Introduction
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the opportunity to test out the impressive Snap-on Dash pocket knife. This outstanding tool, crafted with the renowned Kershaw Knife in the USA, is a true testament to exceptional design and functionality. With its American manufacturing, top-notch materials, and innovative Speed Safe® spring-assisted opening technology, the Dash is a cut above the rest. When closed, it measures a compact 4 5/8 inches, but when open, it stretches to an impressive 8 inches, sporting a 3 1/2 inch drop point blade. Let’s dive deeper into this remarkable knife.
Switchblade and Spring Assist Deployment
My fascination with knives began at a young age when I accompanied my father to Mitchell’s Hardware Store in East Orwell, Ohio. As I observed my dad gathering tools for his latest home repair project, my attention was drawn to the knives displayed in the wooden case on the counter. In those days, switchblades were sold by all hardware stores. Naturally, I coveted one, but my dad would always tell me, “You’re not old enough to use a switchblade.” What he actually meant was that I wasn’t old enough to own a knife. It wasn’t until I turned 11 and joined the Boy Scouts that I finally earned my totin chip patch and received a 3-bladed boner made by Camillus.
Switchblades, often associated with a rebellious image, were a staple for those tough individuals who carried them in the side pocket of their engineer boots. Fonzy may have glamorized these individuals in Happy Days, but in reality, they were far from the idyllic characters portrayed on screen. These tough guys were not the brightest bulbs, and if they caught you with a switchblade, they would bring you down on the playground. Back then, I thought to myself, “If only I had one, I could teach those bullies a lesson.” Looking back, I am grateful to my father for keeping such wisdom from me.
Due to concerns surrounding the “shelves,” a federal law was passed in 1958, banning the importation and sale of switchblades in interstate commerce. Whether this legislation reduced gang violence or simply pushed hardliners towards bats and guns, only sociologists can determine. However, what remains true is that regular citizens are denied access to a highly practical knife for a variety of purposes. A switchblade can be opened with one hand, making it invaluable when the other hand is occupied. It is also compact enough to fit securely in your pocket. These qualities made switchblades a staple for paratroopers during World War II. With a Knife, Pocket M2, you won’t accidentally cut through the shroud wiring, but you would be able to cut yourself free from the shroud with one hand while your other hand is engaged in firing a gun or hanging from a branch. However, my personal love for switchblades stems from the simple fact that they’re incredibly fun!
One drawback of switchblades is that without an additional locking mechanism, the blade can accidentally open. If this happens in your pocket, the best-case scenario is damaged clothing. For this reason, most switchblades, including the M2, have a safety lock that must be disengaged before the open button can be pressed. Some states still allow the purchase of replacement blades since the 1958 law only applies to interstate commerce. Interestingly, the law does not apply to spring-assisted knives that require physical strength to initiate the opening process. Most spring-assist knives have a corner, known as a flipper, that extends from the base of the blade to the back. Applying pressure on the flipper triggers the opening process, and if your finger or any other objects are out of the way, the blade quickly snaps open.
Snap-on Dash: The Manufacturer’s Perspective
The Snap-on Dash is a prime example of a spring assist knife, and dare I say, the finest I’ve ever had the pleasure of using. According to Dash’s advertisement, the knife features:
- A large, slightly pointed blade, ideal for precise slicing and piercing.
- High-performance stainless steel blades for exceptional corrosion resistance and a visually pleasing appearance.
- A lightweight machined 6061-T6 anodized aluminum handle with a Trac-Tec insert, ensuring an incredibly secure grip.
- Equipped with the groundbreaking SpeedSafe® knife-assisted opening technology.
The opening mechanism of the Dash is truly impressive. With a slight backward pressure on the horn, which is now referred to as the index point by Snap-on/Kershaw, the blade initiates the opening process. At around 25° of motion, the spring takes over, propelling the blade into full extension and securely locking it in place. Upon unboxing the Dash, I was astounded by the flawless unfolding of the blade, which occurred effortlessly and flawlessly. Regardless of where you start the opening process—up, down, or sideways—the Dash opens with absolute precision. I even got one of my knives dirty while using it in muddy conditions, and it still opened smoothly. I deliberately subjected it to the mud, hitting the clip, but it performed flawlessly. Throughout the past few weeks, while carrying two or even three Dash knives simultaneously, not a single one accidentally opened. Kudos to Kershaw for their remarkable engineering. For those interested in more technical details, you can find patent abstracts by conducting a search on Google Patent Search using the keywords “US 8001693 B2 Closable knife with opening mechanism.”
Snap-on Dash: The User’s Perspective
The drop point blade of the Dash proves to be incredibly versatile, serving as an invaluable tool for a wide range of tasks. Whether I needed to slice salami and brie during an impromptu picnic or remove gasket remnants from an engine block, the Dash performed admirably. The high-performance stainless steel used in the blade is Sandvik’s 1428N alloy, renowned for its exceptional blade-making properties. With a carbon content of 0.62%, it can easily achieve an approximate HRC of 62 during heat treatment. The composition, consisting of 14% chromium and 0.11% nickel, guarantees excellent corrosion resistance. Additionally, the blade features a flexible and sturdy diamond-like coating (DLC). Only time will tell if this coating truly stands the test of time.
The side plates, also known as scales, are made of 6061 aluminum alloy, which is incredibly easy to machine. With a T6 temper, this alloy is rolled into the hardest possible aluminum form. The anodization process ensures both corrosion resistance and a variety of color options. Currently, the Dash is available in black, green, orange, and red. However, I believe adding a hard coat anodizing option would offer an even higher level of protection and wear resistance compared to standard anodizing. The black Trac-Tec insert is a textured polymer that provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
When it comes to usability, the Dash’s SpeedSafe® opening technology truly shines. With just a slight backward pressure on the horn/baffle, the index point initiates the opening process. At approximately 25° of motion, the spring takes over, swiftly propelling the blade into its fully extended and securely locked position. From the moment I unboxed the Dash, I was amazed at how flawlessly and effortlessly the blade unfolded not once, but twice. Regardless of the starting position, the Dash opens with astonishing precision. I even subjected one of my knives to the mud, purposely hitting the clip, but it continued to perform flawlessly. Over the past few weeks, carrying two or three Dash knives at a time, not a single one accidentally opened. Thanks to Kershaw’s ingenuity, I wholeheartedly recommend the Snap-on Dash Knife without reservation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Snap-on Dash Spring Secondary Folder is an outstanding knife that truly lives up to its claims. With its exceptional design, high-quality materials, and innovative features, it is a reliable tool that can handle a variety of tasks with ease. Whether you need a precise slicing tool or a reliable companion for rugged outdoor adventures, the Dash will not disappoint. Its ergonomic design, secure grip, and effortless opening mechanism make it a pleasure to use. I wholeheartedly recommend the Snap-on Dash to anyone in search of a top-notch pocket knife.
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