CHINA vs USA: Kershaw Compound VS Turbulence by Nutnfancy

Published on May 17, 2012
Duration: 23:10

This video provides a detailed comparison between the Kershaw Compound (Chinese-made) and the Kershaw Turbulence (US-made), focusing on their design, materials, performance, and value. The reviewer, Nutnfancy, offers insights into the economic and quality realities of manufacturing knives in different regions, concluding that while both offer similar practical performance for EDC, the US-made Turbulence has slight advantages in material quality and features, though at a higher price point.

Quick Summary

The Kershaw Compound (Chinese-made) and Turbulence (US-made) offer similar EDC performance. The Turbulence features superior 14C28N steel and better-traction G10 scales, while the Compound uses HCR13MOV steel at a significantly lower price point. Both are well-built for everyday carry, with the Turbulence offering a slight edge in material quality and features.

Chapters

  1. 00:02Introduction: Identical Knives
  2. 00:19Kershaw Booth Review 2011
  3. 00:25Compound (China) vs Turbulence (USA)
  4. 00:47Case Study: Made in USA vs China
  5. 01:19Philosophy of Use: Value Discussion
  6. 01:41US Produced vs Chinese Produced Knives
  7. 02:23Philosophy of Use: EDC vs Tactical
  8. 03:02Tactical Blade Discussion
  9. 03:37Lack of Gimping and Traction
  10. 04:13EDC Knives: Turbulence & Compound
  11. 04:21Blade Length Comparison
  12. 04:34Collectibility
  13. 05:15Kershaw Classic Line Personality
  14. 05:27Collectibility and Value
  15. 06:02Size and Weight
  16. 06:27Weight Comparison: Volt vs Turbulence
  17. 07:05Blade Shapes
  18. 07:46Serrations: Love vs Hate
  19. 08:09Steels: Interesting Discussion
  20. 08:19US Produced vs Chinese Produced Steel
  21. 08:22HRC13MOV Steel (Compound)
  22. 08:4914C28N Steel (Turbulence)
  23. 09:29Chinese vs US Steel Quality Levels
  24. 09:46HRC13MOV and Handle Scales
  25. 10:16Economic Choice
  26. 10:36Speed of Opening
  27. 11:17Thumb Studs vs Flipper
  28. 11:51Phosphor Bronze Bushings
  29. 11:59Lockup and Strength
  30. 12:21Liner Locks
  31. 12:35Blade Centering
  32. 13:02Handle Retention
  33. 13:09Handle Variations: US vs China
  34. 13:14Desire for Color Variations
  35. 14:00Compound Handle: Low Traction G10
  36. 14:27Zel Backspacer and Liner Milling
  37. 14:41Turbulence Handle: Aggressive Milling
  38. 14:56Handle Scales: Superiority
  39. 15:12Handle Ergonomics Comparison
  40. 15:30Finger Choil and Flipper Guard
  41. 15:45Overall Ergonomics
  42. 15:58Price Point Knife Expectations
  43. 16:01Clip Design
  44. 16:21Clip Functionality: Turbulence
  45. 16:34Clip Functionality: Compound
  46. 17:16Durability: China vs USA
  47. 17:30Durability Comparison
  48. 17:38Key Differences: Steel and G10
  49. 17:54Steel Preference: 14C28N vs HRC13MOV
  50. 18:14Value Discussion
  51. 18:20Competitive Options
  52. 18:24Spyderco Tenacious Comparison
  53. 19:11Other Competitive Options: Oso Suite, Salvo
  54. 19:40Size Comparison: Salvo vs Turbulence/Compound
  55. 20:14Kershaw Scamp Comparison
  56. 20:23Price Comparison: Turbulence, Compound, Scamp
  57. 20:57Which Knife Will You Buy?
  58. 21:10Nutnfancy's Choice: Turbulence
  59. 21:48Price Critical Choice: Compound
  60. 22:13Viewer Choice and Comments
  61. 22:28China vs US Manufacturing Trend
  62. 22:42Compromises Made
  63. 22:50Handle Traction Issue
  64. 23:00Conclusion: Two for One Review

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between the Kershaw Compound and Turbulence?

The primary differences lie in their manufacturing origin and steel. The Kershaw Compound is made in China and uses HCR13MOV steel, while the Kershaw Turbulence is US-made and features the upgraded 14C28N steel. The Turbulence also has superior G10 handle scales and more advanced liner milling.

Which knife is better for EDC: Kershaw Compound or Turbulence?

Both knives are suitable for EDC. The Turbulence offers slightly better materials like 14C28N steel and better-traction G10 scales, making it a preferred choice if budget allows. The Compound provides similar practical performance at a much lower price point, making it a great value option.

What are the steel types used in the Kershaw Compound and Turbulence?

The Kershaw Compound utilizes HCR13MOV steel, which is comparable to O8 and holds a fine edge but is prone to rust. The Kershaw Turbulence is made with 14C28N steel, a higher-quality option known for its sharpness, ease of sharpening, and good edge retention with better rust resistance.

How do the handle materials and ergonomics compare between the Kershaw Compound and Turbulence?

The Turbulence features medium-traction G10 scales, offering better grip than the low-traction G10 on the Compound. While the overall ergonomics are similar, the reviewer slightly prefers the Compound's handle for its aesthetics and slightly longer length. The Turbulence's liner milling also indicates higher manufacturing quality.

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