A protruding finger flicker allows the Swerve to be opened easily with either hand -- a plus for close quarters confrontations.
A spring-opening mechanism helps push and lock the blade into place once it is slightly pushed open with the thumb.
While the Kershaw Swerve isn’t legally classified as a switchblade, author Scott W. Wagner writes that the difference is minimal in his article “Kershaw Swerve: Quality Tactical Folder for $30” at USConcealedCarry.com:
“It’s not considered (in most places) to be a ‘switchblade’ since manual energy must first be employed before the spring takes over and finishes the cycle. In a true switchblade, there is no such manual energy required to open the blade.” (Read more at USConcealedCarry.com)
As the Swerve pivots open, the finger flipper rotates to the bottom of the knife, where it protrudes and prevents fingers from sliding forward onto the blade. The Swerve’s blade is locked in place by an interior locking mechanism with negligible movement.
The handle is glass-filled nylon and textured with the familiar K-texture that is a trademark of the Kershaw brand knives. The Swerve is well-balanced and the ergonomic design can be felt immediately upon gripping the knife. The pocket clip can be switched to either side or simply removed for deep pocket carry.
While the Kershaw Swerve is not going to win any fine art contests, it will prove useful as an all-purpose durable knife. At a fraction of the cost of similar high-end knives, this blade is a bargain. List price is $39.99, but prices vary widely at retail outlets as well as online.