The Kershaw Leek offers civilians an efficient pocket folder with an opening system that’s as close to automatic as most owners can get. True automatics are reserved for law enforcement, military, and only a few other special categories, but the Kershaw Leek with Speedsafe provides reasonable one-handed convenience and speed in a sporting folder.
The heart of the system is the SpeedSafe torsion bar, an assisted opening feature invented by Ken Kershaw. Thumb pressure begins the opening procedure, overcoming slight resistance from the bar. Pushed past the opening threshold, the spring steel of the blade opens the knife completely, and the blade locks into position. For any fisherman who has had to wrestle an outboard motor, a fishing rod and reel, and a folding pocket knife all at the same time, SpeedSafe is a step up from total chaos.
Adding to the good points of the Leek are the double thumb studs which provide ambidextrous one handed opening, and the textured G-10 military quality handle slabs which provide a solid grip in any weather. The Leek is also compact with a three-inch S30V high carbon stainless steel blade housed in a four-inch handle. A stainless steel pocket clip holds the Leek within easy reach.
Bead-blasting gives the Leek’s blade a dappled appearance instead of a high polish. The spear-point, plain-edged blade handles ordinary camp work and rigging chores well, and does a reasonably good job of field dressing small game and fish. For the big catch it’s only a little short, but consider it one of the best options for a multi-purpose trail knife. At three ounces you won’t be weighed down — add a lanyard for more security on those finger-numbing cold days or for rambles through heavy brush.
