Kershaw - Outright Black Pocketknife

The Kershaw Outright Black Pocketknife is designed with everyday carry in mind, combining style and functionality. Its sleek design, featuring a durable black PVD coating, not only gives it a stealthy appearance but also resists scratches, enhancing its longevity. The 8Cr13MoV steel blade offers excellent edge retention and strength, making it ideal for a variety of daily cutting tasks. Additionally, the assisted opening mechanism ensures that the knife can be deployed quickly and easily, which is crucial for everyday situations where time might be of the essence.

The assisted opening mechanism on the Kershaw Outright Black Pocketknife allows for rapid and smooth blade deployment. This is achieved through a flipper on the back of the blade, which, when pressed, activates a spring that helps propel the blade open. This feature is particularly useful in emergency situations where one-handed operation is necessary. However, users should practice proper handling to ensure safety and become familiar with the mechanism to avoid accidental deployment.

The 8Cr13MoV steel used in the Kershaw Outright Black blade offers a balance of edge retention, strength, and hardness. This type of steel is known for its ability to maintain a sharp edge over time, which is crucial for a reliable everyday carry knife. It also provides a good level of corrosion resistance, making it suitable for various environments. While not as premium as some high-end steels, 8Cr13MoV offers excellent value and performance for most users, especially those who prioritize ease of sharpening and maintenance.

The frame lock on the Kershaw Outright Black provides a secure locking mechanism to prevent accidental blade closure. When the blade is fully opened, the frame lock engages by sliding a portion of the handle behind the blade, locking it into place. This design ensures that the blade remains stable during use, which is essential for safety during cutting tasks. Users should always ensure the lock is fully engaged before use to prevent accidents.

The G10 overlay on the handle of the Kershaw Outright Black enhances grip and comfort. G10 is a high-pressure fiberglass laminate, known for its durability and resistance to moisture. This material provides a textured surface that improves grip, even in wet conditions, which is crucial for maintaining control during use. Additionally, the G10 overlay adds to the knife's aesthetic appeal, complementing the sleek design of the overall tool.

While the Kershaw Outright Black is primarily designed for everyday carry, it can be a useful tool in outdoor survival scenarios. Its sharp, durable blade is suitable for a variety of tasks such as cutting rope, preparing food, or crafting basic tools. However, for extended survival situations, users might consider complementing it with a larger fixed-blade knife for heavy-duty tasks. The compact size and lightweight design of the Outright Black make it easy to carry as a backup or secondary tool.

The single-position deep-carry pocket clip on the Kershaw Outright Black allows for discreet and secure carry. Positioned for right, tip-down carry, the clip ensures that the knife sits deep in the pocket, reducing visibility and improving security. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who prefer a low-profile carry option. However, the fixed position of the clip may not suit left-handed users or those who prefer tip-up carry, which is a tradeoff to consider.

Regular maintenance is essential to keep the Kershaw Outright Black performing at its best. This includes cleaning the blade and handle with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris, especially after use in harsh environments. Periodic sharpening of the blade will maintain its cutting efficiency, and applying a light coat of oil can prevent rust. Users should also check the assisted opening mechanism and frame lock for any signs of wear or damage, ensuring reliable operation.

The trailing point blade design of the Kershaw Outright Black offers specific advantages for slicing and precision tasks. The upswept shape allows for a longer cutting edge, which is beneficial for slicing through materials with ease. This design is particularly useful for tasks that require precision, such as detailed cutting or skinning. However, the fine tip may be more prone to damage if used for prying or heavy-duty tasks, so users should employ it accordingly.

The Kershaw Outright Black being manufactured in China allows for cost-effective production, making it accessible to a wide range of users. While some users may have concerns about quality control, Kershaw ensures that the knife is designed and quality-checked in the USA to maintain high standards. This balance between cost and quality makes the Outright Black a competitive choice in the market. However, users seeking entirely USA-made products might consider other options if domestic manufacturing is a priority.