The Kershaw Launch 18 uses a side-button automatic mechanism — press the button on the spine of the handle and the blade deploys instantly, locking open via the liner lock through the KVT ball-bearing pivot. To close, disengage the liner lock with your thumb and fold the blade back into the handle. The Launch 18 is a folding automatic knife — the compact 2.79-inch CPM-154 spear point pivots from the handle. Despite the compact blade length, the deployment mechanism delivers the same fast, positive action as the full-size Launch variants. Automatic knives are subject to the same state and federal restrictions as OTF automatics. See the legality FAQ below before purchasing.

Side-button automatic knives are subject to strict regulation under federal and state law. Under federal law, the interstate sale and transport of automatic knives is restricted. State laws vary significantly: some states permit automatic knives freely, some restrict blade length, some require permits or military or law enforcement status, and some prohibit them entirely. A 2.79-inch blade clears the carry length threshold in most US jurisdictions — but automatic knife classification is independent of blade length restrictions. Verify automatic knife legality in your state, county, and municipality before purchasing. Check your local laws at akti.org or call us at 888-225-9775.

The Launch 18 now spans four variants, all sharing the same 2.79-inch spear point geometry, KVT ball-bearing side-button deployment, liner lock, and USA manufacture in Tualatin, Oregon. The 7551BLKSW runs CPM-154 stonewash on black anodized aluminum — the most carry-neutral and zero-signature configuration, unified all-black, no color or field signal, works in every carry context without communicating a specific aesthetic. The 7551 runs CPM-154 stonewash on gray anodized aluminum — neutral professional carry, precise and context-free in gray. The 7551OL runs CPM-154 stonewash on OD green anodized aluminum — the field-carry configuration with deliberate tactical signal. The 7551DAM runs Damascus steel on gray anodized aluminum — premium visual, per-blade-unique Damascus pattern, active moisture maintenance required. For zero-signature all-black carry, the 7551BLKSW. For neutral professional gray, the 7551. For field-carry OD green, the 7551OL. For Damascus uniqueness, the 7551DAM.

An all-black carry knife is the most universally appropriate and context-free automatic in any carry lineup. Black communicates no specific carry signal — not warm and premium like bronze, not bold like blue or red, not field-tactical like OD green, not materially honest and patina-developing like raw aluminum. Black reads as precision carry hardware that works in every context: business, professional, tactical, outdoor, or casual. The matte stonewash blade and black anodized handle together produce a low-reflectance unified profile — the knife diffuses rather than reflects light, maintaining its zero-signature carry character even in bright environments. For buyers who carry an all-black system or who carry in contexts where color and material statement should be neutral, the 7551BLKSW is the right configuration.

CPM-154 is the powder metallurgy version of the classic 154CM stainless steel formula, produced by Crucible Industries. The powder metallurgy process produces a more uniform carbide distribution than conventionally melted 154CM, resulting in better edge retention, improved toughness, and cleaner sharpening behavior while retaining 154CM's excellent corrosion resistance. In a compact 2.79-inch blade used for continuous everyday incidental tasks, edge retention is especially important — CPM-154 keeps the spear point cutting cleanly through more cycles before maintenance. It sharpens readily on standard ceramic rods and requires no special maintenance in carry conditions.

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 stonewash patina development, handle anodize wear, sharpening, and damage from misuse are not covered.

The Kershaw Launch 18 7551BLKSW is manufactured in the USA at Kershaw's production facility in Tualatin, Oregon. Domestic manufacture is a consistent feature of the full Launch series. The 7551BLKSW carries the Kershaw Lifetime Warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.