3 Reasons Kershaw’s New Knife Might NOT Be For You!

[@RamZar50]

Another direct competitor to the Kershaw’s Bel Air is the Doug Ritter Mini-RSK with a 3” MagnaCut blade and G-10 scales for $160. They are made by Hogue in the U.S. and sold exclusively at KnifeWorks.

[@HUNGRY4ROCKS]

that thing is fugly

[@parkewalton]

I prefer textured g10. I know this goes down to preference so is 100% subjective, BUT I also prefer the drop point of the bug out and clip point of assert more. The belair looks wharncliffey. But I’m glad you touched on the magnacut, because I prefer that over s30v. With more color options and handle materials the belair is major bugout and Deka competition for sure imo.

[@fuzzycuffs]

Don't forget the Hogue Deka, also in Magnacut, also made in the USA.

[@gideonstactical]

I discuss it at minute 13

[@Skwish6952]

The Kershaw has better handle material in my opinion. Deka is a great knife tho.

[@chrisjosekuehl]

I have the Deka magnacut and put some original goat aluminum scales on it. Total game changer

[@robertmiller6822]

I have the hogue deka and the kershaw bel air and I prefer the feel of the bel air it has a more snappy opening and has a touch weight I just think the hogue DeKa has a nicer blade it's abit thicker but the action on the kershaw is alot nicer plus the aluminium scales, I paid 250aud for the deka and 290aud for the bel air and for the metal scales for 40 aud is a bonus but the bel airs blade is crazy thin.

[@JimRennix74]

The houge deka CPM Magnacut with a bit heavier handles I got as I prefer bit more weight for me just perfect. Clip point and the warn cliff had both since 23 still shaving Sharp 🪒. Stone wash warn cliff seems sharper than the blackened steel. Still love em both. 👍💯

[@_everydayelias]

This is a no-brainer for me over the Bugout. I never understood the bugout following

[@No1ANTAGON1ST]

Props to you for using your blades. So many knife youtubers have all their knives practically untouched

[@binksta92]

The newer models of the Deka dont have the "biting" issue and also have a better pocket clip. I think you should revisit that knife as it is much better now!

[@gideonstactical]

I think I will!

[@binksta92]

@@barrybueler3356 what?

[@Lyrics_manzanita]

​@@barrybueler3356I take it that you didn't actually watch the whole video? Because he likes the knife a lot. Stop being a weirdo

[@supporterofsanity]

@@barrybueler3356 after reading that weirdo novel you just wrote I wouldn’t reply to you either if I were him.

[@barrybueler3356]

@@supporterofsanity yeah Id agree but he’s actual never answered me ounce when asking a question and that would be 100 times or so. I always just get a heart like that is supposed to be an answer so yeah I vented the 101st time sue me.

[@sjbrakke]

Kershaw, I am going to buy this for two reasons 1: Made in USA and 2. magnacut. Please offer the irridium with the same!

[@brevanmcclellan6235]

A premium iridium with magnacut and maybe Ti scales would be unreal 🔥

[@anon6952]

I ordered this the other day. I’m not big on aluminum. But I want more USA made Kershaw knives. And the Iridium absolutely rocks, so I’m confident that the Bel Air is going to rock

[@gideonstactical]

It’s you will love it!

[@thehairywoodsman5644]

made in the USA is the number one thing I look for in a knife.

[@gonad84]

Same. I'm cool with others as well but I avoid potential rivals.

[@georgelin8498]

Japan and Taiwan can also make good stuff the Taichung spydercos are a good example. I know there is good manufacturing in China but I usually avoid knives made there because the quality is inconsistent.

[@thehairywoodsman5644]

@@georgelin8498 I do not by China made knives because China harvests the organs of healthy living people, often children...need some new eyes and a liver...too bad little Sally looks like its your time to go........

[@dustinwhitt5297]

Would be nice to have micarta or g10 or g10 with different inlays like micarta or carbon fiber for sure.

[@Carl-bd1rf]

I’m betting the Bel-air comes out in all kinds of options shortly.

[@Logan.H.L]

Got mine yesterday! Today will be the first full day! So far very impressed and seems to be the perfect edc for me, pared with the SOG power pint.

[@jimmyg8338]

The Bel-Air has the best looking blade shape

[@sski1971]

I just ordered one of these yesterday. I stayed away from Kershaw the last few years strictly because they are so heavy on using aluminum scales. But I love the looks of this one so I ordered it. If they would only offer more micarta options. One can only hope.

[@GoodmaneYT]

I normally prefer something other than aluminum too, but these have a cerakote coating. I have aluminum cerakote scales for my griptillian and they feel great!

[@virgilbarnett3770]

@sski1971 where did you find them in stock if you don’t mind me asking?

[@A-Fern]

Glad to see Kershaw came out swinging with their newest made in USA manual. I like the aluminum scales as long as the finish adds a little grip.

[@marccohen5579]

I got my first Bel Air from KC on 3/4/24 and my second black PVD Bel Air last month. Both cost $149.95.

[@WillLiam32]

I love aluminum handles. Even better if they're milled for texture/grip. They make a knife feel much stronger and more premium while remaining extremely lightweight. And not lightweight in a cheap way. Which is a common problem with lightweight knives.

[@carsonjacobs8487]

Aluminum handles on my edc. I currently carry a zt with g10, first ever g10. The biggest thing I miss is how anodized aluminum wears. Had a knockout previously, carried it every day for over 3 years before I broke it, using it as a crowbar at my dad's cabin. I've had the zt for two years now, and it looks like the day I bought it..... dumb I know, but I love it slightly less because of it. This bel air has my attention, I'll wait for different colors though haha

[@daver6564]

I quit buying knives over a year ago, but I ordered this one. Perfect edc for my needs.

[@gideonstactical]

Totally!! 👍

[@LanningKann]

I just ordered a Tactile Maverick in G-10. I’m curious how this Kershaw measures up since they are both Magnacut and US made cross bar locks.

[@ScottAlanAnderson]

I have been looking for a "super steel" edc knife for quite a while. I couldn't find anything that really spoke to me. There seemed to be some issue with every contender that wouldn't allow me to pull the trigger. The Hogue Deka was... well... ugly. The Giant Mouse Ace Tribeca had too many sketchy reviews. The SOG One-Zero was close, but the price. Then this dropped. I bought it the first day it was available after watching several of the reviews. This one definitely spoke to me. It should be delivered next week.

[@gideonstactical]

Awesome!!

[@gaberoo9099]

Crazy...Kershaw has 4 models in Magnacut: Bel Air, Leek, Blur and one of the launch series knives (forget which one).

[@backlash2869]

Livewire also. Kershaw is killing it lately. Love my Livewire, was able to grab a Bel Air yesterday... now I need a Blur in MC.

[@matthewofriel5683]

I’ve used the Kershaw iridium since the day I got it the for the reverse tanto version. Both come in D2 steel. and the og is still sharp. Not shit popping sharp but for 65 bucks it can not be beat. Aluminum scales and a cross bar lock. I bought the reverse tanto weeks before release. I still like the og better. If you have a whetstone and can hone a blade then it’s a no brainer. Best knife I ever purchased under 70 dollars hands down

[@MoosesGearGooReview]

Looks like a cool blade. I personally prefer a g-10 handle. I personally am a fan of Magnacut. I really enjoy the Decka and the Mini Bugout.

[@RaptorPilot700]

I ordered a Bel-Air last night and then the title of your video scared me today. I'm glad I watched the whole review. I think I'll be happy with it. (But I've been spamming Kershaw for a year to make an Iridium in MagnaCut with CF scales.)

[@gideonstactical]

Haha, gotcha 👍 it’s a really good knife

[@andrewfournier8817]

micarta with aluminum liners?

[@gideonstactical]

That would be awesome!

[@matthewsbernier]

Will the hole spacing on that clip allow it to be switched out for the less optimal clip on, say, the Launch 16?

[@gideonstactical]

I would think so

[@Scientist_Salarian]

I’m looking forward to picking one up, but the Bugout will probably still be my EDC for most occasions. I’m one of those weight-first guys you mentioned at the top of the video (assuming the quality is still excellent, obviously). An extra ounce or two may not be a lot for some people, but when your belt and pockets have to support keys, phone, wallet, flashlight, firearm, spare mag, knife, OC spray, pen, dog treats, etc. etc., an extra ounce here and there adds up to serious weight.

[@markcameroon6613]

G10 make it grippy lighter like track inserts like the blur most important thing about a knife is grip it staying in your hand its why i carry the blur even make it asissted too maybe even a small glassbreaker too like the blur

[@williamyoung369]

Kershaw exclusive to their website is the Iridium with 14C28N and a TOPO aluminum handle. I'm sure they'll come out with different handle materials for the Belair, plus different blade steels & blade shapes.

[@krefcenz]

Great video Aaron as always. Thank you for being informative and energetic without being manic and insulting. Some other knife KZbin knife content "creators" reviewers could learn from . I like the Benchmade Full Immunity which has aluminum scales, M4 blade. But they are asking $270, over $120 more than the Bel Air. hard pass on the Full Immunity even though it looks like an excellent design. $270 for aluminum scales and M4 v. $150 for magnacut and aluminum scales. Geee??? which will I pick??? ;)

[@krzysztofposkart4364]

Hello, I have bought a Joker Ember knife.Can I ask which sharpner set is right for such knife.What would you recommend?

[@gideonstactical]

The worksharp field sharpener should do nicely. Great blade choice too!

[@krzysztofposkart4364]

​@@gideonstactical Thank you so much.

[@itenastojanova9619]

So Aaron I didn't understand is it better than the benchmade and than the gerber you showed?I think at this time is little bit expensive than other new knives.Magnacut is new and so expensive steel.

[@gideonstactical]

I would say in a lot of respects, it is better than the Gerber in the Benchmade. You get better steel denser handle, scales, same action for the same cost or less.

[@c.garison3770]

I was going to get a Bel Air until I heard it has ball bearings instead of phosphor bronze washers. I am willing to sacrifice some of the "flipability" of the knife to not have the ball bearings gum up because of the sugary juice from an apple or other piece of fruit gumming up the washers. I am sticking with my Hogue Deka which falls into this category of knife.

[@gideonstactical]

Yes I think more companies should offer both in a little kit that comes with it.

[@michaelinsc9724]

​@@gideonstacticalThis is an excellent idea.

[@Trekked1]

great idea @@gideonstactical

[@scottiemcgee3838]

Unless you're thru-hiking, the difference between 1.9 oz and 2.9 oz is wildly insignificant. I really think people are just chasing numbers when talking about light weight.

[@gideonstactical]

Totally, especially at this size range an ounce isn’t gonna make that much of a difference.

[@dualsportoutdoors]

Even on a thru-hike, one ounce is not going to make or break you

[@matthewshannon6946]

​@gideonstactical Thank you! Every time I hear about some guy cutting half the handle off his toothbrush I'm like "whaaaatttt".... come on!!!

[@vcbuilder5541]

That one oz kept me from finding civilization after getting lost in the woods … I collapsed and died 100ft from the hwy , that one OZ kept me from making it out alive !

[@gregblake2764]

Amazing, Kershaw actually came out with a quality knife that is well designed. If they sell a ton of them just maybe they'll figure out they can be competitive without producing cheap throw away knives. One can only hope.

[@brentmellinger1798]

Def prefer this knife over the gerber or benchmade, high textured G10 would be a great option for this knife but part of what I like about this is the full liners as well. Along with the aluminum scales without having handled this knife I know what you mean on preferring the feel of the aluminum, it feels substantial without being heavy is what I imagine. Along with the steel upgrade only the dekka really stands in its way for the $$$. I’ll take the kershaw for the value proposition along with the scales and the fact I live in Washington and actually do travel through tualitin oregon where the USA made kershaws are build around thanksgiving every year. Same would go for gerber and benchmade (also oregon) but kershaw beats them on value.

[@gideonstactical]

Very good breakdown!

[@Spthomas47]

I'm pretty stoked about the full liners as well because it will be easier for me to make scales for mine when it comes in. Well, "easier" in that it opens up what materials I can make _stable/ridged_ scales from. May think about stone washing the blade as well. Ordered it yesterday(a Monday) and am hoping it comes in by next Wednesday. First time ordering from Neeve.

[@lame_noir]

Aaron, where did you get that version of the Gerber Assert?! That topo blade design is super rad!

[@gideonstactical]

It is sick! Its was a custom job from their store!

[@Monsoonpain]

I was suspicious of Kershaw Magnacut...but, my Launch in Magnacut is doing great work

[@gideonstactical]

Glad to hear that!!

[@charlesdudek7713]

Aluminium scales are nice as long as there is some texturing so they aren't slippery. Otherwise I might prefer G-10. The Bel-Air looks pretty interesting and I will likely end up buying one.

[@gideonstactical]

Right on, you won’t be sorry

[@brevanmcclellan6235]

Finally got a Bel Air on the way and I’m incredibly excited. I love the Iridium and the Heist, but have been looking for more magnacut options, so I’m super excited to kind of get something that is a mix of both and with magnacut. I think ergonomically it will be right up my alley 👌

[@brevanmcclellan6235]

Especially now that they list the HRC as 62-64, I anticipate this should perform phenomenally

[@gideonstactical]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@mrmmmok]

I'm surprised at how easy the blade deploys - good AND bad. You can quite easily deploy the blade simply by shaking the knife. I own a Benchmade Mini Freak and that blade will never shake out, unless from a high drop maybe. On the Bel Air, it almost feels too loose and could use some more spring tension IMO. The looseness and the thin blade stock and lock bar doesn't give much confidence that this is a heavy user (not the intent probably, but it's something to note). Having owned the Deka for a hot second, and after handling the Bugout, the Bel Air deploys so much easier than both of those and feels better (Deka scales are harsh, Bugout feels cheap). My main complaint with the Bel Air is the balance. It is noticeably handle-heavy, where center of balance is nearly 1/3 down the handle.

[@Beachcomber310]

I bought mine from Knifecenter for 149.95. My priority ans blade steel 1st Lock type second and cosmetics third. I have the Bencemade Mini Bugout. I prefer the AXIS stye locks. I have several Magnacut blades and I am sold on it. Magnacut is a great all around steel.

[@bobmahnamahknob]

Deka is bad on palm bite. Get some OG scales, the xl have extra length to keep that tip from getting you. I have the wharncliffe version, and it got me twice on the first day.

[@gideonstactical]

Yikes!

[@eyeofthetiger4184]

G'day Aaron, no probs with Aluminium scales, though I would usually argue for some texture on it, but all that's gonna do on this one is upset the clean aesthetic. I generally go for dark color scales, though I reckon they've nailed the contrasting duotone approach on this one; adds a touch of class, without being a fancy pants job, IMO. My two big pet hates have been dealt with, i.e. c/sunk clip screws and the thumb stud is out of the cutting/sharpening path. With some slicey Magnacut at a fair price, I reckon that's 5 reasons why its quite compelling ; ) Cheers Duke.

[@DevDog67]

I do wish Kershaw would offer the Blur with a better lock. I keep seeing all of these cool new knives, and I've bought a few. They keep ending up at the back of the drawer as soon as I look at the Blur again. There's something just perfect about it, the size and shape are spot on for me. I just want a better lock.

[@dougbotimer8005]

Very interesting, but I already have the Iridium and Gerber Sedulo. Guessing I’ll just be watching to see what Kershaw does with this knife.

[@gideonstactical]

Both those are excellent blades. I have a feeling this will be a big hit and many versions coming soon.

[@charlessalmond7076]

The Sedulo is a good knife. Got one last year as well.

[@N3wbMa5t3r]

What was going on in the background at <a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="426">7:06</a> ? 🙈🙉

[@ggs0605]

Great video! Looking for suggestions for a good fixed blade bushcraft/survival knife. Made in the USA with magnacut. Any suggestions? Thank you!

[@gideonstactical]

The Demko freereign when available, and the architect Knives will have several large versions in magna cut. Keep checking on them in the next month or two. Don’t know too many others right now that have magna cut for a bushcraft knife.

[@ggs0605]

If not magnacut, what would be a close second? What are some good models? Thanks in advance!

[@dualsportoutdoors]

Check out Primitive Bear Knives

[@jonnyl2001]

Love my Deka, but had to buy OG scales which put the final price closer to $200. This Kershaw is a bargain.

[@beyproctor7673]

Good review. I have a Tactile Rockwall thumb stud version in Magnacut. I really like it and the steel seems good. Great knife. I also have a Spyderco Native 5 Salt with Magnacut also. I love the knife. It’s great for use wearing gloves. The steel is great. I wish I had the Hogue Deka with drop point in Magnacut and G10. Too many knives. Not enough paychecks.

[@stuartrollings602]

Fan of your channel however your title prob had Kershaw blanching as it appears you are not a fan (in the title). With time they will have many options just like all the competitors. Love Benchmade but like how Kershaw has pumped out many new models lately…and some USA made to Boot! Thanks for your thoughts!

[@The4cp]

Size. Where are all the 3.5 and above knives at?

[@gideonstactical]

Totally!!! No more baby knives

[@The4cp]

@gideonstactical I seen their whole release year. Not one that size. I'm so disappointed.

[@RamZar50]

As far as the weight is concerned an extra ounce is not a deal breaker at all. Bel Air is very new and I’m sure other colors and variations are in the pipeline. Bel Air is actually more a direct competition to Benchmade 945 both with aluminum scales. Bel Air has superior blade steel and costs $50 less than BM 945. Both the Bel Air and BM 945 cover the 3” blade length limit. Iridium does not. MagnaCut is superior to S30V and D2.

[@kushviper]

Does it beat the Deka tho?

[@kinguin7]

Gotta beat the Doug Ritter.

[@Cz82]

I think that's the real question I have a clip point Magnacut Deka with the aluminum handles but I love the blade shape on this

[@kushviper]

lol I posted too quickly. I would get little cuts like that from my 940 when I first got it. I just adjusted my hand and it hasn’t happened since. Good feedback though!!

[@rogerchen1563]

Love the Bel air. Have the Bugout, Para 3. Appreciate the magnacut, Al scales improves balance vs frn. Nickel colored cerakote adds uniqueness. Love the feel and action also. Current edc with no negatives.

[@flatasacueball6326]

Love the extra-deep carry clip. There is an all black version now, but I'd like to see a lighter version with colored frn or g10 scales. I'd get the blackout model, but I prefer a little color. Still, this looks like a bugout contender.

[@ksrebelbuck7936]

Only downside to the Bel-Air in my opinion is the blade thickness, it could be a little too thin for some applications, but in my opinion it's a fantastic knife, I carry mine almost daily now to work and everything, it's awesome

[@rustyshackleford5331]

I find it amazing what all you can actually do with that work sharp handheld sharpener you use in the video

[@gideonstactical]

It is quite impressive!

[@Garyg28]

Textured g-10 scales or Micarta all day my school of thought is that metal scales can mimic the weather hot or cold days and or nights I don’t really want to carry a knife with metal scales in my pocket if you’re working or adventuring it could be a draw back, nice knife though…

[@49giants3]

I think 61-63 hrc is the recommended range for magnacut. M390 was always below the 61-62 hrc and was still wildly popular

[@lionknives3]

Yes but I hope the community is learning from that mistake!

[@tacticalcenter8658]

63 and above is for magnacut. Any less is not worth it. M390 with cryo between 61 and 62 is a must but zt has always been 57-60rc m390 and very low performing.

[@Skwish6952]

I personally like metal scales. I prefer Ti but i do very much like aluminum. I do wish they would put some kind of texture as some of them get pretty slick. But that isnt a deal breaker.

[@jamesharris6426]

Micarta, G10, then Aluminum. But this is my opinion, I’m also a mechanic so my hands always have something on them.

[@gideonstactical]

Yes, I prefer my car almost more than any other. I’m just saying in the size range. Aluminum is fine with me and kind of prefer it to the ultralight plastics of the bugout.

[@jamesharris6426]

@@gideonstactical I get that. I’m also not completely against aluminum scales, but I am against grivery scales.

[@Scientist_Salarian]

Agreed, micarta is my preferred material, generally. The Bugout’s glass thermo-polymer is really fantastic, but that’s a proprietary material. Micarta is just rock solid for every use.

[@jamesharris6426]

@@gideonstactical I’m updating my opinion, I put some Applied Weapons Tech scales on my Hogue Deka. I will say I have carried that knife more in the past 6 months than I have my favorite knife (Z-wear Shaman).

[@rafybassilious8390]

Waiting for the release of the new esee Pacaya, which will be released in shot show 2024.

[@JonsBalisongBlunders]

<a href="#" class="seekto" data-time="855">14:15</a> I went with the Bel Air over the Deka based on this and have cut my self twice with the Bel Air closing it for the exact same reason that you stopped carrying the Deka 😂 in my experience it has the exact same problem

[@petersayer-kf6ju]

can you review the Launch 19?

[@gideonstactical]

Will try

[@douglasfromalberta2456]

I love my Deka in magnacut, but after seeing the original Goat xl scales in pineapple texture with the floating back spacer I was excited. But once I got them and cerakoted them it changed the dynamic of the knife for me. Nothing against OG but the knife just sits in the collection now. I will just spend the extra $ in the future for the tricked out OEM.

[@steely_mike]

Thanks for the great review. I will put it on my wish list.

[@gideonstactical]

Thanks for checking it out!

[@Salamando3D]

Even the updated Deka has QC issues. I have the clip point DLT exclusive version and had to RMA it to fix the same issue that you encountered with the CRKT Definitive: the blade tip barely makes it past the scale when closed, leaving the tip exposed enough to open it with your nail or shred your jeans when pocketed. And Hogue OEM's the Definitive, too! Something just ain't right with Hogue's machining for that issue to keep popping up. The Deka isn't a Bugout killer, and definitely not a Bel Air killer. Still, I love Hogue and the Deka is a great knife that fills a need. Having said that, the Bel Air is on my 'must buy' list. Amazing looking knife and price for what you get. Way to go Kershaw! 👍

[@gideonstactical]

Yikes!!

[@Salamando3D]

@@gideonstactical yep. Definitely has soured me a bit. If I get it back and it performs how it should and is safe, I'll probably keep it. Otherwise it's getting offloaded. Weird that it has so many fans. I think those are just Benchmade haters grasping at straws 🤣

[@Dynamic6000]

I like it, but I’ll wait and see if they make some variant colors. Not a fan of the wash not a fan of the scales.

[@patricklockhart7512]

How have the bearings been? I’m a bit suspicious of bearing in these little low cost knives.

[@thaknobodi]

The Assert has the looks, but probably not the fit and finish. My usa gerbers always need dissasembly and cleaning.

[@michaell397]

The recommended HR-c for Magnacut is 63/64 as per both the developer aw well as the Manufacturer. Nice knife, but i'm out until the wake up and do it right! Magnacut is one that the heat treat is paramount! KnifeMaker

[@whatfreedom7]

I didn’t know this one was out. I’ve seen the iridium promoted everywhere but not this one. Looks better than the iridium for me but seems a little higher than what I would pay for a Kershaw though. Might just wait for a sale or get one lightly used.

[@Frank-ie4vu]

I bought one and I like it. I do wish it opened by a flipper, but it's a quality pocket knife. I have several hundred knives in my collection. It's the first with a magnacut blade. It's now edk.

[@lowbrowminis]

the coating is what causes the squeak. my arcade had it

[@bobwampler3387]

Since it has liners I would like micarta handles.

[@MrBowser2012]

US made is important to me. I can't wait for mine to arrive! Neeves had it for $149

[@gideonstactical]

Nice even better!!

[@GR8RESET]

kershaw is heading in the right direction! love to see it...

[@gideonstactical]

I totally agree

[@podunkmissouri4999]

I carried a kershaw blur for a few years. Really liked that knife. Bought my girlfriend a kershaw leek and it was junk. Other than those 2 I haven't had another kershaw. Looking at that knife it seems just a little leeky to me

[@patricklockhart7512]

Phew, good to know, I just about bought a Leek in magnacut and had 2nd thoughts and got a Deka in magnacut instead.

[@MarilynBrown-dd6yg]

Comparing it to knives that have been out for years and of course have many options kinda unfair I would think. I’m sure there’s more to come. Agreed the price point is huge

[@Huey4214]

Gonna have to pick one up. My first crossbar lock / magnacut was the Deka which I like. Especially at the sale price of $114 . The Bel Air is a steal at $150 !

[@gideonstactical]

I woulda agree very good value.

[@AmbuBadger]

The wife has a Mini Bugout and I have an Oknife Rubato 2 (like a Kizer Task), Böker Kihon, Vosteed Raccoon, and Benchmade Grizzly Ridge as our lockbar knives to compare to. I ordered the BelAir last night, so hopefully we'll see how she stacks up!

[@rustyminer]

I'm pumped for this knife.

[@nachocheese3382]

I'm a Tradesman and the nice knives stay at home (for the most part) and the Leatherman goes to work.

[@KnivesFAST]

Excellent video man. I'm loving the BelAir.

[@gideonstactical]

Appreciate it! Me too

[@mitchnerem6759]

Good content as usual. Tgank you. Off topic question. Of Grid Knives, have you revued any? I may have missed it if yiu have as youtibe doesnt always show me allnof your content. I just picked up a Off Grid Knives Caiman XXL. Seems legit. I like it so far. Just curious about your thoughts on OGK.

[@gideonstactical]

I heard of them and might try one this year!0

[@mitchnerem6759]

@@gideonstactical holy shit typing Batman! I'll have to go through and fix my spelling nonsense. Sorry about that. Good job on translating what I typed. My caiman seems pretty epic so far.

[@gideonstactical]

@@mitchnerem6759 hahah no worries

[@J.sh_CDN]

Just have to say, the new Iridium knife really makes me think of the old Kershaw Skyline in appearances!

[@gideonstactical]

Yes the good old skyline

[@nerv5th]

To me, it looks like CJRK Pyrite-Alt minus the finger choil and lock.

[@chrishaley5257]

I like aluminum. More colors would be nice but I like it over the plastic. I don't mind a little extra wgt.99.9% won't notice the difference and if they say they do they are probably lying.

[@kinguin7]

Agreed on weight, within any reasonable range it doesn't matter *to me*. I'm not hiking long distances, I'd prefer a knife to feel solid vs being lightweight, if I have to choose.

[@bladesmith3]

i prefer the grip tape feel in aluminum like the blur

[@Smasho8000]

Is it manual opening?

[@Smasho8000]

Yes, younger me. It is.

[@andrewcardillo4376]

The aluminun scales are a deal breaker for me. Give me some good G10 with moderate (no pocket shredding) texture or even better some nice micarta. I would alos like to see a non-coated stonewashed blade. Blackedout or blackwash isn't for everyone.

[@the_knights_edge]

Hell yea good points and great video man, i just started making content myself and have most definitely gotten some knowledge from you!

[@gideonstactical]

That’s awesome and thank you for the compliment. I wish you great success on your content!! 👍

[@joshuabomar6974]

Knowing Kershaw well I'd like to own this blade but in micarta & pocket clip removed for ergonomics

[@Speedsix13]

I already have the Iridium and it’s borderline too small. Nice knife but slick handle and it pushes your index finger too far back for no reason the Bugout has the better handle.

[@gideonstactical]

Glad I could help unpack that part and help you out.

[@AesirUnlimited]

I wish it had G10 scales. I don’t like metal scales because I’m weak and don’t like my knife scales being cold in the winter. Lol

[@gideonstactical]

Yes this will be cold to the touch with all this winter weather

[@chriselliott484]

Last i checked the mini bugout was 138$

[@gideonstactical]

Where? Everywhere I looked it’s $152 starting

[@chriselliott484]

@@gideonstactical I know that's it was new I'm sure

[@richardrivard487]

I have a new deka in Magnacut they solved the bite problem

[@dayontapout]

I always prefer G-10 to aluminum. I have quite a few Kershaws with aluminum but most all of them is prefer in G-10.

[@ralphnye664]

I do prefer a texture but my new Civivi Praxis has micartta handles I believe and it’s smooth but feels great in the hand 👍🏼👍🏼 😎🇺🇸🤙🏼

[@gideonstactical]

I love micarta

[@J.sh_CDN]

Smooth without being polished is the key for micarta! Can always take a coarser sandpaper to micarta that is too slippery like on a lot of Joker Knives fixes blades