Another day, another chance to review whats new in products that matter to you.  Today I’m opening up a blade from Kershaw, the Rove.  It wasn’t too long ago I reviewed another Kershaw knife, the Westin.  I mention this because I can immediately spot a few similarities and given how highly I think of the Westin, that’s a good thing.
The first difference I spot between the two is the size. Â The Rove has a beefier handle than the Westin, sure to be appreciated by those with bigger hands. Â My mitts may not be incredibly long, but I have a very wide palm and really don’t like having a pinky dangle off an undersized handle. Â The Rove isn’t massive, its sufficient. Â That’s just the right place to be for an EDC blade. Â The slabs on the sides of the handle are glass filled nylon. Â They have a nice texture that provides a good gripping surface.
![Kershaw Rove | First Impressions](https://i0.wp.com/loadoutroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/P1120348.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
The speed-safe assisted opening is fantastic. Â I cannot get this thing to open halfway. Â If I slowly increase pressure on the flipper, the blade stays stationary until I’m pressing hard enough for the blade to swing out with authority and lock solidly in the open position. Â While the blade’s opening motion is authoritative, it isn’t overpowered enough to cause the knife to torque out of your grip. Â It is a great balance indeed.
The drop-point blade is 3.3″ long and made up of 8Cr13MoV stainless steel. Â This type of stainless is well reputed for its edge retention and hardness. Â My Westin with the same steel is still near factory sharp despite months of every day carry and use.
![Kershaw Rove | First Impressions](https://i0.wp.com/loadoutroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/P1120337.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
I’ll be using this Kershaw Rove for some time before coming on back to let you all know how it holds up.
Stay tuned..