Kershaw cqc4-kxl. Opinions?

H

HotRodColt

Joined
Feb 28, 2007
Messages
330
Looking for a new work knife. I am a painting contractor, I have a snap off razor knife with me at all times, but I like to carry a regular folding knife as well. I prefer made in US, but anything I carry a work will be covered with over spray dust and could possibly be lost so a cheaper knife is A OK.

I was considering a Byrd Cara Cara because I love my Endura so much, but I really want to try an Emerson. I was hoping to get some feedback before I sprang for one. How does kershaw do on there import steel vs the Byrd? Or are they pretty much going to be of similar quality?

The knife will be expected to perform cutting tasks like rope and twine, as well as some occasional whittling like tasks.
 
It's a good beater work knife. However, it's very heavy for its size (if you're wearing heavy work pants not an issue, just be aware of that), and I'd say the blade shape isn't the most conducive for heavy use. It's got a thick blade and a delicate point that can be easily bent or broken. All of that said, it's a great knife for the price.
 
Loss is the number one threat to a folder IMO. Your situation also involves spray dust so not having a knice expensive knife makes sense.

The Kershaw-Emersons are great; I have a bunch of them, to include the CQC-4XL and think that they provide great value for the money. I generally agree with f250's comments in regards the weight and blade shape but still think it's a cool knife with, again, great value. It is not a replacement for the real Emersons, which I have more of and really, really like; but they don't cost like the real Emerson's either.

I don't know that the CQC-4XL would be my first choice among the Kerhsaw-Emerson range as a "work knife" but your snap off razor knife, or a utility knife will take most of the abuse it would seem and, if used within the scope of functions that a knife is designed for (cutting, slicing) just about any decent folder will do. Be mindful of the weight issue that f250 mentioned and have fun! At their price point you can't get hurt too badly if you change your mind.
 
It's good, but a far cry from fantastic. I think it's well worth the price of admission, though mine has some F&F issues that you usually don't see on Kershaws, even at that price. Bottom line, none of the issues with mine affects functionality in the least, so I would consider it plenty good enough.

Oh, I know someone will ask, so the issues are machining marks, mildly gritty pivot (easily fixed) and lock rock. Lock still does fine with taps on the forearm and steady hand pressure on the spine of the blade, though, and it's not noticeable when I use it.
 
Definitely a good value. I have purchased 2 to give to friends in my AA fellowship.

[video=youtube;zffZunjtxLY]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zffZunjtxLY[/video]
 
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