Folding Knives

Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife

by Kershaw,   /kershaw-link-folding-pocket-knife/
Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife
Most Durable
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About the Product

The Kershaw Link is a practical, long-lasting folding knife built around premium CPM 20CV stainless steel (≈59–62 HRC). In real-world testing, 20CV delivers standout edge retention and strong corrosion resistance, so the Link stays sharp through extended everyday carry and outdoor tasks. Kershaw’s SpeedSafe assisted flipper opens smoothly, and a well-tuned liner lock inspires confidence without adding bulk. The reversible, deep-carry clip supports ambidextrous tip-up carry, though it doesn’t convert to tip-down. Fit and finish reflect Kershaw’s stated focus on tight tolerances and modern manufacturing.

From a longevity standpoint, the Link checks many boxes: durable blade steel, solid lockup, and bolt-together construction with standard Torx hardware for basic maintenance. Like most super-steels, sharpening 20CV takes more time than softer budget steels, but it rewards you with far fewer touch-ups. Kershaw backs the knife with a Limited Lifetime Warranty for the original owner; terms are clearly published and service is straightforward, though you’ll pay modest processing or blade-replacement fees and modifications can void coverage. Compared with similarly priced folders using mid-grade steels, the Link’s metallurgy and edge holding stand out for buyers who value durability and low-maintenance performance over

About Kershaw

Founded in 1974, Kershaw has built a strong reputation for producing folding knives and tools that balance innovation, durability, and everyday usability. Now part of Kai USA Ltd.—the American division of Japan’s Kai Group, which dates back to 1908—Kershaw benefits from the resources of a large, stable parent company while maintaining a focus on practical performance. Many of their knives, from classics like the Leek and Blur to modern Launch series automatics, are praised by enthusiasts for offering reliable quality at accessible price points.

Kershaw emphasizes tight tolerances, modern manufacturing, and design innovation as part of its mission to deliver “a lifetime of performance.” Their Limited Lifetime Warranty covers defects and includes access to sharpening and repair services, reinforcing a commitment to products meant to last. That said, some reviewers note variability in materials between U.S.- and overseas-made models, and disassembly can void warranty coverage—important considerations for shoppers who prioritize long-term fixability.

Backed by Kai Group’s international presence and a portfolio that includes premium brands like Shun and Zero Tolerance, Kershaw offers a blend of corporate stability and consumer trust. For buyers seeking long-lasting knives with a track record of performance and strong industry recognition, Kershaw remains a reliable and widely respected choice.

Product Score:   72.4

Mission & Values
Whether the brand explicitly commits to durability, repairability, and sustainability.
Ideal: Brand mission and actions clearly prioritize long-lasting, repairable products.
Confidence — HIGH
4 sources
70.0% (W 40%)
PRO
States a commitment to innovation, tight tolerances, and state-of-the-art manufacturing intended to deliver "a lifetime of performance."Backs products with a Limited Lifetime Warranty against manufacturing defects, with warranty evaluation/repair and sharpening offered through the service channel.Corporate mission (Kai USA) highlights dedication to quality and innovation supported by modern technology.
CON
Brand materials emphasize innovation and performance but provide limited concrete commitments to sustainability or right-to-repair beyond warranty service.Warranty can be voided by full disassembly/modification; program details focus on defect coverage rather than long-term user-serviceable repair paths.
Track Record / Reputation
Independent history of reliability and consumer trust.
Ideal: Decades of consistent positive reputation from reviews, watchdogs, and experts.
Confidence — HIGH
5 sources
78.0% (W 40%)
PRO
Operating since 1974 with broad recognition in the knife community; owned by Kai Group and widely distributed.Multiple independent outlets characterize Kershaw as delivering strong value/quality across a wide portfolio (e.g., Leek, Blur, Launch series).Ongoing coverage and buyer’s guides from enthusiast and industry media signal sustained market relevance.
CON
Some independent reviewers note that lower-priced models often use more budget-oriented materials compared with premium competitors.Mix of U.S.- and overseas-made models leads to variability perceptions among enthusiasts.
Corporate Stability
Financial and organizational stability of the brand or company.
Ideal: Established, stable company with low risk of discontinuing support.
Confidence — HIGH
4 sources
85.0% (W 20%)
PRO
Kershaw is a brand of Kai USA Ltd., part of Japan’s Kai Group (founded 1908), indicating deep corporate backing and multi-brand portfolio (Kershaw, ZT, Shun, Kai Housewares).Kai Group reports thousands of employees and consolidated sales figures, suggesting scale and continuity.Kai Cutlery/Kai USA holds an active BBB profile with an A+ rating, supporting organizational credibility.
CON
As a privately held group, detailed audited financials are not publicly disclosed, limiting transparency for external assessment.
Coverage
Scope of what failures the warranty covers.
Ideal: Full coverage of defects and workmanship, including all major components.
Confidence — HIGH
2 sources
71.0% (W 20%)
PRO
Limited Lifetime Warranty covers manufacturing defects in material and construction and guarantees proper performance when properly used.Warranty includes free repair, replacement, and sharpening services for eligible defects.
CON
Warranty excludes normal wear, rust, improper use, maintenance, accidents, loss, theft, and any modified products.
Duration
Length of warranty term.
Ideal: ≥10 years (lifetime where feasible).
Confidence — HIGH
2 sources
90.0% (W 30%)
DATA
Lifetime (original owner)
Ease
How simple it is to file and process a warranty claim.
Ideal: Clear online or phone process requiring minimal effort or paperwork.
Confidence — MEDIUM
2 sources
50.0% (W 10%)
PRO
Warranty claim can be initiated via online form and shipped in for evaluation.
CON
Service requires shipping knife to Tualatin, OR and may involve a return shipping & processing fee ($7) and blade replacement fee ($25).
Cost
Direct costs to the customer for warranty service.
Ideal: No cost to the customer, including free shipping and parts.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
30.0% (W 10%)
DATA
$7 processing + $25 blade replacement (if needed)
Exclusions
Limitations or carve-outs in warranty terms.
Ideal: Few or no exclusions; coverage applies to all core components.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
40.0% (W 10%)
PRO
Warranty clearly defines that manufacturing defects are covered.
CON
Exclusions include normal wear, rust, improper use, maintenance, accidents, loss, theft, and modifications.Warranty is non-transferable and voided by modification.
Transparency
Clarity and accessibility of warranty wording.
Ideal: Plain-language warranty document published openly online.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
85.0% (W 10%)
PRO
Warranty terms are clearly published in plain language on the official site.
CON
Transferability
Whether warranty transfers to subsequent owners.
Ideal: Warranty fully transferable between owners with no loss of coverage.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
0.0% (W 10%)
DATA
Non-transferable
Blade Steel Quality
Type and hardness of steel used in the blade.
Ideal: High-carbon stainless steel with Rockwell hardness 58–62 HRC for edge retention and corrosion resistance.
Confidence — HIGH
2 sources
90.0% (W 35%)
DATA
CPM 20CV (approximately 59–62 HRC)
Corrosion Resistance
Ability of blade and components to resist rust and staining.
Ideal: Stainless or coated steel with proven long-term resistance to corrosion in outdoor use.
Confidence — HIGH
2 sources
85.0% (W 25%)
PRO
Uses CPM 20CV, a high chromium stainless super-steel known for exceptional corrosion resistance.
CON
Lock Strength
Durability of the locking mechanism under repeated stress.
Ideal: Reliable lock design (e.g., frame or back lock) tested for thousands of open/close cycles without failure.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
80.0% (W 25%)
PRO
Use of precisely machined liner lock and bearings contributes to smooth, reliable lock-up.
CON
Pivot & Hinge Wear
Longevity of pivot, washers, or bearings with repeated use.
Ideal: Sturdy pivot construction with serviceable washers or bearings that maintain smooth action for years.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
85.0% (W 15%)
PRO
Knife features Teflon-coated pivot with bearings and solid build, indicating durable action.Break-in period noted but resulted in smooth, symmetrical opening/closing.
CON
Blade Sharpening Ease
How easily the blade can be resharpened to working edge.
Ideal: Steel that balances hardness and toughness, sharpenable with common tools.
Confidence — HIGH
2 sources
70.0% (W 40%)
PRO
Blade sharpens cleanly with common systems, though edge is very hard.
CON
CPM 20CV’s extreme hardness makes sharpening more time-consuming than lower-hardness steels.
Spare Parts Availability
Access to replacement screws, clips, or hardware.
Ideal: Manufacturer or third parties provide readily available replacement parts.
Confidence — LOW
0 sources
0.0% (W 30%)
PRO
CON
No clear evidence found regarding availability of spare parts such as screws or clips.
Serviceability
Whether the knife can be disassembled and reassembled without damage.
Ideal: Standard screw fasteners and clear design allowing easy maintenance.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
85.0% (W 30%)
PRO
Uses standard Torx screws and bolt-together construction allowing user servicing.
CON
Blade Sharpness Retention
How long the edge stays sharp with typical use.
Ideal: Edge remains sharp through extended use before resharpening is needed.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
90.0% (W 35%)
PRO
Edge retention is excellent; ranked ~89% sharpness retained after tough testing.
CON
Ergonomics
Comfort and safety of grip during prolonged use.
Ideal: Handle designed for secure, comfortable grip with minimal fatigue or hot spots.
Confidence — HIGH
1 sources
85.0% (W 25%)
PRO
Knife has large ergonomic handle with comfortable grip suitable for long tasks.
CON
Carry Options
Practicality of clip, sheath, or pocket carry design.
Ideal: Multiple carry positions with durable pocket clip or reliable sheath.
Confidence — HIGH
2 sources
75.0% (W 20%)
PRO
Modular, reversible deep-carry clip provides ambidextrous tip-up pocket access.
CON
Carry orientation is limited to tip-up and cannot switch to tip-down.
Blade Deployment
Ease and reliability of opening mechanism.
Ideal: Smooth, consistent deployment via thumb stud, flipper, or assisted mechanism.
Confidence — HIGH
2 sources
90.0% (W 20%)
PRO
SpeedSafe assisted opening with flipper offers smooth, reliable, one-hand deployment.
CON

See details on our Scoring Method.

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  1. The 3 Rivers Shop's Amazon Page
    amazon.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife, Gray Blackwash, SpeedSafe Opening, Made in the USA ... Manual Opening Benchmade. This item may be unavailable in this ...
  2. How to Care for Your Kershaw Pocketknife
    kershaw.kaiusa.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Kershaw knives are designed to work hard. Take care of your Kershaw with regular maintenance to make it last. Cleaning & Oiling. Always keep your ...
  3. What Lasts: Evidence-Based Reviews of Buy-It-for-Life Products
    whatlasts.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Top picks backed by data, not marketing hype. Most Durable. Kershaw. Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife Link Folding Pocket Knife · Check Price See Review. Score ...
  4. Kershaw S30V Blur and Link Olive Stonewash ... - Amazon.com
    amazon.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife, Olive, 3.25 Inch Upgraded CPM 20CV Steel ... Using a torsion bar to move the blade out of the handle, Kershaw's ...
  5. Best Folding Survival Knife in 2022 - Blade Hacks
    bladehacks.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife, Olive, 3.25 Inch Upgraded CPM 20CV Steel ... That said, all five folding knives we reviewed are fantastic in their own ways.
  6. How to Keep Your Shun Knives in Top Condition
    shun.kaiusa.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Use & Care. Caring for Your Cutlery. One aspect of caring for your ... Kershaw Logo; Zero Tolerance Logo; Kai Housewares Logo; Kasho Logo; Kai USA Logo.
  7. Best Folding Knives Comparison & Guide
    whatlasts.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Full review Check price · Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife. Kershaw. Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife · Full review Check price · Spyderco Para Military 2 ...
  8. is kershaw a good brand? : r/knives
    reddit.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Oct 18, 2022 ... how is kershaw's reputation? do they often have qc issues? and any reviews/comments for the shuffle II are appreciated also. thanks in advance!
  9. Reviews
    kershaw.kaiusa.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Kershaw Knives offer award-winning technologies and advanced materials. They're well-crafted, reliable, and backed by our Limited Lifetime Warranty.
  10. Kershaw Bel Air Review — Everyday Commentary
    everydaycommentary.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Jul 28, 2024 ... Kershaw Bel Air Review · When it slid out of the box, the Bel Air's pivot was significantly looser than it should be. · Here is the product page.
  11. Best general purpose knife to carry when hiking/backpacking? : r ...
    reddit.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Oct 2, 2017 ... Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife SpeedSafe Assisted Opening https ... I did a long term review on my blog about the leatherman. The ...
  12. Warranty & Service
    shun.kaiusa.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    From this page, you can learn about our warranties and request warranty evaluation. ... Kershaw Logo · Zero Tolerance Logo · Kai Housewares Logo · Kasho Logo ...
  13. Kershaw Link 1776GRYBW Review
    bladereviews.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Sep 17, 2016 ... I recommend it to those seeking a solid work knife that is made in the USA and retailing for well under 50. Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife, ...
  14. Kershaw Chill Review
    bladereviews.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Sep 18, 2021 ... The Kershaw Chill mates a 3 and 1/8” blade to a sub 4” handle. Not counting the pocket clip, the width is a scant 3/8” at its widest point, and it clocks in at ...
  15. Kershaw Link Pocket Knife, 3.25 inch Blade, Togo
    ubuy.tg · Updated 2025-09-29
    Buy the versatile Kershaw Link Folding Pocket Knife with a 420HC stainless ... Pocket Knives & Folding Knives Editorial Review. The Kershaw Link is ...
  16. Warranty & Service
    kershaw.kaiusa.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    Kershaw Knives offer award-winning technologies and advanced materials. They're well-crafted, reliable, and backed by our Limited Lifetime Warranty.
  17. Important Information On Your New Kershaw Knife
    kershaw.kaiusa.com · Updated 2025-09-29
    The Limited Lifetime Warranty does not apply to the TX Tool, Firestarter (1019), or Kershaw Knife Oil. No other warranties are implied or expressed other than ...

Status

Created 2025-09-26 COMPLETE
Updated 2025-09-26 COMPLETE
Published PUBLISHED
Scored 2025-09-26 COMPLETE

Change Log

2025-09-26 UPDATED product metadata edits

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