I’d say to handle both before you make a decision. They’re both functionally good, but feel different in operation. If you’re into fidgeting at all you’ll either love or hate the axis lock on the Kershaw depending on your tastes. Axis locks are very smooth and easy to swing open and shut, but don’t really have a detent so some people (me included) find them less satisfying. The Para 3 should have a very crisp detent that makes the blade rocket out upon opening, and pressing the lockbar will drop it just as smoothly as an axis lock, albeit probably not as quickly.
NarrWallace
I have handled both (well the para 3 lw, not the g10 version) and prefer the bel air. It has a ambi lock, deep carry clip, and takes way less space in the pocket. As the other commenter says, getting both in hand is the best way to know for sure. I personally think the action on the bel air is better too. Kershaw also makes an all black version of the bel air.
2 Comments
I’d say to handle both before you make a decision. They’re both functionally good, but feel different in operation. If you’re into fidgeting at all you’ll either love or hate the axis lock on the Kershaw depending on your tastes. Axis locks are very smooth and easy to swing open and shut, but don’t really have a detent so some people (me included) find them less satisfying. The Para 3 should have a very crisp detent that makes the blade rocket out upon opening, and pressing the lockbar will drop it just as smoothly as an axis lock, albeit probably not as quickly.
I have handled both (well the para 3 lw, not the g10 version) and prefer the bel air. It has a ambi lock, deep carry clip, and takes way less space in the pocket. As the other commenter says, getting both in hand is the best way to know for sure. I personally think the action on the bel air is better too. Kershaw also makes an all black version of the bel air.