Kershaw
Published: October 1st, 2024
Kershaw Knives has a long-standing history of innovation and craftsmanship, rooted in the company’s origins in 1974 when Pete Kershaw founded the brand after leaving Gerber Legendary Blades. Starting with a focus on hunting knives, Kershaw quickly established its reputation for quality by partnering with Kai Cutlery of Japan, known for their exceptional craftsmanship in knife-making. Master bladesmith Ichiro Hattori was tasked with producing Kershaw's first fixed-blade knives, known as the “Kershaw Hunters.” These early models underwent rigorous quality checks by Pete Kershaw himself, and quickly built the brand's reputation for durability and craftsmanship.
Kershaw's Rise: Innovations and Global Expansion
The company’s growth was marked by the release of the model 1050 folding knife, which featured a back lock mechanism and maintained the design aesthetics of the Kershaw Hunters. This model played a critical role in establishing Kershaw’s reputation, leading to the creation of an international distribution center in Solingen, Germany. In 1977, KAI Group founded KAI USA and appointed Pete Kershaw as president. By 1985, KAI USA acquired Kershaw Knives and moved operations to a new facility in Wilsonville, Oregon, allowing for further market expansion into Europe and diversification of its product line.
In 1996 Kershaw revolutionized knife deployment with the development of the SpeedSafe Assisted Opening mechanism in collaboration with custom knife maker Ken Onion. This innovation, which allowed for rapid one-handed opening, first appeared in the Random Task model and won Blade Magazine’s American Made Knife of the Year award in 1998. Kershaw's Wilsonville facility expanded to accommodate growing demand and increased production of "Made in the USA" knives​.
Kershaw Model 1050
From Growth to Innovation and the Launch Series
Following Pete Kershaw’s retirement in 1998, the company continued its growth trajectory with new models and designs. By 2004, Kershaw had relocated to a larger facility in Tualatin, Oregon, to support its expanding operations. Even after Ken Onion left Kershaw in 2010, the company sustained its momentum by introducing new innovative products like the Tilt, featuring the KAI Velocity Technology (KVT) system for smooth manual opening, and the Sub-Frame Lock for slimmer knife designs.
In 2015, Kershaw introduced the "Launch" series, marking its significant entry into the automatic knife market. The Launch series quickly became one of Kershaw's most popular collections, known for its sleek design, reliable push-button opening mechanism, and high-quality materials. Each knife in the series, from the compact Launch 4 to the tactical Launch 6 and the stiletto-inspired Launch 8, showcases Kershaw's commitment to innovation and quality. The series solidified Kershaw's position in the automatic knife market and highlighted its ability to combine modern technology with traditional craftsmanship.
Kershaw Tilt
Microtech's Award Winning Legacy
In 2023, Kershaw expanded its range of automatic knives with the release of the Livewire, its first Out-The-Front (OTF) automatic knife. The Livewire was developed in collaboration with knife designer Matt Diskin and features a CPM-Magnacut blade, known for its exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. The knife is built with ergonomic handles and a robust spring mechanism that ensures rapid deployment, catering to both professional users and knife enthusiasts. This release represents Kershaw’s ongoing commitment to innovation in the knife-making industry, pushing the boundaries of design and functionality.
In addition to its product innovations, Kershaw has built a strong online presence, showcasing new products and engaging directly with its community through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. The company offers tutorials on knife maintenance and safe handling, fostering a community of knife enthusiasts and reinforcing its reputation as an industry leader. Kershaw also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through responsible sourcing of materials, recycling initiatives, and support for charitable causes
Kershaw Livewire
As Kershaw Knives celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, the company reflects on a legacy marked by a blend of tradition and innovation. From its humble beginnings in 1974, when Pete Kershaw founded the company with a focus on creating high-quality hunting knives, Kershaw has grown into a global leader in the knife-making industry. The introduction of groundbreaking products such as the SpeedSafe Assisted Opening mechanism, the Launch series of automatic knives, and the recent Livewire OTF knife illustrates Kershaw's ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and functionality.
Featured Knives
Kershaw Livewire
The Kershaw Livewire Tanto out-the-front automatic knife is a top-tier choice for knife enthusiasts and professionals. Crafted with precision, its 3.3-inch CPM MagnaCut blade offers exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance. The tanto style ensures superior piercing capability, while the black-oxide BlackWash™ coating enhances durability and stealth. Featuring an automatic opening mechanism with a sliding button, the Livewire Tanto provides swift and reliable deployment. Designed by Kershaw Originals and Matt Diskin, it boasts a lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum handle and a reversible deep-carry pocket clip for versatile, everyday carry. With a sleek, compact design, weighing just 3.1 ounces, and made in the USA, the Livewire Tanto embodies Kershaw’s dedication to quality and performance, backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Kershaw Launch 18
The Kershaw Launch 18 is a compact, out-the-side automatic knife designed for precision and performance in everyday carry. Featuring a 2.79-inch CPM-154 stainless steel blade, this knife offers exceptional edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Its spear point blade and stonewashed finish enhance both functionality and style, while the push-button mechanism allows for quick, one-handed deployment. The handle, made from 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, provides strength, durability, and a comfortable grip. With an ambidextrous deep-carry pocket clip and lightweight design at just 2.3 ounces, the Launch 18 is ideal for those seeking a reliable, minimalist tool. Proudly made in the USA, this knife combines top-tier materials and meticulous craftsmanship, backed by a limited lifetime warranty.
Kershaw Launch 12
The Kershaw Launch 12 is a premium out-the-side automatic knife, perfect for knife enthusiasts and everyday carriers. Crafted in the USA, it features a 2.5" CPM-154 stainless steel spear point blade with exceptional edge retention and corrosion resistance, enhanced by a black coated finish for durability and a sleek look. The handle, made from teal anodized 6061-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum with a carbon fiber insert, provides strength, lightweight portability, and a secure grip. With an automatic opening mechanism, push-button lock, and reversible pocket clip, the Launch 12 offers reliable, convenient, and stylish performance in a compact design, weighing just 1.9 ounces.