10 Best Kershaw Knives 2025 in the United States

The Kershaw Bel Air Pocket Knife is a solid choice if you want a reliable everyday carry (EDC) knife made in the USA. Its 3.4-inch blade is crafted from CPM MagnaCut steel, a premium material known for holding its edge well and resisting rust, which means less frequent sharpening and longer-lasting sharpness. The blade shape is a reverse tanto, offering a strong tip that’s good for precise cutting tasks and durability.

The handle is made from lightweight but sturdy aluminum in a beige finish, which gives a modern look and feels comfortable to hold. It includes a black deep-carry pocket clip that’s reversible for right or left-hand users, adding convenience for everyday use. The knife’s DuraLock mechanism is a standout feature; it locks the blade open securely with a steel crossbar, which provides safety during use and can be easily unlocked by pulling the ambidextrous lock back.

Opening the blade is smooth thanks to the KVT ball-bearing system and thumb studs, making one-handed deployment quick and easy. When open, the knife measures 7.2 inches and closes down to 4.2 inches, weighing 2.9 ounces—slightly on the heavier side for some, but still comfortable for most pockets. The knife is manual folding, requiring you to open and close it yourself, which is typical for legal and safety reasons in many places. It’s recommended to hand wash only to keep the blade and handle in good shape. This knife suits campers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a durable, no-nonsense pocket knife with a modern style and excellent steel quality. Its solid construction and thoughtful features make it a dependable tool, although those seeking an ultra-lightweight option might find it a bit weighty.

The Kershaw Black Iridium is a solid choice for an everyday folding pocket knife. It features a 3.4-inch blade made from D2 high-carbon tool steel, known for its toughness and excellent edge retention, so it should stay sharp longer than many common steels. The blade has a spear-point shape, which is versatile for general cutting tasks. The handle is made of lightweight aluminum with a sleek black anodized finish, giving it a modern look while keeping the weight comfortable at 3.3 ounces.

This knife uses Kershaw's DuraLock mechanism, a crossbar lock that securely holds the blade open and is easy to operate safely with a simple pull. Opening the blade is smooth thanks to the KVT ball-bearing system and thumb studs, allowing quick one-handed use. The pocket clip is reversible, supporting both left and right-handed carry, which adds to its convenience. On the downside, the knife requires hand washing to maintain its condition, and while the weight is moderate, some users might prefer a lighter option for long carry.

The blade’s black PVD finish helps reduce glare but may show wear over time with heavy use. This knife combines durability, safety, and style, making it suitable for anyone looking for a dependable, everyday folding knife.

The Kershaw Leek and Kershaw Grid are both solid choices for everyday carry knives, each with unique features suited for different users. The Leek features a 3-inch drop point blade made from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel, known for holding an edge well and being easy to sharpen. Its slim, lightweight 410 stainless steel handle offers corrosion resistance and a comfortable grip, making it convenient for daily tasks. It uses a SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism with a flipper, allowing quick one-handed deployment, and a reliable frame lock to keep the blade securely open during use. The tip-lock slider adds an extra safety layer by locking the blade closed when folded. This knife is ideal for those who want a versatile, compact, and easy-to-carry knife made in the USA.

The Kershaw Grid, with a slightly longer 3.7-inch blade made from 8Cr13MoV steel, is tailored for users needing a tougher blade shape that leans toward tactical or outdoor use. Its modified drop-point blade, somewhat similar to a tanto, excels at piercing and slicing. The black-oxide coating on the blade reduces glare and improves rust resistance. The handle is also stainless steel but coated for added wear resistance and a better grip feel. Like the Leek, it features assisted opening via both flipper and thumb stud, with a frame lock for safety. This knife is better suited for those who want a more rugged look and slightly stronger blade performance.

Drawbacks include the assisted opening which some users may find requires practice to use smoothly, and the stainless steel handles, while durable, may feel heavier compared to other materials like aluminum or carbon fiber. Both knives are designed for right or left-hand users with reversible pocket clips, but neither is cordless or electronic. These knives offer dependable quality, thoughtful safety features, and practical blade designs, making them excellent options for everyday carry, outdoor activities, or light tactical needs.