When You're Strange…
David A. Dodson

Kershaw Knives' ET

Several years ago, Kershaw Knives stunned the industry with the introduction of their Speed-Safe Assisted Opening System; a short push on either a thumb stud or index button sent the blade into an open position in an instant. Quick, efficient, convenient and safe, this one handed opening system made Kershaw the leading name in knives. What could they possibly do to follow their own act? How about a new opening/locking system that snaps and holds the imagination as effortlessly as it does the blade. Kershaw has done just that with their ET folder. The ET (External Toggle) uses more mechanical engineering in the handle design alone than most other knife makers do in their factories.

Constructed out of 6061 T6 anodized aluminum, the ET's handle is extremely light and formed to fit the user's had perfectly. Along with the ergonomic fit, the three-piece handle is joined together with rotating bolts. When pressure is applied to the tailpiece, these bolts and pieces act as a series of levers that swing the blade into the open position. It's quite the thing of beauty to watch it work. When you're done, simply swing the tailpiece the other direction and the whole thing folds closed.

Won't Spring Open

Don't worry about the knife springing open on it's own; the ET comes with a knob lock on the handle that keeps it from springing to life when you don't need it to. Likewise, the locking lever system does a fantastic job of keeping the blade securely open when it's time to work.

Don't think that this is just some gimmicky trick knife. The ET's blade is made from the finest Sandvik 13C26 Stainless Steel. This means it's super strong (55-57 on the Rockwell Hardness Scale) and can retain an edge forever. The blade measures in at 3 1/4 inches and comes razor sharp from the factory.

The ET also sports a carabineer clip built into the blade and a pocket clip on the tailpiece.

If you are looking for a knife that tops the list in quality and comfort and happens to be a little different, then Kershaw's ET is the knife for you. It is by far the finest marriage of style and function on the market today. It also makes the perfect gift for that special knife aficionado in your life. For about one hundred dollars you can pick one up wherever knives are sold or online at one of the retailers located at www.KershawKnives.com.