The full-size Iridium lineup now spans four variants at 3.4 inches, all sharing D2 steel, DuraLock crossbar lock, manual thumb stud deployment, and the same overall dimensions. They differ in blade geometry, finish, and handle color. The 2038RBLK is a reverse tanto with black-oxide blade on a black aluminum handle — full blackout, tip-forward geometry. The 2038R is a reverse tanto with stonewash blade on a black aluminum handle — two-tone, same tip-forward geometry. The 2038BLK is a spear point with black PVD blade on a black aluminum handle — full blackout, versatile geometry. The 2038 (this model) is a spear point with stonewash blade on a gray aluminum handle — the most neutral two-tone combination, most versatile geometry. For general EDC versatility in a carry-anywhere finish, the 2038 is the call.

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 draws 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 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.

Stonewash D2 is bare steel in textured form — no chemical conversion coating, no PVD layer. The stonewash texture hides fine surface scratches well and diffuses light to keep the blade low-profile, but it does not provide the corrosion barrier that black-oxide or PVD coatings deliver. D2 can develop surface rust if left wet or stored in humid conditions without care. Wipe the blade dry after moisture exposure and apply a thin coat of blade oil before extended storage. Over time, bare stonewash D2 develops a natural patina as the steel oxidizes uniformly — many buyers actively prefer this finish over coated blades that wear unevenly at the sharpened bevel.

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. The same hardware runs across the full Iridium series and the DuraLock GFN family.

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. With a stonewash finish on the 2038, the blade face is bare D2 — wipe it 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 2038 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 2038 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.