Kershaw Blur Review: Is This USA-Made EDC Knife Worth It?

The Kershaw Blur has been available for quite a long time, yet this hard-working folding pocket knife still does not feel outdated. It combines a highly regarded Ken Onion design with fast assisted opening, a capable 3.4-inch blade and a lightweight aluminum handle.

Ken Onion is a premier knife designer whose work has had a lasting influence on the knife industry. That top pedigree helps explain why the Blur remains one of the more popular knives in the Kershaw lineup.

A folding pocket knife enthusiast may notice that the Blur does not chase every modern trend. Instead, it concentrates on practical functionality, secure handling and dependable cutting performance. It is designed to open smoothly, remain comfortable in the hand and withstand everyday work.

Kershaw Blur

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Kershaw Blur Specifications

The following table covers the navy-blue Kershaw Blur 1670NBSW. Specifications may differ slightly among the numerous Blur configurations.

A Ken Onion Knife With Practical Functionality

The Blur’s curved handle and slightly recurved blade give it a tactical-style appearance, but the design is more than cosmetic. Its shape helps demonstrate practical functionality during everyday cutting jobs.

The handle follows the natural curve of the hand, while the recurve draws rope, plastic strapping, cardboard and similar materials into the cutting edge. The hollow grind helps the blade cut efficiently without making it excessively thick behind the edge.

At 7.9 inches overall, the Blur falls into the medium-to-large EDC category. It provides enough blade for serious work but can still rest comfortably inside a jeans or work-pants pocket. Its 3.9-ounce weight is noticeable, although it is reasonable for such a solid aluminum-handled knife.

Kershaw prides itself on producing functional knives at accessible prices. While many companies manufacture tools that are designed for occasional use, the Blur feels built for repeated cutting, carrying and sharpening.

14C28N Stainless-Steel Blade

The standard Kershaw Blur uses 14C28N stainless steel. This is not one of the most expensive advanced materials found in premium collector knives, but it offers a useful balance of toughness, corrosion resistance, edge retention and sharpening ease.

A pocket knife does not need an exotic steel to perform well. For many knife users, the ability to restore an edge without specialized equipment is more valuable than gaining a minor increase in edge retention.

The Blur’s blade works well for:

• Opening packages
• Breaking down cardboard
• Cutting cord, rope and plastic strapping
• Trimming rubber or plastic
• Preparing tinder
• Performing workshop and property-maintenance jobs

The recurve adds cutting power, but it is not so minor a detail when sharpening the knife. A broad, flat stone may not contact the entire curved section. A narrow sharpening rod, ceramic rod or guided system is usually a better tool for maintaining the complete edge.

Owners should test their sharpening angle carefully and avoid removing more steel than necessary. A consistent light touch produces better results than aggressive grinding.

Stonewashed and Coated Blade Options

The navy-blue 1670NBSW uses a stonewashed blade finish that helps disguise fingerprints, scuffs and normal wear. That makes it a practical choice for someone who plans to use the knife instead of leaving it on a display table.

Other Kershaw knives in the Blur family are offered with black coatings, BlackWash finishes, serrated edges, tanto points and different handle colors. Some configurations have a stronger tactical-style appearance, while the stonewashed models have a more traditional working-knife look.

The best version depends on how the knife will be used. A plain edge is easier to sharpen, while a partially serrated model may perform better on fibrous rope and heavy strapping.

How the SpeedSafe Opening System Works

The SpeedSafe opening system is one of the Blur’s defining features. The user begins moving the blade with either thumb stud. As the blade rotates out of the handle, an internal torsion bar moves it through the remainder of the opening cycle.

The result is easy one-handed opening without making the Blur a fully automatic knife. The user must apply pressure to the blade before the assisted mechanism takes over.

When closed, the torsion bar helps keep the blade from opening unintentionally. Once the blade reaches the appropriate point, the stored pressure helps it open smoothly and decisively.

This assisted action is a favorite feature among many owners because it provides fast access without requiring complicated controls. Knife users should still practice slowly and learn how the mechanism behaves before carrying the knife regularly.

Liner Lock Security

After opening, the Blur uses an inset liner lock to hold its blade in position. The locking liner moves behind the blade tang as the knife opens.

Before cutting, confirm that the knife locked completely. Debris, improper handling or an incomplete opening motion can prevent any folding knife from reaching its fully secured position.

The lock should engage positively without excessive movement. To close the knife, move the liner away from the blade tang and carefully rotate the blade back into the handle while keeping fingers clear of its path.

No folding knife lock should be treated as completely failure-proof. Use controlled cutting pressure, avoid prying and do not place a hand in the blade’s closing path.

Aluminum Handle and Trac-Tec Grip

The Blur uses a 6061-T6 anodized aluminum handle with textured Trac-Tec inserts. Aluminum gives the knife a rigid structure without the weight of a completely steel handle.

The inserts provide additional traction when working in rain, wearing gloves or handling slippery materials. This secure grip is one of the main reasons the Blur continues to compete with newer designs.

The texture can be aggressive against lightweight pocket fabric. This is worth taking into account if the knife will be carried in thin travel pants or dress pants. Denim, canvas and heavier work fabrics generally handle the friction better.

Allowing the knife to rest in a dedicated pocket can also prevent it from rubbing against a phone, keys or other tools.

Pocket Clip and Carry Options

The pocket clip can be moved between right-side tip-up and tip-down positions. Owners can rotate the clip to match their preferred orientation.

The Blur is not a true deep-carry knife, so a small portion of the handle remains visible above the pocket. This makes it easier to grab but less discreet than knives that sit completely below the pocket seam.

The clip does not support left-side carry. Left-handed users can operate the dual thumb studs, but the clip arrangement prevents the knife from being completely ambidextrous.

Is the Kershaw Blur a Tactical Knife?

The black blade, textured handle and fast opening action give certain Blur models a tactical-style appearance. However, its practical strengths are everyday cutting and utility work.

Some shoppers may consider carrying a knife for self-defense, but that introduces serious safety and legal issues. Laws involving blade length, assisted opening, concealed carry and defensive use vary between states and municipalities. The Blur should primarily be treated as a cutting tool, and owners should verify all applicable laws before carrying it.

Responsible handling, storage and training matter more than appearance. Never carry a knife into a restricted location or use it in a threatening manner.

Where Is the Kershaw Blur Made?

The Blur is made in the United States. American manufacturing, an established designer and a proven construction give it the top pedigree many buyers want from a dependable EDC knife.

The Blur has remained relevant because Kershaw did not abandon practical functionality in favor of novelty. The knife’s materials, assisted opening and secure grip continue to work well even as newer designs enter the market.

Kershaw Blur Advantages

• Made in the USA
• Designed by premier knife designer Ken Onion
• Fast SpeedSafe opening system
• Easy one-handed opening
• Durable 14C28N stainless steel
• Efficient hollow grind
• Secure Trac-Tec grip inserts
• Lightweight aluminum handle
• Plain-edge and partially serrated options
• Multiple colors and blade finishes
• Reversible right-side pocket clip
• Proven design with a long record in the knife industry

Possible Drawbacks

• Recurved edge requires an appropriate sharpening tool
• Aggressive grip inserts can wear pocket fabric
• No left-side pocket-clip position
• Not a deep-carry design
• Larger than some lightweight pocket knives
• Assisted-opening laws vary by location
• Some

The Kershaw Blur has been available for quite a long time, yet this American-made folding pocket knife continues to compete with many newer designs. It combines a comfortable handle, dependable blade steel and the SpeedSafe opening system in a package suitable for everyday work and outdoor use.

The Blur also has a top pedigree. It was created by Ken Onion, a premier knife designer whose work has had a lasting influence on the modern knife industry. His curved, ergonomic designs are easy to recognize, and the Blur demonstrates why his knives remain so popular with serious knife users.

Unlike some popular knives that depend heavily on a tactical-style appearance, the Kershaw Blur backs up its aggressive profile with practical functionality. Its 3.4-inch blade, secure Trac-Tec grip and easy one-handed opening make it a versatile tool instead of something designed merely to look impressive.

Kershaw Blur

Kershaw Blur Specifications

The following table covers the primary specifications for the Kershaw Blur 1670NBSW:

These measurements place the Blur between a compact pocket knife and a large tactical folder. It provides enough handle and blade for serious cutting jobs without becoming unreasonably heavy in a pocket.

Designed by Ken Onion

Ken Onion is one of the most influential designers in the modern knife industry. His designs frequently combine curved handles, fast opening mechanisms and practical blade profiles that feel natural during everyday use.

The Blur is a good example of that design philosophy. Its handle curves into the palm, while the slightly recurved blade helps draw material toward the cutting edge. These features demonstrate practical functionality rather than simply giving the knife an unusual shape.

Kershaw prides itself on producing useful knives at accessible prices, and its collaboration with Onion helped create several of the company’s more popular knives. The Blur remains one of the strongest examples of that partnership.

A folding pocket knife enthusiast may recognize elements of other Onion-designed models, but the Blur has its own identity. It feels more substantial than a lightweight gentleman’s knife while remaining easier to carry than many oversized tactical folders.

14C28N Stainless-Steel Blade

The standard Blur uses 14C28N stainless steel, which provides a useful balance of corrosion resistance, toughness, edge retention and sharpening ease.

Some buyers automatically focus on exotic or advanced materials. Premium powdered steels can provide greater edge retention, but they can also cost more and require additional work to sharpen. The Blur’s 14C28N blade is a sensible choice for a working knife because most owners can restore its edge with ordinary sharpening tools.

The blade works well for:

• Opening packages
• Breaking down cardboard
• Cutting rope and cord
• Trimming plastic
• Preparing tinder
• Performing light workshop jobs
• Handling common property-maintenance tasks

The Blur is available in plain-edge, partially serrated and tanto configurations. Such knives allow buyers to select the blade style that fits their needs rather than accepting a single universal design.

How the Hollow Grind Performs

The hollow grind creates a relatively thin cutting geometry behind the edge. That allows the Blur to slice cardboard, cord and packaging materials efficiently without requiring an extremely thin blade spine.

The slightly recurved edge pulls material into the cutting area. This is particularly helpful when cutting rope, webbing or plastic bands that might slide away from a straight edge.

There is one not-so-minor consideration: recurved blades can be more difficult to sharpen with a broad, flat stone. A narrow ceramic rod or compatible guided sharpening system can reach the entire curve more effectively.

Anyone planning to test different sharpening methods should work slowly and maintain the factory angle. Removing too much metal can change the recurve and affect the knife’s cutting performance.

SpeedSafe Opening System

The SpeedSafe opening system is one of the Blur’s best-known features. The user presses the thumb stud to begin rotating the blade. As the blade passes its resistance point, the internal torsion bar moves it through the rest of its travel.

This lets the knife open smoothly without functioning as a fully automatic knife. The user must intentionally start the movement before the assisted mechanism takes over.

The easy one-handed opening may become a favorite feature for people who regularly work while holding a box, rope or piece of equipment with their other hand. The dual thumb studs also allow the opening action to be initiated from either side.

Once fully deployed, the knife is locked open by an inset liner lock. Before using it, visually confirm that the knife locked correctly and that the liner is positioned securely behind the blade.

Is the Kershaw Blur an Automatic Knife?

No. The Kershaw Blur is an assisted-opening folding knife rather than an automatic knife.

The user manually rotates the blade with the thumb stud. The torsion bar then assists after the blade reaches a specific point. An automatic knife normally deploys when the user presses a separate button or switch without first moving the blade.

This distinction may matter when considering legal issues, although laws vary by state, city and jurisdiction. Owners should check local regulations before purchasing or carrying any assisted-opening knife.

Aluminum Handle and Trac-Tec Grip

The Blur uses a 6061-T6 anodized aluminum handle with textured Trac-Tec inserts. The aluminum frame provides rigidity without making the knife excessively heavy, while the inserts improve traction.

This combination works particularly well when the user is wearing gloves or working around rain, mud or moisture. Smooth metal handles can become difficult to control, but the Blur’s textured sections help keep the knife stable.

The aggressive texture can rub against pocket material. It may cause premature wear on lightweight pants, especially if the knife is removed and replaced repeatedly during the day. That is worth taking into account if you normally wear thin travel or dress pants.

Kershaw’s ability to manufacture tools and knives with reliable tolerances is apparent around the Blur’s pivot, lock and handle hardware. The construction feels more substantial than many inexpensive assisted-opening folders.

Pocket Clip and Carry Options

The Blur includes a reversible clip for right-side tip-up or tip-down carry. Owners can remove the screws and rotate the clip to their preferred orientation.

It is not a true deep-carry design. Part of the handle remains above the pocket, which makes the knife easier to grab but also more visible.

At 3.9 ounces, the Blur has enough weight to feel solid without becoming a burden in jeans, work pants or tactical clothing. It may feel large in lightweight shorts, but most knife users should find it manageable for daily carry.

Tactical-Style Appearance With Everyday Utility

The black blade, textured handle and fast opening action give certain Blur models a tactical-style appearance. However, its greatest strengths are ordinary cutting performance and durability.

It can be useful for work, camping, hiking, property maintenance and daily package opening. Although folding knives are sometimes marketed around self-defense, the Blur is better treated as a cutting tool. Carrying a knife specifically as a weapon can create serious safety and legal issues.

Training, awareness and avoidance are generally more responsible personal-safety choices than depending on a pocket knife for self-defense.

What Makes the Kershaw Blur Different?

More popular knives are released every year, but few have remained relevant as long as the Blur. Its lasting appeal comes from a combination of features rather than one unusual specification.

Those strengths include:

• A design from a premier knife designer
• USA manufacturing
• A practical 14C28N blade
• Fast assisted opening
• A secure liner lock
• Excellent handle traction
• Multiple blade and color choices
• A durable aluminum frame
• Manageable everyday-carry dimensions

Companies can manufacture tools with impressive specifications, but specifications alone do not determine whether a knife feels right during use. The Blur succeeds because its materials, ergonomics and opening system work together.

Kershaw Blur Advantages

• Made in the USA
• Proven Ken Onion design
• Fast SpeedSafe opening system
• Easy one-handed opening
• Secure Trac-Tec grip
• Useful 3.4-inch blade
• Corrosion-resistant 14C28N steel
• Durable aluminum handle
• Multiple blade configurations
• Reversible right-side pocket clip
• Strong practical functionality
• Established reputation among knife users

Possible Drawbacks

• Recurved edge requires appropriate sharpening tools
• Textured grip may wear pocket fabric
• No left-side clip position
• Not a deep-carry pocket knife
• Larger than many ultralight EDC models
• Assisted-opening laws differ by location
• The tactical-style appearance may attract unwanted attention
• Torsion bars can eventually require service after extensive use

Before placing an order, account for the blade style, edge type, handle color and carry configuration. Product photos can look similar even when the selected variation uses a different blade.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Kershaw Blur a good pocket knife?

Yes. The Blur is a dependable pocket knife for buyers who want a full-size blade, secure grip and assisted opening. It is particularly well suited to work, outdoor use and everyday cutting jobs.

Who designed the Kershaw Blur?

The Kershaw Blur was designed by Ken Onion, a premier knife designer known for ergonomic folding knives and assisted-opening mechanisms.

How does the SpeedSafe system work?

The user begins opening the blade with the thumb stud. After the blade passes its resistance point, an internal torsion bar helps move it into the fully open position.

How do I know the knife locked open?

After deployment, confirm that the liner lock has moved behind the blade. The blade should remain stable without vertical or side-to-side movement. Never use the knife if the lock does not engage correctly.

Is the Blur easy to sharpen?

The 14C28N steel is reasonably easy to sharpen, but the recurve works best with narrow rods or specially shaped sharpening tools. Wide stones may not reach the entire edge.

Can left-handed owners use the Blur?

The dual thumb studs support left-handed opening. However, the clip is intended for right-side tip-up or tip-down carry, so the knife is not completely ambidextrous.

Is the Kershaw Blur good for camping?

Yes. It can handle cord, food packaging, tinder and many routine campsite jobs. It should not replace a fixed-blade knife for heavy chopping or batoning.

Is the Kershaw Blur worth buying?

The Blur is worth considering for anyone who wants a proven American-made knife with a fast opening system and excellent grip. Buyers who prefer ultralight knives, deep-carry clips or completely manual opening may want a different model.

Final Thoughts

The Kershaw Blur has remained one of the company’s most popular knives for good reason. It combines top-pedigree design, dependable materials and real-world performance without becoming excessively expensive or complicated.

Its assisted action helps it open smoothly, the liner lock keeps the blade secure and the Trac-Tec inserts provide confidence during demanding jobs. The hollow grind and recurved edge also give it excellent slicing performance.

No pocket knife is perfect for every buyer. The aggressive grip may wear fabric, the clip is not completely ambidextrous and the curved edge requires suitable sharpening tools. Those drawbacks do not erase the Blur’s strengths.

If you have used this knife, follow-up comments about edge retention, pocket wear and long-term torsion-bar durability can help other buyers. For a folding pocket knife enthusiast looking for a proven Ken Onion design, the Kershaw Blur remains a compelling option after quite a long time on the market. Order today!