Kershaw Random Leek Plain Edge

Would you purchase this knife based on this review?

  • Yes

    Votes: 0 0.0%

  • No

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Ken would it be possible to do a titanium Leek? I love my leek, but it would be nice to have a lighter version...TIA
 
Nice review Wade, I defintiely learned more about this knife from your post. I just learned about this model last night. My first taste of some Onions was a chive I believe; I didn't like it. I thought that the speed-safe made that little knife rock and roll too much in my hand when I flippered it open. Well, recently I went to the local outdoor store and played with the Onions some more. I figured that on Boxing Day, I need to come home with a Whirlwind!

I like a lot that is going on with this random leek- great premium steel and a frame lock is better than a liner I'd say. Unfortunately, I wouldn't buy this piece. I am looking for a larger knife, around 4" blade, preferably not recurved, with a pointy point, solid lock and good steel. I really am thrilled now with the Kershaw Onions and the custom.mid-tech stuff that Ken does. In fact, I found this thread running a search on "Onion" so I could learn more.

I hope that Ken sees this thread again! Ken, you mentioned a larger, cool folder? Any more info you could throw us? I like the Whirlwind, but I would liek a larger, cooler Onion. So far, this new knife is right up my alley! And heal-up well Ken. If I lived close by, I'd sweep up yoru shop for ya to help keep the dust off your tools while you rest :) Hmm.. it is 11:00 and I should get out there and finish the handle on one of my Christmas orders!
 
Glad to see this thread surface again. I have to add after playing with the Random Leek more it has grown on me a lot more. I feel very comfortable handling it and flicking it open is now a breeze. Initially I felt the handle was a bit small, but I now realize it fits my hand very well. Also the quality of the construction impresses me more and more. It's just a well made piece, especially for the price. Did I mention the lock up is very solid on this? :)

I'd love to see this knife in a larger version, exactly the same. The Camillus Dominator seems to be a popular knife with this crowd, but I think a larger and heavier duty Leek would burst the Dominator's bubble. I picked up the Dominator, but the opening is very stiff. They did this to make it so it doesn't accidentally open, but it takes away something from the knife. When I go to open the Dominator I prepare my index finger for some pain, while the Leek opens like butter. After opening the Dominator I have a much greater appreciation for the smooth flipper action on the Leek.

A large titanium Leek with a s30v blade would be a winner in my book. Just keep the little safety lock on it to keep the paranoid people quiet, but leave the opening action easy and smooth like on the Random Leek. :)
 
Like the other guys I appreciate the test and input from other members. I am fairly new to the forum and find it refreshing that the designers and makers like Ken Onion are monitoring and participating in the forum and are listening to the comments of the users.

I have been wanting one of the Onion desings and tottering on the fence about buying one. Thanks to you guys the decision has been made. It'll make a nice Christmas present. On second thought I'd better get two, my son has had his eye on one as well.

Merry Christmas to all.
 
Bigger ones ,fatter ones ,wider ones ,they are all comming. But not in the Leek model as there are already alot of skews of that model.Kershaw will be introducing aluminum handled Leeks soon for those that requested a lighter version. I am listening and will design new products using your suggestions.We must however launch the new products we have been tooling up for befor I can throw another new knife into the line. Please be patient and it'll happen.I sincerely appreciate your input and suggestions I will take them to heart.Thank you for your praises,they mean everything. Aloha!!
 
Just got my Random Leek yesterday, very nice, I had a regular Leek and like it but ended up trading it off, but the Random Leek is just right. And the S30v seem to take a hair splitting edge too! :) always a plus!

And Ken? as StJames wondered, so did I when I didn't see your logo on board the knife, seems a shame not to give you credit?

A thicker handle would be about the only thing I'd enjoy seeing on this knife, wouldn't have to have a larger blade, just thicker scales to make a bit more secure grip for me.

Thanks Ken!
G2
 
Gary W. Graley said:
Just got my Random Leek yesterday, very nice, I had a regular Leek and like it but ended up trading it off, but the Random Leek is just right. And the S30v seem to take a hair splitting edge too! :) always a plus!

A thicker handle would be about the only thing I'd enjoy seeing on this knife, wouldn't have to have a larger blade, just thicker scales to make a bit more secure grip for me.

Thanks Ken!
G2
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Hey Gary. Did you get yours for $70??? :D :eek: Don't suppose so.
Is Chesapeake still the exclusive? I'm interested in getting on of these beauties.
 
Well, this one was traded to me, like new in box, needed just the slightest touch up on a ceramic stone but that was all.
I take back about needing to be being a bit thicker, been using this at work the past few days and really like the shape, heft and action of this knife, I would highly recommend it!
G2

still miffed about no Onion on it, no mention of even what knife it is! Doesn't even say Random Leek..? whatsupwiththat?
 
Well, I went ahead and ordered one from Chesapeake. Should be here in a few days.

From the web site, it says that it has the Chesapeake logo on it. Supposed to be an exclusive. I didn't find them anywhere else on the internet either. Don't know about any other markings. From the other leeks I've seen, they don't have any other id's. Dunno. :rolleyes:
 
I finally got mine, and I really like it. The handle is small but ergonomic, I'm thinking of ading some grip-tape for a little extra thickness and, er, grip on the smooth surface. It's pretty heavy for such a small knife. The blade shape is excellent for utility cutting. The black finish, however, is pretty delicate and the pocket clip already shows wear after a couple days. The speedsafe is very firm, opens with a good snap! I wish the clip were mounted a little lower, it sticks out pretty observably from the pocket. Overall it's a very good design, and the execution is high-quality. I'd make a couple minor changes but overall it's a great knife. PLUS, since I think there are still print ads for it for $69.95, if you call Chesepeake and reference the ad you saw they will sell it to you for that price.
 
$70 is an outstanding deal if they still have them! I'd be tempted to get another ! :)

Here is a scan of mine, been using her all week long, most duties were boxes, straps and mainly slicing up grapefruits at lunch time, fillets them like crazy ;)
G2
 
Thanks for noticing Gary , I was kinda bumbed about that too . Guess it was just an oversight .Glad you like this knife . Funny how many people say they want something to change about it when they first get one then after they have carried it a while they wouldn't change anything . I get that all the time . Glad You like it !
 
Great review!

The comparison photos and emphasis on the ergos of the knife are especially appreciated.
 
Gary,
I just called Betsy,at Chesapeake Knife & Tool Co, this morning, 04-28-04, mentioned I read this on BladeForums and she gave me the $69.95 price on the Random Leek. I ordered a Plain Edge and at that price it was very hard not to order a spare. Both edges are available. With shipping came to $74.45. Darn, now that I think more about it, I AM going to order a spare. Must quit this thinking process.
 
I got one last month and love it! Mine was a retail store buy so I paid the $100.00, but still worth it for me.
 
Thanks Graywolf, very tempting, right now low on funds so will have to hold off, here is a scan of mine, I reversed the clip and added a leather ball fob, works very nice!

attachment.php


And Ken, sorry to hear that, hope they take care of you later on! I may get this one engraved with your name on it!
G2
 
If the Random Leek were un-coated, I would have to give it serious consideration. I just don't care for coatings. Love the blade shape on it though. :cool:

Paul
 
Leek in a week! Eek! :D :D

Damn, wish I had seen Graywolf's post before I placed my internet order. :eek:
Saving $30 might have convinced me to go for two!!! Dooh!!! :grumpy:



MPotter
 
I added black 3M stair-tread tape to the clip, to the side of the handle with the CKT logo, and to the back-spacer. It's a huge change!! The knife is only the tiniest bit larger, but it sticks to the hand like velcro now. I found the slick handles to be a little perilous when closing the knife b/c the spring is so firm. Now the extra grip adds so much security, it's awesome! Although it does remove some of the "gentleman's knife" aesthetic. Anyway, just a tip FYI.

ALSO - reversing the clip for tip-up carry makes a lot of sense for this knife b/c when you pull it from your pocket, the index finger falls immediately to the flipper. VERY smooth presentation!!
 
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