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What Makes This Knife Stand Out
D2 steel is a step up from what you'll find on most knives in this range. It's a high-carbon tool steel known for holding an edge significantly longer than budget stainless options. The two-tone blade finish, with stonewashed flats and satin grinds, looks sharp and does a good job hiding wear from daily use.
The KVT ball-bearing pivot is the standout feature here. Thumb the stud and the blade swings open with zero resistance. If you've been carrying knives with washers or basic pivots, this will feel like an upgrade the second you open it.
Kershaw's DuraLock is a crossbar lock that secures the blade with a solid steel bar across the tang. It's ambidextrous, easy to operate one-handed, and feels more secure than a standard liner lock. When you're done, slide the lock back and the blade closes safely.
The gray anodized 6061-T6 aluminum handle keeps weight down at 3.3 ounces while feeling substantial in hand. The reversible deep-carry clip rides tip-up and works for both left and right-hand carry. A bronze anodized backspacer and lanyard hole round out a clean, modern design.
Designed in the USA. Limited lifetime warranty from Kershaw.
Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Designer | Kershaw Originals |
| Blade Length | 3.4 in. (8.6 cm) |
| Blade Material | D2 High-Carbon Tool Steel |
| Blade Hardness | HRC 59-60 |
| Blade Style | Spear Point |
| Blade Edge | Plain |
| Blade Finish | Stonewashed Flats / Satin Grinds |
| Blade Thickness | 0.107 in. (2.7 mm) |
| Handle Material | 6061-T6 Aluminum |
| Handle Finish | Gray Anodized |
| Handle Thickness | 0.49 in. (12.5 mm) |
| Lock Type | DuraLock (Crossbar) |
| Opening | Manual, KVT Ball Bearings (Thumb Stud) |
| Pocket Clip | Reversible Deep-Carry (Left/Right, Tip-Up) |
| Closed Length | 4.5 in. (11.4 cm) |
| Overall Length | 7.9 in. (20 cm) |
| Weight | 3.3 oz. (94 g) |
| Country of Origin | USA Design & QC / China Manufacture |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
Who It's For
EDC enthusiasts ready to upgrade. If you've been carrying budget knives and want to feel the difference that ball bearings and D2 steel make, the Iridium is that next step without a $150 price tag.
Left-handed carriers. Unlike a lot of folders in this range, the deep-carry clip is reversible for true left or right-hand carry. That's not an afterthought here.
People who value smooth action. The KVT bearing system makes this one of the best-feeling opens you'll find under $75. If fidget factor matters to you, this delivers.
Anyone who wants a clean, modern look. The gray aluminum and two-tone blade have a refined aesthetic that works in a professional setting without looking like a tactical tool.
Who It's NOT For
Hard-use abuse. D2 is tough, but this is still a 0.107" folding blade. It's built for cutting tasks, not prying or batoning. For heavy work, check our fixed blade lineup.
Fans of assisted opening. This is a manual knife. The KVT bearings make it deploy fast, but there's no spring assist like the Leek. If you want that snap-open feel, take a look at the Kershaw Leek.
People who want USA-made only. The Iridium is designed and quality-controlled in the USA but manufactured in China. The build quality is excellent for the price, but if country of origin is a dealbreaker, the Kershaw Leek is fully made in the USA.