Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion Review

Why I Chose the Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion: A Hands-On Review

For over a decade, I’ve relied on a diverse range of gear across workshops, labs, and rugged outdoor environments. When my trusty everyday carry knife finally succumbed to one too many prying tasks it wasn’t designed for, I needed a reliable replacement. I was specifically looking for a compact, capable folding knife that could handle a variety of EDC (Everyday Carry) duties without being cumbersome. After considering several options, I landed on the Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion. This model, with its distinctive BlackWash finish and Ken Onion’s pedigree, promised a blend of style and functionality. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the weight felt balanced, and the materials exuded quality. I’d briefly looked at a few other assisted openers, but the Leek’s slim profile and reputation for sharp blades kept it at the top of my list. Picking it up for the first time, I felt a sense of quiet confidence that this knife would serve me well.

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

First Use Experience

My testing began immediately after unboxing, right in my workshop. I used the Kershaw Leek to open several stubborn cardboard boxes, slice through some stubborn packing tape, and even trim a few stray wires. The assisted opening mechanism proved incredibly smooth and swift, deploying the blade with a satisfying thwack. I also took it on a weekend camping trip where it was indispensable for preparing kindling, cutting fishing line, and opening food packages. Even after getting a bit dusty from the trail, its performance remained consistent. The slim design made it incredibly comfortable to carry in my pocket, almost forgetting it was there until I needed it.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past month, this Leek has become my go-to for countless daily tasks. It’s sliced through mail, opened challenging clamshell packaging, and performed delicate tasks like trimming threads on my outdoor gear. Despite regular use and some minor bumps, the BlackWash finish has held up remarkably well, masking the typical scuffs I’d expect on a knife this actively used. The Sandvik 14C28N blade still holds a razor edge, requiring only a quick strop to bring it back to peak sharpness. Compared to other budget-friendly assisted folders I’ve owned, the Leek feels far more refined and durable, avoiding the common issues of blade play or sticky mechanisms that often plague lesser knives. Its reliability has been unwavering, making it a trusted tool I reach for without hesitation.

Breaking Down the Features of Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Specifications

The Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion boasts a 3-inch blade made from high-performance Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. This specific steel is renowned for its excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for everyday carry and demanding tasks. The knife has a closed length of 4 inches, contributing to its slim and pocket-friendly design. Its overall length when deployed is 7 inches, providing a comfortable grip and sufficient reach for various cutting jobs. The handle is constructed from 410 stainless steel, providing a robust and durable platform for the blade, finished with a matching Blackwash coating that enhances its stealthy aesthetic and helps conceal minor wear.

The Blade Shape is a modified drop-point, offering a good balance between slicing capability and piercing power thanks to its keen, slim tip. It features a plain edge, which is generally preferred for finer cutting tasks and easier resharpening compared to serrated blades. The opening mechanism is SpeedSafe ambidextrous assisted opening, allowing for quick, one-handed deployment using either the flipper or the thumb stud, catering to both left-handed and right-handed users. For secure operation, it utilizes a Frame Lock mechanism, which is known for its strength and reliability, ensuring the blade stays firmly in place during use. An additional Tip-Lock slider provides a secondary lock for the blade when folded, preventing accidental deployment. The included Pocket Clip is reversible, allowing for either tip-up or tip-down carry, and the handle is pre-drilled for a lanyard hole, adding versatility for carrying options.

Performance & Functionality

In practical application, this Kershaw Leek performs exceptionally well. Its primary function – cutting – is handled with impressive precision and ease. The Sandvik 14C28N steel truly shines in its ability to maintain a sharp edge through prolonged use, a characteristic I deeply value for an EDC tool. The assisted opening system is a standout feature, offering a fast and reliable deployment that feels precise and controlled every time. I particularly appreciate the ambidextrous nature of the SpeedSafe mechanism, making it equally comfortable for me, a right-handed user, as it would be for a left-handed individual. The frame lock is robust, providing a secure lock-up that inspires confidence during more strenuous cutting tasks, and the secondary Tip-Lock offers peace of mind when the knife is stowed away.

While the Leek excels at most EDC cutting duties, it’s important to acknowledge its limitations. Its 3-inch blade is ideal for general tasks but might feel a bit small for heavier-duty chopping or batoning wood, tasks better suited for larger, more robust fixed blades or folding knives. However, for its intended purpose as a compact, capable EDC, its performance is outstanding. The slim tip is excellent for detailed work, like stripping fine wires or intricate carving, without sacrificing the general slicing prowess of the modified drop-point blade. The BlackWash finish not only looks appealing but also does a commendable job of hiding minor abrasions, maintaining a cleaner appearance over time.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a testament to Ken Onion’s renowned aesthetic and functional approach. The all-stainless steel handle, coated in the BlackWash finish, feels sturdy and provides a secure grip, especially with the subtle contouring of the handle scales. While not overly aggressive, the texture offers enough purchase even with slightly damp hands. The slim profile of the Leek makes it exceptionally comfortable to carry in any pocket, conforming to the leg without creating an unsightly bulge.

Deploying the blade is a pleasure thanks to the well-designed flipper tab, which sits unobtrusively when the knife is closed but presents an accessible point for quick opening. The thumb stud offers an alternative for manual deployment, though the flipper is my preferred method for its speed and ease. The balance of the knife feels right in hand, not too blade-heavy or handle-heavy, which aids in control during precise cutting. The frame lock disengagement is smooth, allowing for easy one-handed closing after use. The overall build quality feels solid, with no creaking or looseness, indicative of tight tolerances and quality manufacturing.

Durability & Maintenance

The 410 stainless steel handle and Sandvik 14C28N blade materials suggest excellent durability for an EDC folding knife. After a month of consistent use, I’ve observed no signs of premature wear, rust, or structural compromise. The BlackWash finish on both the blade and handle has proven surprisingly resilient; it has resisted scratching better than I initially anticipated, with only the faintest signs of rubbing from my pocket clip. Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after exposure to moisture, and occasional lubrication of the pivot mechanism with a light gun oil keeps the SpeedSafe assisted opening action buttery smooth. Resharpening has been infrequent due to the steel’s excellent edge retention, and when needed, it takes to a sharpening stone or ceramic rod with ease.

Potential failure points are minimal for a knife of this type and intended use. The frame lock is a proven design, and the Tip-Lock slider adds an extra layer of security that’s unlikely to fail under normal EDC conditions. While I haven’t experienced any issues, it’s always prudent to avoid prying with any folding knife, as this can stress the blade, pivot, and lock mechanism. The recessed lanyard hole is well-made and should stand up to regular use with a paracord or lanyard. Overall, this knife feels built to last through years of daily service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion comes with its essential component: a recessed pocket clip. This clip is reversible, allowing for a choice between tip-up or tip-down carry, which is a crucial consideration for personal carry preference. The handle also features a lanyard hole, providing another option for securing the knife, either to a lanyard for quick retrieval or for attachment to gear. While Kershaw doesn’t typically include extensive accessories with their Leek models, the focus is on the knife itself being a complete package.

Customization options for this particular model are relatively limited, as the focus is on the integrated design. However, users can easily swap the pocket clip for aftermarket options if they desire a different style or tension. The BlackWash finish itself is a stylistic choice that offers a more subdued, tool-like aesthetic compared to polished finishes. For those seeking different blade steels or configurations, Kershaw offers Leeks in various finishes and with different handle materials, but this BlackWash model is designed as a specific, cohesive unit. Its strength lies in its well-executed core features rather than extensive modularity.

Pros and Cons of Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

Who Should Buy Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion?

This knife is an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize a reliable, high-quality, and stylish EDC tool for general daily tasks. Professionals, such as tradespeople, technicians, or anyone who frequently needs to open packages, cut materials, or perform light utility work, will appreciate its swift deployment and sharp edge. Outdoor enthusiasts who need a dependable secondary blade for camping, fishing, or hiking will also find it incredibly useful. Its slim profile makes it ideal for those who prefer a discreet carry that doesn’t weigh down their pockets.

However, this Leek might not be the best fit for users who require a larger blade for demanding tasks like heavy-duty outdoor survival or aggressive prying. Those on a very tight budget may also find better value in more basic, non-assisted folding knives, though they would likely sacrifice the premium steel and smooth action. For optimal use, I’d recommend ensuring you have a good sharpening system on hand to maintain that razor edge, and perhaps a small tube of pivot lubricant to keep the assisted opening mechanism functioning flawlessly for years to come.

Conclusion on Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion

The Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion stands out as a superior EDC option, combining elegant design with robust functionality. Its Sandvik 14C28N blade offers exceptional cutting performance and edge retention, while the SpeedSafe assisted opening provides rapid and reliable deployment. The BlackWash finish is not just aesthetically pleasing but also practical, enhancing the knife’s durability and appearance over time. While its price point places it in the mid-to-high range for EDC knives, the quality of materials, precision engineering, and overall user experience firmly justify the investment.

For anyone seeking a dependable, sleek, and highly capable folding knife for everyday carry, this Kershaw Leek is an outstanding choice. I can confidently recommend it to anyone who values craftsmanship, performance, and a touch of style in their tools. If you’re looking for a knife that performs as well as it looks and will reliably serve you day in and day out, the Kershaw Leek Blackwash Assisted Folding Knife by Ken Onion is a winner.