10 Best Kershaw Knives 2025 in the United States

The Kershaw Iridium Folding Pocket Knife is a strong contender for those looking for a reliable everyday carry knife. With its 3.4-inch D2 steel blade, it offers excellent edge retention and durability, making it suitable for various cutting tasks. The spear-point blade shape enhances its versatility, allowing it to handle both detailed tasks and general cutting needs effectively.

One of the standout features is the DuraLock mechanism, which secures the blade in an open position, providing safety and confidence during use. The ambidextrous design and the KVT ball-bearing opening system make it easy to access and operate with one hand, which is a significant advantage for quick tasks.

The knife's grey-anodized aluminum handle not only adds to its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a lightweight design, weighing just 3.3 ounces. This makes it comfortable to carry in pockets or bags. The deep-carry pocket clip is reversible for left or right-handed users, catering to a broader audience. However, there are a few drawbacks. While the D2 steel is known for its toughness, it may require regular maintenance to prevent rust and could be challenging for those unfamiliar with care for high-carbon steels. Additionally, the handle's aluminum material, while stylish and lightweight, may not provide as much grip as other materials like G10 or rubber, especially in wet conditions.

The Kershaw Iridium is well-suited for general-purpose cutting and everyday carry, appealing to those who appreciate a stylish yet functional knife. It’s ideal for adults who prioritize both aesthetics and functionality in their pocket knives while being mindful of some maintenance requirements.

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 Misdirect is a compact and reliable pocketknife designed for everyday use and outdoor activities. It features a 2.9-inch serrated blade made from 4Cr13 stainless steel with a black-oxide finish, which offers decent rust resistance and a sharp cutting edge, especially good for slicing through tougher materials like rope or fabric. The reverse tanto blade shape provides a strong, precise tip useful for detailed cutting tasks. The handle is made of stainless steel with a stonewash finish, giving it a sturdy feel and good grip, though metal handles can sometimes feel cold or slippery when wet.

The knife uses a frame lock mechanism, known for secure blade locking during use, enhancing safety. It also includes an assisted opening with a flipper, making it quick and easy to open one-handed—a handy feature for convenience and speed. Its 4-inch closed length and slim profile make it easy to carry in pockets or bags, and the ambidextrous 3-position pocket clip allows for customizable carry options to suit personal preference. While it’s lightweight at 4 ounces and includes a large lanyard hole for added carry options, the stainless steel blade material, while serviceable, is not as high-end as some other steels, so it may require more frequent sharpening if used heavily.

The serrated edge is excellent for cutting fibrous materials but less ideal for very fine slicing or precision work. This knife is best suited for everyday tasks like opening packages, cutting cords, and general outdoor use rather than specialized or heavy-duty cutting. Its combination of affordability, trusted brand quality, and practical features makes it a solid choice for casual users and outdoor enthusiasts looking for a dependable, easy-to-carry pocketknife.