A special guest article from our gear guru Robert I., who enjoys playing with very sharp hiking gear!

Kershaw knives - the Nerve and Salvo

To prove it, we’ve been testing two Kershaw folding knives for everyday use. The Kershaw Nerve is a lightweight folding knife with a textured handle. That makes it easy to grip, especially when hands are cold or sweaty. The pocket clip is too stiff, so ultimately it is something that most users will probably take off (it is easy to remove). The Kershaw Nerve pictured has a straight blade, but Kershaw manufactures another version that has a combination straight and serrated blade.

The Kershaw Salvo has a very strong blade, slicing through vegetables and fruit and putting my kitchen knives to shame. One side of the handle has black “track tek” rubber inserts for a great grip. The other side is plain, so can be a bit slippery when wet. Also, because this knife is so sleek, it is a little bit of a challenge to open. The thumb stud, which is how the knife is opened, is a little too low on the blade.

Kershaw Nerve, Kershaw Salvo, and the handy Ultra Tek Sharpener

Lastly, we checked out the Kershaw Ultra Tek Sharpener, a handy 2.0oz knife sharpener that can easily fit into a pocket. The sharpener is a bit too rough for standard knives, but great for machetes and cutting shears. It is very convenient and a great design!

Of these two knives, we preferred the Kershaw Nerve for all around use…it is lightweight for hiking, has a great grip for wet or dry conditions, and a strong, sharp blade!

Specs:

Kershaw Nerve, Model #3420

• Blade length: 3 1/8 inches long
• Weight: 3.8 ounces
• Price: MSRP $39, can be found cheaper online.
• Manufactured in China

Kershaw Salvo, Model #2445

• Blade length: 3 1/4 inches long
• Weight: 3.1 ounces
• Price: MSRP $65, can be found cheaper online.
• Manufactured in USA

Kershaw Ultra Tek Sharpener, Model #2535

• Price: MSRP $12, can be found cheaper online.