Kershaw Knockout

Joined
Mar 3, 2012
Messages
476
Now that I've had a couple of months with the 1870, I can finally give an informed opinion on the knife.

Everybody knows that this knife is light, has aluminum scales, 14c28n steel, a deep carry clip, and speedsafe technology. Therefore, I won't recover that in this brief review.

This is a very sturdy blade. The sub-frame lock continues not to allow any wiggle in the blade after moderate use. This knife has been put through moderate task such as food prep, box cutting, rope cutting, wood prep (camping), and daily edc task. The long curve on the drop point design allows for great slicing ability.

The handle is very comfortable for my hands. I enjoy the simple ergonomics and utility they present. When I started using the flipper, I hated it. I thought it needed some traction or less of a decline angle for purchase with your finger. However, I've come around on this flipper style. It is indeed comfortable and fits the design of the knife. Like anything, you get used to it. While I still wouldn't mind some jimping on the spine, it wasn't necessary with the task I put it through.

Edge retention is moderate and sharpening is a breeze. I love knives that are easy to sharpen. It makes me much more likely to carry it and actually use it. The thin profile, low weight, and size have made this knife a must in my rotation. In fact, it has become my rotation. I find myself reaching for other knives only to decide that they simply don't offer the same overall utility of the 1870. Put simply, my Sage 1 has been collecting dust. And I love that knife.

Kershaw has a winner on its hands. I'm sure they are aware of it. If you haven't purchased one, or are conflicted on your next purchase, grab one. You won't regret it.

Ps. If aluminum scales aren't your thing and you believe the grip is compromised... I'd say get a new opinion because your current one is tragically misplaced. This truly is one of those knives that should have BROAD market appeal.
 
I have the G10 version and prefer it over the aluminum for how thin the Knockout is. Same reason that I don't carry my Shallot much anymore.
 
Thanks for the review -- well done. There's a lot to like in the Knockout.

But Kershaw has taken to putting thumb studs on folders with powerful AO. Users need to be careful not to slice their thumb when using studs with a folder that opens so forcefully.

My Knockout arrived along with my Wilscon Combat Eagle by Les George. Both are thin, flipper folders.

The Eagle is a manual flipper that is a pleasure to open -- and without endangering one's thumb. I'd feel more comfortable with the Knockout if it were a manual.
 
Yeah I wouldn't mind if Kershaw used a regular detent hole on the assisted models, so we can make them manual if we choose. Also if the torsion bar breaks, you still have a usable folder.

I do really like the Knockout though.

Knockout2.jpg
 
I'm digging the Knockout but I hope to get a G10 one somehow. Aluminum is ok until it starts chipping. Some say it adds character, I say it is chipping. I've read how some are already hoping for future versions of the knockout, count me in for another G10 version.
 
When it starts getting all chipped and fugly, that's when you break out the sandpaper. :thumbup:
 
This is a tool. I'd trade pretty for rigidity any day of the week and twice on Sundays. The G10 model simply isn't as solid feeling of a knife. I'd be surprised if it maintained the same durability as its aluminum counter part. This was a good move by Kershaw. Also, when G10 wears down, it has less of a traction advantage.

Also, if you USE a blade, it never stays pretty. EVER. Thus I come full circle, this is a tool. And a darn good one.
 
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