What Makes the Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals Stand Out?
For years, I’ve relied on gear that’s not just functional, but also has a certain character. When I first heard about the Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals, its name, evoking a Greek deity known for stirring things up, piqued my interest. My previous EDC (Everyday Carry) had finally given up the ghost after a particularly rough patch of workshop abuse, leaving a void I needed to fill with something reliable yet engaging. I was specifically looking for a blade that could handle both delicate tasks and more robust, everyday cutting jobs without demanding constant fuss.
Initial impressions upon unboxing were solid. The weight felt substantial in my hand, hinting at quality construction, but not so much that it felt like carrying a brick. The stainless steel handle with its matte grey coating had an appealing, understated look, while the two-tone blade promised a bit of flair. Compared to the utilitarian, no-nonsense designs I’d previously favored, this Kershaw felt like it offered a touch more personality. My first reaction was one of quiet satisfaction; it felt like I’d found a tool that might just live up to its intriguing namesake.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this Kershaw knife were varied, starting on my workbench where it sliced through packaging tape and trimmed excess adhesive with ease. I then moved it to the garage, where it tackled more demanding tasks like cutting through zip ties holding electrical components and even carefully shaving down a burr on a metal bracket. The SpeedSafe assisted opening was a standout feature from the first flick of the thumb stud; it deployed smoothly and consistently, making one-handed operation a breeze even with slightly greasy hands.
Under general workshop and occasional outdoor use – opening mail, cutting twine, preparing lunch at my desk – it performed admirably. Exposure to dust in the workshop was common, but the blade remained free of grit, and the assisted opening continued to function flawlessly. Light moisture from being left out on a damp workbench overnight didn’t cause any immediate corrosion, thanks to the 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade. The only minor surprise was how quickly I became accustomed to the contoured handle, which offered a surprisingly comfortable grip that prevented slippage during use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous EDC rotation, the Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals has proven itself to be a dependable companion. It lives in my pocket daily, seeing action with everything from opening stubborn plastic clamshell packaging to slicing through stubborn cardboard boxes at home. The durability has been impressive; despite being dropped once on a concrete floor (thankfully, the blade was closed), it emerged without any significant damage, just a minor scuff on the handle coating.
The 8Cr13MoV blade has maintained its edge remarkably well, requiring only a few passes on a ceramic rod to bring it back to razor sharpness. Resharpening this steel is indeed not a chore, a welcome change from some harder, more brittle steels I’ve encountered. Compared to some budget knives that would have shown significant wear or developed blade play by now, this Kershaw feels as solid as the day I got it. Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a cloth after use and an occasional drop of lubricant in the pivot point keeps it running smoothly.
Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals
Specifications
The Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals boasts a 3-inch blade, making it compact enough for discreet carry while providing sufficient length for most daily tasks. Its closed length of 4.13 inches further enhances its pocketability. The blade itself is crafted from 8Cr13MoV stainless steel, a material known for its good edge retention and ease of sharpening, a practical choice for an everyday workhorse.
The overall length of 7.2 inches when deployed offers a comfortable grip for a variety of cutting applications. Weighing in at a reasonable 4.7 ounces, this knife provides a substantial feel without being burdensome. The handle is constructed from pure stainless steel, finished with a titanium carbo-nitride coating in a soft matte grey, contributing to its refined aesthetic and durability. The blade finish is a two-tone stonewash, with the grinds finished this way and the flats left satin, which effectively helps to mask minor scratches.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any knife is to cut, and the Eris excels here. Its modified drop-point blade with a top swedge proved versatile, easily handling slicing tasks like opening packages and cutting cordage, while the tip offered enough precision for more detailed work. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism is exceptionally well-tuned, providing a rapid and reliable deployment every single time.
What truly impressed was the sturdy frame lock, which engaged positively and held the blade securely during use, instilling confidence even when applying moderate pressure. The 8Cr13MoV steel held an edge better than I initially expected for its class, and when it did dull, a few minutes with a sharpening stone brought it back to shaving sharpness quickly. This assisted folder consistently performs its intended functions without fuss, making it a reliable tool for everyday challenges.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals strikes a balance between rugged functionality and aesthetic appeal. The pure stainless steel handle feels robust and provides a solid foundation for the knife’s construction. Its titanium carbo-nitride coating in matte grey offers a pleasant tactile experience and a sophisticated look that resists fingerprints and minor abrasions well.
Ergonomically, the handle is contoured just enough for comfort without sacrificing a secure grip. Even during extended use, my hand didn’t feel fatigued. The inclusion of a built-in lanyard hole is a practical touch, allowing for further personalization or secure attachment. The pocket clip is left/right reversible, a thoughtful feature that caters to both right-handed and left-handed users, ensuring comfortable pocket carry.
Durability & Maintenance
This knife is built to last. The stainless steel handle and the 8Cr13MoV blade are inherently durable materials. After months of regular use, there are no signs of blade play, and the frame lock remains as secure as ever. The titanium carbo-nitride coating on the handle has proven resilient, showing only minor cosmetic wear in high-contact areas, which is expected with any frequently used tool.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down after exposure to moisture or grime is usually sufficient. The pivot mechanism is robust and hasn’t shown any signs of stiffness or degradation. For deeper cleaning, a simple disassembly (if desired, though not strictly necessary for basic maintenance) and cleaning with a brush followed by a light oiling of the pivot and blade tang would likely suffice to keep it in optimal condition for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals comes with one essential accessory: a handy pocket clip. This clip is designed for left/right reversible carry, offering excellent versatility for users. While this specific model doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories, its design allows for straightforward personalization.
The built-in lanyard hole offers a direct avenue for customization, allowing users to attach paracord or other lanyards for improved grip security or easier retrieval. Beyond that, the standard folder design means it’s compatible with various aftermarket pocket clips if a user prefers a different style or tension. The simplicity of the design means there are no complex mechanisms to worry about or specific maintenance kits required beyond basic knife care.
Pros and Cons of Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals
Pros
- SpeedSafe assisted opening provides fast, one-handed blade deployment.
- 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade offers a good balance of edge retention and ease of sharpening.
- Durable stainless steel handle with an attractive and resilient titanium carbo-nitride coating.
- Sturdy frame lock ensures secure blade locking during use.
- Left/right reversible pocket clip enhances carry convenience for all users.
- Contoured handle design offers comfortable and secure grip.
- Attractive two-tone blade finish helps mask minor scratches.
Cons
- While good, 8Cr13MoV steel may not hold an edge as long as premium steels in heavy-duty applications.
- The assisted opening mechanism can be a point of failure if not properly maintained, though Kershaw is typically reliable.
- Some users might prefer a slightly larger blade for more demanding tasks.
Who Should Buy Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals?
This knife is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, well-built everyday carry folder that offers a touch of flair. It’s ideal for individuals who work in environments where a sharp, dependable blade is needed for various tasks, such as workshop technicians, DIY enthusiasts, or even office workers who frequently open packages. The ease of use with the SpeedSafe assisted opening makes it suitable for those who appreciate quick, one-handed operation.
However, those who require a knife for extreme heavy-duty tasks, like prying or batoning wood, might find the 3-inch blade and the 8Cr13MoV steel a bit limiting. Users who prioritize the absolute longest edge retention might also look towards knives with premium steel alloys. For optimal performance and a secure carry, ensuring the reversible pocket clip is configured correctly for your dominant hand is recommended.
Conclusion on Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals
The Kershaw Eris Assisted Folding Knife by Kershaw Originals punches well above its weight class, offering a compelling blend of functionality, durability, and thoughtful design at a competitive price point. Its SpeedSafe assisted opening is smooth and reliable, the 8Cr13MoV blade is a practical choice for everyday cutting, and the stainless steel handle feels robust and comfortable. It truly lives up to its promise of being a substantial yet pocket-friendly tool.
Considering its $49.99 price tag, the value proposition is excellent. You’re getting a well-constructed knife from a reputable manufacturer that performs admirably in a wide range of everyday scenarios. I would wholeheartedly recommend this knife to anyone looking for a dependable, stylish, and user-friendly EDC option that doesn’t break the bank. It’s a solid performer that earns its place in your pocket.