Any long term Leek reviews?

[fishtale]

I've had a Kershaw Leek for a while now. I got one of the 440A versions before the switch to Sanvik. I've used it for normal light cutting but not for anything big. I've actually used a Chive harder...something about that little guy just screams "use me!".

I was hoping to find some long term Leek users to post their experiences...mostly regarding lock engagement, AO action and the blade tip.

 

[Stainz]

I've had a Scallion, Leek, and Blur, while my wife has had a rainbow Chive, for over five years. Other than obvious pocket wear, an attribute they share with my similar aged Blur, they function fine. Periodic tightening of the lock's screw has been required to insure they stay put in my pocket (Except for the Blur!). My latest Leek, a damascus one from a year back, had to have some serious help to get it's Torxx screw attaching the pocket clip to the frame loose - thank you to Kershaw for the tool, spare screws, and clip - gratis. Great company. Of course, they have had to be resharpened - in the last year or so on my Spyderco Sharpmaker. I've thought about new models - and the upgrade steels, especially the S30V and SG2 in the Blurs. 'Thought' is about it - my Ken Onion designs by Kershaw are easily re-edged - and still function perfectly. Great products - and great company - check out their sub-forum under manufacturers.

Stainz

 

[ehhh]

I've had my Leek for a couple years now, and it is one of my most used knives. It's a 440A/steel framelock model, and it has served me well. I've mostly cut cardboard and opened packages with it, and it's great for that. As for differences between Kershaws 440A and 13C26, I can't tell much of a difference between my Leek and 13C26 JYD.

The tip is still intact and quite pointy after plenty of use and sharpening on a Sharpmaker. The lockup is about 1/4-1/3 across the tang and has been ever since I got it, and it has never failed. The AO action is still going strong and smooth. Everything is still nice and tight like new. Even the beadblasted blade finish wears well. Definitely $40 well spent on this knife. To be honest, I don't think this knife would be my first choice for heavy use though, if that's what you were thinking.

 

[jonnymac44]

Ok, ok, so this won't be a lengthy in depth review of the Leek under long term use, but I just have to add that I've got Leeks in 440A, Sandvik 13C26, S30V, CPM D2 composite, ZDP -189, damascus, and even the new 14C28N also from Sandvik.....and they all cut like nobody's business. So far, no matter what configuration I've gotten my Leeks in, they seem to stand up to use, whether it be light or heavy duty. It's just a great little knife that is comfortable, handy, and tough.

A couple are missing from this pic, but you get the idea