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10 Best Kershaw Knives 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife, Made in the USA, 3.4 inch CPM MagnaCut Steel Blade, EDC Design, Duralock Locking Mechanism, Manual Folder, Pocketclip

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,496
Blade Material
Handle Material
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
500 reviews

Blade Material
The handle is comfortable and grippy, and the MagnaCut blade is remarkably tough with excellent edge retention.
Handle Material
The handle is comfortable and grippy, and the MagnaCut blade is remarkably tough with excellent edge retention.
Locking Mechanism
The ball-bearing locking system paired with spring assistance makes opening and closing the knife extremely easy.
Opening Mechanism
This is probably the smoothest out-of-the-box flipper I have.

The Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife is a solid option for anyone in need of a reliable everyday carry (EDC) knife. One of its main strengths is the blade, made from CPM MagnaCut steel, which is known for its excellent edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. This means that it will stand up well to regular use, whether you’re camping or just tackling everyday tasks. The black DLC coating not only adds a sleek look but also provides extra protection to the blade.

Opening the knife is a breeze thanks to the KVT ball-bearing system and thumb studs, making it user-friendly for both left and right-handed individuals. The DuraLock mechanism is a standout feature, ensuring that the blade remains securely open during use. Additionally, the deep-carry pocket clip is easily reversible, allowing for versatile carrying options, which is great for personal preference.

While this knife is lightweight at 2.9 ounces, some users might find the 3.1-inch blade a bit short for certain tasks. Although the design is modern and stylish, it may not appeal to those who prefer a more traditional look. Maintenance is also important; regular cleaning and oiling of the moving parts are required to keep the knife in optimal condition.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,496
Blade Material
Handle Material
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
500 reviews

Blade Material
The handle is comfortable and grippy, and the MagnaCut blade is remarkably tough with excellent edge retention.
Handle Material
The handle is comfortable and grippy, and the MagnaCut blade is remarkably tough with excellent edge retention.
Locking Mechanism
The ball-bearing locking system paired with spring assistance makes opening and closing the knife extremely easy.
Opening Mechanism
This is probably the smoothest out-of-the-box flipper I have.
#2

Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife, Olive Design, 3.05 Inch Stainless Steel Clip Point Blade, EDC with Assisted Opening, Reversible Carry, USA Made, Everyday Carry Pocket Knife for Men and Women

Rating
10.0
Blade Material
Handle Material
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
500 reviews

Blade Material
The CPM MagnaCut steel blade arrives razor sharp and maintains impressive edge retention, excelling in durability and rust resistance.
Handle Material
The olive micarta handle offers a rugged, handsome appearance with a textured grip that feels comfortable and secure during use.
Locking Mechanism
The DuraLock mechanism provides a strong, easy-to-operate lock that feels reliable and safe in hand.
Opening Mechanism
Opening the blade is smooth and confident, enabled by comfortable thumb studs and smart geometry for quick, snappy deployment.

The Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife is a solid choice if you need a reliable everyday or camping knife. It features a 3.4-inch clip point blade made from CPM MagnaCut steel, which is known for excellent edge retention, toughness, and resistance to rust—great for outdoor use. The blade’s working finish helps hide scratches, keeping it looking good even after heavy use. The handle is made of olive micarta, a durable material with a textured canvas pattern that offers a comfortable, non-slip grip. At 7.25 inches open and weighing just 2.6 ounces, it’s lightweight yet manageable in the hand.

The DuraLock locking mechanism secures the blade safely when open, using a sturdy steel crossbar that’s easy to operate, even for left- or right-handed users. Opening the blade is smooth thanks to the KVT ball-bearing system and thumb studs, adding to quick one-handed deployment. The knife also includes a reversible deep-carry pocket clip and a lanyard hole, making it convenient to carry. It requires manual folding and hand washing, so if you prefer an automatic or dishwasher-safe option, this might not be ideal. However, for those who value a well-made, American-made folding knife with a good blend of durability, ergonomics, and ease of use, the Kershaw Bel Air is a dependable pick.

Rating
10.0
Blade Material
Handle Material
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
500 reviews

Blade Material
The CPM MagnaCut steel blade arrives razor sharp and maintains impressive edge retention, excelling in durability and rust resistance.
Handle Material
The olive micarta handle offers a rugged, handsome appearance with a textured grip that feels comfortable and secure during use.
Locking Mechanism
The DuraLock mechanism provides a strong, easy-to-operate lock that feels reliable and safe in hand.
Opening Mechanism
Opening the blade is smooth and confident, enabled by comfortable thumb studs and smart geometry for quick, snappy deployment.
#3

Kershaw Leek Pocket Knife, Matte Gray Design, 3 Inch Stainless Steel Drop Point Blade, EDC with Assisted Opening, Made in the USA, Reversible Clip Carry, Everyday Carry Pocket Knife for Men and Women

Rating
8.5
Blade Material
Blade Length
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
21108 reviews

Blade Material
The blade takes an edge so sharp it can shave, and it holds that edge for a long time while being easy to resharpen.
Blade Length
The 3-inch blade is extremely sharp out of the box and the knife feels solid yet lightweight, fitting comfortably in a pocket.
Locking Mechanism
Its slim design and secure frame lock ensure it stays firmly in place during use, while the reversible pocket clip offers versatile carrying options.
Opening Mechanism
The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism allows for quick, one-handed operation, making it incredibly convenient.

The Kershaw Leek Pocket Knife is a versatile and durable option for everyday carry (EDC). Its 3-inch drop point blade made from high-performance Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel offers excellent edge retention and is easy to resharpen. The blade's bead-blasted finish gives it a clean and subtle appearance. The handle, made from 410 stainless steel, is both corrosion-resistant and contoured for a comfortable grip. Weighing just 3 ounces, the knife is lightweight and portable.

It includes a reversible pocket clip for versatile carrying options. The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism allows for easy one-handed operation, making it quick and convenient to use. The frame lock ensures the blade stays securely open during use, while the Tip-lock slider keeps it safely closed when not in use. The knife's design prioritizes safety and ease of use, making it suitable for a wide range of cutting tasks.

However, the all-metal construction might be slippery when wet, and some users may prefer a handle with more grip. The Kershaw Leek Pocket Knife is a reliable and well-designed tool for everyday and work use.

Rating
8.5
Blade Material
Blade Length
Locking Mechanism

Most important from
21108 reviews

Blade Material
The blade takes an edge so sharp it can shave, and it holds that edge for a long time while being easy to resharpen.
Blade Length
The 3-inch blade is extremely sharp out of the box and the knife feels solid yet lightweight, fitting comfortably in a pocket.
Locking Mechanism
Its slim design and secure frame lock ensure it stays firmly in place during use, while the reversible pocket clip offers versatile carrying options.
Opening Mechanism
The SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism allows for quick, one-handed operation, making it incredibly convenient.

Buying Guide for the Best Kershaw Knives

When choosing a Kershaw knife, it's important to consider how you plan to use it. Kershaw offers a wide range of knives, from everyday carry (EDC) to specialized outdoor and tactical knives. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best knife for your needs. Here are the main specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Blade MaterialThe blade material determines the knife's durability, sharpness, and resistance to corrosion. Common materials include stainless steel, high-carbon steel, and various alloys. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and easy to maintain, making it ideal for everyday use. High-carbon steel is harder and holds an edge longer but requires more maintenance to prevent rust. Choose stainless steel for general use and high-carbon steel for tasks requiring a sharper, longer-lasting edge.
Blade LengthBlade length affects the knife's versatility and ease of carry. Shorter blades (under 3 inches) are more portable and suitable for everyday tasks like opening packages. Medium blades (3-4 inches) offer a balance between portability and functionality, making them good for both EDC and outdoor activities. Longer blades (over 4 inches) are better for heavy-duty tasks and outdoor use but can be less convenient to carry. Consider your primary use to determine the best blade length for you.
Blade ShapeBlade shape influences the knife's cutting performance and suitability for different tasks. Common shapes include drop point, tanto, and clip point. Drop point blades are versatile and good for general use, with a strong tip for piercing. Tanto blades have a strong, angular tip, making them ideal for piercing tough materials. Clip point blades have a thinner, sharper tip, suitable for precision tasks. Choose a blade shape based on the specific tasks you plan to perform.
Handle MaterialHandle material affects the knife's grip, comfort, and durability. Common materials include G-10, aluminum, and stainless steel. G-10 is a lightweight, durable composite that offers excellent grip, even in wet conditions. Aluminum is lightweight and strong but can be slippery when wet. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean but heavier. Consider the conditions in which you'll use the knife and your preference for weight and grip to choose the right handle material.
Locking MechanismThe locking mechanism ensures the blade stays securely in place during use, enhancing safety. Common types include liner lock, frame lock, and back lock. Liner locks are easy to use with one hand and are common in EDC knives. Frame locks are similar but use the handle frame for added strength. Back locks are very secure but require two hands to operate. Choose a locking mechanism based on your preference for ease of use and the level of security you need.
Opening MechanismThe opening mechanism determines how quickly and easily you can deploy the blade. Options include manual, assisted, and automatic. Manual knives require you to open the blade with your hand, offering more control. Assisted opening knives use a spring mechanism to help deploy the blade quickly. Automatic knives open with the push of a button but may be restricted in some areas. Consider your need for speed and convenience when choosing an opening mechanism.

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