Ka-Bar is quality by itself. I ordered a solid knife and that's exactly what I received—solid, sharp steel. The sheath is also a big plus: sturdy, two-way, lots of loops for threading cord and mounting to equipment in any possible way. Maybe it doesn't have the feel of the original leather one, but its modernist look, functionality, and solidity go perfectly with the legend. I am very satisfied.
The legendary Ka-Bar 1217 USMC, presented here in the 5017 variant, ranks among the most iconic knives across the globe and has stood as a hallmark of ruggedness and adaptability since World War II. Originally engineered for the American military, the knife rapidly earned trust and popularity among both service members and civilians alike. While the design has undergone subtle adjustments over time, it consistently employs time-tested features that guarantee exceptional performance in a broad range of scenarios.
Forged from a single slab of robust 1095 Cro-Van steel, the blade provides outstanding durability and maintains its sharp edge for an extended period. The distinctive Clip Point profile not only lends the knife a bold appearance, but also facilitates accurate slicing tasks. An added shallow fuller together with the prominent “USMC” engraving on the blade further underline its combat-inspired roots. A black, non-reflective coating covers the blade, minimizing glare and delivering effective protection against corrosion.
Layered and densely compressed buffalo leather forms the handle, bestowing a traditional look while ensuring a secure grip in all conditions. A sturdy steel cross guard further secures the user's hand, acting as a barrier to prevent slipping onto the blade and heightening operational safety.
A rugged GFN-PA66 composite sheath featuring fiberglass reinforcement accompanies the knife. The sheath’s black finish and robust structure allow it to withstand tough outdoor environments, and modern material choices ensure the sheath’s durability and provide reliable protection for the blade.
Technical data
Steel: 1095 Cro-Van, 56-58 HRC
Blade length: 178 mm
Blade thickness: 4.2 mm
Handle: leather
Overall length: 302 mm
Weight: 304 g
Manufacturer: Ka-Bar, USA
Militaria.pl is a premium dealer of Ka-Bar.
Ka-Bar is a brand whose history dates back to the late 19th century, and which gained real fame during World War II, when the Fighting Utility model was officially adopted by the US Marine Corps. The durable and versatile knife quickly became legendary, proving itself both in combat and in the daily tasks of soldiers. The name Ka-Bar itself comes from the 1920s, when a trapper described in a letter how he managed to “kill a bear” with a Union Cutlery knife. In 1952, wanting to emphasize the power of this symbol, the company officially changed its name to Ka-Bar Knives Inc., and its products are still considered a model of reliability today. An important chapter in the brand's history is also its collaboration with Ethan Becker, which resulted in the Becker series, highly valued by users, combining practical solutions with a modern approach to knife design.
| Type | Fixed blade |
|---|---|
| Style | Military-tactical |
| Blade length | 178 mm |
| Blade thickness | 4.2 mm |
| Blade profile | Bowie |
| Blade edge | Plain |
| Blunt resistance | Good |
| Corrosion resistance | Low |
| Lock type | Fixed blade |
| Overall length | 302 mm |
| Blade material | 1095 Cro-Van |
| Opening method | Fixed blade |
| Handle | Leather |
| Clip for carrying | No |
| Holster included | Yes |
| Weight | 304 g |
| EAN | 617717250170 |
| Manufacturer code | 14533 |
| Brand | Ka-Bar |
| EAN |
Reviews with photos
Review summary
Number of reviews: 4
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A knife with a history—what more is there to say? It's almost a shame to use it hard in the woods. I expected good steel, and that’s exactly what I got, haha.
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The knife, of course, is flawless. Everything that had to be said about it has already been said. Comfortable, large, hard steel, deadly sharp. The composite sheath is solid, with many attachment options to gear. The knife sits in it firmly, you can easily carry it upside down. I recommend it.
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The knife is perfectly made
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