Ka-Bar Short Military Knife - Black GFN Sheath

D... Review confirmed by purchase

80%

02.08.2024

Review for model:

The knife arrived in the expected time, lightning-fast as always from the store. First impression is very positive, it's exactly what I expected. The only small disappointment is that the knife photos in the store's listing suggest production in the USA, that is, "USA" stamped on the blade, but the delivered item does not have such a marking. The box says "Made in Taiwan". However, I hope the quality is still at a high level.

Small, hard to blunt, devilishly sharp, agile knife. Compared to my old 1211 foliage green version, you can no longer cut branches with it, etc., but it's more ergonomic and fits better on a tactical belt, literally (a slimmed-down version of the Ka-bar). Plus for a good, ergonomic, well-made sheath with 3 safeties—there's a greater chance you'll lose the whole knife with sheath than just the knife itself.

I bought the knife two years ago, and it is still my main blade for trips. It is well crafted and designed, and for people with smaller hands, it will probably be one of the most comfortable knives available. Unfortunately, on my piece, the cutting edge was ground at 30 degrees instead of the manufacturer's declared 25 degrees, but it could be fixed personally. A huge plus is the sheath—one of the best polymers on the market, allowing you to lock the knife for a 100% jump-ready state.

The knife is great, decently sharp straight out of the box. The build is fine, but the false edge grind is a bit asymmetrical, and the tang's edge is slightly uneven. Maybe it's just this particular piece, because my other Ka-Bar knife doesn’t have these issues. You have to keep in mind the size, as the knife is even smaller than it seems. The only downside is the sheath—it's averagely comfortable and the material seems to dull the edge. Besides that, 10/10, I recommend it.

Very good little knife, but for me, the handle is a bit too small. I will have to order the standard one. It will be perfect for people who carry it for many kilometers as you hardly feel it in your hand. It's practical even for EDC, but I need something for bushcraft and survival.

Maximum points for appearance - ultra tactical and all :) You can't chop wood with it, but that's not what it's for. It really is small and you have to keep that in mind. It has three levels of safety when in the sheath, so there is no risk of accidental drawing or slipping out, etc.