Kershaw 8310 Fringe: Your Everyday Companion for Reliability and Precision

In today's fast-paced world, having a versatile and dependable tool within reach can make all the difference. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a DIY hobbyist, a tradesperson, or simply someone who appreciates preparedness, a well-crafted folding knife is an indispensable asset. The Kershaw 8310 Fringe, with its blend of sophisticated design and robust functionality, stands out as a prime example of an everyday carry (EDC) knife engineered for consistent performance and user comfort. This detailed exploration will uncover why the Fringe is not just another pocketknife, but a thoughtfully designed instrument ready to tackle a myriad of daily challenges.

Why Choose the Kershaw Fringe for Your Daily Carry?

For many, the search for the "perfect" EDC knife involves a delicate balance of size, weight, blade quality, ease of deployment, and locking security. The Kershaw Fringe addresses these critical considerations head-on, making it an ideal choice for a diverse range of users.

• Compact Yet Capable: With a 3-inch blade and a closed length of 4.10 inches, the Fringe strikes an optimal balance. It's large enough for practical tasks but compact enough to disappear comfortably in your pocket.
• Built for Durability: Crafted with 8Cr13MoV stainless steel for the blade and a combination of carbon fiber and stainless steel for the handle, this knife is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use.
• Effortless Deployment: Featuring Kershaw's renowned SpeedSafe assisted opening mechanism, coupled with both a flipper and a built-in thumb stud, the blade springs open smoothly and rapidly when needed, allowing for quick, one-handed operation.
• Secure Handling: The sturdy frame lock mechanism ensures the blade remains securely open during use, providing confidence and safety whether you're cutting rope, opening packages, or preparing kindling.
• Discreet Carry: A deep-carry pocket clip allows the knife to sit low in your pocket, making it less conspicuous while still being readily accessible.

Unpacking the Advanced Features of the Kershaw Fringe

Understanding the specific technologies and materials used in the Kershaw 8310 Fringe illuminates its superior performance.

The Blade: Strength, Sharpness, and Style

The heart of any knife is its blade, and the Fringe's 3-inch drop point blade is a testament to Kershaw's commitment to quality.

• 8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel: This high-carbon stainless steel is a popular choice for EDC knives due to its excellent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and ease of sharpening. Kershaw's precision heat treatment further optimizes the steel, ensuring it performs at its peak, holding a keen edge through repeated use.
• TiCN Gray Coating: Both the blade and the handle of the Fringe feature a distinctive gray Titanium Carbo-Nitride (TiCN) coating. This advanced coating not only gives the knife a sleek, modern aesthetic but also enhances its durability, providing an extra layer of protection against wear, scratches, and corrosion. It contributes to the blade's longevity and maintains its refined appearance over time.
• Plain Edge: The plain edge offers maximum cutting surface and is ideal for precise, clean cuts, making it versatile for a wide array of tasks from slicing to piercing.

The Handle: Ergonomics Meets Aesthetics

The handle of the Kershaw Fringe is designed for both secure grip and comfortable carry.

• Carbon Fiber and Stainless Steel Construction: The front features a stylish carbon-fiber insert, renowned for its high strength-to-weight ratio and contemporary look. The rest of the handle is robust stainless steel, providing a solid, reliable feel.
• Thinned Back Handle: A clever design innovation, the back handle of the Fringe has been thinned. This deliberate engineering choice significantly reduces the overall weight of the knife (weighing in at a surprising 3.50 oz), making it lighter than many all-steel pocketknives without compromising structural integrity. This ensures a comfortable carry experience, even for extended periods.
• Black / Gray Finish: The handle's black and gray coloring complements the TiCN blade, contributing to the knife's sophisticated and understated appearance.

Opening and Locking Mechanisms: Speed, Safety, and Security

Kershaw is celebrated for its innovative knife mechanisms, and the Fringe incorporates some of their best.

• SpeedSafe Assisted Opening: This patented system, developed by Kershaw, is a game-changer for quick blade deployment. By applying slight pressure to the flipper or thumb stud, the SpeedSafe mechanism takes over, rapidly pushing the blade out of the handle. This allows for smooth, fast, and consistent opening, even in situations where one hand is occupied. It's an invaluable feature for anyone needing rapid access to their tool.
• Flipper and Thumb Stud: The inclusion of both a flipper (a protrusion on the blade that, when pressed, initiates the opening) and a built-in thumb stud provides multiple convenient options for deployment, catering to individual preferences.
• Frame Lock: A frame lock is a robust and reliable locking mechanism known for its strength and simplicity. A portion of the handle frame itself springs over to wedge against the blade's tang, securing it firmly in the open position. This provides a strong, confident lock-up, reducing any risk of accidental blade closure during strenuous use. Disengaging the lock is straightforward, allowing for safe and controlled closing of the blade.

Real-World Applications: Where the Kershaw Fringe Excels

The Kershaw 8310 Fringe isn't just a collection of features; it's a solution to countless everyday scenarios. Consider these practical uses:

• Daily Utility: Opening boxes, cutting twine, stripping wire, breaking down cardboard—the Fringe handles these common tasks with ease.
• Outdoor Adventures: From preparing kindling for a campfire to cutting fishing line, or even basic food preparation on a camping trip, its reliable blade and secure lock make it a valuable companion for hikers, campers, and anglers.
• Emergency Preparedness: In unexpected situations, a sharp, dependable blade can be crucial. Cutting seatbelts, opening emergency packaging, or general utility in a crisis are all within the Fringe's capabilities.
• Professional Use: Tradespeople, warehouse workers, and anyone requiring a compact, sharp tool for routine cutting tasks will find the Fringe's quick deployment and durability highly beneficial.
• Self-Reliance: For those who value self-sufficiency, having a quality cutting tool ready at hand provides a sense of preparedness and capability.

Maintaining Your Kershaw Fringe for Lasting Performance

To ensure your Kershaw 8310 Fringe remains a reliable tool for years to come, basic maintenance is key.

• Cleaning: After use, especially if exposed to dirt, moisture, or corrosive materials, wipe the blade and handle clean. A mild soap and water solution followed by thorough drying can be used for deeper cleaning.
• Lubrication: Periodically apply a small drop of high-quality knife oil to the pivot area to keep the SpeedSafe mechanism smooth and responsive.
• Sharpening: While 8Cr13MoV steel holds an edge well, all blades eventually need sharpening. Use appropriate sharpening stones or systems to maintain the plain edge. Kershaw's precision heat treatment means the steel will take a good edge when sharpened correctly.
• Storage: Store your knife in a dry environment to prevent rust, though the TiCN coating offers significant protection.

The Kershaw Legacy: A Brand You Can Trust

Kershaw Knives, founded in 1974, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality, innovative, and user-friendly knives. Their commitment to superior materials, precision engineering, and groundbreaking designs like SpeedSafe has made them a favorite among knife enthusiasts and everyday users alike. When you choose a Kershaw product, you're investing in decades of expertise and a dedication to craftsmanship that ensures reliability and performance. The 8310 Fringe embodies this legacy, offering a combination of practical functionality and refined aesthetics that stands up to the demands of modern life. Available at trusted retailers like DEGuns, the Kershaw Fringe is ready to become an indispensable part of your daily toolkit.

Kershaw 8310 Fringe Key Specifications

Attribute	Detail
Model Number	8310
Blade Length	3 inches
Closed Length	4.10 inches
Overall Length	7 inches
Weight	3.50 oz
Blade Material	8Cr13MoV Stainless Steel
Blade Finish	Gray TiCN Coating
Blade Type	Drop Point
Edge Type	Plain
Handle Material	Carbon Fiber / Stainless Steel
Handle Finish	Black / Gray TiCN
Opening Mechanism	SpeedSafe Assisted Opening, Flipper, Thumb Stud
Lock Type	Frame Lock
Carry Feature	Deep-Carry Pocket Clip
UPC	087171052281
SKU	102391