Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife Review

What I Wish I Knew Before Buying the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife

My search for a reliable, everyday folding knife that wouldn’t break the bank led me to the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife. For years, I’d relied on various fixed blades and simpler folders for everything from workshop tasks to quick campsite fixes, but the need for a more portable and rapidly deployable option became increasingly apparent. I was looking for something that felt robust, opened swiftly without fuss, and wouldn’t be a significant loss if misplaced during a busy day out. I considered a few other assisted-openers from competing brands, but the reputation of Kershaw for delivering solid performance at accessible price points ultimately tipped the scales. Upon first inspection, the knife felt well-constructed, with a satisfying weight and a clean, almost stealthy black finish.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this knife were primarily around my home workshop and occasional outdoor excursions. I used it for opening boxes, trimming zip ties, breaking down cardboard, and performing minor adjustments on equipment. The Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife performed admirably in these light-duty scenarios, consistently deploying with a satisfying “pop” thanks to its assisted opening mechanism. It was intuitive to use right out of the box; no complex instructions or adjustment periods were needed. A minor surprise was the grip; while advertised as having a wider handle, it felt just about right in my hand, offering a secure purchase for most common tasks.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent pocket carry and frequent use, the Al Mar AM-5 has proven itself to be a dependable companion. It has tackled everything from slicing through stubborn packaging tape to cutting cordage and even preparing food during a weekend camping trip. Durability has been good; despite being dropped once on a concrete floor (which thankfully resulted in only a minor cosmetic scuff on the handle), it shows no signs of stiffness or performance degradation. Maintenance has been minimal – a quick wipe-down after use and an occasional light oiling of the pivot. Compared to some budget folders I’ve owned that quickly developed blade play or sticky actions, this Kershaw unit maintains its integrity remarkably well.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife

Specifications

The Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife boasts a 3.5-inch blade, crafted from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, known for its decent edge retention and ease of sharpening, making it a practical choice for everyday use. Its overall length when open is 7.75 inches, providing enough reach for most general-purpose cutting tasks, while the closed length of 4.25 inches ensures comfortable pocket carry. The handle is a combination of one-piece aluminum with sculpted G-10 scales, offering a good blend of durability and grip, and contributing to its 3.8 oz weight. A standout feature is the SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism, coupled with a flipper, designed for fast, one-handed deployment, a critical aspect for any EDC tool. The frame lock system is a common and reliable method for securing the blade, and the inclusion of a glass-breaker tip adds a tactical element without being overly aggressive for daily carry. The black oxide coating on the blade adds a layer of corrosion resistance and contributes to its stealthy appearance.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, cutting, the Al Mar AM-5 performs competently. The 3.5-inch blade is a versatile size, capable of slicing through materials like cardboard, rope, and tape with reasonable ease. The assisted opening mechanism, while not instantaneous like an automatic, is quick and reliable, allowing for deployment with minimal effort. The frame lock feels secure, with no perceivable blade play during my testing period. However, the 8Cr13MoV steel, while easy to sharpen, doesn’t hold an edge as long as premium steels, meaning more frequent touch-ups are required for heavy users. The blade shape, a drop-point, is a good all-rounder for general tasks.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife aims for a blend of classic inspiration and modern functionality. The one-piece aluminum handle with sculpted G-10 scales provides a solid foundation and a good grip, even when hands are a bit damp. The G-10 scales offer a textured surface that enhances control. Its overall profile is relatively slim, making it comfortable to carry in a pocket. The flipper tab is well-placed and aids in deploying the blade smoothly. The black oxide finish, while aesthetically pleasing and offering some protection, can show wear over time with heavy use, especially around high-contact areas. The ergonomics are generally good, fitting well into a standard grip, though those with very large hands might find it a touch less substantial than some larger folding knives.

Durability & Maintenance

From my experience, the build quality of the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife suggests it can withstand typical daily use for a considerable time. The aluminum and G-10 handle construction is robust, and the frame lock mechanism has shown no signs of weakening. The 8Cr13MoV steel blade, while not the most wear-resistant, is easy to maintain. Cleaning involves a simple wipe-down and occasional rinsing if exposed to dirt or debris. Lubricating the pivot point periodically ensures the assisted opening mechanism continues to function smoothly. The black oxide coating is the most likely part to show wear, but this is primarily cosmetic and doesn’t impact the knife’s functional integrity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife typically comes with its core components: the knife itself and a single-position pocket clip, which is configured for right-side, tip-down carry. There aren’t extensive customization options directly from the manufacturer for this specific model, beyond choosing whether to carry it with the clip or not. However, being a folding knife with a standard construction, aftermarket scales or clip replacements are theoretically possible for users inclined to tinker, though this isn’t something I explored. The built-in glass-breaker serves as a functional accessory for emergency situations, offering an added layer of utility.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife

Who Should Buy Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife?

The Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife is an ideal choice for individuals looking for a dependable and fast-deploying everyday carry knife that doesn’t demand a premium investment. It’s well-suited for students, home mechanics, general consumers, or anyone who needs a reliable tool for light to moderate cutting tasks. Those who appreciate the convenience of assisted opening and a robust build at an accessible price will find this knife a great fit.

However, serious outdoorsmen who require exceptional edge retention for demanding tasks or individuals who need ambidextrous carry options might want to look at alternatives. For those who frequently need to baton wood or perform heavy prying, a more robust fixed-blade knife would be a better choice. A quality sharpening system is recommended for anyone purchasing this knife to maintain its edge effectively over time.

Conclusion on Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife

Overall, the Kershaw Al Mar AM-5 Assisted Folding Knife stands out as a highly competent and accessible folding knife that delivers on its promises. Its SpeedSafe assisted opening is quick and reliable, the build quality is solid with its aluminum and G-10 construction, and the frame lock provides security during use. While the 8Cr13MoV steel means you’ll be sharpening it more often than a premium blade, its ease of maintenance and low cost make this a minor inconvenience for its intended purpose. Considering its $31.99 price point, the value proposition is exceptional, offering features and performance typically found in more expensive knives. I would readily recommend this assisted folder to anyone seeking a practical, user-friendly, and cost-effective knife for their daily carry needs.