The 2038BLK shares D2 steel, DuraLock crossbar lock, black anodized aluminum handle, full 3.4-inch blade length, and manual thumb stud deployment with the reverse tanto Iridium variants (2038RBLK, 2038R). The two differences are blade geometry and blade finish. The 2038BLK runs a spear point — a symmetrical, centered tip with a long usable belly that is more versatile for general EDC slicing tasks. The reverse tanto variants run a tip-heavy geometry optimized for controlled puncture. The 2038BLK also uses a black PVD coating rather than black-oxide (2038RBLK) or stonewash (2038R) — PVD is harder and more adhesion-stable than black-oxide. If general everyday cutting versatility and the most durable black finish are the priorities, the 2038BLK. If tip-forward puncture performance is the priority, the reverse tanto variants.

Black-oxide is a chemical conversion coating that reacts with the steel surface to form a thin layer of magnetite — it provides modest corrosion resistance and light suppression but is a relatively soft coating that can wear off at contact points with regular use. Black PVD (physical vapor deposition) bonds a titanium nitride or zirconium nitride layer to the blade surface at the molecular level under vacuum conditions. The PVD layer is significantly harder than black-oxide — harder, in fact, than the D2 steel underneath — and adheres more durably to the surface. For a carry knife that sees daily pocket contact and working use, black PVD holds its appearance and corrosion barrier longer than black-oxide under equivalent conditions.

A spear point features a symmetrical profile with the tip centered on the blade's midline — equal upper and lower bevels meeting at a well-supported piercing point. The centered geometry produces a long, usable belly that excels at slicing tasks: food prep, breaking down boxes, cutting cordage, and any cutting motion that benefits from drawing the edge across material. Compared to the reverse tanto, the spear point is more versatile for general everyday cutting tasks but offers less reinforced tip mass for hard puncture work. For buyers whose daily carry tasks span the full range of EDC use rather than emphasizing tip-forward work, the spear point is the more capable geometry across the board.

DuraLock is Kershaw's crossbar locking system. A hardened steel crossbar passes laterally through the handle and drops into a notch in the blade tang when the blade reaches full open, locking it positively in place across a wide contact area. To close, push the crossbar from either side with your thumb — it clears the tang notch and the blade folds freely. The crossbar provides a wider, more stable lockup geometry than a standard Liner Lock and eliminates accidental lock disengagement from lateral blade pressure. On the full-size Iridium, this hardware handles a 3.4-inch D2 blade under full working loads.

D2 is a high-carbon, high-chromium tool steel — semi-stainless by composition but tool steel by performance. Its high carbide content gives it significantly better edge retention and wear resistance than the 8Cr13MoV common at this price tier. The trade-off is modest susceptibility to surface rust if left wet or stored in humid conditions. The black PVD coating on the 2038BLK provides a durable corrosion barrier across the blade face that outperforms black-oxide in this regard. Wipe the blade dry after moisture exposure and apply a thin coat of blade oil before extended storage to maintain the exposed steel at the sharpened bevel.

The Iridium 2038BLK is a manual folding knife with thumb stud deployment — not assisted-opening, automatic, or OTF — which places it in the broadest legal carry category under most state laws. Blade length restrictions vary by state, city, and municipality, and a 3.4-inch blade may exceed carry limits in some jurisdictions. Knifeworks cannot provide legal advice. Check your local laws at akti.org (American Knife and Tool Institute) before carrying, or call us at 888-225-9775.

Kershaw offers a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. If the knife fails due to a manufacturing defect, Kershaw will repair or replace it at no charge. Warranty service is handled directly by Kershaw — not Knifeworks. Submit a claim through Kershaw's website at kershawknives.com with a description of the issue and proof of purchase. Normal wear, cosmetic finish wear, sharpening, and damage from misuse are not covered.

The Kershaw Iridium 2038BLK is manufactured in China under Kershaw's offshore production program. Kershaw designs, engineers, and quality-controls all models from their Tualatin, Oregon headquarters, and the Iridium carries the same Kershaw Lifetime Warranty as their USA-made production pieces. Buyers who prefer domestic manufacturing should consider the Bel Air series (6105), which is USA made in Tualatin, Oregon.