Kershaw leek vs. Scallion | Which one is better?

When it comes to pocket knives, Kershaw is a well-known and trusted brand. The Kershaw Leek and the Kershaw Scallion are two of its most popular models. Both knives have a sleek design and are perfect for everyday carry. However, which one is better?

The Kershaw Leek has a longer blade and overall length and is heavier than the Scallion, making it better suited for larger tasks and hands. The Leek also has a stronger frame lock and more premium materials, but it is more expensive. The Scallion has a shorter blade and handle and is budget-friendly, making it more precise and compact.

Undoubtedly, it is tough to decide, but after reading my Kershaw Leek VS Scallion guide, it will be much easier. So, let’s explore and choose a better one for you. 

About Kershaw Leek- Overview

The Kershaw Leek knife is a popular EDC (Everyday Carry) knife known for its sleek design and sharp blade. It has gained a reputation for being a reliable and high-quality knife among outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users alike. 

Despite its modern design and advanced features, the Kershaw Leek knife has a long history, dating back to the days of old knives.

The Kershaw Leek knife was designed to pay homage to the traditional folding knives of the old. It features a classic drop-point blade with a plain edge made from high-quality Sandvik 14C28N steel. 

The handle is made from 410 stainless steel, with a sleek, durable, and lightweight design. The knife also includes a reversible pocket clip, allowing easy and convenient carry.

While the Kershaw Leek knife may have a modern twist, it still maintains the durability and functionality of old knives. It’s a simple design and high-quality materials make it a versatile and reliable tool for everyday use, from opening packages to preparing food. 

With its nod to the past and eye toward the future, the Kershaw Leek knife is a perfect addition to any EDC collection.

About Kershaw Scallion- Overview

The Kershaw Scallion knife is a famous, versatile folding knife designed for everyday use. It features a 2.4-inch blade made from high-quality 420HC steel, offering excellent edge retention and corrosion resistance. 

One of the key advantages of the Scallion is its sharpness, which makes it an ideal choice for people who have had bad experiences with dull knives in the past.

Dull knives can be frustrating and dangerous, requiring more force to cut through food and other materials, increasing the risk of slips and injuries. 

Using a sharp knife like the Kershaw Scallion can reduce the risk of accidents and make meal preparation a more enjoyable experience. Additionally, a sharp knife is more efficient and can save time in the kitchen.

The Kershaw Scallion is also known for its durability and ease of use. It features a sturdy, lightweight handle made from glass-filled nylon, which offers a secure and comfortable grip. 

The knife’s SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism allows for quick and easy blade deployment, while the liner lock ensures the blade stays securely in place during use.

Quick Comparison Chart

Kershaw Leek vs. Scallion | Key Differences

• Blade Length

The blade length of a knife is an essential factor that affects its functionality. The Kershaw Leek has a blade length of 3 inches, which makes it ideal for performing various tasks like slicing, dicing, and chopping. 

The longer blade makes cutting through larger items like fruits, vegetables, and meats easier. On the other hand, the blade length of the Kershaw Scallion is 2.4 inches, which is slightly shorter than the Leek. 

This blade is better suited for tasks that require more precision and control, such as peeling and trimming. However, the shorter blade may limit its ability to cut through larger items.

• Overall Length

The overall length of a knife refers to the total length of the blade and handle combined. The Kershaw Leek has an overall length of 7 inches, which is longer than the Kershaw Scallion, which has an overall length of 5.75 inches. 

The longer handle of the Leek provides a better grip, making it easier to handle and control. Additionally, the longer length of the Leek makes it better suited for larger hands. 

The Scallion may be better suited for those with smaller hands or those who prefer a more compact knife.

• Weight

The weight of a knife is an essential factor to consider as it affects the knife’s overall balance and control. The Kershaw Leek weighs 3 ounces, slightly heavier than the Kershaw Scallion, which weighs 2.3 ounces. 

While the Leek is slightly heavier, it maintains a good balance, making it easier to handle and control. On the other hand, the Scallion’s lighter weight may make it easier to handle for those who prefer a more elegant knife.

• Blade Shape

The blade shape of a knife can affect its functionality and performance. The Kershaw Leek has a modified drop-point blade shape, which provides a versatile cutting edge suitable for various tasks, including slicing, piercing, and detail work. 

The blade has a slight curve that helps to facilitate a rocking motion for cutting. On the other hand, the Kershaw Scallion has a clip-point blade shape, which provides a sharper point that is better for piercing tasks. 

The blade is also thinner and narrower than the Leek’s, making it more suitable for precise cutting tasks. 

• Blade Material

The blade material is an essential factor to consider when choosing a knife. The Kershaw Leek’s blade is made of Sandvik 14C28N steel, a high-performance stainless steel known for its excellent edge retention, rust resistance, and toughness. 

The steel is also easy to sharpen, making it a popular choice among knife enthusiasts. In contrast, the Kershaw Scallion’s blade is made of 420HC stainless steel, a lower-grade steel that is still durable and corrosion-resistant but may require more frequent sharpening. 

• Handle Material

The handle material of a knife can affect its comfort, grip, and overall durability. The Kershaw Leek’s handle is made of 410 stainless steel, which provides a solid and comfortable grip. The handle also features a secure frame lock mechanism that keeps the blade in place during use. 

On the other hand, the Kershaw Scallion’s handle is made of glass-filled nylon, a lightweight and durable material that provides a comfortable grip. However, the handle has no frame lock mechanism, which may make the knife less secure during use. 

• Locking Mechanism

The locking mechanism of a knife is a crucial factor in determining its safety and usability. The Kershaw Leek uses a frame lock known for its strength and durability. The frame lock engages the blade tang, preventing accidental closure while in use. 

On the other hand, the Kershaw Scallion uses a liner lock, which pushes a spring-loaded liner to the side to disengage the lock. While liner locks are easy to use, they are not as strong as frame locks.

• Pocket Clip

The pocket clip is another essential feature of a folding knife, as it allows for easy and secure carry. The Kershaw Leek has a reversible pocket clip, which can be adjusted for left or right-handed carry, and also allows for tip-up or tip-down carry. It makes it ideal for users with different carry preferences. 

On the other hand, the Kershaw Scallion has a tip-down pocket clip, which is not reversible, limiting its versatility. While the tip-down clip of the Scallion is functional, the Leek’s reversible clip is more practical and user-friendly. 

• Sharpness

Kershaw Leek and Scallion are relatively easy to sharpen. But the Kershaw Scallion may be slightly easier due to its 420HC stainless steel. It is softer than the Sandvik 14C28N used in the Leek. 

Softer steels are generally easier to sharpen than harder ones, as they do not require as much effort to remove material and create a sharp edge.

• Blade Finish

The blade finish is a cosmetic aspect of a knife that does not affect its functionality but contributes to its overall appearance. The Kershaw Leek has a bead-blasted, non-reflective, matte finish that provides a sleek and modern look. 

The Kershaw Scallion, on the other hand, has a stonewashed finish, which is a textured finish that hides scratches and wears over time. While both finishes are functional and attractive, the bead-blasted finish of the Leek is more visually appealing and contemporary. 

• Price

The price of a knife is a significant factor in determining its value for money. The Kershaw Leek is generally more expensive than the Kershaw Scallion, a budget-friendly option. 

The price difference between the two models is due to the Leek’s superior materials and construction, such as its premium blade steel and more robust frame lock. While the Scallion is a good option for users on a budget. The Leek offers better performance and durability, making it worth the extra cost. 

My Opinion[ Which one is better]

The Kershaw Leek is better for heavy-duty tasks with its 3-inch blade and longer handle, while the Scallion is better for precision tasks with its 2.4-inch blade and lighter weight. 

The Leek has a better blade material, a locking mechanism, and a reversible pocket clip. The Scallion is more budget-friendly and has a stonewashed blade finish. Ultimately, the choice between the Kershaw Leek vs. Scallion depends on your preferences and needs.