Kershaw Link: A Link to the past.

This time I choose to do a review of a 2015 model of Kershaw, the Link.

It's affordable, comfortable and completely usable.

I chose the aluminum scales as I am a bit turned off of full plastic handles as the base model of the 1776 is full plastic handles or whatever fancy term they want to use for cheap plastic. It has substantial weight but outstanding build quality being made in the USA versus their overseas budget knife counterparts. It feels so solid in hand and almost has a gentlemanly knife feel about it as there is no jimping on the thumb rest of the knife. Not saying no jimping on the thumb rest is a deal breaker but maybe the all plastic version could have had it, more of a worker feel, but that's just me.

The 420HC steel blade has a great shape, me and my sheepsfoot blades, but seriously this modified sheepsfoot has a great piercing tip and robust 3/4 way flat grind which means a great slicer but as well because the blade stock isn't overly thick. They've released a version in S35VN which I'd love to get. Even more recently I've seen they've made an M390 version I'll be ordering ASAP.

The handle of this one is beautifully milled and lightly sand blasted for an amazing velvety texture. Everything sits so flush even the backspacer which doesn't even have plastic mold lines. The fit in hand is nearly flawless for my XL - XXL gloved hand. During prolonged use the only thing that caused any discomfort came from the flipper tab being aggressively ribbed and rubbing against my index. Not sure if I call that a handle or blade problem but I only notice it when holding and using so I'd say handle.

It has Kershaw`s Speedsafe assisted opening function. I still don`t mind that yet but might try to de-assist it at some point, not sure. One thing I have to say about this one is that it fires so much quicker and tighter than any other of the China ones I own.

In conclusion you`d not be disappointed in the purchase of this knife. It`s budget and user friendly and if needed could be a gentleman`s folder in the blink of an eye. Well done Kershaw. This makes for a great American standard in budget knives that anyone could own. Smart model choice 1776.