The Ultimate Guide to the Kershaw 1660CB Leek Composite Blade Folding Knife

Are you searching for a reliable, high-performance everyday carry (EDC) knife that effortlessly combines innovative blade technology with American craftsmanship? Do you need a versatile cutting tool that can handle everything from opening packages to light utility tasks in the outdoors, all while looking exceptionally sharp? If so, the Kershaw 1660CB Leek Composite Blade Folding Knife is precisely the solution you’ve been looking for. This comprehensive guide will delve into what makes the 1660CB Leek a standout choice for enthusiasts, professionals, and anyone who appreciates a superior cutting instrument.

What Makes the Kershaw Leek Series a Top Choice for Everyday Carry?

The Kershaw Leek, a masterwork from designer Ken Onion, has long been a favorite among knife aficionados, praised for its slim profile, rapid deployment, and practical blade shape. The 1660CB Leek takes this iconic design to the next level with its unique composite blade, a feature that addresses the desire for optimal performance across multiple steel properties. Whether you're a seasoned knife collector, an outdoor adventurer, or simply someone who needs a dependable tool for daily chores, the Leek series consistently delivers.

Unpacking the Revolutionary Composite Blade: Sandvik 14C28N and D2 Steel

At the heart of the Kershaw 1660CB Leek's exceptional performance lies its groundbreaking composite blade. This isn't just a gimmick; it's a meticulously engineered fusion of two high-performance steels, each chosen for its distinct advantages, bonded together with precision and a distinctive copper line.

The Sandvik 14C28N Spine: Corrosion Resistance and Toughness

The spine of the blade is crafted from Sandvik 14C28N stainless steel. This Swedish-made steel is renowned for its excellent corrosion resistance, making it an ideal choice for a knife that might be exposed to various environments, from humid conditions to contact with acidic materials. Its fine grain structure also contributes to its toughness, reducing the likelihood of chipping or breaking under stress. For users who carry their knife daily, especially in diverse climates, the 14C28N steel ensures your blade maintains its integrity and appearance over time. This steel also allows for a very fine edge, which is then reinforced by the D2 cutting edge.

The D2 Cutting Edge: Superior Edge Retention and Wear Resistance

The working end of the blade – the crucial cutting edge – is made from D2 tool steel. D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium semi-stainless steel celebrated for its impressive edge retention and wear resistance. This means the 1660CB Leek's edge will stay sharper for longer, even with repeated use on tough materials. For tasks that demand sustained cutting power, such as breaking down cardboard, preparing kindling, or precision work, the D2 edge ensures consistent, reliable performance without frequent resharpening. This combination of D2's durability and 14C28N's toughness and corrosion resistance creates a blade that is truly the best of both worlds.

The Signature Copper Line: A Mark of Engineering Excellence

Visually, the striking thin copper line running through the blade is more than just an aesthetic detail. It represents the advanced metallurgical bonding process that permanently joins the D2 cutting edge to the Sandvik 14C28N spine. This innovative technology ensures a secure and robust connection between the two steels, maximizing their individual strengths while creating a visually distinctive knife that sets the 1660CB Leek apart from conventional blades. It's a subtle yet powerful statement about Kershaw's commitment to pushing the boundaries of knife design and functionality.

Blade Aesthetics and Profile

The 3-inch drop point blade features a bead-blasted finish, which not only gives it a non-reflective, matte appearance but also helps to mask minor scratches from daily use. The drop point shape is incredibly versatile, offering a strong tip for piercing while maintaining enough belly for effective slicing. Combined with a plain edge, this blade configuration is perfect for a wide array of cutting tasks, from detailed work to more robust applications.

Rapid Deployment and Secure Locking: The SpeedSafe Assisted Opening and Frame Lock

One of the most defining features of many Kershaw knives, including the 1660CB Leek, is the SpeedSafe assisted opening system. This innovative mechanism ensures quick and smooth blade deployment, a critical factor for situations where immediate access to your tool is necessary.

How Does SpeedSafe Work?

With a simple push on the flipper, which is an ambidextrous protrusion on the spine of the blade when closed, the SpeedSafe system takes over, smoothly deploying the blade into the locked position. This one-handed operation is incredibly convenient, whether you're right-handed or left-handed, and makes the knife incredibly practical for tasks that require your other hand to be free. It’s ideal for moments when you need to quickly cut a fishing line, open a package, or respond to an unexpected need for a blade.

The Robust Frame Lock Mechanism

Once deployed, the blade is held securely in place by a sturdy frame lock. A frame lock utilizes a portion of the knife's handle frame, which is precisely cut and springs over to wedge against the blade's tang, preventing accidental closure. This robust locking mechanism is known for its strength and reliability, providing a high degree of safety during use. When the blade is locked open, users can have complete confidence in the knife's stability, minimizing the risk of injury during demanding tasks. Disengaging the lock is also straightforward, allowing for easy and safe closing of the blade.

Ergonomics and Durability: The 410 Stainless Steel Handle

The handle of the Kershaw 1660CB Leek is constructed from 410 stainless steel, chosen for its excellent balance of strength, corrosion resistance, and workability. Like the blade, the handle also features a bead-blasted finish, which provides a cohesive aesthetic and a tactile, non-slip grip.

A Slim, Comfortable, and Ambidextrous Design

Measuring 4 inches when closed and a mere 0.09 inches thick, the Leek’s handle is incredibly slim, making it an ideal candidate for pocket carry without creating bulk. Despite its slender profile, the 410 stainless steel handle offers a solid and comfortable grip, ensuring secure handling during use. Its ambidextrous design means it feels natural and functions perfectly whether you're operating it with your left or right hand.

Essential for Everyday Carry: The Pocket Clip

Integrated into the design is a practical pocket clip, allowing for secure, tip-up or tip-down carry, depending on user preference. This feature ensures your Leek is always readily accessible and safely stored in your pocket, making it a true EDC champion. The clip's tension is optimized to hold the knife firmly in place without being overly tight, facilitating smooth drawing and re-sheathing.

Real-World Applications and Use Cases for the Kershaw 1660CB Leek

The Kershaw 1660CB Leek is more than just a beautifully designed knife; it's a highly functional tool built for a myriad of real-world scenarios.

• Daily Utility Tasks: From opening stubborn clam-shell packaging and breaking down cardboard boxes to slicing through tape and cutting cordage, the Leek excels at common household and office chores. Its sharp D2 edge makes quick work of tasks that might dull lesser knives.
• Outdoor Adventures: While not a heavy-duty survival knife, the Leek is perfect for lighter outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and fishing. Use it to prepare bait, cut fishing line, trim cordage for a tent, or open food packages. Its corrosion-resistant Sandvik spine is a major advantage here.
• Professional Settings: Many tradespeople, including electricians, carpenters, and warehouse workers, find the Leek invaluable for tasks like stripping wire (carefully!), scoring materials, or opening supply boxes. Its compact size means it doesn't get in the way, but it's always there when needed.
• Emergency Preparedness: A reliable cutting tool is a must-have for any emergency kit. The Leek can be used for cutting seatbelts, opening emergency ration packaging, or any other critical cutting need that arises unexpectedly.
• Gift-Giving: For the knife enthusiast, outdoor lover, or anyone who appreciates quality American-made products, the Kershaw 1660CB Leek makes an exceptional gift that will be cherished and used for years.

Why Choose the Kershaw 1660CB Leek Over Other Folding Knives?

When considering a new folding knife, many questions arise: "What's the best steel for edge retention?" "How important is an assisted opener?" "Should I prioritize American made?" The Kershaw 1660CB Leek provides compelling answers to all these questions.

• Innovative Composite Blade Technology: This knife offers the best of both worlds – the superior edge retention of D2 steel and the excellent corrosion resistance and toughness of Sandvik 14C28N, all in one blade. This unique combination is a significant advantage over single-steel blades.
• Unrivaled SpeedSafe Assisted Opening: For quick, safe, and reliable blade deployment, the SpeedSafe system is incredibly efficient, making the Leek an instant-access tool.
• Robust and Secure Frame Lock: Safety is paramount, and the Leek's sturdy frame lock ensures the blade remains securely open during use, providing peace of mind.
• Slim and Lightweight Design: At just 3.10 ounces and with a 0.09-inch thickness, the Leek is exceptionally portable, making it an ideal choice for everyday carry without being cumbersome.
• Proudly Made in the USA: Manufactured in Tualatin, Oregon, USA, the 1660CB Leek embodies American quality, precision, and craftsmanship. Supporting American-made products often means supporting higher standards of production and local jobs.
• Iconic Ken Onion Design: The Leek's distinctive aesthetic is not just functional but also visually appealing, making it a popular choice among collectors and users alike.

Caring for Your Kershaw Leek

To ensure your Kershaw 1660CB Leek performs optimally for years to come, a few simple maintenance steps are recommended:

• Cleaning: After use, especially if exposed to moisture or corrosive materials, wipe the blade and handle clean with a damp cloth. For tougher grime, a mild soap solution can be used, followed by thorough drying.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a drop or two of a good quality knife oil (like mineral oil) to the pivot area to keep the assisted opening mechanism smooth and efficient.
• Sharpening: While the D2 edge holds its sharpness exceptionally well, all knives eventually need sharpening. Use a quality sharpening system appropriate for D2 steel, maintaining the factory angle. Many users find a guided sharpening system helpful for maintaining consistent results.
• Storage: Store your Leek in a dry environment to prevent any potential corrosion, especially on the D2 cutting edge.

The Kershaw 1660CB Leek is more than just a folding knife; it's a testament to superior design, advanced material science, and expert craftsmanship. Whether you're a first-time knife owner seeking a reliable EDC companion or a seasoned collector looking to add a unique and high-performing piece to your collection, this knife offers an unparalleled blend of utility, safety, and aesthetic appeal. For those ready to experience the difference of a truly optimized cutting tool, the Kershaw 1660CB Leek is available now at DEGuns.

Kershaw 1660CB Leek Key Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Kershaw
Model	Leek
SKU	1660CB
UPC	087171166155
Overall Length	7 inches
Closed Length	4 inches
Blade Length	3 inches
Blade Material	Sandvik 14C28N / D2
Blade Type	Drop Point
Blade Edge	Plain
Blade Finish	Bead Blasted
Blade Thickness	0.09 inches
Handle Material	410 Stainless Steel
Handle Finish	Bead Blasted
Weight	3.10 ounces
Lock Type	Frame Lock
Opening System	Flipper (Assisted)
Hand Orientation	Ambidextrous
Includes	Pocket Clip
Made In	USA