Here are BLADE Magazine’s Featured Knives of the Week. Browse through these articles to find the best knives available from both custom knifemakers and factory knives.
Ka-Bar Makes One Of The Most Legendary American Combat/Utility Knives. First Issued In 1942, The Knife Continues To Impress And Inspire Today.
Few knives are as beloved and inspire more contemporary blades, than the Ka-Bar USMC fighting/utility knife. Ka-Bar Knives’ designation for it is the 1219C2, aka “the Ka-Bar,” and the knife was, and still is, a high-quality combat/utility tool. Ka-Bar Knives makes the contemporary version in its factory in upstate New York.
The History Of The Ka-Bar
As America entered World War 2, the Army and Marines took issue with the old World War 1-era trench knives that were being issued to them. The handles were too bulky, the blades were too brittle, and they were expensive to make.
After trying a few stopgaps, the Army asked arms suppliers to design a new combat/utility knife. Marine officers John Davis and Howard E. America worked with the Union Cutlery Company (now Ka-Bar Knives) to design a model that took elements from an old Navy knife and civilian hunting knives to create the 1219C2. In addition to Ka-Bar, Camillus, PAL, Robeson Shuredge, Case and Ontario were among those who made a USMC fighting/utility knife or a reasonable facsimile.
The knife was first issued to elite Marine units in November, 1942 and became standard issue for all Marines by 1944. Today, the knife is manufactured for military use and marketed to civilians as a utility/hunting knife.
Modern Ka-Bar Knives
Along with the original USMC fighting/utility knife, Ka-Bar makes many different combat/utility knives. This trio is a prime example of what the company produces today.
USMC Ka-Bar Plain Edge
The knife that made the Ka-Bar name famous is as popular as ever. There’s also a serrated version, but the plain edge is the original and is a hefty, economical knife.
The 7-inch clip point blade is made from 1095 Cro-Van steel with a 20-degree flat grind and a Rockwell hardness of 56-58 HRC. At just 11.2 ounces, it’s lighter than you might expect from a knife that size, which lets it flow smoothly when slicing, and the leather handle provides a secure grip. The rigid plastic sheath is MOLLE-compatible and can be carried vertically or horizontally.
Classics are classic for a reason, and the USMC fighting/utility knife is everything you could ask from a combat/using piece.
MSRP: $128.53
Becker Combat Bowie
Melding an American bowie-style blade with Becker’s trademark ergonomic handle design and you get this sleek, all-black combat knife. It is designed for bushcraft or camping too.
The 9.25-inch blade is married to an Ultramid handle that provides a strong grip. At 17.12 ounces, it’s a bit heftier than the USMC fighting/utility, making it excellent for more heavy-duty work like trimming thicker branches and vines or cutting through medium brush. Similar to the USMC fighting/utility, the Combat Bowie is made from 1095 Cro-Van and has a Rockwell hardness of 56-58 HRC.
A heavy-duty polyester sheath is included and is MOLLE-compatible as well.
MSRP: $178.61
Combat Kukri
This knife may have “combat” in the name, but its bread and butter is decimating small trees and vines. The kukri is smaller than a standard machete and is more finite in its cutting. That doesn’t mean that this blade can’t flex its muscle and chew through almost any brush you put in front of it.
This knife may have “combat” in the name, but its bread and butter is decimating small trees and vines. The kukri is smaller than a standard machete and is more finite in its cutting. That doesn’t mean that this blade can’t flex its muscle and chew through almost any brush you put in front of it.
At just under 16 ounces, it’s relatively lightweight yet robust.
If you’re buying it you’re most likely looking for a high-quality outdoors knife, and this kukri is it. The 1095 Cro-Van will need to be maintained to get the best out of it over time, but that comes with the territory of owning good knives. This knife will make a great companion working through the bush while camping or while cutting through bushes in the backyard.
The New Ambitious Lightweight Black Blade From Spyderco Is A Fun, Affordable Folder That Comes In Plain Edge And Serrated Versions.
Sometimes basic is perfect, and the new Ambidextrous Lightweight Black Blade from Spyderco checks that box. This affordable folding knife features black G-10 handle scales married to a black-oxide-coated 8Cr13MoV stainless steel blade.
The dark, low-profile theme bleeds into every other part of the knife from the skeletonized steel liners to pocket clip, and other black-coated hardware. The blade itself is 2.31 inches when deployed, and a liner lock keeps everything in place when in use. And it truly is lightweight at just 2.8 ounces, making it a breeze to use.
An affordable knife for anyone interested in jumping into the world of Spyderco cutlery, and it’s a testament to the company’s build quality.
Companies from every corner of the globe will unveil their new knives at the BLADE Show.
Knife companies know how their bread is buttered—by blue-collar and other like-minded knife enthusiasts who buy factory knives by the wagonload. And there’s no better place to tap that wealth of grassroots knife enthusiasts than the BLADE Show.
More companies from more countries than ever before will introduce their latest cutters in Atlanta’s Cobb Galleria Centre June 7-9. Scrutinize this and the following pages for just one knife each applicable company will debut. There will be many more, including those of exhibiting companies that were unable to participate in the story for one reason or another.
All the featured knives are either available for sale now or will be in June.
W.R. Case & Sons Ruple Axe Handle
Designer: BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-Of-Fame® member Bill Ruple Knife type: Folder Blade length: 3.5” Blade steel: 154CM stainless Blade grind: Flat taper Handle material: Natural birdseye maple Lock: Lockback Special features: Axe-handle-shaped handle Weight: 4.2 ozs. Closed length: 4.4” Carry: Taco-shaped suede leather pouch a la the ones that came with past Case/Tony Bose collaborations Knife to know: The knife marks the first of what promises to a series of collaborations between Case and Ruple as Bill officially succeeds the late Cutlery Hall-Of-Famer Tony Bose as Case’s go-to custom knifemaker designer Country of origin: USA MSRP: To be determined
Halfbreed Blades CQC-02S
Designers: Halfbreed in collaboration w/Jared Wihongi Description: Karambit Knife type: Fixed blade Blade length: 3.54” Blade material: K340 carbon steel Rockwell hardness: 59-60 HRC Edge: Polished, partially serrated Blade finish: PVD coated black Blade pattern: Talon point Blade @ thickest: .23” Handle material: G-10 Knife weight: 7.65 ozs. Overall length: 7.48” Sheath: Molded Kydex Mounting: IWB and belt (DOTS design) Color options: Black, dark earth, Ranger green Country of origin: Comprises Australian and Taiwanese make MSRP: $220
Bear OPS 4.5” Double Clutch IV
Knife type: EDC Blade length: 2.5” Blade material: D2 tool steel Blade grind: Taper Handle material: Aircraft aluminum w/grip ridges, hole for a lanyard Opening mechanism: Automatic Pocket clip: Robust steel model Weight: 3.3 ozs. Closed length: 4.5” Country of origin: USA MSRP: $289.99
Kansept Link
Knife type: EDC Blade length: 3.55” Blade steel: CPM 20CV stainless Blade grind: Flat Handle material: Titanium+Gecko camo carbon fiber Lock: Framelock Pocket clip: Milled titanium Weight: 3.85 ozs. Closed length: 3.61” Country of origin: China MSRP: $284
CobraTec Surgeon
Knife type: Necker Blade length: 1.75” Blade steel: M390 stainless Blade grind: Flat Handle material: M390 stainless Construction: Full tang Weight: 1.2 ozs. Sheath: Kydex w/necklace bead chain Country of origin: China MSRP: $99.99
A.G. Russell Knives
Knife type: EDC Designer: BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-of-Fame® member A.G. Russell Blade length: 3.25” Blade Material: D2 tool steel Rockwell Hardness: 60-61 HRC Blade grind: Flat saber Handle material: Green G-10 (also available in blue) Blade opener: Thumb stud Blade finish: Hand rubbed Lock: Cutlery Hall-of-Famer Blackie Collins-inspired design Pocket clip: Deep pocket, ambidextrous, blade tip up Weight: 3.7 ozs. Closed length: 4.25” Country of origin: China MSRP: $135
Fox Cutlery Anzu
Designer: Les George Knife type: EDC Blade length: 3.15” Blade steel: CPM MagnaCut stainless Blade finish: Black PVD Blade grind: Flat Handle material: 3K carbon fiber Lock: Verso Lock Pocket clip: Black PVD-coated 420 stainless steel, reversible Weight: 3.7 ozs. Closed length: 4.13” Country of origin: Italy MSRP: $225 at press-time exchange rate
Ocaso Duo Desk Knife
Model type: Desk knife Blade length: 2.75” Blade steel: 420J2 stainless Blade grind: Chisel Handle material: 420J2 Special features: Dual knives w/neodymium magnets Weight: 3 ozs. Overall length: 5.5” Knife to know: Includes walnut and stainless steel stand Country of origin: Taiwan MSRP: $149.99
Condor Tool & Knife Narrowsaur
Knife type: Survival Blade length: 4.2” Blade material: 1095 carbon steel Blade grind: Scandi Handle: Walnut Weight: 4.9 ozs. Overall length: 8.66” Sheath: Handcrafted leather Country of origin: El Salvador MSRP: $89.98
Bradford USA Gatsby Steak Knife
Knife type: Culinary Blade length: 4.5” Blade steel: N690 stainless Blade grind: Full-height flat Handle options: Maroon, wheat or ivory canvas Micarta®, and carbon fiber MAKER’S REMARK: As Nicole Bradford noted, “It makes your steak taste better!” Weight: 2.7 ozs. Overall length: 8.5” Sheath: 4-pack leather roll and/or individual Kydex Country of origin: USA Proud MSRP: $199 each
QSP Knife Turtle Punk
Designer: Keanu Alfaro Model type: Pocketknife Blade length: 3.5” Blade steel: Sandvik 14C28N stainless Blade grind: Flat Handle material: Black-and-white-pattern G-10 Lock: Linerlock Pivot: Ceramic ball bearings Pocket clip: Blade tip up, stainless steel, deep carry, ambidextrous Weight: 4.6 ozs. Closed length: 4.5” Overall length: 8” Country of origin: China MSRP: To be determined
Reate GTR
Knife type: EDC Blade length: 3.6” Blade steel: M390 stainless Blade finish: Hand satin Blade openers: Flipper tab, blade hole and thumb stud Blade pattern: Harpoon Handle: Titanium in a selection of finishes, color anodizations, Zircuti inlays and more Weight: 5.5 ozs. Closed length: 5” Country of origin: China MSRPs: $687 (w/Zircuti inlays) and $450 (titanium version)
Smoky Mountain Knife Works Rough Ryder Reserve Hawkeye
Knife pattern: Gentleman’s hawkbill Designer: Brian Wilhoite Blade length: 25/8” Blade material: D2 tool steel Handle material: Brown jigged bone Action: Slipjoint w/half stop Weight: 3.2 ozs. Closed length: 3.5” Special features: Brass liners and lanyard tube, nickel silver bomb shield and pins Country of origin: China MSRP: $44.95
Designer: Andrew Demko Knife type: EDC Blade length: 3.5” Blade material: CPM 3V carbon steel Blade pattern: Drop point Handle material: Titanium Lock: Tri-Ad Pocket clip: Blade tip up Special features: Full titanium; limited run of 1,000; presentation box Weight: 9 ozs. Closed length: 5.25” Country of origin: Taiwan MSRP: $279.99
Spartan Blades Spartan-Harsey Clandestina
Designer: William W. “Bill” Harsey Jr. Knife type: Fixed blade, combat/utility Blade length: 5.5” Blade steel: CPM MagnaCut stainless Rockwell hardness: 61-63 HRC Blade grind: Flat/saber Blade @ thickest: 3/16” Handle material: CE canvas Micarta®, black or camo (shown) Weight: 7.6 ozs. Overall length: 10 3/16” Knife to know: Flat ground main bevel with tapered top edge Sheath: MOLLE and Kydex options Country of origin: USA MSRP: $360
Benchmade 99 Necron
Knife type: Balisong Blade length: 4.59” Blade steel: CPM S30V stainless Blade grind: Scimitar Handle material: G-10 Lock: Latchless balisong Special features: Interchangeable backspacers and an interchangeable tungsten weight system beneath the G-10 scales tune the flipping dynamics; comes in ivory and ruby red (99BK-1) versions Weight: 4.21 ozs. Closed length: 5.08”; 5.92” w/extensions Carry: Nylon sleeve Country of origin: USA MSRPs: $500 ivory version, $550 ruby red version
Sometimes You Need A Sharpener On The Go. These Five Pocket Knife Sharpeners Are Everything You Could Want In A Mobile Sharpener.
Many knife sharpeners are designed exclusively for the kitchen. Whether handheld or electric, they’re made to be used on a countertop in the kitchen or in the home. But what about when you’re out and about and need to sharpen a knife.
Maybe your EDC took a beating while you were cutting up boxes as you cleaned your job site. Maybe your rough-and-tumble Bowie knife needs a little love after hacking through some brush while hiking.
That’s where pocket knife sharpeners come in.
Small and easy to use, the best pocket knife sharpeners can fit anywhere and go anywhere. These are five that we’ve found can handle the tough task of sharpening your knives while also easily hiding away when not in use.
Lansky Quadsharp Knife Sharpener
Lansky Quadsharp
What’s better than a knife sharpener with one sharpening option? How about a sharpener with five ways to sharpen. You read that right — five.
The Lansky Quadsharp is a quintessential pocket knife sharpener. It is easily held in the palm of your hand, and its bright blue color helps it stand out if its buried in your work bag or in your hunting equipment.
The Quadsharp features four angled carbide slots to pull your knife through and a ceramic benchstone for more routine maintenance and honing. The slots each have a different angle (17, 20, 25, and 30 degrees) so you’ll be able to get the right angle for each of your knives.
The carbide slots are meant to revive dull and damaged blades. The 800-grit ceramic benchstone is meant for more regular use and can sharpen both straight edge and serrated knives. The slots are only good for straight-edged blades. The ceramic is harder than steel so it will never wear out and can keep your knives sharp for decades to come.
With an MSRP of $23.99, the Quadsharp swings way above its weight thanks to its small size, durability, and versatility.
Smith’s Pocket Pal X2 Sharpener & Outdoors Tool
Smith’s Pocket Pal X2 Sharpener & Outdoors Tool
Smith’s has made a product that not only sharpens but does a whole bunch more. The Pocket Pal X2 features a coarse carbide angled sharpening slot and a fine 1000-grit ceramic sharpening slot. It also features a fold-out diamond honing rod that is perfect for sharpening serrated knives, single-bevel knives, and gut hooks.
The Pocket Pal X2 is so much more than just a sharpener. It comes with a compass and a built-in LED flashlight. There’s also a high-pitched signal whistle so you can call for help if in distress. And, what I think is the coolest part of the Pocket Pal X2, is the built-in fire starter. Use it by pulling it through the coarse sharpener to make a spark.
You can see all of the tool’s features in action in this video below.
Coming it at an MSRP of $17.99, the Pocket Pal X2 is a great pocket knife sharpener and all-around tool if you’re planning to do anything outdoors or to just keep in the car in case of an emergency.
AccuSharp Knife And Tool Sharpener
AccuSharp Knife And Tool Sharpener
AccuSharp takes the concept of “grab and go” to a whole new level with their Knife and Tool Sharpener. Rather than pulling the knife through or across the sharpener, you pull the sharpener across the knife.
By using tungsten carbide blades, and a finger guard so you don’t slice your hand, AccuSharp has made a tool that subverts what you think a knife sharpener should look like. You can see how the tool works in AccuSharp’s own video below.
The most affordable sharpener on this list, with an MSRP of $10.99, AccuSharp’s Knife and Tool Sharpener can sharpen your kitchen knives, your EDC, and even the axe you keep in the shed.
Victorinox Dual Knife Sharpener
Victorinox Dual Knife Sharpener
Shaped like a pen, the Victorinox Dual Knife Sharpener can sharpen and hone knives in a sleek, elegant package that can easily tuck away in a pocket or clip onto your belt line.
Opening one end reveals an angled pair of ceramic discs to pull across your blade to sharpen it. On the other end, there is a honing stone so you can polish and maintain the edge of your knives.
You can see how nimble and easy to use the sharpener is by watching this quick video below.
The sharpener is so compact and light, coming in at just 1.4 ounces in weight, that there’s no place it can’t go. From the same company that makes the iconic Swiss Army Knife, you can trust that the Dual Knife Sharpener, with an MSRP of $19, will be sharpening your knives for years to come.
WorkSharp Guided Field Sharpener
WorkSharp Guided Field Sharpener
From one of the top companies for all things knives, comes a sharpener that is made for you to take into the field, keep in the shop, or use at home. This sharpener from WorkSharp can sharpen straight-edge knives, serrated knives, and fish hooks.
Utilizing five stages of sharpening and honing, the Guided Field Sharpener is as dynamic as they come. Features include 20-degree angle guides of 320 and 600-grit diamond to sharpen your knives and the pair of a fine ceramic rod and leather strop to polish and hone your edges.
You can even remove the diamond sharpening plates to get access to the storage cavity and broadhead wrench inside of the device. There’s also a small hole in the casing so you can attach the sharpener to a lanyard or strap.
WorkSharp made this in-depth video showing off all the sharpener’s features and how to sharpen different blades with it.
With an MSRP of $34.95, you are getting an absolute steal of a sharpener. Packed with features, and tough enough to last for years, WorkSharp once again has made a sharpener that stands out from the pack.
Editor’s Note: This article was written by Mike Ableson.
Perhaps the most iconic handmade knife ever can be yours for the right price
It may be the most iconic custom knife ever and it was made by perhaps the best knifemaker ever. The King Tut Dagger reproduction by BLADE Magazine Cutlery Hall-Of-Fame® member Buster Warenski is available for sale through Exquisite Knives.
Buster Warenski’s reproduction of the King Tut Dagger took over five years to complete and, including the sheath, contains over 32 ounces of gold. (SharpByCoop image)
Commissioned by Cutlery Hall-Of-Famer Phil Lobred in 1982, the knife took Warenski over five years to complete. A pioneering collector of custom knives and 19th-century dress bowies and founder/creator/coordinator of the Art Knife Invitational, Phil had kept the dagger in a safe ever since, displaying it on rare occasions at select knife shows or for private viewings. He passed away in 2016. On Aug. 1, his widow, Judy, contacted Dave Ellis of Exquisite Knives and asked him to handle the sale of the famous piece.
Buster Warenski is widely recognized as one of the best knifemakers if not the best ever. He passed away in 2005.
Once valued at over $1 million, “the most famous contemporary handmade knife ever,” according to Ellis, has an asking price of $500,000.
LEGACY IN STEEL
The first of Warenski’s three “Legacy Knives”—the other two being the Gem of the Orient and Fire and Ice—the King Tut Dagger is a reproduction of the knife from the tomb of the Egyptian boy king, Tutankhamun, uncovered by archaeologist Howard Carter in 1922. It contains over 32 ounces of gold and took Warenski, widely recognized as one of the best knifemakers if not the best ever, over half a decade to build.
During that span he suffered through the trial and challenges of recreating the iconic dagger. Among them was the cold forging and fullering of the knife’s gold blade, learning such ancient techniques as cloisonné—a highly technical enameling process—and the granulation of the handle. The solid gold scabbard rivals the knife in terms of beauty and the many hours it took to make. A special handmade display stand comes with the dagger, both of which are in mint condition.
The King Tut Dagger repro was the cover for the February 1988 BLADE®.
PRICED TO SELL
The current sale will be the second time Ellis has had a go at moving the Tut dagger repro.
“A few years before he passed, Phil Lobred asked if I would find a buyer for the Tut. His asking price at the time was $1 million. I had a number of interested parties but Phil was set on his price and I could not swing the sale,” Dave wrote. “Now, over six years since Phil passed, Judy contacted me about selling the King Tut Dagger. After deciding on a more realistic price—not that a million was unreasonable but few if any contemporary knives have attained that lofty status—I am marketing the piece on my Instagram and Facebook pages and on my website.”
An ABS master smith now retired from bladesmithing, Dave is a top collector and dealer of fine custom knives. He stated that to be able to offer his clientele such a special piece is indeed an honor.
Phil Lobred commissioned Buster Warenski to make the King Tut dagger repro in 1982 and Buster completed it in 1987. Phil, here on a dock in San Diego, created/founded the Art Knife Invitational in 1983. He passed away in 2016.
Perhaps the only things better would be to a) sell it and b) own it.
For more information on the sale of the King Tut Dagger repro, visit exquisiteknives.com and click on ‘art knives’ on the home page.
Daggers have a colorful past and a collectible present.
Early in history, warriors concluded they needed a stabbing weapon they could carry because using a sword, club or spear was not always convenient or practical. Daggers were developed to fill that role.
The exact origin of the word dagger has yet to be discovered. It is believed to come from the old French daque or old Italian daga. Dagger gained acceptance during the 14th century when knives with blades that come to a very sharp point became consistently distinguishable from swords.
In peacetime, daggers were often made from expensive materials and worn in ornate sheaths as part of formal dress. Doing so indicated status and wealth. However, daggers weren’t always for the wealthy.
Since daggers are stabbing weapons, they could also be made from bone or antler. This gave those who could not afford items made from metal an effective self-defense tool.
Daggers For Self-Defense
Out of necessity, those who wore a knife in America in the 1800s would usually choose what today we call a bowie. Not only was this knife imposing when worn, it was also large enough to perform the day’s chores while the West was settled. As America became more civilized and cities became more commonplace, the days of wearing such a large knife in public became less acceptable. Self-defense was still at a premium, and small firearms and daggers replaced the large knife. A dagger had to be used at very close range to be effective. No wonder revolvers grew in popularity as the defensive weapon of choice.
Iconic Styles Of Daggers
Trench Knife
During World War I, close-quarters combat was a significant part of trench warfare, where enemy soldiers would fight in tight and narrow quarters in attempts to capture trenches. The best-known dagger of World War I is the 1918 knuckle knife. American weapons inventor Maj. Eugene McNary of the Air Expeditionary Force designed the knuckle knife. He incorporated the same spear-point blade design as the French M1916 Trench Dagger. In addition, McNary added the knuckles and skull crusher point on the handle butt to increase the knife’s lethality. The Landers, Frary & Clark Co. of New Britain, Connecticut, manufactured the knuckle knife. The handle is marked “U.S. 1918” and is maker-marked “L.F.&C.”
Push Dagger
The push dagger is designed primarily as a last-resort weapon for close-quarters defense. While not generally utilized as a primary weapon, it does allow the user to carry it concealed and employ it one-handed, giving him the ability to manipulate the push dagger with one hand while using his off hand to help defend himself. The blade of a push dagger is shorter and broader than that of a standard dagger. In addition, the handle is longer horizontally/wider and thicker to give the user more leverage for pushing.
F-S DAGGER
No dagger developed during World War II carries more lore or recognition than the one designed and developed by William Fairbairn and Eric Sykes. The Fairbairn-Sykes dagger can be used for slashing cuts. However, its acutely tapered and sharply pointed blade led the knife to be described as a stiletto, a weapon primarily designed for thrusting. In addition, the knife was configured for surprise attacks, with its slender blade quickly penetrating the ribcage. From 1940 to 1943, Fairbairn and Sykes developed three different patterns of the dagger.
Final Cut
In September 1983, I started taking the U.S. Army Infantry Officers Basic Course at Ft. Benning, Georgia. Traveling with me was the dagger I received as a present from my wife for being commissioned a second lieutenant.
Because of the knife’s reputation during the Vietnam War, it was a factory dagger I had wanted. I was excited to go on the first training exercise so I could finally put my knife through its paces. After cutting some 550 cord, I stuck my dagger in a tree while I tied the knot. I pulled the knife from the tree to find I had only a handle in my hand. I felt shocked, disappointed and angry all at the same time, as this legendary dagger was anything but. Upon closer inspection, I saw that the knife’s tang was 1 inch long and secured by glue in the handle.
The lessons I learned that day were a) don’t believe the hype and b) only use daggers with full tangs. Please note that the custom knives featured in this article all have full tangs. The plus side to the catastrophic failure of my factory dagger is it made me realize I must research my future knife purchases more carefully.
In April 1984, I bought my first custom knife. I never purchased or used a factory knife again. When it comes to an infantryman and his knife, compromise elsewhere!
Custom Dagger Buyer’s Guide
Les Geroge: Model 1918 Trench Knife
U.S. Marine Corps veteran/custom knifemaker Les George has a fondness for classic U.S. military knives. In 2018, he created his version of the 1918 trench knife. Except for the cast brass handle, Les updated the materials, including a 6.75-inch blade of CPM S35VN stainless steel and a titanium tang nut, both of which have a black Cerakote® finish. As of this writing, he planned to do another limited run of the knife.
Model 1918 Trench Knife Specs Maker: Les George Blade Length: 6.75” Blade Steel: CPM S35VN stainless Blade Finish: Black Cerakote® Handle Material: Cast brass w/titanium tang nut Overall Length: 11.5” Sheath: Made by George of leather Maker’s Price: $425 (SharpByCoop knife image; image of Les George by Ronald S. Smith)
Paul McDanie:l Mako Push Dagger
Custom knifemaker Paul McDaniel incorporates all the above-mentioned traits of the push dager in his Mako Push Dagger. The 3-inch double-edge blade is 80CrV2 carbon steel and has a fuller. The 3.75-inch handle is black, textured G-10. The accompanying custom-made Kydex sheath features multiple attachment points.
Mako Push Dagger Specs Maker: Paul McDaniel Blade Length: 3” w/full double edge Blade Material: 80CrV2 carbon steel Blade Finish: Black Cerakote® Handle Material: Textured black G-10 Handle Width: 3.75” Overall Length: 5.25” Sheath: Made by McDaniel of Kydex w/leather straps Maker’s Price: $365 (Robertson’s Custom Cutlery image)
Brent Sandow: Fairbairn-Sykes Dagger
Maker Brent Sandow of New Zealand builds all three F-S dagger variants. The featured one has a 6.75-inch blade of D2 tool steel, a stainless steel guard, and a checkered handle. All the metal parts feature a flat-black Gun-Kote™ finish. In addition, Brent has slightly modified the knife by adding scalloping to the guard. The scalloping allows the user to index the knife. Indexing helps the user by providing a locating mark to help control the blade while maneuvering it*.
A version of the F-S dagger by maker Piotr Gosciniak of Poland sports a slightly shorter blade with a fuller down the center. Contrary to popular belief, a fuller is not a “blood groove.” Instead, it is a feature that reduces the knife’s weight and stiffens the blade. At the same time, it can help the maker provide a knife with enhanced balance. Piotr’s dagger features a 6.3-inch blade of 80CrV2 in black Cerakote. The black G-10 handle is laser-cut to enhance grip. For additional control, the knife has a scalloped guard.
Mako Push Dagger Specs Maker: Paul McDaniel Blade Length: 3” w/full double edge Blade Material: 80CrV2 carbon steel Blade Finish: Black Cerakote® Handle Material: Textured black G-10 Handle Width: 3.75” Overall Length: 5.25” Sheath: Made by McDaniel of Kydex w/leather straps Maker’s Price: $365 (Robertson’s Custom Cutlery image)
Piotr Gosciniak: Dagger
The texture of the black Micarta® handle enhances grip, particularly in a wet environment. The fuller reduces the blade’s weight while at the same time improves its strength. The thumb cutout provides extra stability during use.
Dagger Specs Maker: Piotr Gosciniak Blade Length: 6.3” Blade Material: 80CrV2 carbon steel Blade Finish: Black Cerakote® Handle Material: Laser-cut-textured black G-10 Overall Length: 11.5” Sheath: Made by Gosciniak of Kydex Maker’s Price: $425 (Piotr Gosciniak images)
Walter Brend: SF Dagger
The SF Dagger by Walter Brend features an 8-inch blade of D2 tool steel with a satin finish and Walter’s impeccable grind lines. Handle: black Micarta®. Guard: stainless steel. Special features: Full-tang construction, double edge, thong hole and a skullcrusher pommel. Overall length: 12.75 inches.
SF Dagger Specs Maker: Walter Brend Blade Length: 7” Blade Steel: CTS XHP stainless Blade Finish: Satin Handle Material: Black Micarta® Guard Material: Stainless steel Overall Length: 12” Sheath: Custom-made of leather Maker’s Price: $2,800 (Robertson’s Custom Cutlery image)
Production Dagger Buyer’s Guide
Winkler Tactical Dagger
This tactical dagger from Winkler was designed for the military by people in the military. It isn’t a show knife for people looking to cosplay as their favorite action star. This is the real deal.
The 5.5-inch blade is 3/16-inch-thick 80CrV2 carbon steel with a black oxide Caswell finish and has a Rockwell hardness of 59-60 HRC. The blade is made for combat and will handle the abuse you throw at it. Both edges are ground to a razor edge.
A tapered tang runs through the entirety of the wasp sculpted canvas laminate handle to give you a strong, sturdy grip. The piece comes with a custom-lined Kydex sheath for secure carry. Made in the USA, the knife is an absolute winner. WK Defense Dagger Specs Maker: Winkler Blade Length: 4.25″ Blade Steel: 80CrV2 Blade Finish: Black oxide no-glare finish Handle Material: Black Canvas Laminate, Camo G10, Maple, Walnut, WASP Overall Length: 8 Sheath: Lined Boltaron® Sheath Maker’s Price: $325
Spartan Les George V14 Dagger
Designed by award-winning knifemaker Les George, the V14 from Spartan Blades is about as high quality as it gets. A Marine veteran, Les knows what is needed from a dagger and puts it all into this one.
The V14 has a beefy 6.75-inch blade of symmetrically ground CPM S35VN stainless steel heat-treated to a Rockwell hardness of 58-60 HRC that provides great edge retention and durability. The handle is 3D-contoured black G-10 that wraps a full tang to provide a strong grip. This knife isn’t going anywhere in your hand, and the blade’s not going to snap in two when deployed. The Kydex sheath is MOLLE compatible.
George V1-14 Dagger Maker: Spartan Blades Blade Length: 6 3/4″ Blade Steel: CPM S45VN Blade Finish: SpartaCoat – PVD – Tungsten DLC (Black) or ZrN (Flat Dark Earth) Handle Material: 3D Contoured G10, Black or Green Overall Length: 11 1/2″ Sheath: Kydex Sheath Maker’s Price: $495
Blackside Customs P7 Dagger
This piece from Blackside Customs is the smallest of the three knives on our list but no less functional.
The 3.5-inch blade is CTS-XHP stainless steel with an OD green Cerakote® finish. The smaller size makes the P7 more feasible as an EDC if you prefer your standard carry to be a fixed blade. The G-10 grips are double-riveted to the tang for a comfortable grip when deployed.
The Kydex sheath lets you carry the knife easily and discreetly. The smaller blade means a lower weight. At just 3.5 ounces, almost three times lighter than the heaviest knife on this list, the P7 is a sleek piece that moves with grace and ease.
The commendable quality of the TOPS Knives I Stick lies in its ability to live up to its advertised purpose. It excels in the task of sticking objects securely, and credit is due to the TOPS team for their rare commitment to truthful advertising.
The I Stick embodies the original intent behind the push dagger’s design, which is to protect the wielder by swiftly striking those who pose a threat. Possessing a generous blade length and an impressive thickness that instills a sensation of being able to puncture a shipping container, it undeniably proves its efficacy in defensive scenarios.
Featuring sharp edges on both sides, it surpasses the 3.5-inch blade measurement that could attract the attention of law enforcement officers seeking to find fault. Consequently, it may not be the ideal choice for individuals residing in states with stringent knife regulations. However, if you find yourself in a state with fewer restrictions or if you possess a weapons carry permit, the TOPS Knives I Stick presents itself as a formidable contender.
*Editor’s note: Though meant to be inferred from the author’s description, we might add that indexing enables the user to know by feel how the blade is oriented during use, an invaluable feature in situations where the user cannot see the blade for whatever reason.
I Stick Maker: TOPS Knives Blade Length: 3.50″ Blade Steel: 1075 RC 56-58 Blade Finish: Black Traction Coating Handle Material: Black Canvas Micarta Overall Length: 5.63″ Sheath: Black Kydex Maker’s Price: $210
Editor’s Note: Michael Ableson contributed to this post.
The Drop Point Blade Is One Of The Most Utilitarian Blade Styles. From Outdoor Knives To EDC Folders, The Drop Point Is The Way To Go.
The drop-point blade is perhaps the most useful shape for outdoor knives. It’s an excellent cutting tool and the point makes it good at puncturing too. Whether it’s cleaning a kill or just opening up a gift box, the drop point is an excellent all-rounder that any knife lover should have.
Ka-Bar/Becker Knife & Tool BK16 Short Becker
The wide drop-point blade of the KA-BAR/Becker BK16 has the ideal edge geometry to handle precise tasks like whittling.
It is a midsize knife that is easy to carry, handle and use. The 4-inch blade of flat-ground 1095 Cro-Van steel can hold a respectable edge and sharpens quickly in the field. The black textured epoxy coating is non-glare and corrosion-resistant.
The Zytel handle is a typical Becker design—highly ergonomic with a palm swell that fills the hand nicely. The handle edges are rounded to eliminate hot spots. Part of the tang is exposed for the lanyard hole. There’s also traction notches on the spine to choke up for added control. When you hold the BK16, notice how solid it feels. Even though one of the smaller knives in the line, it still feels capable of handling most cutting or camp tasks.
The sheath is a ballistic nylon with a rigid plastic liner. An accessory pouch holds a small lockblade folder or sharpener. The knife secures in the sheath via two button-snap nylon straps. The BK16 holds snugly inside the sheath with no rattling. Made in China, the sheath is of very good quality.
The BK16 is a workhorse. The drop-point shape is utility friendly and covers a broad range of general camp chores, from food prep to field dressing. The flat grind ensures optimum slicing.
The handle shape is classic Becker. A forward finger recess forms the lower guard and a palm swell mid-handle seats the hand comfortably. All edges are rounded for maximum comfort during prolonged use. The BK16 comes with two sets of scales: black Zytel and coyote tan. I opted for the tan. I love the contrast with the black blade.
I successfully batonned the knife through wood. The knife shrugged the task off and repeatedly came back for more. Whittling was easy. The ergonomic grip is comfortable and you’re able to use the exact pressure needed. The BK16 handles food prep with confidence.
If you need a compact fixed blade capable of tackling large tasks, the BK16 is it. Made in the USA, it has an MSRP of $132.
Fallkniven F1 Pro
The Fallkniven F1 Pro’s blade geometry makes baton work almost effortless.
The Fallkniven F1 Pro features an extra-heavy-duty build and ELMAX high-performance stainless blade steel, which offers enhanced edge holding and toughness. With a 4-inch, convex-ground blade and 8.5-inch overall length, it is a formidable knife, weighing in at 6.1 ounces.
The blade stock thickness is .19 inches, fairly thick for a knife this size. The full tang extends through the Thermorun rubber handle and is exposed on the butt for excellent torsional rigidity.
The handle sides feature a heavy checkering pattern for an excellent grip with wet or dry hands. The Thermorun material has a sort of a grip-you-back quality, similar to Kraton. The oblong handle shape rests in your grip comfortably so that you feel in control of the knife.
The sheath is well made of heavy-duty Zytel with a nylon webbing belt loop and button-snap retention strap. At first, the nylon webbing may seem a bit cheap but in reality it’s very smart.
Why? The webbing allows the sheath to move freely at your side in case it gets snagged by branches, or to self-adjust when you are seated in a chair or a vehicle. Most rigid sheaths do not allow for this. Not to mention, the nylon webbing material is weather and moisture-resistant.
The knife locks into the sheath via the guard as it engages a spring-loaded tab in the sheath’s side. This alone is enough to hold the knife inside, but securing the handle with the snap strap guarantees the knife stays put until you release it. The sheath’s bottom is open to allow moisture to escape and resist blade corrosion.
The F1 Pro and the BK16 are the heaviest-duty ones of the test bunch. The F1 Pro easily completed baton work. The thick blade stock and flat grind split wood like a wedge. For whittling, the convex edge has a ton of bite. It shaved off thick chunks of wood as I carved multiple stakes to a point. It made fast work of the task but, at the same time, was controllable and made precise cuts when needed.
In some respects it worked as hard as a larger knife. In the kitchen, don’t dismiss the F1 Pro due to the thick blade. It slices vegetables with precision, proof this beast of a knife can handle delicate tasks as well.
There were no problems with the Thermorun handle. My hands got a bit sweaty during outdoor use and the handle never felt like it was going to slip in my hand. The checkered texturing is the right amount and not overly aggressive to your skin.
With an MSRP of $407.95, the F1 Pro ELMAX is one of the most expensive knives you will find in this class, but the chosen materials and highest quality of build offset the cost. You get what you pay for and this is a high-quality tool.
White River Knife & Tool Hunter
The blade of the White River Hunter is flat ground for optimal cutting performance, and the steel offers toughness and high edge-retention qualities.
The White River Knife & Tool Hunter is a simple design, with a 3.5-inch drop-point blade paired with an ergonomic handle. Blade steel is CPM S35VN high-performance stainless, and the handle comes in several material options. The 8.25-inch overall length is well-suited for field dressing and possible bushcraft use, too.
The blade is flat ground for optimal cutting performance and the steel offers toughness and high edge-retention qualities. A polished finish makes the blade a snap to clean and also seals micropores, thus helping prevent rust. It’s kind of unusual to see a mirror polish on such a blade due to it being a labor-intensive finish; most such blades have either machine satin, stonewash, or even bead-blasted finishes.
A large finger recess helps index your grip, and a significant palm swell rests the knife in your hand comfortably. The butt has a bird’s beak pommel to prevent your hand from sliding backward.
As for handle material choices, they include three Micarta® flavors: natural burlap, black burlap, and black/OD green. Micarta is an excellent choice for an outdoor knife, as it is dimensionally stable and impervious to the elements and absorption of fluids. It also has a tactile feel that aids in grip retention in all conditions.
We selected the natural burlap for the test, as it has a very organic appearance, almost a wood tone. The feel is akin to that of canvas Micarta. The sheath is formfitting Kydex, with a molded Kydex belt loop that accommodates belts up to 2 inches wide.
The cutting performance is superb. The knife is efficient and simple to maneuver. The flat-ground blade sails through meat and vegetables. Being a smaller fixed blade means it can be used for more delicate or intricate cutting.
I like the burlap Micarta. It’s very durable, looks great, and has a great in-hand feel. Burlap micarta isn’t common in production knives, so this is a bit rare—for now.
The shorter-length blade handles kitchen utility tasks well. Who knows—this knife might wind up in your kitchen pulling permanent duty when it’s not out with you in the woods. The White River Hunter retails for $180 for any of the handle material options. This is a really good price for a USA-made fixed blade with premium blade and handle materials. If you like refined fixed-blade hunters, the White River Hunter is for you.
Chris Reeve Knives Backpacker
The Chris Reeve Backpacker handles like a dream. The knife is balanced perfectly and feels like an extension of your hand. It’s very predictable in use and is a slicer by nature. (Dexter Ewing image)
The newest fixed blade from Chris Reeve Knives, the Backpacker is for outdoorsmen and backpack hunters who want a fairly lightweight sheath knife that is quite usable with a smart design and high-end materials.
It features a 4-inch drop-point blade hollow ground from CPM Magnacut, the latest of the high-performance stainless super steels. Magnacut reportedly has the best edge retention of any high-end blade steel. The Backpacker will go the distance with edge holding. A stonewash finish gives the blade a slight industrial look. Stonewash finishes do a good job of hiding scratches that occur during use.
The handle has a hollowed-out full tang, which helps keep weight to a minimum (3.8 ounces) and improves balance. The scales are canvas Micarta in black or natural. The Micarta is sculpted to provide placement of the hand and fingers, enhancing user comfort and blade control.
Canvas Micarta has a grippy nature and seems to get better when your hands are wet, unlike other materials that may feel less tactile when wet. Two pairs of hex-head bolts secure the scales which are removable, resulting in a skeletonized fixed blade to further reduce weight and bulk.
The integral guard formed by the blade’s height is a smart design I really like. It allows you to choke up on the handle for precise control, as well as keeping your hand in place.
The Backpacker comes with a Kydex sheath which locks around the lower portion of the exposed tang that forms the guard. It does not encompass the handle scales as most fixed-blade Kydex sheaths do. This is done on purpose so if you do decide to remove the scales and use the Backpacker skeletonized, the sheath will still work and lock on the knife for safe carry.
A flat-head screw at the end allows you to fine-tune how tight the sheath locks onto the blade. Not many sheaths have this feature. The rivet spacing allows use of a large Tek-Lok belt fastener (the knife does not come with a provision for belt attachment, so it’s up to the buyer to supply such).
The Backpacker handles like a dream! The hollow grind slices easily. I used the knife to cut meats and vegetables. The cutting performance is predictable, efficient, and precise. It’s like driving a nice European sports car.
Handle comfort is first class; I love the way the Micarta feels in-hand. It’s light as a feather for a fixed blade of its size, and no doubt the minimal weight does a lot to improve handling. When you choke-up on the handle with your thumb placed on the blade spine, you can feel how the ergonomics work to lock your grip on.
The Backpacker is a high-end, USA-made hunting/camping fixed blade. MSRP: $300. A CRK knife for $300 is a great price, actually, and you get a lot in return, including high-end materials and the company’s design and manufacturing/engineering expertise.
Buck 112 Ranger
Buck 112 Ranger
Buck makes great knives, and this folder certainly is one of their best. The Ranger is a variation on the famous 110 Folding Hunter with a drop point instead of the original’s clip point.
The knife is beautiful with an ebony handle and ethically-sourced Crelicam ivory. While the handle is stunning, the star of the show is still the blade. Made from 420 HC stainless with a satin finish, the 3-inch blade is everything you would want in an EDC. With a thick belly and thick tip, the blade slices and punctures confidently.
The heat treat imbues the blade with excellent corrosion resistance and durability. It’s hardened to an HRC 58 so the knife can handle the wear and tear of everyday use with ease. This is a classy knife at a great price.
MSRP: $63.99
Benchmade Bugout
Benchmade BK-2
When it comes to drop point EDC knives the Benchmade Bugout is one of the most iconic. It was designed for outdoor use which makes it overpowered as an EDC for so many reasons.
There are many versions of the Bugout, and all are excellent, but for this piece we chose the BK-2 for its affordability in relation to other knives in the line.
The BK-2 is a fully blacked out version of the Bugout with a CF-Elite handled married to the CPM-S30V blade. The steel comes in a black Cerakote finish and is treated to a 58-60 HRC. The knife shines in large part thanks to its weight. At just 1.8 ounces, the BK-2 is so light and nimble in the air that it can feel like cutting with air.
It’s the Bugout. It’s great. It’s one of the highest-quality drop point knives on the market.
MSRP: $190
Kizer Drop Bear
This knife was released over the summer and it is excellent. We have already written an in-depth review of the Drop Bear, and it’s worthy of a second mention.
The 154CM steel blade is meted to an aluminum handle. At 3.8 ounces it’s a substantial little knife that can handle the day-to-day tasks asked of it and can even be used as a kitchen knife in a pinch.
The knife’s clutch lock, Kizer’s newly-adopted Axis-style lock, is fun to use and keeps the blade secure at all times. This is an excellent new addition to the world of drop point pocketknives.
MSRP: $158
Editor’s Note: Mike Abelson provided content for this piece.
