest, most seamless assisted-opening action, spending more on higher-end mechanisms might be warranted. As for must-have accessories, I’d recommend a basic sharpening system or stone to keep the 8Cr13MoV blade in top condition, ensuring it always performs at its best.

Conclusion on Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals

The Kershaw Flitch Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals stands out as a remarkably capable EDC folder, especially when considering its accessible price point. It successfully marries a tactical aesthetic with practical functionality, delivering a durable tool that feels good in the hand and performs its primary cutting duties admirably. The secure grip, reliable assisted opening, and useful blade shape make it a strong contender for anyone seeking an everyday workhorse knife. For the price, the value proposition is exceptionally high, offering features and build quality often found in much more expensive knives. I would confidently recommend the Flitch to anyone looking for a reliable, no-nonsense pocket knife that can handle a variety of daily tasks without concern. It’s a tool that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a dependable blade in your pocket.