Kershaw Blackout: "Stealthy and Fast" by Nutnfancy

Published on August 19, 2008
Duration: 10:01

This review of the Kershaw Blackout 1550 by veteran reviewer Nutnfancy provides an analytical look at its EDC and tactical capabilities. He highlights its lightweight design, fast SpeedSafe deployment, and solid lockup, while also critiquing the older 440A blade steel and suggesting improvements like skeletonized liners. The review emphasizes practical utility and weight-to-performance ratios.

Quick Summary

The Kershaw Blackout 1550 is an EDC and tactical folding knife praised for its lightweight design (3.8 oz) and fast SpeedSafe Assisted Opening. While older models use softer 440A steel, newer versions feature improved 13C26 Sandvik steel. It boasts a secure liner lock and an ergonomic Polyamide handle, making it a practical choice for everyday carry.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Classification
  2. 00:33Handle Materials and Ergonomics
  3. 02:13Weight and Carry Philosophy
  4. 03:01Internal Construction
  5. 04:26Blade Steel and Geometry
  6. 06:05Deployment and Lockup
  7. 08:04Pocket Clip and Lanyard Hole

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key features of the Kershaw Blackout 1550 knife?

The Kershaw Blackout 1550 is an EDC and tactical folding knife featuring SpeedSafe Assisted Opening for fast deployment, a secure liner lock, and an ergonomically molded Polyamide handle. It weighs 3.8 ounces and comes with a Titanium Nitride coated blade.

What blade steel does the Kershaw Blackout 1550 use?

Older models of the Kershaw Blackout 1550 utilize 440A stainless steel, which is considered soft. Newer versions have been upgraded to the more durable and better performing 13C26 Sandvik steel.

What is Nutnfancy's opinion on the weight of the Kershaw Blackout 1550?

Nutnfancy prefers knives under 4 ounces for EDC and tactical use, and the Kershaw Blackout 1550 meets this criterion at 3.8 ounces. He emphasizes the importance of weight-to-performance ratio for comfortable carry.

How is the deployment and lockup on the Kershaw Blackout 1550?

The Kershaw Blackout 1550 features SpeedSafe Assisted Opening for rapid blade deployment. The liner lock mechanism provides a solid lockup with no discernible blade play, even after prolonged use, ensuring reliability.

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