Description:
The Kershaw Launch 14 is an automatic cleaver that makes a real statement. Since the blade has so much meat near the tip, it opens with some real authority. It's the perfect size for everyday carry, and thanks to its overbuilt construction, can really take a thumping.
The Kershaw Launch Series high-performance, USA-made automatics that punch way above their price point! Shop the whole selection!
I love nearly everything about this knife. Surprisingly light and very snappy action, not as much as my Protechs, but more than enough. The blade release is a little gritty and requires a decent press to open, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The knife looks great and feels good in the hand. The blade is razor-sharp and shaves hair right out of the box. The only minor complaint is it doesn’t have a deep carry clip.
I picked this up at another site because they got the drop on Blade HQ (sorry Blade HQ). I have never been a fan of the “Launch” series, but this is a definite game-changer. The design demonstrates a great deal of thought and planning that went into this auto. The scales are beautiful, it has an enlarged lanyard hole to accommodate any lanyard, the thorough design of the handle is a combination of frame and barrel spacer with really a fantastic visual effect. Nice clip, great ergos with no hotspots. The blade is a beautiful black wash and arrived razor sharp. I love the “in-house” design symbol KAI put on the blade (like my ZT 0308 and 0990). The blade fires with confidence. It doesn’t fire as hard as my Claymore or 9400, but it also doesn’t have ANY BLADEPLAY of any kind. Just rock-solid. The balance is oddly between the choil and finger scallop, but it holds very nicely. I’m just really impressed. I felt ripped off when I bought a SOG OTF that rattled for $350, but $150 feels just about perfect for this fine knife. Just awesome. Highly recommend
I was drawn to Launch 14 due to its styling. I just recently received it and am very happy with its styling, ergonomics, size, centering, blade finish, and in general craftsmanship. I gave it four stars though because at first the push button wasn't that smooth and made a sound as I pushed it. After a few days and a drop of oil, it did get better but still isn't completely smooth. It does open with a nice snap though. I also have a very subjective issue with it that is hard to explain. It fits good in the hand, but it's a relatively light knife that has a blade that looks big and heavy but really isn't. I guess its looks don't go with its weight. It looks like it might weigh more than it does, but the handle feels light, so it kind of gives it a cheap feel. I also don't like the clip as it's too thin for a beefy-looking knife, but it does work fine. If I can find a different clip I might consider upgrading. With all that said, not a bad knife, but I have other knives in this price range that feel better in the hand weight-wise, although they can't beat the Launch 14's ergos.