The Ultimate Guide to the Kershaw Launch 6 Automatic Knife (7800BLK)

For discerning individuals seeking a blend of cutting-edge performance, robust durability, and unparalleled convenience in their everyday carry (EDC) gear, the Kershaw Launch 6 (model 7800BLK) stands out as an exceptional choice. This American-made automatic folding knife is meticulously crafted to serve a diverse range of users, from outdoor enthusiasts and tactical professionals to anyone in need of a reliable, high-performance cutting tool for daily tasks. If you're wondering what makes a knife truly reliable for personal safety, quick utility, or demanding field conditions, the Launch 6 provides compelling answers through its thoughtful design and premium materials.

Who Is the Kershaw Launch 6 (7800BLK) Designed For?

The Kershaw Launch 6 is more than just a knife; it's a meticulously engineered tool built for specific needs and challenging environments. It caters to:

• Everyday Carry (EDC) Enthusiasts: Those who value compact size, swift deployment, and dependable performance for routine tasks like opening packages, cutting cords, or preparing food. Its slim profile and moderate weight ensure comfortable pocket carry.
• Outdoor Adventurers: Campers, hikers, hunters, and anglers will appreciate its robust blade, corrosion resistance, and quick one-handed operation in demanding environments where immediate access to a sharp tool is crucial.
• Tactical and Professional Users: Law enforcement, military personnel, and first responders require tools that won't fail under pressure. The Launch 6's rapid deployment, durable construction, and non-reflective finish make it a valuable asset in critical situations.
• Collectors of American-Made Knives: Individuals who appreciate superior craftsmanship, premium materials, and supporting domestic manufacturing will find the Launch 6 a proud addition to their collection.
• Individuals Seeking Personal Safety: While primarily a utility tool, the swift, one-handed deployment makes it a viable option for personal safety, offering peace of mind through readiness.

The central problem the Kershaw Launch 6 solves is the need for immediate, reliable cutting capability in a safe and ergonomic package. It eliminates fumbling with manual opening mechanisms and provides a secure grip, even in adverse conditions, ensuring that your tool is ready when you are.

Unpacking the Excellence: Key Features and Benefits

The Kershaw Launch 6 (7800BLK) is a masterclass in modern knife design, integrating several advanced features that contribute to its superior performance and user satisfaction.

The Blade: Unrivaled Performance from CPM 154 Steel

At the heart of the Launch 6's cutting prowess is its 3.75-inch drop point blade, crafted from CPM 154 stainless steel. This premium, powdered metallurgy steel is a significant upgrade over conventional steels, offering a host of benefits:

• Exceptional Edge Retention: CPM 154 boasts a highly uniform distribution of carbides, a direct result of its powdered metallurgy process. This microscopic uniformity means the blade can take and hold an incredibly sharp edge for extended periods, reducing the frequency of sharpening. For users, this translates to less downtime and consistent cutting power.
• Superior Corrosion Resistance: Thanks to its high chromium content, CPM 154 provides excellent resistance to rust and oxidation, making it ideal for use in humid environments, around saltwater, or with various corrosive materials. This is crucial for outdoor use and ensures the knife maintains its pristine condition over time.
• Impressive Wear Resistance: The advanced composition of CPM 154 contributes to its remarkable wear resistance, meaning the blade will resist abrasion and maintain its shape even after extensive use against tough materials.
• Good Toughness: Despite its hardness, CPM 154 retains a commendable degree of toughness, reducing the likelihood of chipping or breaking under stress, a vital characteristic for a reliable utility or tactical knife.
• Versatile Drop Point Profile: The classic drop point blade shape is renowned for its versatility. It features a strong point for piercing, a belly for slicing, and excellent overall strength, making it suitable for a wide array of tasks from detailed work to more demanding cuts.

The Finish: Stealth and Durability with Black DLC Coating

The blade is further enhanced with a Black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating. This advanced surface treatment isn't just for aesthetics; it provides significant performance enhancements:

• Non-Reflectivity: The matte black finish eliminates glare, making the knife ideal for tactical operations or situations where discretion is paramount.
• Enhanced Performance and Protection: DLC coatings are incredibly hard and slick, providing an additional layer of wear and corrosion resistance. This extends the life of the blade and allows for smoother cutting action by reducing friction.
• Rugged Aesthetics: The deep black coating contributes to the knife's sleek, "wicked-looking" appearance, complementing the black anodized aluminum handle.

The Handle: Lightweight Strength and Secure Grip

The handle of the Kershaw Launch 6 is constructed from durable anodized aluminum, offering an optimal balance of lightweight design and robust strength. Kershaw's meticulous machining of the handle provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or gloved hands.

• Lightweight Advantage: At just 3.8 ounces, the Launch 6 is surprisingly light for its capabilities, ensuring it won't weigh down your pocket or gear, making it ideal for everyday carry.
• Exceptional Durability: Anodized aluminum is highly resistant to scratches, dents, and corrosion, ensuring the handle retains its integrity and appearance through years of hard use.
• Ergonomic Design: The contoured shape and textured machining on the handle are designed for a comfortable and secure hold, minimizing fatigue during extended use and preventing slips during critical operations. The "frame" of the knife, also aluminum, contributes to the overall structural integrity.

Automatic Deployment: Speed, Safety, and Ambidextrous Design

One of the defining features of the Launch 6 is its automatic, push-button deployment. This mechanism ensures rapid, one-handed opening, making the knife instantly ready for action.

• Recessed Push Button: A key safety feature is the recessed design of the push button. It sits level with the flat of the handle, significantly reducing the chance of accidental deployment while carried in a pocket or pack. This thoughtful design element provides peace of mind.
• Ambidextrous Operation: The Launch 6 is designed for universal usability. Both right-handed and left-handed users can easily operate the blade-release/lock button with an index finger or thumb, ensuring smooth deployment regardless of dominant hand.
• Button Lock Mechanism: The reliable button lock mechanism securely holds the blade open during use and allows for safe, quick closing with a simple press.

Carry Convenience: Reversible Pocket Clip and Lanyard Hole

Kershaw understands the importance of versatile carry options. The Launch 6 comes equipped with:

• Reversible Pocket Clip: This allows users to configure the knife for tip-up or tip-down carry, and for left or right-hand side carry, customizing it to their preference.
• Pre-Drilled Lanyard Tie-Off Hole: For those who prefer extra security or wish to accessorize their knife, a dedicated lanyard hole is conveniently integrated into the handle design.

Made in the USA: A Mark of Quality

The Kershaw Launch 6 (7800BLK) is proudly Made in the USA. This designation signifies adherence to high manufacturing standards, strict quality control, and the employment of skilled American craftsmanship. Choosing a "Made in USA" product often implies:

• Superior Quality Control: Ensures consistent product quality and reliability.
• Ethical Manufacturing Practices: Supports fair labor and environmental standards.
• Innovation and Design Excellence: Reflects a commitment to cutting-edge design and engineering.
• Support for the American Economy: Contributes to domestic job creation and economic growth.

Real-World Applications and Use Cases

The Kershaw Launch 6 isn't just a collection of impressive specifications; it's a tool that excels in practical, real-world scenarios.

• Everyday Utility: Need to open a stubborn package? Slice through heavy-duty zip ties? The Launch 6 makes quick work of these daily challenges. Its rapid deployment means less fumbling and more efficiency.
• Outdoor Adventures: From processing kindling around a campfire to cutting rope for shelter building or preparing food on a camping trip, its durable blade and comfortable grip are invaluable. Its corrosion resistance is particularly beneficial in damp environments.
• Professional Reliability: In high-stress situations, every second counts. Law enforcement officers or EMTs might need to cut seatbelts, open medical packaging, or perform other critical tasks rapidly. The Launch 6's instant readiness makes it a dependable choice for those who serve.
• Survival Situations: In an unexpected emergency, a reliable cutting tool can be a lifeline. The Launch 6's robust construction and quick access provide a crucial advantage for tasks like signaling, building basic shelters, or preparing resources.
• Self-Defense Preparedness: While not its primary function, the ability to rapidly deploy a sharp blade can be a deterrent or a last resort in a self-defense scenario. The recessed button minimizes accidental deployment while ensuring readiness.
• Collector's Pride: Beyond utility, the Launch 6 embodies the pinnacle of production automatic knives. Its premium materials, American manufacturing, and refined design make it a desirable piece for any serious knife collector.

Why Choose the Kershaw Launch 6 Over Other Options?

When evaluating automatic knives, the Kershaw Launch 6 (7800BLK) consistently emerges as a top contender due to its unique blend of features and the value it provides. Many users ask, "What's the best automatic knife for daily carry?" or "Which knife offers the best balance of speed and safety?" The Launch 6 answers these questions directly by offering:

• Uncompromising Material Quality: The use of CPM 154 steel with DLC coating sets it apart, offering superior edge retention and durability compared to many knives in its class.
• Thoughtful Safety Design: The recessed push button is a critical differentiator, providing a layer of safety often overlooked in other automatic knives, which can sometimes deploy unintentionally.
• Ergonomic and Ambidextrous Design: Its universal usability makes it accessible and comfortable for a wider audience, ensuring that functionality is not limited by handedness.
• Made in USA Assurance: The commitment to American manufacturing ensures a higher standard of craftsmanship and supports domestic industries, appealing to consumers who prioritize quality and ethical production.
• Balanced Form Factor: With a closed length of 4.90 inches and a weight of 3.80 ounces, it strikes an excellent balance between being substantial enough for serious work and compact enough for comfortable daily carry.

The overall design philosophy behind the Launch 6 prioritizes not just raw performance, but also user safety, ergonomic comfort, and long-term durability, making it a reliable partner in diverse environments.

Maintenance and Care for Your Kershaw Launch 6

To ensure your Kershaw Launch 6 (7800BLK) performs optimally for years to come, a few simple maintenance steps are recommended:

• Keep it Clean: After use, especially in dirty or wet conditions, wipe down the blade and handle with a damp cloth. For tougher grime, a mild soap solution can be used, followed by thorough drying.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a small drop of a quality knife lubricant to the pivot area to ensure smooth automatic action.
• Sharpening: While CPM 154 holds an edge exceptionally well, when it eventually dulls, use appropriate sharpening stones or systems designed for high-performance steels.
• Storage: Store your knife in a dry environment to prevent any potential corrosion, although the DLC coating and stainless steel offer excellent protection.

Where to Acquire Your Kershaw Launch 6 (7800BLK)

For those ready to experience the exceptional quality and performance of the Kershaw Launch 6 (model 7800BLK), it is available at trusted retailers like DEGuns.com. As a reputable source for firearms and cutting tools, DEGuns provides a secure and reliable platform for purchasing high-quality products like the Kershaw Launch 6. Their commitment to customer service and authentic products ensures you receive the genuine item, ready to perform.

In conclusion, the Kershaw Launch 6 (7800BLK) is a testament to cutting-edge knife engineering. Its premium CPM 154 blade, durable anodized aluminum handle, swift and safe automatic deployment, and proud "Made in USA" pedigree make it an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a reliable, high-performance cutting tool. Whether for everyday utility, outdoor adventures, professional use, or simply as a prized addition to a collection, the Launch 6 delivers on every front, proving itself to be an indispensable companion.

Kershaw Launch 6 (7800BLK) Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Kershaw
Model	Launch 6
SKU	7800BLK
UPC	087171044484
Series	6
Style	Folding, Automatic
Open Type	Push Button
Lock Type	Button Lock
Hand	Ambidextrous
Blade Material	CPM 154 SS
Blade Type	Drop Point
Blade Length	3.75 inches
Edge Type	Plain
Blade Finish	Black DLC
Thickness	0.12 inches
Handle Material	Anodized Aluminum
Handle Color	Black
Frame	Aluminum
Overall Length	8.70 inches
Closed Length	4.90 inches
Weight	3.80 ounces
Includes	Reversible Pocket Clip
Origin	Made in the USA