Kershaw Knives

Kershaw Knives is a Tualatin, Oregon knife brand producing one of the broadest ranges of folding knives in the industry — from the entry-level Shuffle (under $20) through the premium Lucha butterfly knife and Zero Tolerance collaboration models. Kershaw is best known for their SpeedSafe assisted-opening system, which uses a torsion bar to assist the blade open once the user applies initial pressure — producing fast, one-handed opening without automatic knife classification in most jurisdictions. Kershaw offers more models in the $30–$80 practical EDC price range than any other major brand.

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SpeedSafe Assisted Opening

SpeedSafe is Kershaw’s proprietary assisted-opening mechanism — a torsion bar spring that assists the blade to fully open once the user applies initial thumb pressure to the flipper or thumb stud. The blade springs open crisply and locks open with Kershaw’s liner lock or frame lock. Because SpeedSafe requires user-initiated opening force (unlike a true automatic/switchblade), it is not classified as an automatic knife under federal law or most state laws, making it more widely legal than true automatic knives while delivering comparable opening speed.

Popular Kershaw Models

The Kershaw Cryo is one of the best-selling budget EDC knives in the US — a 2.75-inch assisted-opening blade in 8Cr13MoV steel with a steel handle at an accessible price. The Leek is Kershaw’s classic slim-profile assisted opener — a 3-inch Sandvik 14C28N steel blade in a slender handle ideal for pocket carry. The Blur is their most popular mid-range model with a 3.4-inch Sandvik blade and ergonomic aluminum handle. Zero Tolerance (ZT) is Kershaw’s premium sub-brand — collaboration designs with top custom makers in premium steels starting at significantly higher price points.

Kershaw Steel

Standard Kershaw models use 8Cr13MoV (Chinese budget stainless), Sandvik 14C28N (Swedish premium stainless), or D2 semi-stainless tool steel. Sandvik 14C28N is the sweet spot — better edge retention and corrosion resistance than 8Cr13MoV, available in mid-range Kershaw models. ZT collaboration models use premium steels including CPM-20CV, S35VN, and M390.

Frequently Asked Questions: Kershaw Knives

Is Kershaw made in the USA?
Kershaw is an Oregon brand but manufactures most knives in their China and Taiwan facilities. Zero Tolerance (ZT) models are made in Tualatin, Oregon. If US manufacture matters to you, look for ZT models or verify country of origin on the specific model.

What is the best Kershaw for everyday carry?
The Kershaw Leek for slim pocket carry, the Blur for a more capable work knife, and the Link or Skyline for buyers who want a flipper opener. For the best value-per-dollar, the Cryo II (larger version of the Cryo) is consistently recommended as a capable budget EDC.

See Also: All Knives • Spyderco • Case Cutlery • Automatic Knives • Gerber