Buyer'S Buyer'S: Best NEW
Buyer'S Buyer'S: Best NEW
Buyer'S Buyer'S: Best NEW
E
KNIV
2017
D
P
I
D WITH TO
GU
116 PAGES PACKE
BUYER’S
KNIVES BUYER’S GUIDE
BEST
NEW
KNIVES
SURVIVAL • BUSHCRAFT
HUNTING • EDC • TACTICAL
KNIFE
GRINDS
101
CUSTOMIZATION GUIDE
10 TIPS
knivesillustrated.com
BEFORE YOU BUY…
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2017
01
W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company proudly introduces the Case® BESH
Wedge. Designed by Brent Beshara and inspired by Case’s V-42 of World War
II fame, this revolutionary knife blends modern technology with optimal per-
formance and utility. It sports a unique blade shape, composed of two diago-
nally opposed bevels that converge to form a third cutting edge, that gives the
tip superior strength. Well balanced for a comfortable, responsive feel – the
Case® BESH Wedge is ready to serve.
CASE, , CASE XX, and other marks used herein are registered trademarks or trademarks
of CaseMark, Inc. and used under license to W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Company in the USA.
BUYER’S GUIDES
08 FIXED
They have been the staple of mankind for
thousands of years. While they come in various
sizes and styles, they have one thing in common:
sturdiness. Numerous are the choices. Abundant
are the uses. They are fixed knives.
30 FOLDERS
Versatility is the folder’s strength. Use it for every-
day activities, including cutting twine, opening an
envelope or even self-defense. When you select
one, make sure it excels in form, fit and function.
58 BUSHCRAFT
What is the key to thriving in the bush? The right
tool. In this section, you’ll find the best choices
for any challenge the wilderness presents.
70 HUNTING
The hunt is over. Now it’s time to process the
game. A good hunting knife is mandatory, as it
will insure that you do not perforate the hide.
Hunting knives have evolved over the years.
Check out these top options for 2017.
80 SURVIVAL
Imagine the scenario: A freak storm has
destroyed your camp, and your supplies are
obliterated. Mother Nature’s unpredictability may
have created chaos for you, but you are prepared
with a survival knife for anything else that comes
your way.
100 TOMAHAWKS 08 58
Based on their versatility, simplicity and effective-
ness, tomahawks have endured for generations.
Use them for chopping, prying, hammering and
even combat. Reliability and the tomahawk go
hand in hand.
110 SHARPENERS
We know some members of the SOF’s who
70
sharpen their knife after every use. If that does
not drive home the importance of a sharp blade,
nothing will. The art and science of sharpening
goes back to the Stone Age. Leap forward
millions of years and check out some choices
106
you have today.
110
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) is published 7 times a year, January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November and December, by Engaged Media, Inc., 17890 Sky Park Circle #250, Irvine,
CA 92614. Periodical postage paid at Anaheim, CA and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to KNIVES ILLUSTRATED c/o Engaged Media, Inc. VSI, Inc., 905 Kent St., Liberty, MO 64068. © 2017 by Engaged
Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST#855050365RT001 Canadian Post: Publications Mail Agreement PITNEY BOWES, INC., PO Box 25542, London,
ON N6C 6B2
4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
1-HANDED RUBBERIZED
OPENING HANDLE
DESIGN
Eric Knagg Design Director
CONTRIBUTORS
Jerrie Barber, Reuben Bolieu, Kevin Estela, Douglas Flagg,
James E. House, Michael Janich, Sally Janich, Garrett Lucas, Jenna Martin, Doug Ritter,
Tim Stetzer, Bob Taylor, Clint Thompson, Jacob Tuinstra, Sharp By Coop
ADVERTISING
Gabe Frimmel Ad Sales Director
(714) 200-1930
gfrimmel@engagedmediainc.com
Casey Clifford Senior Account Executive
(714) 200-1982
52
Mark Pack Senior Account Executive
(714) 200-1939
Charles Dorr Account Executive
(714) 200-1931
John Bartulin Account Executive
(866) 866-5146 ext. 2746
Joe Galloway Account Executive
(863) 370-4376
John Cabral Advertising Design
Gennifer Merriday Advertising Traffic Coordinator
Eric Gomez Advertising Traffic Coordinator
OPERATIONS
Robert Short IT Manager
Parveen Kumar Newsstand and Circulation Analyst
Shailesh Khandelwal Subscriptions Manager
Alex Mendoza Administrative Assistant
Jeno Torres Administrative Assistant
Victoria Van Vlear Intern Program Manager
94
March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November and December, by
Engaged Media, Inc., 17890 Sky Park Circle #250, Irvine, CA 92614. Periodical postage paid at
Anaheim, CA and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: send address changes to KNIVES ILLUSTRATED c/o Engaged Media, Inc. VSI,
Inc., 905 Kent St., Liberty, MO 64068.
© 2017 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue
in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST#855050365RT001
Canadian Post: Publications Mail Agreement PITNEY BOWES, INC.,
PO Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Engaged Media, Inc.
17890 Sky Park Circle #250, Irvine, CA 92614
Subscriptions, Address Changes, Renewals,
Missing or Damaged Copies
(800) 764-6278
(239) 653-0225 Foreign Inquiries
subscriptions@engagedmediainc.com
customerservice@engagedmediainc.com
Back Issues: www.engagedmediamags.com
Books, Merchandise, Reprints
(800) 764-6278 • Foreign (239) 653-0225
SUBSCRIPTION RATES
FEATURES
$17.95/1 year, $29.95/2 years. Outside the U.S., add $20.00 per year payable in U.S. funds.
Single copy price is $7.99.
Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for new subscriptions to begin.
24 KNIFE ANATOMY
Discover different blade grinds and the advantages of each.
By Jerrie Barber
ENGAGED MEDIA, INC.
Mike Savino CEO
Celia Merriday HR and Office Management
Jason Mulroney Content Director 52 THE ART OF CUSTOMIZING
Pinaki Bhattacharya Vertical Manager
Philip Trinkle Newsstand Sales Director
With some crafty modifications, you can make good blades even better.
Kris Roadruck Marketing Director By R. Bolieu
Sabra Morris Director of Content Marketing
Bob Hulsy Business Development Director
This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that 94 KNIFE BUYING 101
information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or re-
sponsibility by Engaged Media Inc., as to the legality, completeness or technical accuracy. Don't pull the trigger on a new knife until you read this.
GST #855050365RT001 Our top survival expert provides 10 key items you must know.
Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:
By Kevin Estela
PITNEY BOWES, INC., P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2, Canada
6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
6”
5”
F
4”
0”
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 9
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
2”
03 Steel Will Knives
ADEPT 1010
OVERALL LENGTH: 11.34 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 5.91 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: N690Co
stainless steel 1”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.2 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: NA
MSRP: $299
WEBSITE: SteelWillKnives.com 0”
10 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
01 02 03
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
04 Ontario Knife
CERBERUS
6” OVERALL LENGTH: 10.2 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.8 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2 tool steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.188 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
5”
WEIGHT: 7.67 ounces
MSRP: $265
WEBSITE: OntarioKnife.com
05 CAS Iberia
4” CENTURION TACTICAL
KNIFE
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.750 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 5.750 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: AUS-8 stainless steel
3” BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Kraton
WEIGHT: 8.4 ounces
MSRP: $150
WEBSITE: CASIberia.com
2”
06 Bastillini Knives
BASTILLINI R.E.D.
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.00 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.50 inches
1” BLADE MATERIAL: AUS-8 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.13 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G-10
WEIGHT: 4.20 ounces
MSRP: $230
0” WEBSITE: BastilliniKnives.com
04 05 06 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 11
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
07 Steel Will Knives
1510 GEKKO
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.33 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.33 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: N690Co 6”
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.16 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Micarta
WEIGHT: 6.88 ounces
MSRP: $239 5”
WEBSITE: SteelWillKnives.com
08 CAS Iberia
SENPAI TACTICAL
TANTO KNIFE 4”
OVERALL LENGTH: 12.00 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 6.750 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: AUS-8
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.18 inch 3”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Kraton ABS
WEIGHT: 15.5 ounces
MSRP: $150
WEBSITE: CASIberia.com
2”
09 Bradford Knives
GUARDIAN 3
OVERALL LENGTH: 6.50 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.77 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM 3V steel 1”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.142 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Carbon fiber
WEIGHT: 3.56 ounces
MSRP: $194
WEBSITE: BradfordKnives.com 0”
12 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
07 08 09
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
10 Schrade
SCHF55
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.75 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.55 inches
6” BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 carbon steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.18 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Grivory
WEIGHT: 5.7 ounces
MSRP: $61
5” WEBSITE: TaylorBrandsLLC.com
11 Hogue Knives
EX-F02
OVERALL LENGTH: 9 inches
4” BLADE LENGTH: 4.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: A2 tool steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Polymer/overmold-
ed rubber
3” WEIGHT: 5.5 ounces
MSRP: $149
WEBSITE: HogueInc.com
10 11 12 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 13
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
13 TOPS Knives
C.A.T. 203
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.25 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches 6”
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black linen Micarta
WEIGHT: 5.6 ounces
MSRP: $115 5”
WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com
14 TOPS Knives
C.A.T. 200S-04
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.25 inches 4”
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.16 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Green canvas
Micarta 3”
WEIGHT: 5.6 ounces
MSRP: $120
WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com
2”
15 Cold Steel
AK-47 FIELD KNIFE
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.375 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 5.2 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM 3-V high carbon
steel with DLC coating 1”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.11 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 11.1 ounces
MSRP: $284
WEBSITE: ColdSteel.com 0”
14 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
13 14 15
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
16 Cold Steel
7” WARCRAFT TANTO
OVERALL LENGTH: 12.75 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 7.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM 3-V
high carbon steel
6” BLADE THICKNESS: 0.11 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Long G10
WEIGHT: 13 ounces
MSRP: $329
WEBSITE: ColdSteel.com
5”
17 Zac Brown's Southern Grind
RAT NECK KNIFE
OVERALL LENGTH: 4.875 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 2.25 inches
4” BLADE MATERIAL: 8670M
high carbon steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.135 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Skeletonized 8670M
high carbon steel
3” WEIGHT: 1.5 ounces
MSRP: $99
WEBSITE: SouthernGrind.com
18 Gerber
2” STRONGARM FIXED
BLADE
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.8 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.8 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
1” BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
with rubber overmold
WEIGHT: 7.2 ounces
MSRP: $86
0” WEBSITE: GerberGear.com
16 17 18 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 15
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
19 Gerber
GHOSTSTRIKE
31-002720
OVERALL LENGTH: 6.9 inches 6”
BLADE LENGTH: 3.3 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Rubber overmold
WEIGHT: 6 ounces 5”
MSRP: $83
WEBSITE: GerberGear.com
16 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
19 20 21
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
22 Mission
CSP-A2
6” OVERALL LENGTH: 10 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.75 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: A2 steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.25 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
WEIGHT: 11.3 ounces
5”
MSRP: $249
WEBSITE: MissionKnives.com
23 Camillus Knives
4” DAGR
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.9 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095HC steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.19 inch
3” HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 10.1 ounces
MSRP: $269
WEBSITE: CamillusKnives.com
2”
24 SOG Specialty Knives & Tools
SEAL STRIKE
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.6 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.9 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: AUS-8 stainless steel
1” BLADE THICKNESS: 0.16 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-reinforced
nylon and stainless steel
WEIGHT: 5.6 ounces
MSRP: $83-$127
0” WEBSITE: SOGKnives.com
22 23 24 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 17
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
25 Boker
APPLEGATE 5.5 7”
CENTURY EDITION
SPECIAL RUN
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.6 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 5.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 154CM stainless steel 6”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.196 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Palisander
WEIGHT: 8.5 ounces
MSRP: $399
WEBSITE: Boker.de/us 5”
26 Buck Knives
119 BRAHMA
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.5inches
BLADE LENGTH: 6 inches 4”
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel with
black powder coating
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.175 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Stacked leather with
Micarta spacers 3”
WEIGHT: 9.3 ounces
MSRP: $115
WEBSITE: BuckKnives.com
2”
27 Buck Knives
MATT WOULD GO
(MWG)
OVERALL LENGTH: 9 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 5160 coated steel 1”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.165 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Camo Micarta
WEIGHT: 6.3 ounces
MSRP: $245
WEBSITE: BuckKnives.com 0”
18 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
25 26 27
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7” 28 Kershaw
SECRET AGENT
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.7 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.4 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV,
6” stainless steel with black-oxide coating
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Rubberized
co-molded
WEIGHT: 3 ounces
5” MSRP: $39
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
29 Katz Knives
LION KING PREMIUM
4” 302 STIPPLED KRATON
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.88 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 6.13 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: XT80 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.197 inch
3” HANDLE MATERIAL: Kraton
WEIGHT: 11.5 ounces
MSRP: $338
WEBSITE: KatzKnives.com
2”
30 Katz Knives
WILD KAT 103
STIPPLED KRATON
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.38 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.63 inches
1” BLADE MATERIAL: XT80 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Kraton
WEIGHT: 11 ounces
MSRP: $325
0” WEBSITE: KatzKnives.com
28 29 30 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 19
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
31 Katz Knives
AVENGER STIPPLED
KRATON
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.75 inches 6”
BLADE LENGTH: 4.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: XT70 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Kraton
WEIGHT: 6.5 ounces 5”
MSRP: $222
WEBSITE: KatzKnives.com
32 Microtech
ARBITER 4”
OVERALL LENGTH: 14 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 9 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: Bohler ELMAX
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10/FR4 Composite 3”
WEIGHT: 18 ounces
MSRP: Starting at $400
WEBSITE: MicrotechKnives.com
2”
33 KRUDO
BLISS BLACK
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.25 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 9Cr18Mo
stainless steel 1”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.190 inches
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 5.4 ounces
MSRP: $95
WEBSITE: KrudoKnives.com KI 0”
20 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
31 32 33
24 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 25
FLAT GRIND
“CONVEX BLADES ARE
EXTREMELY STRONG,
The flat grind is the most popu-
lar. This grind is most commonly
achieved by going from the back, or
ESPECIALLY BEHIND THE
CUTTING EDGE, AND MAKE
the spine of the blade and symmet-
rically removing metal in a straight
line toward the back of the primary
EXCELLENT HARD USE
KNIFES, USEFUL FOR
bevel, just before the sharpened
edge on either side of the spine.
In the end, the effect is an isosceles
PRYING AND FOR FIELD
CRAFT.”
triangle ground down to the cutting
edge. (Scandinavian grinds and
saber grinds also use flat grinds in
that at some point, that isosceles
triangle comes into play in the
symmetry of the blade.) Commonly
you would think of a chef’s knife or
a butcher’s knife. In our world, the
knife that comes to mind is nearly
any knife made by Spyderco that
incorporates the full flat grind into a
myriad of products in their catalog.
SABER GRIND
The Saber grind most commonly
will keep the width of the spine of
the blade to about halfway down
the distance of the blade toward No matter how
ornate the grinds
the cutting edge. This is to give on a blade, if the
grind begins at
strength to the blade for tasks such point A and ends
in a straight line at
as slashing and chopping. When point B, it is a flat
grind.
thinking of the most classic saber
grind knife, I often consider the
KA-BAR Marine knife, though many
makers incorporate a saber grind in
their blade design.
SCANDI GRIND
The Scandinavian grind (Scandi
grind) is similar in geometry to the
saber grind, except that the width
of the spine is carried out for almost
three-fourths of the of the blade, NEED TO KNOW WHATEVER HAPPENED TO…
until a flat grind is incorporated It is important to know how the grind of a knife works, A grind that has lost some in popularity over the years is the dagger,
to the primary bevel. This grind sharpens, and what that grind's common uses are. Not which has its thickness in the center and is sharpened on either side.
knowing what the common use of a grind is for is like When I was a kid, everyone had a Gerber boot knife and these come to
makes an excellent field craft knife.
having an automobile you never put gas in. mind when discussing this subject.
Because the width of the spine
26 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
HOLLOW GRIND
product with his line
of folding knives.
These are the best
One grind that continues to spark example of a hollow
grind. Notice how
debate is the hollow grind. A hollow there is almost a
sweeping effect
ground blade starting from the spine of getting deeper and
the blade, starts to narrow and contin- deeper all the way
to the cutting edge.
ues the removing of metal in a convex
or inward grind to the cutting edge.
Picture a straight razor and apply that
to a knife blade. While there are sever-
al who use this grind, I most commonly
think right away of Chris Reeve knives,
who have mastered the hollow grind
and continue to make improvements
on this cutting technology.
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 27
28 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
F
OLDERS- A knife may be the last line of
defense for an individual interested in
self-defense and personal protection.
Folding knives are unique in that they offer
compact and concealable usability, along with the
durability of a fixed blade. They also provide the
security and confidence of being ready for an
aggressive encounter, no matter what social
situation you find yourself in.
30 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
8”
7”
6”
5”
4”
3”
2”
1”
0”
Photos By Henry deKuyper
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 31
8”
7”
6”
5”
32 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
01 02 03
8”
7”
6”
5”
05 Ontario Knife
DOZIER ARROW BP
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.20 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.60 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2 steel
2” BLADE THICKNESS: 0.11 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 2.88 ounces
MSRP: $81
WEBSITE: OntarioKnife.com
06 Ontario Knife
1” DOZIER ARROW SP
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.20 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.60 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2 steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.11 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 2.92 ounces
MSRP: $78.95
0” WEBSITE: OntarioKnife.com
04 05 06 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 33
8”
7”
6”
5”
07 TOPS Knives
TAC-RAZE
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.63 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches 4”
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 high
carbon steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.13 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black G10
WEIGHT: 2.7 ounces
MSRP: $130
WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com
3”
08 Bastinelli Knives
SAFE FRAME LOCK
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.625 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.625 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.16 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Titanium 2”
WEIGHT: 5.58 ounces
MSRP: $400
WEBSITE: BastinelliKnives.com
09 Zero Tolerance
0220
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.4 inches 1”
BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: S35VN
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.16 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Titanium
WEIGHT: 6.2 ounces
MSRP: $285
WEBSITE: ZT.KaiUsaLtd.com 0”
34 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
07 08 09
8”
7”
6”
5”
10 Zero Tolerance
0450CF
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.4 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: S35VN stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.12 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Carbon fiber front,
4” titanium back
WEIGHT: 2.7 inches
MSRP: $225
WEBSITE: ZT.KaiUsaLtd.com
11 Spyderco
TENACIOUS BLACK
3” BLADE
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.76 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.39 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.118 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 4.1 ounces
2” MSRP: $74.95
WEBSITE: Spyderco.com
12 Spyderco
SAGE 5 COMPRESSION
LOCK
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.17 inches
1” BLADE LENGTH: 3.0 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM S30V
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.118 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Carbon fiber G10
laminate
WEIGHT: 3.1 ounces
MSRP: $219
0” WEBSITE: Spyderco.com
10 11 12 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 35
8”
7”
6”
5”
13 Spyderco
STARLING 2 G-10
OVERALL LENGTH: 4.42 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 1.95 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CTS BD1 stainless steel
4”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.091 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 1.1 ounces
MSRP: $44.95
WEBSITE: Spyderco.com
14 Spyderco
3”
ROBIN 2 TITANIUM
OVERALL LENGTH: 5.70 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 2.40 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.098 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Titanium
WEIGHT: 2.2 ounces
2”
MSRP: $79.95
WEBSITE: Spyderco.com
15 Spyderco
SPYDERCO DELICA 4
ZOME GREEN
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.15 inches
1”
BLADE LENGTH: 2.90 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: VG10 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.098 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Fiberglass-reinforced
nylon (FRN)
WEIGHT: 2.4 ounces
MSRP: $109.95
WEBSITE: Spyderco.com
0”
36 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
13 14 15
8”
7”
6”
5”
16 Kershaw
4” LAUNCH 5 EMERSON
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.4 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM154 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Anodized aluminum
WEIGHT: 4.1 ounces
MSRP: $169.99
3” WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
17 Zero Tolerance
0095BW
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.4 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.6 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: S35VN stainless steel
2” BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Titanium
WEIGHT: 5.3 ounces
MSRP: $275
WEBSITE: ZT.KaiUsaLtd.com
18 Kershaw
1” LINK
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.6 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.11 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Aluminum
WEIGHT: 4.8 ounces
MSRP: $69.99
0” WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
16 17 18 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 37
8”
7”
6”
5”
19 Kershaw
RJ TACTICAL 3.0
OVERALL LENGTH: 6.9 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.0 inches 4”
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
WEIGHT: 2.8 ounces
MSRP: $39.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
3”
20 Kershaw
VALMARA
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.1 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.0 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA 2”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
WEIGHT: 3.96 ounces
MSRP: $39.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
21 Kershaw
LINK - TANTO 1”
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.6 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
WEIGHT: 4.0 ounces
MSRP: $69.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com 0”
38 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
19 20 21
8”
7”
6”
5”
22 Kershaw
CQC-9K
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.8 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.6 inches
4” BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr14MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 6.4 ounces
MSRP: $69.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
3”
23 Kershaw
FATBACK
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.75 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
2” HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
WEIGHT: 3.6 ounces
MSRP: $39.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
24 Kershaw
FERRITE
1” OVERALL LENGTH: 7.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.11 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
WEIGHT: 4.19 ounces
MSRP: $59.99
0” WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
22 23 24 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 39
8”
7”
6”
5”
25 Kershaw
GRID
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.4 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.7 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA 4”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Titanium
carbo-nitride coated steel
WEIGHT: 4.8 ounces
MSRP: $49.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
26 Kershaw 3”
BARGE
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.3 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 2.6 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon,
steel back 2”
WEIGHT: 5.4 ounces
MSRP: $39.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
27 Kershaw
PICO
OVERALL LENGTH: 6.8 inches 1”
BLADE LENGTH: 2.9 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Steel
WEIGHT: 3.7 ounces
MSRP: $44.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com 0”
40 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
25 26 27
8”
7”
6”
5”
28 Kershaw
ROVE
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.8 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.3 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 8Cr13MoV
stainless steel
4” BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
WEIGHT: 3.4 ounces
MSRP: $39.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
29 Kershaw
3” LAUNCH 4
OVERALL LENGTH: 5.1 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 1.9 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM154
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Anodized
aluminum
2” WEIGHT: 1.8 ounces
MSRP: $119.99
WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
30 Kershaw
LAUNCH 6
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.7 inches
1” BLADE LENGTH: 3.75 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM154
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.12 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Anodized
aluminum
WEIGHT: 3.8 ounces
MSRP: $169.99
0” WEBSITE: Kershaw.KaiUsaLtd.com
28 29 30 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 41
8”
7”
6”
5”
31 Buck Knives
710 VOLT
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.75 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC stainless steel
4”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.110 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Anodized
aluminum
WEIGHT: 2.8 inches
MSRP: $55
WEBSITE: BuckKnives.com
3”
32 Knives of Alaska
STRIKE FORCE AUTO
OD/BLACK
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.0 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.0 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2 semi-stainless
steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.11 inch
2”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Micarta
WEIGHT: 3.1 ounces
MSRP: $149.99
WEBSITE: KnivesOfAlaska.com
33 Benchmade
AMICUS FLIPPER
1”
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.0 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.2 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM-S90V steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.090 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Aluminum
WEIGHT: 2.88 ounces
MSRP: $250
WEBSITE: Benchmade.com
0”
42 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
31 32 33
8”
7”
6”
5”
34 Benchmade
MINI GRIPTILLIAN
OVERALL LENGTH: 6.7 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 2.91 inches
4” BLADE MATERIAL: 154CM steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.100 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass or G10
WEIGHT: Varies – depending on blade
tip type
MSRP: $105
WEBSITE: Benchmade.com
3”
35 Emerson
CQC-7BW FLIPPER
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.0 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.65 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM S35VN
stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
2” HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 5.0 ounces
MSRP: $259.95
WEBSITE: EmersonKnives.com
36 Emerson
COMBAT KARAMBIT
1” OVERALL LENGTH: 6.80 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 2.60 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 154CM stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10, epoxy,
laminate
WEIGHT: 3.6 ounces
MSRP: $270
0” WEBSITE: EmersonKnives.com
34 35 36 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 43
8”
7”
6”
5”
37 Emerson
SHEEPDOG SPEAR
POINT
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.375 inches 4”
BLADE LENGTH: 3.50 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 154CM stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.13 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 5.54 ounces
MSRP: $239.95
WEBSITE: EmersonKnives.com
3”
38 Zero Tolerance
MODEL 0909
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.50 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.80 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: S35VM stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10 2”
WEIGHT: 7.5 ounces
MSRP: $225
WEBSITE: ZT.KaiUsaLtd.com
39 Boker
WILDCAT
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.125 inches 1”
BLADE LENGTH: 2.875 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2 semi-stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 4.6 ounces
MSRP: $119
WEBSITE: Boker.de
0”
44 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
37 38 39
8”
7”
6”
5”
40 Boker
SCOUT HONEYCOMB
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.250 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.125 inches
4” BLADE MATERIAL: N690 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 5.6 ounces
MSRP: $229
WEBSITE: Boker.de
3” 41 Buck Knives
898 IMPACT
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.250 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.125 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: S30V stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Anodized
aluminum
2” WEIGHT: 4.1 ounces
MSRP: $225
WEBSITE: BuckKnives.com
42 CAS Iberia
KIZLYAR SUPREME
BLOKE
1” OVERALL LENGTH: 8.875 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.875 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2 semi-stainless
steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 6.6 ounces
MSRP: $127
0” WEBSITE: CASIberia.com
40 41 42 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 45
8”
43 Emerson
BULLDOG
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.50 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.20 inches 7”
BLADE MATERIAL: 154CM stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.13 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 4.65 ounces
MSRP: $207
WEBSITE: EmersonKnives.com
6”
44 CAS Iberia
ROMAN FOLDER
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.50 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.750 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: DNH7 steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Troyeng
hardwood scales 5”
WEIGHT: 5 ounces
MSRP: $209
WEBSITE: CASIberia.com
47 Benchmade
PAGAN
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.95 inches. 1”
BLADE LENGTH: 3.95 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 154CM steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.94 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: 6061-T6 aluminum
WEIGHT: 5 ounces
MSRP: $420 (satin blade), $435 (black
coated blade)
WEBSITE: Benchmade.com 0”
46 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
43 44 45
9” CREATE
YOUR
8”
OWN
KNIFE
Jantz
7” Pattern
blades
are flat
ground and
cryogenically
processed
during heat
treating for
6” optimal
e d g e
holding
capability.
Choose your
f a v o r i t e
h a n d l e
material,
5” color and
texture along
with hardware
such as guard,
screws or pins
to complement
your chosen
Jantz USA
4” Pattern blade.
Shown:
Pattern 37 #J3708
440C Stainless Steel
$31.95, #K374 stainless
bolster $6.95, #A846
stainless pins $1.99 and #G3750
3” Olive Drab sandstorm pattern
handle material $19.95. Overall
length 6 5/8”, Blade Length 2
5/8”, Blade Width 7/8”, Blade
Thickness 1/8”. Bolster holes
1/8”, Handle Holes 1/8”, Thong
Hole 3/16”. Available in D2,
CPMS 30V, 440C, 1095 High
2” Carbon and Damascus.
See other patterns
of Jantz USA blades
along with supplies and
download our full color
catalog at
1”
knifemaking.com
JANTZ SUPPLY
309 W MAIN
DAVIS OK 73030
1-800-351-8900
0”
46 47 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 47
8”
7”
6”
5”
48 Boker
BOKER PLUS GRIPLOC
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.3 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: AUS-8 stainless steel 4”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.1 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Aluminum
WEIGHT: 2.9 ounces
MSRP: $109
WEBSITE: Boker.de
49 Browning 3”
DAMASCUS FOLDER,
MAMMOTH TOOTH
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.25 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: Damascus steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Mammoth tooth
WEIGHT: 6 ounces 2”
MSRP: $555
WEBSITE: Browning.com
50 Browning
BLACK LABEL
UNLEASHED
ASSISTED OPEN 1”
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.875 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.375 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 440 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 5 ounces
MSRP: $29.95
WEBSITE: Browning.com 0”
48 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
48 49 50
8”
7”
6”
5”
51 Browning
VORTEX, BIRD &
TROUT
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.75
BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches 4”
BLADE MATERIAL: 440 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 3 ounces
MSRP: $33
WEBSITE: Browning.com
3”
52 Camillus
HEAT 19167
OVERALL LENGTH: 8 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: Japanese AUS-8 steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
with stainless steel accents 2”
WEIGHT: 4 ounces
MSRP: $54.99
WEBSITE: CamillusKnives.com
53 Coast
DX311 DOUBLE LOCK
FOLDER 1”
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.75 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 7CR17 stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Aluminum
WEIGHT: 3.2 ounces
MSRP: $17.99
WEBSITE: CoastPortland.com KI 0”
50 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
51 52 53
T ICA
U
CUTLERY CO
®
UT
KS4
9.6
”o
ver
a ll le
ngt
h
UT
KS5
10.
6”
ove
rall le
ngt
h
UT
KB
• Blades 61
2.6
1095 carbon steel 53-59RC/ textured ”o
ver
powder coated a ll le
ngt
h
• Handles
1mm gray liner, 5mm black canvas Micarta
• Bolsters FIRE STARTER SHARPENER
2 shot molded hard plastic core with hard
rubber anti slip texture
• Sheaths
Hi Tech/Molded
MADE IN USA
UTICA CUTLERY COMPANY 820 Noyes Street Utica, NY 13502 • Tel: 800-888-4223 • Fax: 315-733-6602
sales@uticacutlery.com • www.uticacutlery.com
ART OF
THE
CUSTOMIZING
MAKE GOOD BLADES EVEN BETTER
WITH SOME CRAFTY MODIFICATIONS
STORY AND PHOTOS BY R. BOLIEU
52 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 53
54 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 55
OTHER OPTIONS
Besides stripping off the blade coating
and some minor sanding of the handle
scales, the bulk of the modifications are
better off handled by a professional.
The best people to send your tools out
to for customizing are custom knife-
makers. This is especially true when it
comes to regrinding blades and cutting
sections of steel off, like the handle
guard or choil. Custom knifemakers al- CUSTOMIZING TOMAHAWKS
ready have all the tools and machinery The Cold Steel company has had much success with their line of drop forged, carbon steel tomahawks. They
feature a 21-inch-long, hickory handle and black-coated tomahawk head. These ‘hawks are good quality,
for this kind of work. For leather and
but the presentation is not the strongest. The wooden handle has a coating of clear lacquer and the head
Kydex sheaths, custom sheath makers Mora Knives are is painted with inexpensive black paint. The head is not seated snugly, so they are fitted with a set screw to
are the authority if you want to get arguably the
most customized hold them in place, which it doesn’t do well.
your knives into some new pants! knives and sheaths
today. This Mora
Basic 511 had the To add to it, the edge is almost non-existent. However, the steel is good quality; it holds a decent edge and
MAKE IT BETTER
guard cut off with can easily be sharpened. The hickory handle, also of good quality, can be sanded down and finished with a
a small saw and
the bottom finger wood stain, or just left natural and treated with beeswax or boiled linseed oil. The black paint on the head
A bastard file, hacksaw, electric hand guard sanded down
to accommodate can be stripped off or sanded, then cold blued or a patina can be applied. The handle can be carved a bit to
sander, sandpaper, lighter, diamond chest-lever grips allow the head to fit correctly on the handle. Besides, a tomahawk is a friction fit tool in the first place.
sharpening stone, belt sander, grinder, more comfortably.
The author added The edge can be sharpened with many tools and methods, even with just a file and sandpaper.
and Dremel tool can all be used to a 90-degree spine
with a file and the
customize any knife, machete, axe, blade has a natural Cold Steel also sells hickory handles which can be cut down to different sizes so the tool will have more
patina from slicing
or tomahawk and make it truly yours, food, green wood versatility. I have 19-inch, 16-inch and 12-inch handles for my tomahawks.
and stirring coffee Cold Steel Tomahawks are the real deal.
creating an original. Make something in camp.
good—even better! KI
56 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
58 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 59
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
01 Morakniv
MORAKNIV ELDRIS 7”
OVERALL LENGTH: 5.6 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 2.2 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.08 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: TPE 6”
WEIGHT: 2.8 ounces
MSRP: $29
WEBSITE: Morakniv.se/en/
5”
02 Morakniv
MORAKNIV GARBERG
OVERALL LENGTH: 9 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.3 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: Stainless steel 4”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.13 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Polyamide
WEIGHT: 9.6 ounces
MSRP: $119
WEBSITE: Morakniv.se/en/ 3”
60 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
01 02 03
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
04 Boker
7”
BOKER PLUS CARACAL
FOLDER
OVERALL LENGTH: 9 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.125 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2
6” BLADE THICKNESS: 0.188 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 7.4 ounces
MSRP: $129
WEBSITE: Boker.de
5”
05 CAS Iberia
CASSTROM KNIFE
OVERALL LENGTH: 8 inches
4” BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: O2
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.157 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Curly birch
WEIGHT: 5.5 ounces
3” MSRP: $230
WEBSITE: CASIberia.com
06 Fiddleback Forge
2” BUSHCRAFTER SR.
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: A2 carbon steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.532 inch
1” HANDLE MATERIAL: Shade tree purple
burlap
WEIGHT: NA
MSRP: $325 plus
WEBSITE: FiddlebackForge.com
0”
04 05 06 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 61
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
07 Fiddleback Forge
SYLVERFALCEN
OVERALL LENGTH: 6.75 inches 7”
BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: A2 carbon steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Natural bolstered
maple burl 6”
WEIGHT: NA
MSRP: $250 plus
WEBSITE: FiddlebackForge.com
5”
08 Fox Cutlery
SLIM DRAGOTAC
PIEMONTES
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.3 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.15 inches 4”
BLADE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
N690Co
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.2 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Ziricote
WEIGHT: 2.64 ounces 3”
MSRP: TBD
WEBSITE: FoxCutlery.com
62 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
07 08 09
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
10 Knives of Alaska
ALPHA WOLF
7”
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.100 inch
6” HANDLE MATERIAL: Sanoprene
WEIGHT: 2.9 ounces
MSRP: $79
WEBSITE: KnivesOfAlaska.com
5”
11 Ontario Knife
HEIRLOOM HUNTER
(DROP POINT)
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.1 inches
4” BLADE LENGTH: 4.2 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2 tool steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Laminated
hardwood
3” WEIGHT: NA
MSRP: $229
WEBSITE: OntarioKnife.com
2” 12 Spyderco
PROFICIENT
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.75 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
1” BLADE MATERIAL: CPM S90V
HANDLE MATERIAL: Carbon fiber
WEIGHT: 6.3 ounces
MSRP: $489
WEBSITE: Spyderco.com
0”
10 11 12 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 63
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
13 Diamond Blade 7”
HERITAGE
OVERALL LENGTH: 8 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.12 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: 440C stainless steel 6”
HANDLE MATERIAL: NA
WEIGHT: 4.2 ounces
MSRP: $450
WEBSITE: DiamondBladeKnives.com
5”
14 Knives of Alaska
BUSH CAMP - STAG
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 6 inches 4”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.14 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: D2
HANDLE MATERIAL: Stag
WEIGHT: 8.3 ounces
MSRP: $189 3”
WEBSITE: KnivesOfAlaska.com
15 Cold Steel
BUSHMAN 2”
OVERALL LENGTH: 12.25 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 7 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.098 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: SK-5 high carbon steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: SK-5 high carbon 1”
steel
WEIGHT: 10.1 ounces
MSRP: $41
WEBSITE: ColdSteel.com
0”
64 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
13 14 15
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
16 Benchmade
7”
BUSHCRAFTER
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.2 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.43 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.164 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: S30V steel
6” HANDLE MATERIAL: G10 handle scales,
titanium tubing
WEIGHT: 7.72 ounces
MSRP: $215
WEBSITE: Benchmade.com
5”
17 Ontario Knife Company
BUSHCRAFT
WOODSMAN
4” OVERALL LENGTH: 15 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 9.1 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.25 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: 5160 steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: American walnut
3” WEIGHT: NA
MSRP: $162
WEBSITE: OntarioKnife.com
2” 18 Klecker Knives
ABIQUA HUNTER
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.9 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.97 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.157 inch
1” BLADE MATERIAL: 7Cr17 steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Glass-filled nylon
WEIGHT: 7.6 ounces
MSRP: $129
WEBSITE: KleckerKnives.com
0”
16 17 18 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 65
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
19 Helle
UTVAER 7”
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.2 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.9 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.12 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: Sandvik 12C27
stainless steel 6”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Curly birch and
Vulcanfibre
WEIGHT: 5.6 ounces
MSRP: $239
WEBSITE: Helle.no 5”
20 Fiddleback Forge
MID-TECH CAMP KNIFE
OVERALL LENGTH: 12 inches 4”
BLADE LENGTH: 6.5 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.375 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM 3V steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Canvas Micarta
WEIGHT: 14 ounces 3”
MSRP: $350
WEBSITE: FiddlebackForge.com
21 Behring Made 2”
UPLANDER
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.25 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: S7 steel 1”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Micarta, G10
WEIGHT: NA
MSRP: $275
WEBSITE: BehringMade.com
0”
66 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
19 20 21
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
22 Katz Knives
PRO HUNTER
CHERRYWOOD
OVERALL LENGTH: 9 inches
7”
BLADE LENGTH: 4.375 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: XT80 stainless steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Cherrywood
WEIGHT: 4.11 ounces 6”
MSRP: $299
WEBSITE: KatzKnives.com
23 Katz Knives 5”
WILD KAT 103 WHITE
MICARTA
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.38 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.63 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA 4”
BLADE MATERIAL: XT70 stainless steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: White Micarta
WEIGHT: 11 ounces
MSRP: $399
WEBSITE: KatzKnives.com 3”
24 Helle
DIDI GALGALU
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.79 inches 2”
BLADE LENGTH: 5.07 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.12 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: Sandvik 12C27
stainless steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: African Kiaat and 1”
Vulcanfibre
WEIGHT: 4.9 ounces
MSRP: $249
WEBSITE: Helle.no KI
0”
68 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
22 23 24
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
6”
5”
4”
3”
2”
1”
0”
70 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
H
UNTING - The hunting knife is one
of those specialized
7” tools that many
people think they can do without. It's
designed to process game in such a
way that no meat is left behind, and the hide
6”
is not perforated or cut in any way. Specialized
knives designed for the hunting fields have
evolved over time, with unique blade shapes
and profiles that help5” the hunter manage his
kill quickly and efficiently without damaging
any part of the animal.
4”
3”
2”
1”
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 71
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
01 Benchmade
NESTUCCA CLEAVER
OVERALL LENGTH: 6.56 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.41 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM-S30V 7”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.140 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 4.95 ounces
MSRP: $145 6”
WEBSITE: Benchmade.com
02 Buck Knives
BUCK 853 SMALL 5”
SELKIRK
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.5
BLADE LENGTH: 4 5/8 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC 4”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: CNC contoured
Micarta
WEIGHT: 7.6 ounces
MSRP: $80 3”
WEBSITE: BuckKnives.com
72 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
01 02 03
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
04 CAS Iberia
KK0114 COLADA
OVERALL LENGTH: 8 3/8 inches
7” BLADE LENGTH: 4 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: CPM S35VN
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Blue/black Micarta
WEIGHT: 6 ounces
6” MSRP: $175
WEBSITE: CASIberia.com
06 TOPS Knives
2” SKULLCRUSHER’S
XTREME BLADE
OVERALL LENGTH: 15.75 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 9.38 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
1”
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 RC 56-58 steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black linen Micarta
WEIGHT: 26 ounces
MSRP: $240
0” WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com
04 05 06 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 73
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
09 Fiddleback Forge 2”
RECLUSE
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: A2
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.532 inch 1”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Dyed box elder burl
WEIGHT: TBD
MSRP: $275 plus
WEBSITE: FiddlebackForge.com 0”
74 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
07 08 09
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
10 Fox Cutlery
7” BF 710 VESUVIUS
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.66 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.13 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 440 C stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.2 inch
6” HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 8.47 ounces
MSRP: TBD
WEBSITE: FoxCutlery.com
5”
11 Fox Cutlery
DESERT FOX
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.54 inches
4” BLADE LENGTH: 3.74 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: N690Co stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.16 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: 6.7 ounces
3” MSRP: TBD
WEBSITE: FoxCutlery.com
10 11 12 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 75
13 Knives of Alaska
FEATHERLIGHT 15”
HUNTER
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 2.75 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2
14”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.100 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Suregrip
WEIGHT: 2 ounces
MSRP: $74
WEBSITE: KnivesOfAlaska.com 13”
14 Ontario Knife
HEIRLOOM HUNTER
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.1 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.2 inches 12”
BLADE MATERIAL: D2 tool steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Laminated
hardwood 11”
WEIGHT: TBD
MSRP: $229
WEBSITE: OntarioKnife.com
16 Steel Will
STEEL WILL 820 7”
ARGONAUT
OVERALL LENGTH: 12.28 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 6.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: AUS-8
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.18 inch 6”
HANDLE MATERIAL: TPR rubber
WEIGHT: 9.95 ounces
MSRP: $99
WEBSITE: SteelWillKnives.com
5”
17 TOPS Knives
LIONESS ELITE
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.63 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.50 inches 4”
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 RC 56-58
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.13 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black G10
WEIGHT: 3.6 ounces
MSRP: $145 3”
WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com
18 TOPS Knives
LIONESS ROCKIES 2”
EDITION
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.63 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4.13 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 RC 56-58
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.13 inch 1”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Tan canvas Micarta
WEIGHT: 3.6 ounces
MSRP: $155
WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com 0”
76 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
13 14 15
HUNTING
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
440 Stainless
Steel BLADE
9” rosewood Handle
5-5/8’’ open Length
8”
3-1/4’’ closed Length
2-3/8” Blade Length
1.5 oz. Weight
7”
Extras : Nickel Silver
Bolsters & Hollow
Ground Blade
6”
MADE IN
THE U.S.A.
5”
Model: 218 R
4”
midsize
stockman
3”
2”
1”
GET YOURS AT
www.bearandsoncutlery.com
0”
16 17 18 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 77
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
19 TOPS Knives 8”
TUNDRA TREKKER
OVERALL LENGTH: 12.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 7.38 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 RC 56-58 7”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.25 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Green canvas
Micarta
WEIGHT: 16.5 ounces
MSRP: TBD 6”
WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com
21 Boker
ARBOLITO ESCULTA
STAG 2”
OVERALL LENGTH: 11.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 5.7 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: N695
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.2 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Stag 1”
WEIGHT: 13.2 ounces
MSRP: $229
* includes Leather sheath
WEBSITE: Boker.de/us KI 0”
78 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
19 20 21
the
ADVOCATE
TM
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
S
URVIVAL - The survival knife may be called upon to 7”
perform under any number of conditions and scenarios.
The unpredictable nature of a survival situation means
the knife has to stand up to anything thrown at it and 6”
come out on top. Buying a survival knife means not compromis-
ing any aspect of the knife and making sure it's versatile and
durable enough to handle any circumstance. 5”
4”
3”
2”
1”
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 81
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
01 Morakniv Bushcraft
SURVIVAL BLACK
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.51 inches 8”
BLADE LENGTH: 4.29 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: Carbon steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: TPE rubber 7”
WEIGHT: 8.07 ounces
MSRP: $103
WEBSITE: Morakniv.se/en
6”
02 Schrade
SCHF52 7 1095
OVERALL LENGTH: 13 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 7 inches 5”
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 high
carbon steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.225 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL:TPE rubber 4”
WEIGHT: 1 pound
MSRP: $60
WEBSITE:TaylorBrandsLLC.com
3”
03 Bradford USA
GUARDIAN 4
OVERALL LENGTH: 9 inches 2”
BLADE LENGTH: 4.6 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: Bohler M390
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.165 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL:3D contoured 1”
Micarta
WEIGHT: 6.43 ounces
MSRP: $249
WEBSITE: BradfordKnives.com 0”
82 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
01 02 03
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
04 CAS Iberia
KH2491
SURVIVAL KUKHRI
8” OVERALL LENGTH: 17.37 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 12.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 5160
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.232 inch
7” HANDLE MATERIAL: Stainless/ABS steel
WEIGHT: 1 pound, 7 ounces
MSRP: $250
WEBSITE: CASIberia.com
6”
05 Colonial Knife Company
CE-100W
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.5 inches
5” BLADE LENGTH: 4.75 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 154CM
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.197 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
4” WEIGHT: 2 ounces
MSRP: $200
WEBSITE: ColonialKnifeCorp.com
3”
06 Columbia River Knife & Tool
KAREN HOOD CHOPPER
OVERALL LENGTH: 15.199 inches
2” BLADE LENGTH: 9.125 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 high carbon
steel, HRC 56-58
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.25 inch
1” HANDLE MATERIAL: Polished resin-
infused fiber
WEIGHT: 1.2 pounds
MSRP: $375
0” WEBSITE: CRKT.com
04 05 06 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 83
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
07 Fiddleback Forge
DUKE W/ BLACK
CANVAS MICARTA 8”
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 5.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: S35VN
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.532 inch 7”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black canvas
Micarta
WEIGHT: NA
MSRP: $275
6”
WEBSITE: FiddlebackForge.com
09 Knives of Alaska
SURVIVAL 2”
OVERALL LENGTH: 11.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 6 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: D2
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.155-0.165 inch 1”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Canvas Micarta
WEIGHT: 7 ounces
MSRP: $179
WEBSITE: KnivesOfAlaska.com 0”
84 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
07 08 09
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8” 10 Ontario Knife
SK-4 BLACK BIRD
OVERALL LENGTH: 8 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 4 inches
7” BLADE MATERIAL: 154 CM stainless steel
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
WEIGHT: NA
MSRP: $225
6”
WEBSITE: OntarioKnife.com
11 Steel Will
5” 291 DRUID
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.94 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.74 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: N690Co
4” BLADE THICKNESS: 0.14 inch
HANDLE MATERIAL: Nylon and fiberglass
WEIGHT: 6.42 ounces
MSRP: $119
3” WEBSITE: SteelWillKnives.com
12 TOPS Knives
2” MINI SCANDI SURVIVAL
OVERALL LENGTH: 6.13 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
1” BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 RC 56-58 steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black linen Micarta
WEIGHT: 2.3 ounces
MSRP: $95
0” WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com
10 11 12 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 85
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
13 KutMaster
THE POTBELLY 9”
OVERALL LENGTH: 13 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 6.5 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: 420 stainless steel 8”
black oxidized blade
HANDLE MATERIAL: Green
paracord-wrapped handle
WEIGHT: 14.5 ounces 7”
MSRP: $34
WEBSITE: KutMaster.com
6”
14 KutMaster
WILDFIRE
CAMOUFLAGE
RESCUE KNIFE
OVERALL LENGTH: 4.5 inches 5”
BLADE LENGTH: 3.2 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: 420 stainless steel
black oxidized blade 4”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Camo
WEIGHT: 4 ounces
MSRP: $23
WEBSITE: KutMaster.com 3”
15 CAT
TRAIL BLAZER 2”
OVERALL LENGTH: 13
BLADE LENGTH: 7 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: 420 stainless steel 1”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Paracord wrapped
WEIGHT: 9.5 ounces
MSRP: $31
WEBSITE: KutMaster.com 0”
86 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
13 14 15
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
16 Zac Brown’s Southern Grind
JACKAL KNIFE
OVERALL LENGTH: 9.25 inches
8” BLADE LENGTH: 4.75 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: 8670M high carbon
steel
7” HANDLE MATERIAL: 3D milled solid G10
WEIGHT: 9.5 ounces
MSRP: $229
WEBSITE: SouthernGrind.com
6”
17 Zac Brown’s Southern Grind
GRANDADDY FIXED
BLADE MACHETE
5” OVERALL LENGTH: 16.875 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 11.125 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: 8670M high carbon
4” steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black Micarta
WEIGHT: 15 ounces
MSRP: $149
3” WEBSITE: SouthernGrind.com
16 17 18 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 87
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
19 Benchmade
JUNGLE BOLO
OVERALL LENGTH: 13.5 inches 8”
BLADE LENGTH: 9 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 spring steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Rubberized 7”
Santoprene
WEIGHT: 11.7 ounces
MSRP: $125
WEBSITE: Benchmade.com 6”
20 CAS Iberia
TTY HUNTING 5”
DAGGER BY CITADEL
OVERALL LENGTH: 13.5 in ches
BLADE LENGTH: 7.08 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: DNH7
4”
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: Palisander
WEIGHT: 10.2 ounces
MSRP: $275
WEBSITE: CASIberia.com 3”
21 ESEE Knives
JG3 2”
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.6 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095HC 1”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Micarta
WEIGHT: 4.5 ounces
MSRP: TBD
WEBSITE: ESEEKnives.com 0”
88 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
19 20 21
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
22 Morakniv
8” PRO C
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.25 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.6 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.1 inch
7” BLADE MATERIAL: Carbon
HANDLE MATERIAL: TPE rubber
WEIGHT: 4 ounces
MSRP: $13
WEBSITE: Morakniv.se/en
6”
23 RMJ Tactical
KUKRI
5” OVERALL LENGTH: 15.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 10 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: 80CrV2 carbon
4” HANDLE MATERIAL: G-10 FR4
WEIGHT: 11 ounces
MSRP: TBD
WEBSITE: RMJTactical.com
3”
24 Buck Knives
SELKIRK
2” OVERALL LENGTH: 9.5 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC
BLADE LENGTH: 4.6 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.135 inch
1” HANDLE MATERIAL: CNC contoured
Micarta with steel bolsters
WEIGHT: 7.6 ounces
MSRP: $85
0” WEBSITE: BuckKnives.com
22 23 24 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 89
17”
16”
9”
27 Katz Knives
ALLEY KAT 8008
KRATON
OVERALL LENGTH: 13 inches 8”
BLADE LENGTH: 8 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.25 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: XT70 stainless steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Kraton 7”
WEIGHT: 11 ounces
MSRP: $330
WEBSITE: KatzKnives.com
6”
28 Ontario Knife Company
CHIMERA FIGHTER
OVERALL LENGTH: 13.625 inches
5”
BLADE LENGTH: 8.25 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.2 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 carbon steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Kraton
WEIGHT: 4 ounces 4”
MSRP: $1,275
WEBSITE: OntarioKnife.com
3”
29 TOPS Knives
SKULLCRUSHER
EXTREME
OVERALL LENGTH: 15.75 inches 2”
BLADE LENGTH: 9.38 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.250 inch
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 RC 56-58
HANDLE MATERIAL: Black linen 1”
Micarta
WEIGHT: 34 ounces (with sheath)
MSRP: $300
WEBSITE: TopsKnives.com 0”
90 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
25 26 27
18”
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
KI-BG17-Colonial Knife Co 10/31/16 9:31 AM Page
9”
AD INDEX
8” ADVERTISER PAGE
BATTLBOX LLC 67
BEAR AND SON CUTLERY 77, 93, 99
BILL BROTHERS & CO. 57
BLADEGALLERY.COM 49
7”
BLUE RIDGE KNIVES 69, 105
BRADFORD USA 105
CAMILLUS & WESTERN CUTLERY 29
CHRIS REEVE KNIVES 99
6” COAST PRODUCTS 5
COLONIAL KNIFE COMPANY 91
COLUMBIA RIVER KNIFE & TOOL 21
CONDOR KNIFE & TOOL, INC. 91
DOUBLESTAR CORP 3
5” FLEXCUT TOOL COMPANY 29
FRANKLIN HORTON, AUTHOR 7
HOGUE GRIPS 67
JANTZ SUPPLY 22-23, 47
28 29 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 91
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
6”
30 CAS Iberia 5”
GURKHA KUKRI
OVERALL LENGTH: 13.75 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 8.25 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.24 inch (at guard) 4”
BLADE MATERIAL: DNH7HC
HANDLE MATERIAL: Palisander wood
WEIGHT: 18.5 ounces
MSRP: $415 3”
WEBSITE: CASIberia.com
31 Browning
IGNITE 2”
OVERALL LENGTH: 11.5 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 8.5 inches
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: 7Cr 1”
HANDLE MATERIAL: Injection molded
WEIGHT: 8.0 ounces
MSRP: $29
WEBSITE: Browning.com KI 0”
92 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
30 31
R11600
ASSISTED
OPENING
FOLDER
GET YOURS AT
WWW.REMINGTONCUTLERY.COM
KNIFE
BUYING
101
10 TIPS TO CONSIDER
WHEN DECIDING WHAT
TO BUY
BY KEVIN ESTELA
94 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 95
CARRY.”
are fantastical; spend too much on
a fancy-looking knife and your heart
may break when your circumstances
require you to use it as a tool. Don’t
buy what you can’t replace. Stay
within your budget.
02 WHAT’S THE
TASK?
Knife designs can evoke emotional
responses. Sometimes the knife
we want is not the knife we need.
Popular fictitious characters like
Crocodile Dundee, Rambo and Jack
Top) What is the
Bauer blur the understanding of a purpose of the
knife’s function. Instead of focusing blade you want?
The RMJ Kukri is a
on form first, think about the knife’s chopping machine
and perfectly suited
function. A large Bowie knife isn’t for cutting through
material in urban
the best choice for filleting fish. A and remote set-
tings. The reverse
double-edge dagger serves as a bet- curve of the blade
maximizes cutting
ter defensive blade than a bushcraft potential.
knife. Think about what tasks you
need to accomplish before settling
on a knife design.
03 WHICH STEEL
IS BEST FOR MY
PURPOSE?
The average knife user has a hard
time differentiating between most of
the exotic steels available. Without
the label, it would be tough to tell
the difference between carbon and Right) A compact
stainless steel. There are various blade, like the RAT
from Headhunter
grades of carbon steel, crucible met- Blades, is a great
option for those
als and non-magnetics. With all the who go into harm’s
way. Worn opposite
options available, do a quick internet the firearm, it
provides another
search on “which steel is best for option for lethal
force when it is
___,” and insert your need in the deemed necessary.
blank. Instead of jumping right for Photo credit: Voo-
dooman
the latest and greatest, a bit of re-
search will help you purchase a more right fit, a handle with a thick contour get a feel for the handle. If the knife
reliable and longer-lasting blade. (my preference) won’t fit as comfort- isn’t comfortable in your hand, move
ably in a smaller hand. Depending on on to something that works for you.
04 IS THE HANDLE
COMFORTABLE?
When watching others use a knife,
the use of the knife, an aggressively
textured handle is a better purchase
in defensive scenarios, but can cause 05 WHERE AM I
GOING TO USE IT?
we sometimes forget about the han- blisters during prolonged use. When- Think about the environmental factors
dle inside their clenched fingers. Just ever possible, hold a knife and work that may affect your knife’s perfor-
like my analogy with shoes for the through various grip manipulations to mance when you use it. This can help
96 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
08 IS THE KNIFE
that holds up in the damp- from a “super steel” like at KnifeRights.org.
est environments and the Martin Knives Bush-
DURABLE? WHAT
keeps the handle contents craft Classic in S35VN.
dry. Martin Knives has The comfortable handle
never had a blade returned
broken at the hilt.
will not blister the hand
after prolonged use. IS THE WARRANTY?
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 97
10 WHERE CAN I
FIND ONE?
Once you have your knife selection nar-
rowed down, it’s time to search places
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
message boards, and forums to locate lent example of a
done-right
potential bargains. The extra money double-edged
KNIFE’S PERFORMANCE
modern materials,
gear, or for training. Don’t waste any of it is an excellent
KNIFE TYPES
• EDC: An EDC blade is a practical • Bushcraft: Bushcraft knives are • Survival: Survival knives are not com- • Tactical: Depending on your training and mission,
blade for true everyday carry. Car- knives meant for processing natural promising. Compared to other knife types, your desired tactical knife design will vary. True
ried in pocket slips, belt pouches resources while living in the outdoors. they are meant for absolute dependability. tactical knives don’t resemble the vast majority of
or clipped to your pants, this knife In general, this means wood carving, A survival knife may be a single tool meant knives sold with the “tactical” label. Tactical knives
should be carried in a consistent scraping with the spine, preparing food to do the work of many. It should be able aren’t anti-personnel knives. If your tactics require
place every day. An occasionally in camp and cleaning wild-caught fish to slice, chop, pierce and cut just about any cutting a shooting lane or hole, your tactical knife
carried knife is not an EDC knife. and game. Bushcraft knives should be reasonable material found in the area of should be for more field craft than fighting. Tactical
An EDC knife is meant for opening comfortable for extended use in-hand operations of the user. These knives may knives should be grounded in reality, not fantasy.
letters, cutting up lunch, cutting in a number of positions. Depending not be used daily, they may be stored for If your tactics include using a blade for defense/of-
a notch in a cigar, cutting cord on the intent of the user (from casual long periods of time and they are likely to fense when better options are available, reconsider
and other regularly occurring hobbyist to professional guide), the be exposed to the elements and the worst- your strategy. Depending on group size, maneuvers,
tasks in an average day. These knife can be constructed from case atmospheric conditions. Hard use in a and additional equipment, a small center-line
knives never leave your side and traditional materials purely for looks moment of stress or in a prolonged survival carried backup blade may work as a tactical knife. A
their selection may be the most or from the most modern for durability situation should not damage or adversely tactical blade must be easily accessed, unsheathed,
difficult to make. and longevity in the field. affect this style of knife. and deployed with either hand.
98 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
Inkosi
The
Zulu: Chief
Giving you more features in a
smaller knife
Large
Hollow Grind
Technology
2.75” Blade
Length
S35VN Blade
Steel
3-1/4" EDGE
Oversized Washers
4-3/8" CLOSED LENGTH
Large Pivot
2.5 OZ. WEIGHT
MADE IN
THE U.S.A.
MODEL : MC-300-CF-LD
STILETTO
DAMASCUS
HIGH DEFINITION
DAMASCUS STEEL
BLADE WITH CARBON
FIBER HANDLE.
GET YOURS AT
WWW.BEARANDSONCUTLERY.COM
TOMAHAWKS
20”
19”
18”
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
T
7”
OMAHAWK - The tomahawk is a
timeless relic that functions with
6”
versatility and simplicity. Since early
history, tomahawks have been
instrumental in every field process. For
5”
chopping, prying, and even defensive uses,
the tomahawk never fails as an effective
camp and combat tool.
4”
3”
2”
1”
0”
19”
18”
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
10”
9”
8”
7”
6”
5”
4”
3”
2”
1”
19”
18”
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
19”
18”
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
04 TOPS KNIVES
HAKET
10” OVERALL LENGTH: 15.00 INCHES
BLADE LENGTH: 8.5 INCHES
BLADE MATERIAL: 1095 RC- 56-58
9”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.190 INCH
HANDLE MATERIAL: CHROME MOLY
TUBE WITH CORD WRAP
WEIGHT: 40.0 OUNCES (WITH SHEATH)
8” MSRP: $240
WEBSITE: TOPSKNIVES.COM
7” 05 SCHRADE
TACTICAL HATCHET
OVERALL LENGTH: 12.8 INCHES
6” BLADE LENGTH: 3.1 INCHES
BLADE MATERIAL: POWDER COATED SK5
HIGH CARBON STAINLESS STEEL
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
5” HANDLE MATERIAL: GLASS-FILLED
NYLON FIBER SLABS
WEIGHT: 1.56 POUNDS
MSRP: $106
4” WEBSITE: TAYLORBRANDSLLC.COM
3” 06 KERSHAW
SIEGE
OVERALL LENGTH: 16 INCHES
BLADE LENGTH: 4 INCHES
2” BLADE MATERIAL: 3CR13 STEEL,
BLACK-OXIDE COATING
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
HANDLE MATERIAL: RIVETED GLASS-
1” FILLED NYLON SCALES, K-TEXTURE™ GRIP
WEIGHT: 31.8 OUNCES
MSRP: $79
0” WEBSITE: KERSHAW.KAIUSALTD.COM
04 05 06 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 103
19”
18”
17”
16”
15”
14”
13”
12”
11”
07 BOKER
MAGNUM 10”
CARNIVORE
OVERALL LENGTH: 14.25 INCHES
BLADE LENGTH: 2.5 INCHES
9”
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: SK5 HIGH
CARBON STEEL
HANDLE MATERIAL: G10 8”
WEIGHT: 37.0 OUNCES
MSRP: $179
WEBSITE: BOKER.DE/US
7”
08 COLD STEEL
WAR HAWK 6”
OVERALL LENGTH: 19 INCHES
BLADE LENGTH: 3 INCHES
BLADE THICKNESS: NA
BLADE MATERIAL: DROP FORGED 5”
1055 CARBON
HANDLE MATERIAL: POLYPROPYLENE
WEIGHT: 1.84 POUNDS
MSRP: $69 4”
WEBSITE: COLDSTEEL.COM
3”
09 COLUMBIA RIVER KNIFE & TOOL
KANGEE T-HAWK
OVERALL LENGTH: 13.75 INCHES
BLADE LENGTH: 2.93 INCHES 2”
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.23 INCH
BLADE MATERIAL: SK5 CARBON STEEL
HANDLE MATERIAL: GLASS-FILLED
NYLON 1”
WEIGHT: 3.6 POUNDS
MSRP: $185
WEBSITE: CRKT.COM KI 0”
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 107
01 Leatherman
KNIFELESS REBAR
OVERALL LENGTH: 4 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches
HANDLE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
WEIGHT: 6.7 ounces 01 02
MSRP: $80
WEBSITE: Leatherman.com
02 Leatherman
REBAR
OVERALL LENGTH: 4.0 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 2.9 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
WEIGHT: 6.7 ounces
MSRP: $60.85
WEBSITE: Leatherman.com
03
03 Victorinox
TRAILMASTER
OVERALL LENGTH: 4.37 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 3.38 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Polymide
WEIGHT: 4.51 ounces
MSRP: $65
WEBSITE: Victorinox.com
04 Leatherman
SKELETOOL RX
OVERALL LENGTH: 4.0 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 2.6 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: 154 steel w/
Cerakote
WEIGHT: 5 ounces
MSRP: Starts at $89.95
WEBSITE: Leatherman.com
05 Leatherman
SIGNAL
OVERALL LENGTH: 4.5 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 2.75 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
WEIGHT: 7.5 ounces
MSRP: $99
WEBSITE: Leatherman.com
04 05
108 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017
06 Victorinox
PIONEER X – SILVER
ALOX
OVERALL LENGTH: 3.7 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 2.65 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Aluminum
WEIGHT: 4.51 ounces
MSRP: $45
WEBSITE: Victorinox.com
06 07
07 Victorinox
CLASSIC SD
OVERALL LENGTH: 2.3 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 1.075 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 420HC steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: ABS/Celidor
WEIGHT: 0.8 ounces
MSRP: $20
WEBSITE: Victorinox.com
08 Gerber
CENTER-DRIVE
MULTI-TOOL
09 Gerber
MP1
OVERALL LENGTH: 4.38 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 2.8 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 6150 carbon steel
jaws; 420HC steel blades
HANDLE MATERIAL: Textured G10
WEIGHT: 8 ounces
MSRP: $132
WEBSITE: GerberGear.com
10 Coast
LED140 LED
MULTI TOOL
OVERALL LENGTH: 3.85 inches (closed)
BLADE LENGTH: 1.75 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 3CR13 steel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Stainless steel with
rubber padding
09
WEIGHT: 10.1 ounces
10 MSRP: $39
WEBSITE: CoastPortland.com KI
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 109
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 111
01
01 Work Sharp
KEN ONION EDITION
KNIFE & TOOL
SHARPENER
Work Sharp has partnered with legendary
Hall of Fame knifemaker, Ken Onion, to
develop a new knife and tool sharpening
platform with expanded features! The
combination of Work Sharp engineering and
Ken Onion’s industrial design has created
a fast, easy and stylish way to sharpen all
your knives and tools with precision and
repeatability. The Ken Onion Edition Knife
& Tool Sharpener is designed to sharpen
every knife you own. Using a fully adjustable
precision sharpening guide, variable speed
and wide flexible abrasive belts, it sharpens
pocket and hunting knives, serrated knives,
kitchen knives and any other shape or type
of blade you own. 02
FEATURES:
Motor: 120VAC/1.5 amp
Power Switch: Variable speed; on /off /
momentary
Duty Cycle: 1 hour continuous
Abrasives Included: P120 X65 (P220)
X22 (P1000) X4 (P3000) 6000
Abrasive Size: ¾ x 12-inches
Sharpening Guides: Adjustable, 15° - 30°
Retractable Honing Rod: No
Attachments: Tool grinding attachment,
blade grinding attachment
MSRP: $99
WEBSITE: WorkSharpTools.com
02 Work Sharp
KEN ONION BLADE
GRINDING
ATTACHMENT
If you’re ready to step up your game and
start customizing your knife sharpening,
then you should consider the Blade Grinding
Attachment (add-on) for the Ken Onion
Edition Knife & Tool Sharpener. With five
belts, ranging from P120 to Micro Mesh
P12,000, you can customize any knife you
have with the grind you want. Its four
pulleys allow you to fully adjust your angle
from 10° to 35° in 1-degree increments. With
03
its simple tool-less attachment design, you
can be using it in no time.
04 Work Sharp
CERAMIC FIELD
HONE - GUIDED
SHARPENING SYSTEM
The Work Sharp Guided Sharpening System
is a complete sharpening solution for every
knife you own. It features the innovative
FEATURES:
• 1.25 x 6-inches coarse (320 grit) and fine
(600 grit) diamond sharpening plates
• 17-degree and 20-degree angle guides
• Coarse and fine ceramic hone with built-in
angle guides
• 3 sizes of ceramic rods to sharpen serrations
• Pivot-response technology
• Removable diamond plate holder for
sharpening tools
MSRP: $59
WEBSITE: WorkSharpTools.com
FOLLOW US ON
05 Work Sharp
GUIDED FIELD
SHARPENER
The Guided Field Sharpener is a complete
sharpening solution for field, home or shop
use. It is the first angle-guided, 5-stage
sharpening solution designed for sportsmen
who need a complete, robust and compact
field sharpening solution.
FEATURES:
• 2 Diamond Plates: 1 coarse (220 grit)
for shaping and repairing, and 1 fine (600
Discover the premier grit) for sharpening; plates measure 6 x
1.25-inches
knife magazine. • 2 Ceramic Rods: a 3-position ceramic rod
incorporating coarse grit, fine grit and fish
hook honing sides, plus a smaller diameter,
fine grit serration sharpener
• 1 Leather Strop: conditioned with a
micro-abrasive to finish your blades to a
facebook.com/knivesillustrated razor-sharp edge
MSRP: $59
WEBSITE: WorkSharpTools.com KI
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED
BUYER’S GUIDE 2017 113
Be Prepared With
This Cutting-Edge
Combo!
SAVE
BIG ONLY $39.95
Sharpen your survival skills while loading
up on the hottest knife news with this
bumper saving combo. Get a 1-yr
subscription of Knives Illustrated along
with a 1-yr subscription of American
Survival Guide and carve 73% Get this dynamic duo and
off the combined cover price! save big.
Limited-time offer. Act now!
Fill out the order form below and mail it with your payment information to
Engaged Media Inc., Lockbox # 70253, Philadelphia, PA 19176-9883
IT
U STIT SEND YES! Sign me up for a subscription to Knives Illustrated and American Survival Guide for $39.95 only
J C U
T
T
That is a total of 19 issues for a total savings of $109.86 off the cover price
FILL I
Method of Payment Check enclosed Credit Card Money Order Bill me Later
Payment through credit card Visa MC AMEX Discover Name on credit card
Credit card number Expiration date / /
Subscriber name First Middle Last
Address
City State
Phone Email
Signature Date / /
Outside US, add $49 per year for postage. Pay in US funds only.
KIBG_2017_C3 11/4/16 4:18 AM Page C3
KIBG_2017_C4 11/4/16 4:20 AM Page C4
GO BOLD ZTKNIVES.COM
Premium materials define ZT. We
don’t do cheap. You shouldn’t
either. For the all-important blade,
we turn to high-performance steels
like CTS-204P, S30V, and S35VN.
For handles, it’s titanium and
carbon fiber. Premium materials,
obsessive attention to detail, and
ultra-precise fit and finish make ZT
your top-shelf choice.
0450CF