Alright folks I am on the tail end of my testing with the Kershaw Launch 21. My plan is to release my notes from the testing before I do the final review as a way for people to be able to do a quick read. Here are my notes so far.

Core Notes

• Modern tactical design with a more aggressive, hard-use appearance.
• M4 steel provides superior edge retention but requires more effort to sharpen and maintain.
• PVD coating is holding up well with minimal wear.
• Feels more purpose-built for harder use, less refined but highly capable.

Detailed Comparison Notes

• Button has noticeable drag when deploying; requires more force; smooth when closing.
• Very strong lockup; no up/down or side-to-side play.
• Anodizing is well done and even.
• PVD blade coating resists scratching well.
• G10 is well textured and provides strong grip, especially when wet or sweaty.
• Carries lighter than expected at approximately 4.1 oz.
• Jimping on both blade and scales is useful and adds control.
• Jimping under the index finger helps with harder-use tasks.
• Squared edges with slight chamfering.
• Drop point blade shape works better for harder-use tasks.
• Feels purpose-built for demanding tasks compared to the ZT 0512.

Factory Specifications

• Blade Length: 3.45 in
• Overall Length: 8.4 in
• Closed Length: 4.95 in
• Blade Thickness: 0.16 in
• Steel: CPM M4
• Hardness: 60–62 HRC
• Weight: 4.1 oz
• Handle: Aluminum with G10 inserts
• Action: Automatic (button lock)
• Finish: PVD

Overall Summary

• The Launch 21 leans heavily into a modern hard-use automatic philosophy.
• Compared to the ZT 0512, it feels more aggressive, more tactical, and more optimized toward demanding use.
• The M4 steel and durable PVD finish emphasize performance and durability over refinement.
• The knife carries lighter than expected and provides excellent grip and control.
• Deployment is strong but has more button drag than the ZT 0512.
• Overall it comes across as a highly capable working automatic designed for harder-use environments.