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Kershaw Brawler Assisted Open Knife

6 Best Budget Spring Assisted Knives

August 12, 2021 / / 1 Comment

From collectors to avid outdoorsmen (and women), day laborers or simply those who like having a versatile tool ready at hand, spring assisted blades have skyrocketed in popularity.

Also known as assisted-opening knives, these blades are revered for their fast and reliable deployment while reducing the risk of human error and injury.

Many of us have been there, with even the most well-practiced knife-wielder experiencing a misfire from time to time with manual flipper knives. The same cannot be said for spring assisted openers. Short of catastrophic mechanical failure (a rarity), these blades deploy with unparalleled reliability.

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"Kershaw Cryo" by Luke Detwiler is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Why Do People Hate Assisted-Openers?

July 31, 2018 / / 52 Comments

If you were to peruse some popular knife forums, you’d think the invention of the assisted-opening mechanism was the worst thing to happen to the knife world.

The truth is that the average user could not care less whether the knife is spring-assisted. As long as it opens reliably and is relatively cheap, most people barley notice.

So, why do most knife nuts seem to hate assisted-opening knives with a passion? These are the most common arguments against assisted blades.

(Note: I’m being the devil’s advocate and citing some common arguments. I honestly don’t have a preference between assisted-openers and manual folders.)

1. Assisted-openers are dangerous

One of the biggest complaints about assisted-openers is that they’re dangerous. There are stories from people across the internet who say an assisted opener engaged while in the pocket. Those with flipper tabs are likely more dangerous because they can open up pretty easily when some pressure is applied to the edge of the closed knife. (This is a problem that can be mostly prevented with right-handed tip-down carry where the pocket would help keep it closed.)

I’ve carried assisted-openers before and never had one open. However, I have had an unassisted knife open slightly in my pocket. I don’t remember the circumstances that caused it, but any type of knife can be dangerous. Take a look at what could happen with an auto:

A first for me. Boker Kalashnikov opened in my pocket. from knives

Some have even complained that the strength of the assisted open is so powerful that the knife feels like it’s going to jump out of the hand.

2. Safety lock negates any advantages

To combat the first complaint, many knives come with safety mechanisms that keep the blade closed. For example, many Kershaw SpeedSafe models have a little peg that slides behind the blade to keep it from opening up accidentally. While it does increase the safety of the knife, it also counteracts the quickness and accessibility of the knife.

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Win a Kershaw Blur S30V for Assisted-Opening Knife Week

April 25, 2016 / / 17 Comments

assisted-opening-knives-week2

The assisted-opening knife is a relatively recent innovation in the world of knives, but it transformed the landscape and created an entirely new genre.

We’ve been celebrating landmarks and anniversaries throughout the year here at Knife Depot. This week we’re celebrating Assisted-Opening Knife Week.

Assisted openers were invented as a way to circumvent the ban on switchblades while offering users an option to engage a knife quickly with one hand. Here’s a good description of the difference between the two.

There’s some debate as to who created the first assisted-opening mechanism, but it’s likely that both Blackie Collins and Ken Onion developed a similar mechanism concurrently.

Since then, most brands carry assisted-opening knives that use trade names like SpeedSafe, SOG Assisted Technology, Outburst, and others.

Throughout the week, we’ll be writing cool stories and having exclusive sales related to assisted openers. To kick things off, we’re giving away a Kershaw Blur S30V. This iconic pocket knife uses a SpeedSafe assisted-opening mechanism and boasts a stonewashed blade with a slight recurve. This iteration has upgrade S30V steel, making it a perfect EDC.

The winner will be announced Saturday.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Best-Selling Assisted-Opening Knives at Knife Depot

November 27, 2015 / / 7 Comments

Every few weeks, we like to reflect on the most popular knives here at Knife Depot. This information is fluid, meaning in a few weeks these may not be the same knives topping our best-sellers lists.

However, it does give a good indication as to what kinds of knives people are interested in the most these days. We’ve gone through a number of categories, including best-selling kukris, best-selling Spyderco Knives, and best-selling CRKT Knives, so we decided to take a look at assisted-opening knives.

Here are some of the best-selling assisted openers.

5. Kershaw Blur

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First up on the list is a veteran of the assisted opening world: the Kershaw Blur. The Blur and its cousin the Leek (spoiler alert: it’s next on the list!) really set the standard for assisted-opening knives. Ken Onion was one of the first designers to use an assisted-opening mechanism on his knives (using a device he calls the SpeedSafe mechanism).

The Blur is a hefty knife with a 3.38-inch drop point blade made from Sandvik 14C28N. It has a black aluminum handle and a tungsten DLC coating on the blade.

It makes this list because this includes the various types of Kershaw Blur variations, including the S30V version and the tanto with black-green handle version.

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4. Kershaw Leek

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The Kershaw Blur and Kershaw Leek are always lumped together as two of the most influential modern knives around. What makes these great knives is the fact that they complement each other. Whereas the Blur is dark and stout, the Leek is bright and sleek.

The Leek uses the same patented SpeedSafe technology to make this EDC lightning quick. It has a 3-inch blade made from Sandvik 14C28N with a bead-blasted finish and a pure stainless steel handle. The knife is light and thin, making it an ideal EDC knife.

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Watch ‘The Story of the Knife’, Win a Tactical Assisted Opener from Trademark Knives

July 31, 2013 / / 65 Comments

Every now and again, something so badass comes around that we just have to share it. Enter the “Story of the Knife” from Knife Depot.

We’re so confident that this new Knife Depot video will relate to you that we’re giving away this tactical knife just for watching it. Here’s how you could be the lucky winner.

1. Watch the video above.

2. Write the name of one of the knives you see in the video in the comment section below.

3. Receive a bonus entry by leaving a comment on the YouTube video telling us why you love knives.

You can also click one of the tweet, share on Facebook or share on Reddit icons below for some extra luck.

It’s as simple as that. We’ll announce the winner at the end of the week, so start watching for your chance to win the Assisted Opening Tactical Rescue Pocket Knife from Trademark Knives.

Tactical Folding Knife

Red, White & Blue Blades

July 4, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Knives to Celebrate Freedom in Style

Fireworks? Check. BBQ? Check. A knife that screams “U-S-A”? Let’s fix that.

Nothing says Fourth of July quite like grilling with one hand and flipping open a fresh blade with the other. Whether you’re carving steaks, cutting paracord for a backyard tent setup, or just want a pocket knife that looks like it could recite the Constitution from memory, we’ve got your freedom-loving back.

This Independence Day, we’re spotlighting three star-spangled stunners: red, white, and blue knives that look patriotic and perform like champs.

🔴 Case Kinzua Red Spear Point – Bold Like a Firecracker

Case Kinzua

Case’s modern folder game has been strong lately, and the Kinzua Red Spear Point proves it. This knife isn’t just red—it’s RED, like “someone just lit a Roman candle in your pocket” red. The anodized aluminum handle pops, and the spear point blade means business.

Why it deserves a salute:

  • CPM-S35VN steel = serious edge retention
  • Flipper tab deployment that’s smooth as a July breeze
  • Slim, sleek, and proudly made in the USA

Backyard approved: Whether you’re slicing open a pack of hot dogs or freeing a stubborn sparkler, the Kinzua gets it done with flair.

⚪ CRKT M4-02M Carson – White Micarta, Pure Class

CRKT M4-02M

Clean. Crisp. Capable. The CRKT M4-02M rocks a white micarta handle that gives off serious Founding Father vibes—like if George Washington needed a pocketknife to open a letter sealed with wax.

Designed by the legendary Kit Carson, this assisted-opening knife is fast, functional, and fancy without being fragile.

Highlights:

  • Beautiful white micarta that ages like liberty itself
  • Assisted opening with Outburst tech = instant action
  • Classy enough for dress pants, tough enough for cargo shorts

🔵 Spyderco Resilience Lightweight Blue FRN – True Blue Utility

Spyderco Resilience

The Spyderco Resilience in blue FRN is what you get when you cross tactical function with patriotic flair. With a 4.25” blade and grippy textured handle, this is the knife you toss in your pocket before a hike, road trip, or, yes, a fireworks show.

Why it works:

  • Big blade, slim profile—more edge, less bulk
  • FRN handle = light but grippy, even with sweaty hands
  • Spyderco’s trademark thumb hole for smooth, one-handed opening

Freedom-Approved Favorites

If you want your EDC to match your flag-waving energy this Fourth, these knives bring the red, white, and blue in style and substance. They’re built to work, built to last, and built to remind you that nothing pairs with liberty like a razor-sharp edge.

What’s Your Independence Day Carry?

So tell us—what knife is in your pocket for the 4th? Are you rocking something red, white, blue…or just tried and true? Got a backyard BBQ blade story to share?

Drop your favorite patriotic knife or Fourth of July knife moment in the comments. Bonus points if it involves fireworks and minimal first aid.

 

Top Folding Knives for Everyday Carry

June 13, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Not all folding knives are created equal—and in the world of EDC, only the strongest survive.

Whether you’re slicing open Amazon packages like a modern-day warrior or needing a blade that won’t quit when you’re deep in the woods, your everyday carry (EDC) knife is your most faithful sidekick. We’ve tested, flipped, flicked, and fidgeted our way through a mountain of folding knives to bring you the top seven picks that combine form, function, and a little fun.

Here’s our cut of the best EDC knives that actually deserve a ride in your pocket.

Spyderco Paramilitary 2 – The Legend Lives

Spyderco Paramilitary 2

This one’s basically the Chuck Norris of folding knives.

  • Blade: 3.44″ S30V steel
  • Open: One-handed via iconic thumb hole
  • Pocket Feel: Slim and unassuming

Perfect for tactical types and urban ninjas alike. The compression lock is buttery smooth, and yes, you will find yourself opening and closing it for no reason whatsoever.

Buy

Civivi Elementum – Budget Beauty

CIVIVI Elementum

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get quality.

  • Blade: D2 steel, drop point
  • Open: Flipper tab with buttery bearings
  • Why it rocks: Classy wood, G-10, or micarta scales

This is the knife you’d take home to meet your parents—clean, reliable, and surprisingly sharp.

Buy

Benchmade Bugout – Lightweight Champ

Benchmade Bugout

If you’re counting ounces (and who isn’t?), the Bugout is a game-changer.

  • Blade: S30V steel
  • Weight: Just 1.85 oz!
  • Pocket Profile: So thin it might vanish

Hikers, campers, and minimalists rejoice—this one disappears in your pocket but is always ready for action.

Buy

Kershaw Blur – Grip It and Rip It

Kershaw Blur

Ken Onion’s masterpiece still punches hard.

  • Blade: Sandvik 14C28N
  • Open: Speedsafe assisted
  • Vibe: Rugged and ready

Great for those who work with their hands and need a knife that can keep up (and not slip out mid-job).

Buy

CRKT Pilar IV – Small but Mighty

CRKT Pilar IV

Don’t let the compact size fool you.

  • Blade: 3.09″ clip point blade
  • Design: Jesper Voxnaes—yes, that Voxnaes
  • Standout Feature: Thumb slot opening with IKBS ball bearing pivot system

Ideal for utility tasks and anyone who likes a bit of heft in a compact form.

Buy

From budget-friendly bruisers to featherlight fidget toys, EDC knives come in all flavors. These folders are comfortable in the pocket, durable under pressure, and perfect for one-handed operation—because sometimes your other hand is holding a coffee, a dog leash, or your sanity.

What’s your EDC weapon of choice? Drop a comment and let us know what you carry daily—or better yet, snap a pic and tag us on Instagram. Are you all about the Bugout? Or do you ride with the Spyder? Let’s see what you’re packin’.

Stay sharp out there, friends.

 

Father’s Day Gift Guide

June 9, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Sharp Ideas for Dad

Let’s be honest—your dad probably doesn’t want another “#1 Dad” mug this Father’s Day. He’s already got six of them, and none of them open boxes, prep steaks, or make him feel like an action movie extra. This year, give the guy who taught you how to tie a knot (or at least tried) something with an edge.

Whether he’s a backyard griller, a garage tinker-er, or the type who still carries cash and a pocket knife, we’ve rounded up the best blades and tools to celebrate Father’s Day the Knife Depot way: with passion, practicality, and a little playful sharpness.

For the Classic Dad: The Timeless Folder

Buck 110 Folding Hunter

Some dads have a taste for the old-school—and for them, a wood-handled gentleman’s folder never goes out of style.

Top Pick: Buck 110 Folding Hunter
A legend for a reason. It’s got that iconic brass bolster and lockback action that’ll remind Dad of the first knife he ever owned—and maybe the one he lost fishing in ‘86.

Bonus points if you get it engraved with his initials.

For the Everyday Hero: EDC That Works as Hard as He Does

Kershaw Leek

Whether your dad’s fixing the fence, trimming kindling, or cutting zip ties off lawn chairs, he needs a knife that’s up to the job without weighing him down.

Top Pick: Kershaw Leek
Slim, sleek, and deceptively tough. The assisted opening is a fidget-friendly bonus, and the blade shape is perfect for everything from slicing apples to opening stubborn Amazon boxes.

For the Tactical Dad: Built for Action

CRKT M16-13SFG

Does your dad refer to his basement as “the gear room”? Is his idea of relaxing watching survival videos on YouTube while sharpening something? You need to go tactical.

Top Pick: CRKT M16-13SFG
With its beefy dual grind tanto blade and Veff serrations, this thing means business. If Dad’s ever uttered the phrase “just in case,” he’ll love it.

For the Sentimental Type: Personal Touches

Some dads want a knife that means something—a gift that’s more than just steel and edge. Consider pairing a blade with a story.

  • Choose a model you both carry for a shared tradition
  • Add custom engraving (“Love you, Old Man” hits harder than you think)
  • Pair it with a handwritten note about a favorite memory—camping trips, BBQs, or backyard adventures

Quickfire Gift Ideas (Because We Know You’re Shopping Last-Minute)

  • Multi-tool Combos – For dads who do all the things
  • Sharpeners – He’ll appreciate the edge you helped maintain
  • Knife Roll or Display Case – Show off the collection he won’t admit he’s proud of
  • EDC Pouches – Because loose tools in cargo shorts are chaos

Summary

Father’s Day is about showing the guy who’s always had your back that you see him—and what better way than with something sharp, reliable, and undeniably cool? Whether he’s a minimalist EDC type or a gear-head with an affinity for tactical tools, there’s a blade with his name on it (figuratively—or literally, if you get it engraved).

Your Turn: What’s the Sharpest Gift You’ve Given Dad?

Got a great knife story about your old man? Share it in the comments or tag us in your Father’s Day carry pics. Let’s give dads the credit—and edge—they deserve.
#FathersDayCarry #KnifeDepotGifts

 

Tactical Knives vs. Everyday Carry

June 6, 2025 / / 0 Comments

What’s the Real Difference?

Let’s clear something up: just because a knife looks like it could repel a zombie horde doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for opening Amazon boxes or slicing apples on your lunch break.

Tactical knives and EDC (Everyday Carry) knives often get tossed into the same bin—sometimes literally. But while they can overlap, they’re built with very different missions in mind. Whether you’re commuting to the office or training for the apocalypse, knowing what sets these blades apart can make all the difference.

So, What Makes a Knife “Tactical”?

It’s more than just black paint and aggressive angles (though, let’s be honest, those don’t hurt).

Tactical knives are designed for high-stress, high-stakes situations—think military use, self-defense, emergency response. That means:

  • Fast deployment – one-hand opening is a must
  • Strong, grippy handles – wet hands? Gloves? No problem
  • Pointy with purpose – blades often have a tip optimized for penetration
  • Durability – these blades are built to take a beating and keep slicing

Take the Spyderco Matriarch 2, for example. Based on the original Civilian model, it features a viciously serrated reverse-S blade that’s all business. Designed with input from law enforcement, the Matriarch 2 is compact, light, and devastatingly effective in close-quarters defense. It’s not the blade you loan to your cousin for opening his mail—it’s the one you reach for when things get hairy.

When to Go Tactical

Tactical knives shine in situations where performance and reliability under pressure are non-negotiable. They’re ideal if you:

  • Work in law enforcement, military, or security
  • Train for self-defense or martial arts
  • Spend time in remote areas or survival scenarios

Basically, if your “oh no” moments are bigger than a broken zip tie, a tactical blade has your back.

What Makes an EDC Knife Tick?

Now, EDC knives are your daily driver—they live in your pocket, handle most cutting tasks with ease, and won’t raise eyebrows when you pull them out at a BBQ.

Typical EDC features:

  • Simplicity and comfort – lightweight and easy to carry
  • Utility-focused design – plain-edge blades, drop-point shapes
  • User-friendly – non-aggressive styling, legal carry length in most areas

Think Spyderco Para 3 and the Benchmade Bugout. These knives slice, peel, cut, and pry without looking like they belong on a SWAT vest.

The Best of Both Worlds: Crossover Blades

Some knives toe the line beautifully. Tactical enough to handle stress, subtle enough for daily life. Here are a few crossover champs:

  • Benchmade Griptilian – Strong grip, smooth axis lock, and ready for EDC or field use.
  • Kershaw Blur – Assisted opening, grippy scales, and a blade that balances utility and attitude.

Summary

Tactical knives are built for the tough stuff—self-defense, survival, and worst-case scenarios. EDC knives, on the other hand, are the quiet heroes of everyday life. Choose based on your mission: if you’re commuting, go light and practical; if you’re patrolling, training, or preparing for chaos, go tactical.

What’s Your Take?

Are you rocking a low-key slicer or a high-speed tactical terror? Got a favorite crossover blade?
Drop your go-to knife in the comments or tag us in your EDC photo—let’s see what you’re carrying and why.
#TacticalVsEDC #KnifeDepotCarry

 

Top Folding Knives for Everyday Carry

May 30, 2025 / / 0 Comments

Not all folding knives are created equal—and in the world of EDC, only the strongest survive.

Whether you’re slicing open Amazon packages like a modern-day warrior or needing a blade that won’t quit when you’re deep in the woods, your everyday carry (EDC) knife is your most faithful sidekick. We’ve tested, flipped, flicked, and fidgeted our way through a mountain of folding knives to bring you our top picks that combine form, function, and a little fun.

Here’s our cut of the best EDC knives that actually deserve a ride in your pocket.

Spyderco Paramilitary 2 – The Legend Lives

This one’s basically the Chuck Norris of folding knives.

  • Blade: 3.44″ S30V steel
  • Open: One-handed via iconic thumb hole
  • Pocket Feel: Slim and unassuming

Perfect for tactical types and urban ninjas alike. The compression lock is buttery smooth, and yes, you will find yourself opening and closing it for no reason whatsoever.

Buy

Civivi Elementum – Budget Beauty

You don’t have to spend a fortune to get quality.

  • Blade: D2 steel, drop point
  • Open: Flipper tab with buttery bearings
  • Why it rocks: Classy wood, G-10, or micarta scales

This is the knife you’d take home to meet your parents—clean, reliable, and surprisingly sharp.

Buy

Benchmade Bugout – Lightweight Champ

If you’re counting ounces (and who isn’t?), the Bugout is a game-changer.

  • Blade: S30V steel
  • Weight: Just 1.85 oz!
  • Pocket Profile: So thin it might vanish

Hikers, campers, and minimalists rejoice—this one disappears in your pocket but is always ready for action.

Buy

Kershaw Blur – Grip It and Rip It

Ken Onion’s masterpiece still punches hard.

  • Blade: Sandvik 14C28N
  • Open: Speedsafe assisted
  • Vibe: Rugged and ready

Great for those who work with their hands and need a knife that can keep up (and not slip out mid-job).

Buy

CRKT Pilar IV – Small but Mighty

Don’t let the compact size fool you.

  • Blade: 3.09″ clip point blade
  • Design: Jesper Voxnaes—yes, that Voxnaes
  • Standout Feature: Thumb slot opening with IKBS ball bearing pivot system

Ideal for utility tasks and anyone who likes a bit of heft in a compact form.

Buy

From budget-friendly bruisers to featherlight fidget toys, EDC knives come in all flavors. These folders are comfortable in the pocket, durable under pressure, and perfect for one-handed operation—because sometimes your other hand is holding a coffee, a dog leash, or your sanity.

What’s your EDC weapon of choice? Drop a comment and let us know what you carry daily—or better yet, snap a pic and tag us on Instagram. Are you all about the Bugout? Or do you ride with the Spyder? Let’s see what you’re packin’.

Stay sharp out there, friends.

 

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