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What Makes This Knife Stand Out
The reverse tanto blade shape is the main difference here, and it's not just cosmetic. The geometry gives you a reinforced tip that handles piercing tasks better than a standard spear point, while the curved belly still lets you slice efficiently. If your daily cutting involves a lot of puncturing through packaging, cardboard, or tough materials before slicing, this blade shape earns its keep.
Everything else that makes the Iridium platform solid carries over. D2 tool steel at HRC 59-60 for serious edge retention. KVT ball-bearing pivot for that smooth, effortless one-handed open. DuraLock crossbar for a secure, ambidextrous lockup.
The all-black finish isn't just for looks. The black-oxide coating on the blade adds a layer of corrosion and wear resistance on top of the D2 steel. The black anodized 6061-T6 aluminum handle, black-oxide screws, and black pocket clip keep the entire package low-profile and cohesive.
At 3.5 ounces with a deep-carry clip, it rides in your pocket without drawing attention. Reversible clip works for left or right-hand carry, tip-up.
Designed in the USA. Limited lifetime warranty from Kershaw.
Specs
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Designer | Kershaw Originals |
| Blade Length | 3.45 in. (8.8 cm) |
| Blade Material | D2 High-Carbon Tool Steel |
| Blade Hardness | HRC 59-60 |
| Blade Style | Reverse Tanto |
| Blade Edge | Plain |
| Blade Finish | Black-Oxide Coating |
| Blade Thickness | 0.11 in. (2.8 mm) |
| Handle Material | 6061-T6 Aluminum |
| Handle Finish | Black 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 | 7.95 in. (20.2 cm) |
| Weight | 3.5 oz. (99 g) |
| Country of Origin | USA Design & QC / China Manufacture |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime |
Who It's For
Carriers who prefer a tactical aesthetic. The all-black look is clean and understated, not over-the-top. It appeals to people who want their gear to look like it means business without being flashy.
Anyone doing a lot of piercing and slicing. The reverse tanto geometry gives you a stronger tip than a standard spear point. If you're regularly punching through cardboard, heavy packaging, or strapping, this blade shape works in your favor.
Left-handed users. Same as the standard Iridium, the deep-carry clip is fully reversible for left or right carry.
Buyers stepping up from budget knives. D2 steel and KVT bearings at $72.95 is a lot of knife for the money. This is a meaningful upgrade from anything running 8Cr13MoV or basic liner locks.
Who It's NOT For
People who want the classic look. If you prefer the two-tone blade finish and gray handle of the standard Kershaw Iridium, that's the one to grab. Same platform, different style.
Hard-use or fixed blade tasks. Like the standard Iridium, this is a folder built for cutting, not abuse. For heavy work, browse our fixed blade knives.
Corrosion-prone environments. D2 is a high-carbon tool steel, not stainless. The black-oxide coating helps, but if you're regularly working in wet or saltwater conditions, a stainless blade like the Leek's 14C28N will serve you better.
USA-made only buyers. Designed and QC'd in the USA, manufactured in China. If country of origin is a dealbreaker, the Kershaw Leek is fully made in the USA.