Kershaw Blur Knife Review

By Bradley Johnson

I have every day carried a knife almost my entire life. My grandfather gave me a knife when I was 10. I'm 35 now, so I guess that's 25 years of EDC. I've tried many knives in that time. I have several Spyderco knives that I love, but not all of them are legal for concealed carry in my county. I also have some Benchmade knives that have served me well, but after handling a friends Kershaw knife I started to think it might be time for something new. I didn't think that a $60 knife could best a $130 one, but I was wrong. Here's a photo of the Benchmade Griptilian, and the Kershaw Blur side-by-side.

As you can see, they are very similar in size when folded, and also open...

However, that is the extent of the similarities. Unlike the Benchmade knife (composite handles), the Kershaw handles are made of aircraft aluminum. The difference in weight is negligible, but the durability isn't. The Kershaw Blur is also thinner. The Blur (like most of Kershaw's knives) features Speedsafe technology. It allows quick assisted one hand opening (see video). I'm pretty good at flicking open a non-assisted knife, but there's no way I could ever beat a Kershaw Speedsafe knife. This technology makes deploying the knife extremely quick, and is legal in all 50 states (at least for now).

The grip of the Kershaw is excellent. The Trac-Tec grip tape inserts in the handle  allow for excellent handling. The handle is pre-drilled for either tip-up or tip-down carry depending on your preference.

The carbide glass breaking tip was something that I wanted. You can purchase the knife without it, but I like the option (and like to be prepared for all situations). It doesn't affect the way I carry, but I would like to mention that the tip is fairly sharp, so if you're just going to toss it in your pocket then it may create a hole from bouncing around inside of your pants/shorts.

Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this knife. It's made in the U.S.A., and the quality for the money is excellent. I could buy two of them for the price of one Benchmade (and I plan to).

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: The SpeedSafe technology allows quick one handed opening. The textured grip provides great handling. The carbide tip breaks glass better than steel. Made in the USA!

Target Market: Law enforcement, Civilians, and Military

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• SpeedSafe Opening assist
• Carbide glass breaker
• Trac-tec grip tape inserts
• Aircraft aluminum handle

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The Kershaw Blur Knife is available in black, desert sand, olive drab, and red. It’s even available with a glass breaker

What others are saying?: “I find this to be a great everyday carry knife that has held up exceptionally well to the rigors of daily use. The Kershaw Tactical Blur has my vote for a practical, tactical and affordable folder.” - Dane Daiker, USCCA

Price Point:

• MSRP = $119.99
• Retail = $59.76

I need it now! Availability: You can purchase this knife from many retailers, including Amazon and Rifle Gear.

Our Rating:

• Handle
• Speedsafe assisted opening
• Made in USA

Score: 9.0 Amazing

CRKT M16-14SF Folding Knife Review

By Dustin Bornman

The CRKT M16-14SF, has become a staple in my collection of knifes. I rarely leave home without this in my pocket. I love the balance, the blade and the tactical capacity of this knife. The pocket clip can be moved to one of 4 locations depending on the users desired carry position. In the position that I prefer the clip to be in, the blade is up and facing rearward in the right front pocket. If you pull the knife straight up and slightly forward, the blade stays closed. But if pulled upward and slightly rearward, the blade automatically opens and is ready for use. This is by far, the best option from a tactical standpoint for me.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: This is just an overall well built knife that carries well and holds an edge at an above average level.

Target Market: I think this is a great knife for anyone wishing to carry daily.

FNBs (Features & Benefits of this product):

• Tanto point
• Serrated blade
• It also has a double blade lock that basically makes the knife a fixed blade.

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?: The CRKT M16-14SF folding knife is available in black and tan.

What others are saying?: “I purchased this knife as an EDC to add to my collection. It's extremely well made, easy to hold and open. Closing the blade is somewhat difficult which maybe a concern to some. The blade is very sharp with a thick back bone very strong. The LAWKS locking system makes this folder almost a fixed blade. The flipper is quite fast almost as fast as my assisted folders! I love this knife.” - Knife Center Customer Reviewer John D.

“This knife is amazing. It fits snuggly in my pocket, but is burly enough to chop tree branches for kindling. The dual flips act as a hilt, giving it the feel and balance of a full-tang blade. The handle is light aluminum with a durable coating, but the steel maintains its edge better than any knife I’ve owned, so the tip is always ready for fine cutting. The serrated base of the blade comes in handy for skinning game or cutting rope, and is easy to sharpen with the right tool.” - T.S. Wallace, The Adventures of Man

Price Point:

• MSRP = $135.00
• Retail = $71.44

I need it now! Availability: This knife is available from many retailers, including Knife Center, Amazon, and directly from CRKT.

Our Rating:

+ Tactical opening + Size + Balance

- Handle is slightly slick

Score: 9.0 Amazing

Spyderco Persistence Review

The Spyderco Persistence is the second smallest knife in Spyderco’s budget folder line.  It’s got a blade length of 2.75” blade and an overall length of 6.8” while open.  It has a 4-way clip that can be positioned for left or right-handed carry and tip-up or tip-down carry.  The blade has a very large hole positioned just right for quick opening. The G-10 grips and skeletonized liner keeps the knife relatively light.  The blade was very sharp out of the box and seemed to keep a good edge for a while. The width of the Spyderco knife helps fill your hand very nicely and is easy to control. The knife locks with a liner-lock that is easily released with the thumb of your hand and (with care) allows you to close it one-handed. This is a great, inexpensive knife that I would recommend to anyone.

Firearms Insider Reviews - 8 Key Points

Claim to Fame: A value priced and good quality knife. 

Target Market: A budget minded person that wants a good carry knife.

FNB's: (Features & Benefits of this product)

• Small, but not too small
• Inexpensive
• Fast opening
• Light 

What other aesthetic options or finishes are available?:  The standard Persistence has black G-10 grip panels and there is a model with blue grip panels. There is also an all black version with a black blade and clip. There are partially serrated, fully serrated and straight blade versions available, to fit your preference.

 What others are saying?:  “Whether you are into knives or are looking to purchase your first blade, the Persistence is a must have.” -Operator Swag

Price point:

• MSRP = $64.95
• Retail = $34.46 

I need it now! Availability:  There are many retailers selling this knife including Amazon and BladeHQ. 

Our Rating:

+ Small + Light + Inexpensive + Pocket clip can be moved to any position + Mostly stainless blade + Ergonomic

Score: 9.0