General Purpose Tools

Kershaw Ken Onion Chive Knife

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Everyday carry all around convenient small sharp thing

I’ve been using various models of the Chive ($29) for 6+ years. It’s perfect for how I use it — everyday carry all around convenient small sharp thing. It has a small (~2″) 420HC blade, light, spring-assisted assisted opening (with a small flipper) and stainless steel so I can run it under hot water or otherwise clean and wash it with less concern about rust. The steel is a a big deal for me. Other small folders I’ve used have relatively softer blade steel, whereas the 420HC is a nice balance between holding an edge and easy to sharpen.

The Chive will not replace a large folder, but that’s not how I use it. I remove the attached pocket clip and drop it in my pocket, where it disappears. I really like the solid (frame) blade lock, and it also has a small lock to keep the blade closed in your pocket — said lock having an adjustable tension screw that stays “adjusted.” I like the profile of the blade, with a small curve, and I use it constantly.

I realize the preceding sounds like a list of features, but those are the features that are important to me that I want in a small folder and that the Chive gets just right. The are lots of different finishes available – polish, colors, edge serrations. It has an MSRP of $69.99, but the street price for the basic model ranges form $24 – $40 depending on the seller. I have 5 (I think – maybe 6), varying in use from hard use (funny to say about a 2″ blade, but there it is) to a couple that I keep very sharp for selective use and one “dressy” or “barbecue” version in high polish stainless.

-- Steve 07/17/18

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