Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

Here’s What You’ll Love (or Not) About the Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

For over a decade, I’ve put gear through its paces in environments ranging from dusty workshops to pristine labs, and from rugged outdoor trails to demanding field conditions. My search for a reliable, everyday carry knife led me to the Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion. It promised a blend of Ken Onion’s acclaimed design with Kershaw’s reputation for robust construction, featuring a sleek black and stonewash finish that caught my eye. I needed a blade that could handle the daily grind of opening boxes, minor adjustments on equipment, and general utility tasks without becoming a liability.

I’d been relying on a heavier, older folder for too long, and its bulk was becoming a nuisance. I considered a few other contenders, including some smaller, fixed-blade options that offered simplicity but lacked the pocket-friendly convenience. The Leek, however, offered that ideal balance: compact enough for discreet carry, yet substantial enough to feel confident in its capabilities. My initial impression upon unboxing this Kershaw knife was one of refined craftsmanship. The black anodized aluminum handle felt smooth yet provided a secure grip, and the stonewash finish on the blade hinted at a practical resilience to scratches.

First Use Experience

My initial encounter with this Kershaw folding knife was on a drizzly Tuesday morning at my workbench, tasked with assembling some new shelving. The first task involved breaking down a large cardboard appliance box, a task the Leek tackled with surprising ease. Its 3-inch Sandvik 14C28N blade sliced through the thick cardboard like butter, requiring minimal effort.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening was a revelation, deploying the blade with a satisfying flick of the dual thumb studs or the finger flipper. This made it incredibly fast and convenient when I had grease on my hands or was wearing gloves. I found the tip-up or tip-down carry pocket clip immensely useful, allowing me to configure it for quick access based on my work attire for the day.

Over the following weeks, this knife became an indispensable part of my EDC rotation. It accompanied me on a weekend camping trip, where it proved its worth for preparing kindling and cutting cordage. The stonewash blade finish lived up to its promise, effectively hiding the minor scuffs and abrasions it acquired from scraping against rough surfaces. It’s also seen plenty of use in the garage, opening paint cans and trimming stubborn plastic ties.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent, daily use, the Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion has held up remarkably well. The assisted opening mechanism remains crisp and reliable, with no hint of hesitation or sluggishness. The frame lock mechanism, which secures the blade firmly in the open position, has shown no signs of wear or looseness; it’s as solid today as it was on day one.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of occasional cleaning and a light application of lubricant on the pivot. The Sandvik 14C28N steel blade has maintained its edge through a variety of cutting tasks, from opening mail to slicing through tougher materials like zip ties and rubber tubing. Resharpening has been straightforward, bringing the edge back to razor sharpness with a few passes on my sharpening stone.

Compared to some cheaper assisted openers I’ve owned in the past, the Leek’s durability and consistent performance are a significant step up. Those budget models often develop blade wobble or unreliable opening after a short period, issues this Kershaw knife has entirely avoided. The black anodized aluminum handle has also resisted scratching better than I anticipated, retaining much of its original finish even after being carried in pockets alongside keys and loose change.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Specifications

The Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion boasts a thoughtfully designed set of specifications that contribute to its excellent performance. Its 3-inch blade offers a versatile size, ideal for most everyday cutting tasks without being overly cumbersome. The blade itself is crafted from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, a high-performance material known for its excellent edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening.

The handle is constructed from 6061-T6 aluminum, providing a lightweight yet strong foundation. This material choice contributes to the knife’s overall comfortable weight and durability, making it suitable for extended carry. The closed length of 4 inches ensures it fits discreetly in most pockets, while the overall length of 7 inches provides a comfortable and secure grip during use.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening system is a standout feature, employing a torsion bar to smoothly deploy the blade with a flick of the dual thumb studs or the finger flipper. This system is both fast and reliable, making the knife accessible for quick deployment in various situations. For safety, it features a frame lock, which offers a secure and robust locking mechanism that is less prone to accidental disengagement than some other locking types.

Additionally, the tip lock feature provides an extra layer of security by preventing the blade from accidentally opening when closed, which is particularly important for pocket carry. The knife includes a reversible pocket clip, allowing for tip-up or tip-down carry on either the right or left side, catering to individual preferences. A lanyard hole is also integrated into the handle, offering another carry option for those who prefer it. The black anodized handle finish provides a sleek aesthetic and offers a degree of scratch resistance, while the stonewash blade finish further enhances its durability and disguises minor wear.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, cutting, the Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion performs exceptionally well. The combination of the sharp Sandvik 14C28N blade and the ergonomic handle design allows for precise and controlled cuts. Whether I was slicing through packaging tape, opening envelopes, or trimming small pieces of material, the knife’s performance was consistently impressive.

The SpeedSafe assisted opening is incredibly functional, providing near-instantaneous blade deployment with minimal effort. This is a significant advantage in scenarios where quick access is needed. The frame lock mechanism is strong and dependable, offering a reassuring solid lock-up that inspires confidence during use, preventing any accidental blade closure.

One area where this knife truly shines is its versatility for everyday carry tasks. It’s not designed for heavy-duty prying or chopping, but for its intended purpose as a general utility knife, it excels. The 3-inch blade length strikes an excellent balance between being substantial enough for most tasks and compact enough for discreet carry.

Design & Ergonomics

Ken Onion’s design shines through in the Leek’s elegant and functional aesthetics. The sleek profile and the black/stonewash color scheme give it a modern yet understated look. The black anodized aluminum handle is smoothly contoured, fitting comfortably in the hand for both right and left-handed users thanks to the reversible clip.

The finger flipper is a subtle yet effective addition, providing an alternative and intuitive way to initiate the assisted opening sequence. Its placement is ergonomic, allowing for a natural grip and a quick flick to deploy the blade. The dual thumb studs offer a more traditional opening method that many users will appreciate.

The overall build quality feels robust and well-finished, with tight tolerances and no noticeable blade play when locked open. The stonewash finish on the blade not only looks good but also helps to mask fingerprints and minor scratches, contributing to its continued appealing appearance over time. The frame lock is easily accessible for disengagement, allowing for smooth blade closure.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is built for durability, especially considering its relatively slim profile. The 6061-T6 aluminum handle is resistant to dents and scratches from everyday use, and the stonewash blade finish adds another layer of protection against visible wear. The Sandvik 14C28N steel is known for its toughness and corrosion resistance, meaning the blade is unlikely to chip or rust under normal conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward, which is a key advantage for an EDC knife. Cleaning involves wiping down the blade and handle with a soft cloth. For the pivot mechanism, a drop of knife lubricant is usually sufficient to keep the SpeedSafe assisted opening functioning smoothly. Disassembly for deeper cleaning is possible but generally not required for routine care, as the design minimizes areas where debris can easily accumulate.

The frame lock is a durable locking mechanism that typically holds up well over time without significant degradation. This knife is designed for long-term use as a reliable everyday companion, rather than being a disposable tool.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion primarily comes with its integrated features, with the most notable included “accessory” being the reversible pocket clip. This clip is crucial for secure and convenient pocket carry, allowing users to choose between tip-up or tip-down deployment on either side of the pocket. The lanyard hole provides an additional carry option for those who prefer to secure their knife to a lanyard or a carabiner.

While the knife itself doesn’t come with a sheath, its design is optimized for pocket carry. Beyond the included clip, customization options are relatively limited for this specific model, as it’s a complete and well-integrated design. However, the Kershaw Leek platform is popular, and aftermarket scales or hardware might be available from third-party manufacturers, though they are not standard offerings. The knife’s focus is on its inherent design and functionality rather than extensive modularity.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Who Should Buy Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

This knife is an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate a well-designed, reliable, and discreet everyday carry tool. Professionals who need a quick-access blade for opening packages, cutting string, or performing minor tasks throughout the workday will find it invaluable. Outdoor enthusiasts who need a compact and capable secondary blade for camp chores or trailside adjustments will also benefit greatly from its performance.

Anyone looking for a balance between portability and functionality in a folding knife should consider this model. It’s particularly well-suited for those who value the ease and speed of assisted opening coupled with the security of a strong frame lock. Those who prefer a more refined aesthetic over a tactical, aggressive look will also appreciate its design.

Individuals who require an extremely long blade for demanding tasks like large-scale wood processing or heavy-duty prying might want to look at larger, more robust knives. Similarly, those who always prefer to carry their knife in a dedicated sheath might need to seek out aftermarket solutions, as one is not included with this model. However, for general utility and EDC purposes, this Kershaw knife is hard to beat.

Conclusion on Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion stands out as a superb example of an everyday carry knife that successfully blends elegant design with practical functionality. Its 3-inch Sandvik 14C28N blade offers excellent sharpness and durability, while the SpeedSafe assisted opening and secure frame lock ensure reliable and rapid deployment. The black anodized aluminum handle is both lightweight and comfortable, making it a pleasure to carry and use throughout the day.

Considering its price point, the value proposition is very strong. You get a Ken Onion-designed knife from a reputable manufacturer with high-quality materials and reliable performance. It’s a tool that feels substantial and well-crafted, outperforming many other knives in its class.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Kershaw Leek Black/Stonewash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion to anyone in search of a dependable, stylish, and efficient EDC blade. It’s the kind of knife that becomes a trusted companion, always ready for whatever tasks your day throws at it.