The Kershaw Launch 1 auto-opener is the first of the entire Kershaw Launch series. It’s made-in-the-USA with CPM 154 blade steel, finished with Kershaw’s proprietary “BlackWash” finish, and utilizes anodized aluminum handles to reduce weight.

The blade opens via what the company describes as a “low profile” push button and features a left/right reversible pocket clip (for left-handed use you use your index finger to open ‘er up instead of your thumb). The way the activation stud is tucked away will help prevent accidental openings but you still need to pay attention and be careful.

Ask us how we know.

Find the Launch 1 in several colors at Smokey Mountain Knife Works.

Learn more about (or buy) the Launch 1 at Midway USA.

Here’s how Kershaw describes the Launch 1:

“Got an automatic attraction? Then look into Kershaw’s Launch 1. This automatic knife features CPM 154 blade steel, a strong opening kick, and is made-in-the-USA at Kershaw’s Tualatin, Oregon manufacturing facility.

The CPM 154 powdered metallurgy blade steel has more uniform distribution of carbides—so it takes and holds an excellent edge. It also provides good corrosion resistance, wear resistance, and toughness. The blade is finished with our BlackWash finish for rough-and-tumble good looks and an additional measure of blade protection.”

Kershaw’s Launch 1 is available from ViperTec.

Kershaw Launch 1 Specs

• Made in the USA
• Integrated backspacer and lanyard tie-off
• Automatic push-button open
• Push-button lock release
• Reversible pocketclip (left/right tip-up)
• Steel: CPM 154, black-oxide BlackWash™ finish
• Handle: 6061-T6 aluminum, black anodized
• Blade Length: 3.4 in. (8.6 cm)
• Closed Length: 4.6 in. (11.7 cm)
• Overall Length: 8 in. (20.3 cm)
• Weight: 4 oz. (114 g)

Wanna see a video overview? Here’s a look at it via Blade HQ.

Find the Kershaw Launch 1 at Blade HQ.

Another video review for ya:

You can also find the Kershaw Launch 1 at Optics Planet.

If you’re looking for additional information, check out the review on Pro Tool Reviews.

From a Kershaw Launch 1 review on ProToolsReview.com.

“The Kershaw Launch 1 knife has a beautiful black anodized aluminum handle and a sort of powder-coated CPM154 stainless steel blade. This steel is harder, more corrosion-resistant, and has better edge retention than 440C. The blade was very sharp from the factory, and even after using it for a ton of cutting, whittling, and (my favorite) cardboard slicing—the edge stayed true considerably longer than I’ve experienced with softer steels…”

Check it out! It’s rated at 4.7 outta 5.

Another look at the Launch 1 from the review on Pro Tools Review.

They even have the Launch 1 at Wal-Mart!

Folding Knives | read all our articles about ’em.

Kershaw Knives | find all our reviews and articles.