Texas-based maker gives his take on the Randall Model 19.
It’s safe to say Adam Williams has had a lifelong love affair with Randall Made Knives.
“I’ve been drawn to Randall Made Knives and their designs since my grandmother gave me a copy of the 1973 edition of The Gun Digest Book of Knives and saw my first image of a Randall knife. I was around 11 or 12,” he wrote.
Little did this matriarch know where her gift was going to lead her grandson. Eventually, the Texas-based maker said he worked for the legendary company when a chance trip to Randall’s headquarters in Orlando, Florida, for a stock sale developed into a whole lot more.
“While there, I asked if they ever hired. They told me they were actually hiring right now and would need me to start within two weeks,” Williams related. “I rode back to Tampa and asked my now wife if she’d be open to moving to Orlando, and without hesitation, she said, ‘Let’s do it.’ I showed up for my first day at Randall Made Knives expecting to sweep floors. Instead, they handed me a piece of steel stamped Randall Made, Orlando, Florida and told me to start grinding. I couldn’t believe it.”
Given this history, it’s little surprise Williams finds Randall a wellspring of inspiration in his own creations. His 10.63-inch Silverado hunting knife is one such example. The blade style is modeled after the stout design of the Randall Model 19—also known as the Bushmaster.
Adam Williams
Williams gives the classic all-purpose design his own twist, forming the ample 6-inch blade from Baker Forge Raindrop copper go mai and outfitting it with an azure hunk of fossilized walrus ivory. He finishes it all off with a nickel silver guard and butt cap. Despite his familiarity with Randall’s design language, his Silverado presented challenges, particularly in venturing into new materials.
“This was my first time using Cu Mai, and thus my main challenge with this knife. It was also my first time using Gator Piss etch,” Williams said. “Jordan Berthelot of JB Blades provided plenty of tips regarding the etch. This coupled with multiple re-sanding, re-buffing and re-etching, I finally got the finish I was looking for on the blade.”
Rare materials, excellent execution and legendary inspiration—it’s likely Randall’s namesake, Bo, would have approved of Williams’ work.
The EDC fixed blade proves itself more than just a pretty face.
After finding First Degree Forge’s website, I reached out to Joshua Brown about testing one of his knives for “Spec Sheet.” He agreed and sent me his EDC Fighter. The shape really caught my eye, along with the blue-and-black handle. The grinds are symmetrical from side to side. I checked the handle for any epoxy gaps and found none, though I did find a few areas that might cause a hot spot or two while cutting.
Light Cutting Tests
I went straight to the 20-pound bond copy paper for the initial sharpness check. The EDC Fighter zipped through the material quickly and repeatedly. I had to really concentrate on moving my fingers quickly so I didn’t leave any DNA on the paper or the knife. Joshua’s blade is very sharp indeed.
I had an extra box to pull a slicing piece from. The cardboard parted quickly. I could feel some friction as I finished the cuts. It was the medium dragging on the thick blade spine, giving the cardboard a slight curl. However, there was no slowdown in cutting.
The EDC Fighter crunched its way through 190 cuts in the sisal rope.
A piece of 8-ounce leather was next. The EDC Fighter sliced it smoothly and aggressively. I could hear every crunching slice, a sound that brings a smile to my face. The handle was comfortable but felt a tad thick for my hand.
I rolled right into some skiving with the same leather. The edge crunched into the material cleanly. Overall, the EDC Fighter was quite controllable at keeping the spacing between slices even. The flat-ground blade indexed perfectly off my finger.
Heavy Cutting Tests
Whittling time! The edge produced some thick curly-cues and wanted to bite deep into the wood (there was some possible wood grain deflection). The handle made for a secure cutting grip but the steel near the choil was sharp on my skin. A little sandpaper would remove the unwanted sharpness.
Next on the menu was some baton work on a knotted pine 2×4. The large handle was comfortable and stopped any shock from transferring to my hand. The blade drove smoothly through the wood with little damage—only a little smear on the finish.
The edge produced some thick curly-cues and wanted to bite deep into the wood. The handle made for a secure cutting grip but the steel area by the choil was unnecessarily sharp on the author’s skin. A little sandpaper would remove the unwanted edge.
The sharpness test on sisal rope awaited. The EDC Fighter crunched its way through 190 cuts. I found that the thumb rest also had a sharp edge to it—again, an easy fix with sandpaper. The handle was comfy and the palm swells worked great.
The final paper slice was barely different from the first. What little problem there was mostly was caused by the paper picking up some dampness in the air. The edge remained very sharp.
Last of all was my regular semi-destructive test—whacking the edge into a whitetail deer antler. I gave the knife 30 good antler chops and didn’t hurt the edge at all. Heat-treatment grade: great!
Botton Line
The EDC Fighter is a very nice knife, comfortable to hold and an outstanding performer.
Changes
Soften the previously mentioned non-blade sharp edges where fingers or thumb meet steel.
A bushcraft knife is more than a cutting tool—it’s a partner in the woods. Unlike kitchen cutlery or tactical blades, bushcraft knives balance durability with precision. They carve, split and shape wood, strike sparks and handle camp chores with ease. Key traits of a good bushcraft knife include a full tang for strength, a comfortable handle for extended use and a grind suited to carving and slicing. Blade steel must retain an edge while resisting chipping and the sheath should securely hold the knife in rugged conditions. In short, bushcraft knives are built for living outdoors, not just surviving it.
Survival Knives vs. Bushcraft Knives
Survival knives feature a robust design for emergencies, allowing users to chop, pry and withstand heavy abuse. They may feature serrations, hollow handles or multi-purpose functions aimed at crisis situations. Bushcraft knives, by contrast, emphasize control and precision. They carve wood, prepare food and perform camp tasks with efficiency. Where survival knives lean on brute strength, bushcraft knives rely on finesse. The distinction lies in intent: survival knives help you endure unexpected hardship, while bushcraft knives help you thrive in the wilderness through daily, deliberate use.
Böker Bronco Mini
In the utility realm, the Böker Bronco Mini sliced all types of materials with Scandi precision.
The Böker Bronco Mini Fixed Blade measures 8.23 inches overall with a 3.375-inch CPM 3V blade in a drop point profile. Finished in satin and stonewash, the blade combines toughness with clean cutting ability. A Scandi grind makes it ideal for carving wood and bushcraft tasks, giving precise control in camp chores. To ensure stability, the tang is continuous and extends slightly beyond the handle end, allowing it to withstand strong impacts, such as striking a log. Additionally, a brief segment at the back of the blade features sharp 90-degree edges on both sides. The exposed tang can be used to generate sparks with an optional fire starter. The green TPE handle is textured for grip and measures 4.625 inches, providing comfort and security during extended use. At 4.8 ounces, it balances portability with durability.
A Kydex sheath provides ambidextrous carry and locks the knife securely with a solid click. Compact yet rugged, Böker built the Bronco Mini to baton kindling, process game, and thrive as a daily outdoor companion.
Unbroken Bronco
The exposed pommel/ferro rod striker is an outstanding feature of the Böker Bronco Mini for added utility.
Although the Böker Bronco Mini did all the bushcraft chores as well as any, it really shone in a utility role. I created a solid, realistic gauntlet of slicing tasks for the Böker Bronco Mini. I started with cutting heavy-duty scrap leather on a cutting board, holding it in one hand while slicing with the other. Next, I did the same with high-strength tow strapping. This task was difficult and would dull most new blade edges. This then set the stage for the lighter jobs. Old phone cord and zip ties fell victim to the Scandi blade, as did the jute twine. I cut up a lot of strong plastic package strapping, as we were close to the box-breaking-down season. Still, no issues.
With the amount of traveling I do, my life is full of luggage tags and boarding passes. If the edge wouldn’t slice these, I’d know the more robust materials dimmed it down. The Böker Bronco Mini passed the utility test like a champ. These were very realistic everyday chores that extend past the duration of this review.
Knives By Nuge Cub‑Muk
The Cub-Muk is a newish installment of the Knives By Nuge Cub series. The author used it as his companion blade in the Adirondacks with Nuge.
Inspired by the classic Nessmuk pattern, the Cub-Muk offers a compact yet full-featured design. Measuring 7 inches overall and featuring a 2.75-inch blade, with AEB-L stainless steel and a blackened, tumbled finish for durability. The Scandi grind, also available in Saber, excels at carving wood and shaping camp tools. Canvas Micarta scales provide a secure, weather-resistant grip, while the leather sheath adds traditional appeal and reliable retention. With its stout blade and full-sized handle, the Cub-Muk delivers agility and precision, making it a favorite for fine bushcraft work where control and efficiency matter most.
Floatplane-Camp Test
In the Adirondacks, the author prepared food for the camp using the KBK Cub-Muk. Proving the Scandi blade can slice tomatoes and process food.
During my time in camp, the Knives By Nuge Cub‑Muk proved itself as a true workhorse. I carried it five days straight in the Adirondacks, relying on it for every small task that came up. Food prep, cordage cutting, and campcrafts were routine. The AEB‑L steel held a keen edge, and the hump‑backed spine added utility, scraping fish clean and even scooping meals when needed. Safely, of course.
Projects around camp highlighted the Nessmuk’s strengths. I carved pot hangers, stakes, and tool handles from both green and seasoned wood. Instead of chasing perfect points for stakes, I favored wedge ends that drove easily into the soil. Light taps with a stick set stop cuts for notches, giving me clean results without heavy batoning. The Scandi grind excelled at feather sticks, producing fine curls that caught quickly. Paired with a ferro rod, the squared spine showered sparks, igniting tinder in seconds.
The Cub‑Muk blends Nessmuk’s classic lines with modern materials, creating a compact knife that sees constant use. Its sharp edge, comfortable handle, and versatile design made it indispensable. From carving camp gear to starting fires, it delivered precision and reliability, proving that small knives often carry the biggest load in the woods.
Winkler Woodsman
The Winkler Woodsman has an 8.75-inch overall length with a 4.25-inch blade forged from 80CrV2 steel and finished in Caswell black oxide.
The Winkler Woodsman measures 8.75 inches overall with a 4.25-inch blade forged from 80CrV2 steel and finished in Caswell black oxide for corrosion resistance. Its flat grind and drop-point profile provide versatility for carving, slicing and light chopping. The sculpted maple or canvas laminate handle offers a secure grip, while the skeletonized tang reduces weight without sacrificing strength.
A lined Boltaron sheath with a leather overlay and a spring-steel belt clip ensures reliable carry. Built for balance and control, the Woodsman blends rugged durability with refined handling, making it a standout choice for serious bushcraft tasks.
Table To Woods
A bushcraft stew wizard, the Winkler Woodsman performed well on a rustic chicken stew.
It was a cold-weather stew week when I got the Winkler Woodsman, so I put it to work right away in the kitchen. Carrots are always a more challenging task for a bushcraft knife. Typically, bushcraft knives’ thickness and Scandi grind messily wedge and split root veggies. Luckily, the Winkler Woodsman has a high saber grind, which some would call flat. It easily cut the stubborn carrots using a longer stroke. Celery and onions were just as simple with the longish bush blade, thanks to its sharpness out of the box and its grind. I used a chef’s grip (pinch grip) with comfort. The potatoes were russet, which aren’t too hard and cook rather quickly. Still, they can be difficult like carrots. No worries with the Winkler Woodsman, however.
Lastly, there was a delicate chicken breast, which I butterflied and boiled for easier, faster cooking. The blade shape was perfect for this task. I don’t think any other blade for this review could have done the same stellar job for a winter chicken stew as the Winkler Woodsman.
Bear Forest Simple 2
The author uses the Bear Forest Knives Simple 2 in a chest-lever grip for making camp tools.
Sized down from the original Simple series (4-inch blade), the Bear Forest Simple 2 measures about 6 inches overall. It features a 3.5-inch AEB-L stainless steel blade. Its zero Scandi grind bites cleanly into wood, excelling at carving and slicing tasks. Butterscotch and Mocha paper Micarta with red burlap “bearcarta” scales give the handle a warm, secure feel.
The ambidextrous JRE leather sheath (black) allows for belt or neck carry. Lightweight yet tough, the Simple 2 blends corrosion resistance with practical design. It’s streamlined for everyday bushcraft chores, offering a reliable companion for carving, camp setup and field use without excess bulk.
Simply Qualified
The author made a try stick with the Bear Forest knife, quickly and efficiently.
I gave each knife a project suited to its strengths. For the Bear Forest Knives Simple 2, I chose the classic try stick—a green branch about arm’s length and thumb to broomstick thick. It’s a perfect way to practice knife control and notch work. Over several months, I used the Simple 2 for fire prep, food tasks, and camp projects, including tarp stakes and a bowsaw, but the try stick demonstrated its precision. I carved 11 practical notches, from root strippers and V-notches to square reductions, latch notches, and lashing crosscuts. In the middle, I shaped double flats and pierced a square hole with the pointed tip, cradling the handle in my palm for control. I added a saddle notch, a round reduction, a pot hook and a rounded end for digging sticks or stakes.
The thin edge bit deeply, shaving clean curls for tinder. The belly of the blade handled reductions, while the sharp spine proved useful for peeling bark. The oval handle stayed comfortable, with a rounded butt that anchored the grip. Compact yet capable, the Simple 2 excelled at fine carving and practical camp work, proving itself a reliable bushcraft companion.
Bushcraft Breakdown
You can’t go wrong with any of the bushcraft blades here. They have their strengths without many drawbacks!
With More Than A Century Of History, The Trench Knife Soldiers On As A Historical Collectible And A Modern Outdoor Knife.
The trench knife may be the ultimate weapon for close-quarters combat. With a sharp blade designed for stabbing, and a finger guard that doubles as a knuckle duster, the blade is excellent for messy, claustrophobic situations, which you would expect as it was named for the intimate and brutal trench warfare of World War I.
By the time World War II began, trench warfare was nowhere near as common as it had been previously. In turn, the trench knife evolved.
The United States issued the Mark I in 1942 and 1943 to certain special military groups like the Army Rangers and Marine Raiders. The Mark I was a newer version of WWI trench knives, including a finger guard, a stiletto blade, and a skull crusher cap built into the pommel.
However, over the course of WWII, the trench knife gave way to the combat knife. Most notable of these, the US M3 fighting knife, which was adopted in 1943. The M3 became the framework upon which more contemporary bayonets and fighting knives like the M4 and M7 were built.
Can I Own A Trench Knife Today?
That’s a complicated question to answer.
The trench knife is classified as a dangerous weapon in many states and countries for a variety of reasons. Some places prohibit them because they have double-sided blades while others focus on the knuckle dusters or the length of the blade as reasons to ban them.
Owning or carrying a trench knife is banned in numerous countries including the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, Canada, China, and Singapore, among others.
In America, the knife is outlawed in some form in 23 states, and even among the states where it’s legal to own and/or carry, 18 of those states either only allow you to keep the knife in your home or require a permit to carry it on your person.
The only states with no permit rules for owning a trench knife are Texas, South Dakota, Indiana, South Carolina, Idaho, Hawai’i, Georgia, Arizona, and Alabama.
Modern Trench Knives
There aren’t many companies left making trench knives similar to those blades from a century ago. However, the two below are modern takes on the combat classic.
M48 Liberator Trench Knife
This is the souped-up version of the original trench knife. Everything about the Liberator is big and bold and in your face.
It starts with the 7.5-inch 2Cr13 cast stainless blade that is ground sharp on both sides. The blade has a satin finish and black oxide coating to add to its intimidating aura. The handle scales are made from a light, rugged fiberglass-reinforced nylon that provides a strong grip without adding too much weight.
And then there’s the knuckle duster tang. It both acts as a knuckle guard and an intense defense weapon. The added spikes on the handle allow you to use more force in case you are defending yourself. The knife fits into an injection-molded Vortec and nylon belt sheath that snaps shut and easily fits on your person.
It’s bad. It’s unapologetic. It’s the ultimate modern version of the trench knife.
MSRP: $79.99
Cold Steel Chaos Double Edge
A more muted version of the trench knife, the Chaos Double Edge from Cold Steel gives a modern, tactical spin on the old classic.
The blade itself is made from SK-5 high-carbon steel and is 7.5 inches long. The full-tang construction allows for a well-weighted knife that can be used to defend or to slice through dense brush. Both sides are ground sharp and meet at a spear point so the knife can puncture as you would expect.
The handle is made from 6061 aluminum and features a pair of D ring guards, which are a newer version of the old-school knuckle duster guards that is used for the same purpose. The pommel of the knife is tapered to allow for more force when using the cap to strike.
The included sheath is made from Secure-Ex and is both Molle-Lok and Tek-Lok compatible so transporting the Double Edge will be a breeze.
From historic clashes to modern conflict, these fierce custom blades prove there is still a profound amount of art in the tools of war.
Since the dawn of man, the edge of the blade has been used to hash out disputes between everything from clans and tribes all the way to nations. While not the main battle implement in today’s conflict, the martial nature of the knife remains. This particular collection of fierce customs demonstrates there is a heap of art in war.
Caleb Ledford Long Sword
An electric 1084/15N20/mild steel Turkish-twist damascus defines the 31-inch blade of Caleb Ledford’s long sword. Lightening the sizable slicer’s load is a tapered fuller running on its midline. The handle is a pitch-black ebony, and the guard and pommel are cold-blued mild steel.
Jacco Van de Bruinhorst San Francisco Bowie
With matching blade and inserts, Jacco Van de Bruinhorst’s take on the San Francisco bowie is an elegant Barbary Coast brawler. The Canadian maker used ProCut/1084 to create what he calls a “snakeskin pattern.” If you study closely, the inserts harken back to the gold rush days with 24k gold inlay.
Jim Poling Dirk
Commissioned by a descendant of King James IV of Scotland, journeyman smith Jim Poling’s walnut-handled dirk appears freshly plucked from the highlands. The dagger boasts a 13-inch 1084/15N20 twist damascus blade, antiqued mild steel fittings and coin-edged nickel spacers.
Andrew Blomfield Pesh Kabz
Master smith Andrew Blomfield has taken more than one stab at the pesh kabz in his career, and lands the blow with this 11.5-inch bladed example. The eye-catching mosaic blade is contrasted by the very conservative tones of the purple gidgee handle and blackened steel bolster. A traditional flourish, brass blossoms are on the handle’s pins.
Michael Deibert Wakizashi
Alabama-based journeyman smith Michael Deibert brings traditional Japanese styling to life with this striking Wakizashi. The 18-inch blade features 1,100 layers of 1080/15N20 steel, paired with a wrought iron bolster. A classic stingray and an Ito-wrap handle complete the 28-inch overall build.
Nate “Tuna” Grant Pocket Fixed Blade
Nate “Tuna” Grant Pocket Fixed Blade
Journeyman smith Nate “Tuna” Grant delivers a compact powerhouse with the Defender. This 7.375-inch overall fixed blade features a 4-inch flat-ground blade forged from 1084/15N20 steel in a striking diamond drop pattern. The build is finished with rich Mun ebony scales.
Emmett Eitreim Dagger
Emmett Eitreim presents a refined 12-inch overall dagger featuring a 7-inch flat-ground blade. The steel is a striking rose pattern forged from 15N20/1084, complemented by a 954 aluminum bronze guard and pommel. A stabilized spalted maple handle completes this elegant, high-contrast build.
Check Out More Cool Customs:
Cool Custom: Tony Lewis’ Tribute Knife To Steve Dunn
Cool Customs: Rocco Nawrocki’s Knife For Sergeant Bunker
Summer brings a focused shift toward portability and pocket-ready performance, highlighting a diverse lineup of high-tech folders and streamlined carry options. This month’s selection focuses on the incredible versatility of the modern knives, showcasing the work of veteran masters with decades of experience alongside award-winning new makers. Whether you are looking for an ultra-premium custom bowie to round out a collection or a hard-use automatic for daily carry, our July 2026 roundup proves that the industry’s drive for innovation remains as sharp as ever.
Pro-Tech Knives Avalon
Lock: Button Lock Deployment: Thumb Studs Blade Length: 4.25” Blade Material: MagnaCut Blade Pattern: Drop Point Scales: 6061 Aluminum Overall Length: 9.25” Weight: 3.69 oz. MSRP: $310 Country Of Origin: U.S.A. protechknives.com
Lin Rhea Slip Joint Folder
Jocelyn Frasier image
Blade Length: 4” Blade Material: 80CrV2 Blade Pattern: Drop Point Scales: Micarta Overall Length: 9” Knife To Know: Includes sheath made by Kay Rhea Maker’s Price: $1,300 Country Of Origin: U.S.A. Maker’s price for a similar knife: $1,300
Work Sharp RMX Thumbstud
Blade Length: 3.2” Lock: Button Lock Blade Material: M390 Blade Pattern: Drop Point Handle: Magnesium Overall Length: 7.5” Weight: 2.6 oz. Knife To Know: Handle is integral, reversable clip MSRP: $140 Country Of Origin: Assembled in U.S.A. from foreign components worksharptools.com
Cody Adolphson Vest Bowie
Jocelyn Frasier image
Knife Type: Vest Bowie Blade Material: 1084/15N20 Damascus Pattern: Dark Core Feathered Damascus Blade Pattern: Drop Point Blade Grind: Flat Handle Material: Ancient Walrus Ivory, Nickel Silber Accents, Damascus Pommel Guard: Twist Damascus Overall Length: 10” Maker’s Price For A Similar Knife: $1,400 Country Of Origin: U.S.A.
Justin Burton Kukri
Jocelyn Frasier image
Blade Length: 10.5” Blade Material: 80CrV2/15N20 Blade Pattern: Twisted Damascus San Mai Blade Grind: Flat Handle: Black dyed curly mango with red G-10 spacers Guard: Nebular Fat Carbon Knife To Know: Custom bead made with Elforyn Supertusk and Damasteel Maker’s Price For A Similar Knife: $1,500 Country Of Origin: U.S.A.
TOPS Knives Sidekick Diver
Designer: Ana Espinoza Blade Length: 5.75” Blade Material: N690 Blade Pattern: Spear Blade Finish: Black Traction Coating Scales: G10 Overall Length: 11.25” Weight: 12.8 oz. Sheath: Black Kydex Knife To Know: Integral line cutter on the spine. Also available with a double edge. MSRP: $395 Country Of Origin: U.S.A. topsknives.com
WE Knife Dracarys
Lock: Frame Lock Blade Length: 3.58” Blade Material: Böhler M390 Blade Pattern: Clip Point Blade Grind: Flat Handle Material: 6AL4V Titanium Overall Length: 8.13” Closed Length: 4.55” Weight: 3.66 oz. Knife To Know: Limited to 199 pieces, 6AL4V titanium pocketclip, caged ceramic ball MSRP: $370 Country Of Origin: China weknife.com
Chad Fox Bowie
Jocelyn Frasier image
Blade Length: 9.25” Blade Material: W2 Blade Pattern: Clip Point Handle: Koa Overall Length: 14.5” Knife To Know: Salt blackened mild steel Maker’s Price For A Similar Knife: $950 Country Of Origin: U.S.A.
Colten Tippetts Neck Knife
Jocelyn Frasier image
Name: Dinker Blade Length: 2” Blade Material: Ladder Damascus Blade Pattern: Drop Point Handle: Desert Ironwood Overall Length: 3.5” Knife To Know: Also made in 01 Tool Steel with Dymondwood handles. Maker’s Price: $150 Country Of Origin: U.S.A.
Craig Camerer Slim Pickers Fighter
Jocelyn Frasier image
Knife Type: Fighter Blade Length: 7” Blade Material: 1080/15N20 Blade Pattern: Dancing Martian Damascus Blade Grind: Flat Handle: African Blackwood Guard: Nickel Silver Overall Length: 12.5” Maker’s Price For A Similar Knife: $750 Country Of Origin: U.S.A.
Bear & Son Cutlery Auto Bold Action XIV
Blade Length: 4.5” Blade Material: S35VN Blade Pattern: Drop Point Blade Grind: Hollow Handle: Aluminum Overall Length: 8.75 Weight: 1.5 oz. Knife To Know: OTS Automatic, tip-up carry. MSRP: $230 Country Of Origin: U.S.A. bearandsoncutlery.com
The Cutlass Is A Short Sword Used For Centuries. Today, It Is Mostly A Ceremonial Blade, But One That Continues To Inspire
A sword can be more than just a weapon of war, the cutlass is an excellent example. For centuries, the cutlass was used by fighting forces throughout Europe as a short, one-handed stabbing and slashing weapon.
For many, the cutlass is best known as the sword of the pirates in the Atlantic Ocean during the 17th and 18th centuries. In a lesser-known role, it also was regularly used in agriculture throughout the Caribbean like the machete is today. In English-speaking Caribbean countries, the word “cutlass” is used to mean a machete.
In the modern era, the cutlass has left behind its fighting phase and is almost used exclusively as a ceremonial sword by several navies. However, its popularity endures among collectors and history buffs alike, thanks to its extensive use during the pirate era and the Age of The Sail.
What Is A Cutlass?
A cutlass drill on the HMS Wolverine , 1882 (Public Domain)
The cutlass is a one-handed, single-edged sword used for close-quarters fighting that was the evolution of naval sabers into a more compact, nimble short sword. While the edge does come to a fine point, the cutlass was designed for slashing and swinging at your enemies when fighting hand-to-hand.
This is why the sword was a popular seafaring weapon. With a slightly-curved blade, usually between 28-32 inches, the cutlass is adept in the close confines of a ship. The straight handle and clipped guards of most cutlasses protected your hand when in battle. Additionally, the cutlass was robust enough to tackle general maritime tasks like slicing through heavy rope or thick fabric like canvas or even wood. And its size made it the perfect weapon for the type of in-your-face fighting that would happen on the high seas.
On land, the cutlass wasn’t as dashing, mostly used to chop sugarcane and clear tracts of land in the rainforest in the New World. Though, the same qualities that made it a great fighting implement made it adept on the farm. The short, swooping blade allowed a great deal of force to transfer from the arm to the material with every swing.
Who Uses The Cutlass Today?
Today, the cutlass is used almost exclusively as a ceremonial sword. While it was at its most popular centuries ago, the cutlass was still a standard issue sword until around World War 2 before it became wholly ceremonial.
The British transitioned the sword to ceremonial duty in 1936, and the United States followed suit in 1949. Both countries incorporate the sword into military ceremonies today. The Brits issue cutlasses to naval chief petty officers. The United States also offers chief petty officers the ability to wear a cutlass with their formal dress for ceremonies and the like.
Can I Buy A Cutlass?
Absolutely. There are many companies making cutlasses today. While they may not be as pristine as the ones issued by the military, there are numerous companies making these types of blades.
Factory Cutlass Options
Cutlasses are still made today, but, in general, they aren’t built to the same combat standard as in centuries past. The vast majority of these swords are showpieces meant to be hung on the wall and start conversations. However, if you are a true lover of the Age of Sail, these swords more than fit the bill.
Windlass English Cutlass
This 30.5-inch sword from Windlass is an elegant modern Cutlass, and, for a fee, can be sharpened into a real, proper sword. As is, the high-carbon steel blade is hand forged and mated to a solid brass guard. You’ll really feel like Blackbeard with it in your hand.
The sword comes with a leather scabbard adorned with a brass tip and throat to up the visual appeal of the piece. All told, this is a high-quality replica of the cutlass that will get people talking at your next party and look great in your office or hanging on the wall.
MSRP: $190
Condor Naval Cutlass
The Naval Cutlass from Condor Tool & Knife is a more modern take on the classic blade. The first thing you notice about it is the black epoxy powder finish to the blade. We’re pretty sure pirates of the 18th century didn’t have powder-coating technology, but would have loved to have had the extra corrosion resistance on the high seas.
The blade checks in at 24 inches in length and is made from 1075 steel ground to a razor’s edge. Yes, this sword comes sharpened right out of the box for no extra fees. The smooth hardwood handle is triple riveted, and a powder-coated guard keeps your hand protected when holding the sword. A black welted leather scabbard fits snugly around the blade and keeps everything protected even if dropped.
While it certainly doesn’t look like a sword from the movies, it’s designed to be a true, proper modern cutlass.
MSRP: $148.49
Kult Of Athena Pirate Sword
Complete with a skull and crossbones etched into the scabbard’s throat, the Pirate Sword from Kult of Athena looks like it could have been taken from the set of any swashbuckling movie set.
The 22-inch blade is made from stainless steel and comes, according to KoA, moderately sharp out of the box. That means it might need a more refined sharpening at home if you’re looking for a razor’s edge. However, the blade itself is .16 inches thick, thin enough to slice well but thick enough to hold up to some wear if used for more robust cutting tasks. But be aware, the sword is classed as “decorative”, or for display only, so keep that in mind before playing out your high seas fantasies.
The cast metal handle is surrounded by a bronze-plated cup guard which features a pirate ship design. The black leather scabbard has a cast tip and throat to complete the look.
MSRP: $49
Kingston Arms Atrim Cutlass
The Kingston Arms Atrim Cutlass shows that not all collectible blades need to be centuries old. Made in the style of a naval cutlass, the Atrim utilizes modern materials and methods to make a truly remarkable sword.
The 9260 spring field falchion-style blade is hand forged and comes in a satin finish. At 25.75 inches it’s a bit smaller than some other cutlasses, letting it move more fluidly in your hand and taking up a smaller display space. The full-tang construction terminated with a stainless steel guard and pommel around a brown leather handle that provides a strong grip.
This is the most expensive sword of all the cutlasses showcased in this piece, and it’s worth every penny for the discerning, high-end collector.
MSRP: $432.95
Cold Steel 1917 Cutlass Sword
When it comes to collector pieces outside of auctions, Cold Steel’s 1917 Cutlass Sword is a prime example of what’s being made today. While it is designed for display and collection, the 1055 steel blade does come with a serviceable edge out of the box.
In terms of size, it’s exactly what you’d expect a cutlass to be. At just under 30 inches long and 37.6 ounces, it’s a nimble sword that will feel good to hold and wield when showing off all of its intricacies. The wood handle and blued steel hand guard complete the look, and the included leather scabbard keeps the sword looking classy even when put away.
MSRP: $289.99
APOC Survival Cutlass
This option is rated for proper use rather than display. That’s abundantly clear considering it comes with a MOLLE-compatible Kydex scabbard. That doesn’t come with swords meant to be hung on the wall.
The APOC is a tactical sword that has a 21.5-inch black oxide blade made from 9260 spring steel. The black G-10 handles complete the monochromatic look and provide excellent grip in myriad conditions.
At just under 2 pounds, this is a lightweight cutlass meant to be used as a survival tool out on the trail or in more intense outdoor situations. The blade is meant to slice, of course, and the edge comes to a fine point, making this a puncturing tool as well. Versatility is the name of the game in survival equipment, and, while a machete or shorter knife might be a better option, the APOC cutlass is built for the outdoors and to handle the elements.
MSRP: $169.95
Custom Cutlass Options
There are numerous people making custom cutlasses and other swords. Whether it is for the private use and display of an individual or to be used as props in movies, at renaissance fairs, or in other forms of entertainment, there are makers and smiths crafting modern versions of the centuries-old blade.
Even the popular YouTube Series Man At Arms: Reforged did an episode about the cutlass and showed multiple ways to craft them.
Tony Swatton
Swatton runs Sword & Stone in Burbank, CA and makes arms and armor for film and television. He, and his shop, were the star of the original Man at Arms series nearly a decade ago. He’s self-educated and has been making armor since he was 17.
The first movie his work appeared in was Hook in 1991, and since then his weapons have been seen on screen in more than 300 movies including massively popular films such as Pirates of the Caribbean, Batman, and Thor. He also designed the cutlass used in Assassin’s Creed 4.
David Lisch
Lisch makes custom knives and swords exclusively from damascus steel. His 26 years of experience in the field are seen in the intricacy of his mosaic patterns and one-of-a-kind blade designs. He’s made landscapes and sunrise designs on his blades.
An example of David Lisch’s damascus work.
His knives have won awards and he teaches classes in blacksmithing and knifemaking with his wife Andrea at their school in Yelm, Washington, about an hour south of Seattle.
Collecting Cutlasses
The cutlass is collected by all sorts: sword lovers, pirate aficionados and history buffs. Specialty dealers help these collectors find the pieces they are looking for, and it helps keep the cutlass alive and in public consciousness.
Additionally, cutlasses have made it to auction houses around the world, sometimes fetching as much as $10,000 before the hammer falls at auction houses like Morphy’s, Sotheby’s, and Rock Island.
In late 2022, the 1860 naval cutlass belonging to John H. Ferrell, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient, went to auction at Morphy’s and sold for $14,760. The sale showed how, even today, the popularity of the cutlass continues to endure in a big way.
