The Kershaw Launch series is Kershaw's line of USA made push-button automatics, built in Tualatin, Oregon, and it spans more than twenty models from discreet everyday carry to full size work knives. Every Launch uses a recessed button that sits flush with the handle to guard against accidental deployment, backed by a strong spring for fast, consistent opening. Steels run from 14C28N and CPM 154 to M4 and CPM MagnaCut, and the lineup anchors the American made automatic side of the full range of Kershaw knives.
The Launch 4 is the smallest and lightest, a 1.9 inch CPM 154 spear point that closes to about 3.2 inches. The Launch 13 runs a sculpted aluminum handle at just 2.4 ounces, the Launch 14 brings a CPM 154 cleaver blade, and the Launch 6 reaches 3.75 inches for bigger jobs. Our guide to knife lock types explains how the button lock works.
The Launch 16 tanto and Launch 21 drop point are built as tactical work knives in M4, a tool steel that holds an edge and resists chipping under hard use. M4 is not stainless, so it needs a little care to stay rust free. The Launch 21 pairs aluminum with G-10 inlays in FDE, blue, and olive, plus a Damascus edition.
The Launch 15, Launch 22, and Launch Iridium run CPM MagnaCut, which pairs high end edge retention with excellent toughness and corrosion resistance. The Launch 15 and 22 share a spear point with canvas Micarta inlays, and the Launch Iridium brings the clean Iridium profile to push-button deployment. Our knife steel guide compares MagnaCut, M4, and CPM 154.
The newest model, the Launch 24, is a work focused auto with a 3 inch 14C28N sheepsfoot blade, a straight edge and controlled tip built for box cutting and utility jobs. Gray aluminum keeps it at 2.5 ounces and about 4 inches closed. Like every Launch, it carries a reversible deep carry clip.