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 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.

The Kershaw Leek Carbon Fiber is a sleek, lightweight pocket knife designed for everyday carry and light outdoor tasks. It features a 3-inch drop point blade made from CPM 154 steel, a high-quality material known for holding a sharp edge and resisting wear. The stonewashed finish on the blade not only looks stylish but also helps mask scratches, keeping the knife looking good over time. The blade shape is versatile, suitable for general cutting and slicing tasks you might encounter daily.

The handle is made from black carbon fiber, making it both durable and very light, while its slim, contoured design fits comfortably in your hand. An added convenience is the reversible pocket clip that lets you carry the knife tip-up or tip-down on your right side, though left-handed users might find it less convenient. Safety is well thought out with a SpeedSafe assisted opening system, which lets you open the blade quickly and easily, and a secure frame lock to keep the blade firmly in place when open. Additionally, a tip-lock slider keeps the blade safely closed when not in use.

Weighing just 2.4 ounces with an overall length of 7 inches, this knife is easy to carry without feeling bulky. It’s water-resistant and requires minimal maintenance (hand washing recommended), making it practical for daily use. The assisted opening might not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer manual opening knives. Also, while carbon fiber is strong, it can be more delicate to impacts compared to some metal handles. This knife suits those looking for a lightweight, sharp, and stylish tool for everyday tasks, but those needing something heavier-duty or left-hand friendly might consider other options.