The Kershaw XCOM takes its design from the World War II military trench knife. As fixed blade knives can be awkward or illegal to carry in many areas Kershaw and custom knife maker Les George collaborated to create a folding knife that has the convince of a folder but whose lines provided an air of the historic military fighting knife.
Kershaw XCOM features:
- 3.6” blade
- 4.4” closed
- 8” overall
- spear point
- 8CR13MOV steel
- Black oxide coating
The blade on the XCOM is sharpened on one side so it not a true double edged knife as most spear point fixed blade knives are thus making it safer to handle and close as a folder. The XCOM utilizes a liner lock to keep it open. The handle is glass filled nylon with a swell in the middle and incorporates a guard to prevent your hand from slipping onto the blade should it become slick. There is also a reversible clip for left or right side carry. The clip allows for tip up carry only.
The XCOM came sharp out of the box and is very comfortable in the hand. Opening the blade with the thumb disk is smooth with no sticking points. The XCOM is locked open by a liner lock. Lock up is positive with no slipping. The lock supports a good portion of the blade while still allowing easy release and closing. One of the things I like about the clip on the XCOM is that it is set for deep pocket carry leaving a minimal amount of the knife sticking out of your pocket. I like this as it keeps the knife low profile. The XCOM is light in your pocket making it unnoticeable when carrying. I like the feel and look of the XCOM it’s easy to carry, smooth to open and at a price point of $49.49 doesn’t break the bank for any everyday carry knife that you can feel comfortable putting in a carryon bag when traveling.
Art Dorst is a former sailor, soldier, EMT, and police officer. He currently operates A. Dorst Consulting & Training Services (www.adorstcts.com), and is a Senior Consultant and Trainer for LaSorsa & Associates (www.lasorsa.com).
Leave a Reply