Ken Onion’s Speed Safe system offers a couple of advantages over the prettier (and blade weakening) one handed designs of other companies. The thumb studs that provide opening leverage can be installed from either side, hand friendly for lefties as well as righties. The holes required for mounting that thumb stud are small enough that they don’t seriously affect the strength of the blade, unlike some thumb hole systems that cut more than half the width of the blade out.
The Boa comes with either a plain edge, slightly concave for a more efficient grip on materials like rope; or with a combo serrated edge, which is more than enough for cutting rope. Cutting rope seems like a big deal these days, even though in my own experience it’s never been a problem so long as the blade was keen.
Among the many good features of this knife are the 3 3/8″ stainless steel blade’s tungsten based anti-reflection coating, adding scratch resistance to an already very durable steel; and a comfortable non-slip G-10 handle resistant to weather, temperature, and chemicals. As for most other knives of the folding clip variety, the Kershaw warranty will not cover damage from activities like prying, but if you want a comfortable full sized folder that cuts, this is a good choice.
Find this Kershaw Ken Onion Boa Knife:
