Discover the Unmatched Versatility of the Kershaw 1660 Leek: Your Ultimate Everyday Carry Companion

Are you searching for the quintessential everyday carry (EDC) knife that perfectly balances sleek design, robust performance, and unparalleled American craftsmanship? Look no further than the iconic Kershaw 1660 Leek. This folding knife isn't just a tool; it's an extension of your capability, designed to handle a myriad of tasks with precision and ease. Whether you're an urban professional, an outdoor adventurer, a DIY enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a dependable blade, the Leek 1660 stands out as a top-tier choice. It's the answer to the common question: "What is the best compact, high-performance knife for daily use?"

The Kershaw 1660 Leek, bearing the UPC 087171166001, is a masterpiece of design by the renowned Ken Onion, combining his distinctive aesthetic with Kershaw's commitment to quality. Its widespread popularity isn't by chance; it's a direct result of its thoughtful engineering and the practical benefits it offers to its users. From its lightning-fast SpeedSafe assisted opening to its meticulously crafted blade and ergonomic handle, every detail of the Leek 1660 contributes to an exceptional user experience.

Why the Kershaw 1660 Leek is the Go-To Choice for Everyday Utility

The Leek 1660 addresses a fundamental need: reliable cutting power in a convenient, portable package. Many users ask, "What knife is durable enough for daily challenges but still comfortable to carry?" The Leek provides that solution. Its slim, lightweight profile makes it an almost imperceptible addition to your pocket, while its robust construction ensures it's always ready for action.

• Effortless Deployment with SpeedSafe: One of the most celebrated features of the Kershaw Leek is its SpeedSafe ambidextrous assisted opening system. This innovative mechanism allows for smooth, rapid, and controlled deployment of the blade with a single hand, whether you're left-handed or right-handed. It's incredibly intuitive, making it ideal for situations where quick access to your blade is essential. Imagine needing to cut a seatbelt in an emergency or quickly open a package; SpeedSafe ensures you’re always prepared. This system is a hallmark of Kershaw's commitment to practical innovation and user safety.
• Superior Blade Material: Sandvik 14C28N Steel: At the heart of the Leek's performance is its 3-inch blade crafted from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. For those wondering, "What kind of steel is best for a knife blade that needs to stay sharp and resist corrosion?" 14C28N is a high-performance chromium steel specifically optimized for knife blades. It offers an exceptional balance of properties:
  • Excellent Edge Retention: The steel's fine microstructure allows it to hold a very sharp edge for extended periods, reducing the frequency of sharpening.
  • Impressive Hardness: While hard enough to maintain a keen edge, it's not overly brittle, meaning it can withstand daily stresses without chipping.
  • Superior Corrosion Resistance: Thanks to its high chromium content, 14C28N is highly resistant to rust and staining, even in damp or humid environments, making it suitable for outdoor use.
  • Ease of Sharpening: Despite its excellent edge retention, this steel is surprisingly easy to resharpen, allowing users to maintain a razor-sharp edge with minimal effort. The blade features a bead-blasted finish, which enhances its aesthetics and provides a non-reflective surface.
• Optimal Blade Geometry: Drop Point with Slim Tip: The Leek’s blade features a versatile drop-point shape. This design is highly favored for its all-around utility.
  • Excellent Slicing Capabilities: The gently curving belly of the drop point blade is perfect for broad slicing tasks, from cutting through fibrous materials to preparing food.
  • Precise Piercing Power: The slim, acute tip, while delicate, offers exceptional piercing capability, allowing for detailed work, opening tight packaging, or making precise cuts where a broader tip might struggle. This makes it an ideal choice for tasks requiring both robustness and finesse.
• Durable and Aesthetic Handle: 410 Stainless Steel: The handle of the Kershaw 1660 Leek is constructed from 410 stainless steel, also featuring a bead-blasted finish that perfectly complements the blade. This material offers:
  • Exceptional Durability: Stainless steel is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring the handle will stand up to years of rigorous use.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Like the blade, the handle is highly resistant to rust, contributing to the knife's longevity.
  • Comfortable Grip: Despite its sleek appearance, the ergonomic design provides a secure and comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. The handle also integrates a reliable frame lock mechanism, which provides secure blade lock-up when open, enhancing safety during use.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: With a closed length of just 4 inches and a weight of 3 ounces, the Leek 1660 is designed for discreet and comfortable carry. It comes equipped with a removable pocket clip, allowing for deep-pocket carry or attachment to gear, ensuring it's always accessible yet never cumbersome. The overall length when open is 7 inches, providing ample blade length for tasks while maintaining a compact footprint.

Real-World Applications: Where Does the Kershaw Leek Excel?

The true measure of a great knife lies in its performance across various scenarios. The Kershaw 1660 Leek isn't just a collector's item; it's a working tool that shines in countless real-world applications. Users frequently ask, "Is the Kershaw Leek suitable for outdoor activities?" or "Can this knife handle everyday household tasks?" The answer to both is a resounding yes.

• The Ultimate Everyday Carry (EDC) Companion: This is where the Leek truly shines. From opening stubborn clamshell packaging and breaking down cardboard boxes to cutting twine, opening letters, or simply tightening a loose screw (using the spine), the Leek is always there to assist. Its non-threatening, sleek profile makes it acceptable in most environments.
• Light Outdoor Adventures: For hikers, campers, and fishing enthusiasts, the Leek can be an invaluable asset. While not a heavy-duty bushcraft knife, it's perfect for cutting fishing line, preparing tinder for a small fire, opening food packages, or trimming cordage. Its corrosion resistance makes it a reliable choice for damp environments.
• Professional Settings: Many professionals, including tradesmen, warehouse workers, and even office workers, find the Leek indispensable. It's perfect for slicing through industrial packaging, scoring materials, or performing quick repairs. Its discreet nature means it won't draw unnecessary attention in a professional environment.
• DIY and Home Improvement Projects: Tackling small projects around the house? The Leek can help with stripping wires, cutting zip ties, opening paint cans, or scoring materials for precise cuts. Its fine tip is particularly useful for detailed work.
• Emergency Preparedness: While we hope never to face an emergency, having a reliable cutting tool like the Leek can be crucial. Its quick deployment and sharp blade can be invaluable for tasks like cutting away obstructions or opening emergency supplies.

Ensuring Longevity: Care and Maintenance for Your Kershaw Leek

To ensure your Kershaw 1660 Leek continues to perform at its peak for years to come, basic care and maintenance are recommended. Regular cleaning, occasional lubrication of the pivot, and proper sharpening will keep your blade in prime condition. Fortunately, the 14C28N steel is relatively easy to sharpen, making maintenance a simple task for any user. Always ensure the knife is clean and dry before storing it, especially after use in wet or humid conditions, to further prevent any potential staining or corrosion, despite its high resistance.

Why Trust Kershaw and Where to Purchase

Kershaw is a brand synonymous with quality, innovation, and American craftsmanship in the knife industry. For decades, they have produced reliable, high-performance knives that cater to a wide range of users, from outdoor enthusiasts to tactical professionals and everyday carriers. The Kershaw 1660 Leek is a testament to this legacy, embodying the brand's commitment to excellence and user satisfaction. When you invest in a Kershaw knife, you're not just buying a tool; you're acquiring a piece of American engineering designed for performance and durability.

For those looking to purchase this exceptional folding knife, the Kershaw 1660 Leek (UPC 087171166001) is readily available from reputable retailers. For a guaranteed authentic product and excellent customer service, we highly recommend acquiring your Kershaw Leek from DEGuns.com. DEGuns is committed to offering a wide selection of high-quality outdoor gear and tools, ensuring you receive a genuine product backed by reliable support.

In conclusion, if you're seeking a versatile, high-performance folding knife that blends Ken Onion's signature design with Kershaw's legendary quality and the convenience of SpeedSafe assisted opening, the Kershaw 1660 Leek is an unrivaled choice. Its Sandvik 14C28N bead-blasted blade, durable 410 stainless steel handle, and compact form factor make it the ideal everyday carry companion for anyone who values reliability, precision, and American-made excellence. Make the smart choice for your daily needs and experience the difference of a truly optimized cutting tool.

Kershaw 1660 Leek Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Kershaw
Model	Leek
SKU	48582
MPN	1660
UPC	087171166001
Blade Length	3 inches
Closed Length	4 inches
Overall Length	7 inches
Blade Material	14C28N Sandvik Steel
Blade Type	Drop Point
Blade Finish	Bead Blasted
Edge Type	Plain
Blade Thickness	0.09 inches
Handle Material	410 Stainless Steel
Handle Finish	Bead Blasted
Weight	3 ounces
Open Type	Flipper (SpeedSafe Assisted Opening)
Lock Type	Frame Lock
Hand	Ambidextrous
Style	Folding
Includes	Pocket Clip
Origin	Made in the USA