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KI_1312-COVER 11/3/13 8:24 PM Page US_C1
DECEMBER 2013 • DISPLAY UNTIL: 1/14/14
VOLUME 27, NO.9 • $5.99 U.S.
KI_1312_C2 10/28/13 5:58 AM Page C2
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KI_1312_3 10/28/13 5:45 AM Page 3
KI_1312_4-6-TOC.CX 10/30/13 10:55 PM Page 4
DECEMBER 2013
VOLUME 27, NO. 9
www.knivesillustrated.com
76
COVER STORY
14 Fiercest For The Fearless
A look at some of the hottest new
tactical blades
BY TERRILL HOFFMAN AND CLINT THOMPSON
FEATURES
26 True Survivors
Hollow-handle knives make a comeback
BY ABE ELIAS
34 An Eye For Style
44
How custom maker Alan Folts
hones his craft
BY LES ROBERTSON
50 Strong And Solid
The SOG Snarl and Chris Reeve Professional
Soldier epitomize solid-frame knives
BY JIM WEISS AND MICKEY DAVIS
60 On The Edge
Lansky leads the industry in
knife-sharpening systems
BY PAUL GRANGER, JIM WEISS
AND MICKEY DAVIS
66 Metal Worth Its Mettle
The experts pick their favorite steel
BY BETHANY MILLER
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) Vol. 27, No. 8 is published 9
times a year, January/February, April, May, June/July, August,
September, October, November and December, by Beckett Media,
LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887.
Periodical postage paid at Anaheim, CA, and additional mailing offices.
POSTMASTER: send address changes to Knives Illustrated c/o
Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC, P.O. Box 25542,
London, ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001 © 2013 by Beckett
Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this
issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
4
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013
KI_1312_5 10/28/13 5:46 AM Page 5
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KI_1312_4-6-TOC.CX 10/31/13 11:59 PM Page 6
34
DECEMBER 2013
Volume 27 • Number 9
EDITORIAL
Editorial Director: Doug Jeffrey
Editor: Bethany Miller
Managing Editor: Jeffrey Rick
Art Director: Ronald Abella
Creative Director: Eric Knagg
CONTRIBUTORS
Mickey Davis, Abe Elias, Terrill Hoffman,
Les Robertson, Clint Thompson, Jim Weiss
ADVERTISING
Gabe Frimmel: Ad Sales Director (714) 200-1930
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Gennifer Merriday: Ad Traffic Coordinator
DIRECT MARKETING GROUP
John Bartulin (866) 866-5146 ext. 2746
Paul Caca (866) 866-5146 ext. 4961
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Mary Ann Jaca (866) 866-5146 ext 2716
OPERATIONS
Gus Alonzo: Newsstand Sales & Marketing Manager
Celia Merriday: Newsstand Analyst
Amit Sharma: Business Analytics Manager
Mohit Patel: Newsstand & Production Analyst
Alberto Chavez: Senior Logistics & Facilities Manager
John Cabral: Creative Graphic Designer
EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE
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KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) Vol. 27, No. 9 is published 9 times
a year, January/February, April, May, June/July, August, September, October,
November and December, by Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway,
#200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887. Periodical postage paid at Anaheim, CA, and
additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Knives
Illustrated c/o Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC,
P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001 © 2013 by
Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from
this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
COLUMNS
8
Editor’s Letter
10 Points Of Interest
Name The Maker and Upcoming Events
12 SHOT Show Preview
What to expect at the world’s largest
sports, law enforcement and hunting
trade show
22 Behind The Scenes
A Q&A with Pohl Force USA founder
and CEO Dietmar Pohl
44 Odds And Ends
The latest goings-on within the knife world
72 For The Indoorsman
Our top 12 kitchen knives
76 Bells And Whistles
The best stocking stuffers for knife lovers
22
82 Show And Tell
Readers show off their favorite knives
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Beckett Media, LLC
4635 McEwen Road. Dallas, TX 75244
Subscriptions, Address Changes,
Renewals, Missing or Damaged Copies
(800) 764-6278
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Dealer Sales
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Letters to the Editor, New Products or
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Bethany Miller
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Cover photography by
TERRILL HOFFMAN
Beckett Media, LLC
Nick Singh: Executive Director
Erin Masercola: Business Unit Editorial Director
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Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:
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This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that
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6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013
KI_1312_7 10/28/13 5:47 AM Page 7
Now DW\RXUÀQJHUWLSV
Knives
is now available on iTunes and Google Play
Your guide to the best knives -- hunting, chef ’s, tactical,
outdoor, collectibles, and more.
Download the Free Knives app to purchase each issue for only $3.99 today!
For questions on downloading this app contact 800-764-6278
KI_1312_8-EDIT 10/28/13 11:04 PM Page 8
EDITOR’S
LETTER
Looking Back
and Forward
o this is it — our last issue of 2013! And what a year it has been.
Within these pages, we’ve covered knives that have appeared on
the big screen in “Zero Dark Thirty,” fearsome-looking zombiethemed blades, beautifully crafted hunting knives, the latest and greatest
tactical knives and everything in between — not to mention our most extensive buyer’s guide yet just last month.
S
THERE’S
SOMETHING FOR
EVERYONE IN THIS
ISSUE, AND WE
HOPE YOU’LL HAVE
AS MUCH FUN
READING IT AS WE
DID PUTTING IT
TOGETHER.
Photo by Terrill Hoffman
To cap off the year, we’re looking both backward and forward.
You’ll find stories on a long-established custom designer and on
a fledgling company.
We took on one of 2013’s hottest trends with our cover story on
tactical knives, and we’re anticipating a new trend for 2014 with
our look at the resurgence of hollow-handled survival knives.
We’ve got a preview of our favorite event of every year, January’s
SHOT Show in Las Vegas. And in the spirit of the season, we’ve
8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013
even included a list of accessories guaranteed to make great
stocking stuffers for anyone who loves and uses knives.
There’s something for everyone in this issue, and we hope
you’ll have as much fun reading it as we did putting it together.
Here’s to a strong end of one year and the promise of exciting
things to come in the next! KI
— Bethany Miller
KI_1312_9 10/28/13 5:48 AM Page 9
KI_1312_10-NEWS.CX 10/30/13 10:55 PM Page 10
POINTSOF
INTEREST
Name the Maker
Correctly Identify the Maker of This Knife to Win a Free Subscription
Photo by Terrill Hoffman
UPCOMING EVENTS
Dates and locations subject to change; please contact the show
managers before arranging your travel.
JAN. 11-12, 2014
PHOENIX, AZ
Arizona Knife Collectors Annual Knife Show
akcashowcord@gmail.com
www.arizonaknifecollectors.com
JAN. 14-17
LAS VEGAS, NV
Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show
(855) 355-7468
www.shotshow.org
JAN. 17-19
LAS VEGAS, NV
Antique Arms Show and Invitational Knifemakers Show
(760) 202-4489
gunshowpro@aol.com
www.antiquearmsshow.com
JAN. 25-26
SAN ANTONIO, TX
American Bladesmith Society All Forged Blade Expo
(512) 446-3111
harveydeanknives@gmail.com
www.absknifeexpo.com
FEB. 1-2
NOVI, MI
Wolverine Knife Collectors Show
(586) 786-5549
www.wolverineknifecollectorsclub.com
FEB. 1-3
LAKELAND, FL
Gator Cutlery Club Custom, Modern & Antique Knife Show
(813) 754-3908
coolnifedad@wildblue.net
www.gatorcutlery.com
FEB. 22-23
LITTLE ROCK, AR
Arkansas Custom Show
arknifeassn@yahoo.com
www.arkansasknifemakers.com
FEB. 28-MARCH 2
JERSEY CITY, NJ
East Coast Custom Knife Show
(417) 866-6688
www.fiftyfiftyproductions.net
HINT: This Portland, Oregon-based designer and craftsman is newer to the world of
knifemaking, but he’s been known to spend more than 100 hours meticulously bringing
even his simplest designs to life. He occasionally collaborates with engraving specialist
Tim Herman.
HOW TO WIN
If you correctly identify the maker of the featured knife, you will be entered into a drawing for a
free one-year subscription to Knives Illustrated. If you’re already a subscriber, you may choose to
extend your current subscription or to receive a subscription to one of our sister magazines, Gun
World or Bow & Arrow Hunting.
All entries must be received by 4 p.m. PST on December 31.
Winners are determined by placing entries in numerical order and generating a random number
using www.random.org.
Please submit guesses to bmiller@beckett.com and specify your preferred prize option. Please
also include the mailing address where you would like to receive your subscription should you win.
PREVIOUS WINNER
We congratulate Knives Illustrated reader Jeffrey Oldham, who correctly identified Cliff Parker
as the maker of the knife in our October issue.
1 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013
MARCH 28-30
JANESVILLE, WI
Annual Badger Knife Show
(414) 479-9765
badgerknifeclub@aol.com
www.badgerknifeclub.org
APRIL 4-6
HARRISONBURG, VA
Greater Shenandoah Valley Knife Show
(540) 828-0778
clubmail@svkc.org
www.svkc.org
APRIL 12-13
EUGENE, OR
Oregon Knife Show
okca@oregonknifeclub.org
www.oregonknifeclub.org
MAY 3-4
MYSTIC, CT
Northeast Cutlery Collectors Association Annual Show
(401) 742-6779
lcliff1@verizon.net
www.ncca.info
JUNE 6-8
ATLANTA, GA
Blade Show
(877) 746-9757
bladeshow@fwmedia.com
www.bladeshow.com KI
KI_1312_11 10/28/13 5:48 AM Page 11
VISIT 511TACTICAL.COM/HOLIDAY
THIS YEAR, GET GEAR!
25% OFF SALE IN-STORE OR ONLINE
Starts on Black Friday, November 29 through December 5
KI_1312_12-13-SHOT 10/28/13 5:39 AM Page 12
SHOT SHOW
PREVIEW
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHOT SHOW
new year is almost upon us, and that means hot, new knives from
all of our favorite makers — many of which will be unveiled at the
2014 Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show, better known as
A
SHOT.
The SHOT Show, held annually since 1979, is the world’s largest trade show of its
kind, bringing together upwards of 62,000 industry professionals. While the show is not
open to the public — only to tradesmen and commercial buyers and sellers — Knives Illustrated will be there getting the inside scoop for our readers. KI
EVENT INFO
January 14-17
Sands Expo Center
201 Sands Ave.
Las Vegas, NV 19169
KI_1312_12-13-SHOT 10/28/13 5:39 AM Page 13
SHOT Show organizers anticipate some
1,600 exhibitors. Here’s just a small
sampling:
• 5.11 Tactical Series
• Al Mar Knives
• Arno Bernard Custom Knives
• Bear & Son Cutlery, Inc.
• Benchmade Knife Company, Inc.
• Blade Tech Industries, Inc.
• Blue Ridge Knives
• Boker USA, Inc.
• Browning
• Buck Knives, Inc.
• Campco/UZI/Smith & Wesson
• Canal Street Cutlery
• Chris Reeve Knives
• Coast Products
• Columbia River Knife & Tool
• Condor Tool & Knife
• Eagle Grips
• ESEE Knives
• FAMARS USA
• Fox Outdoor Products
• Gerber Legendary Blades
• Havalon Knives
• Helle
• KA-BAR Knives, Inc.
• Katz Knives, Inc.
• Kershaw Knives
• Krudo Knives
• Lansky Sharpeners
• Leatherman Tool Group
• Meyerco
• Mil-Tac Knives & Tools
• Ontario Knife/Queen Cutlery
• Pro-Tech Knives, LLC
• Puma Knife Company USA
• SOG Specialty Knives, Inc.
• Spartan Blades, LLC
• Spyderco, Inc.
• Strider Knives, Inc.
• TOPS Knives
• United Cutlery Corporation
• Utica Cutlery/Kutmaster
• Victorinox Swiss Army, Inc.
• W.R Case & Sons
• White River Knife & Tool
CONTACT INFO
SHOT Show
11 Mile Hill Road
Newtown, CT 06470
(855) 355-7468
For exhibitor inquiries, contact:
Dave Jeannette
djeannette@nssf.org
Chris Tatulli
ctatulli@nssf.org
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013 1 3
KI_1312_14-21-TACTICAL 10/28/13 11:10 PM Page 14
A LOOK AT SOME OF THE HOTTEST NEW TACTICAL BLADES
STORY AND PHOTOS BY TERRILL HOFFMAN AND CLINT THOMPSON
or many, a knife is a useful tool for work or pastimes, from
collecting to carving to hunting. For others, however, a good
blade is not so much a commodity as it is a potentially lifesaving necessity.
F
When it comes to those who are ready to put their lives on the line at a moment’s notice, few assets are more valuable than the perfect tactical knife.
Among other demands, the blade must maintain an exceptional edge; it must
be sturdy enough to withstand heavy-duty use; the handle must afford a secure grip; it must be large enough to present a formidable defense, yet small
enough to carry with ease.
We got our hands on nine tactical knives to evaluate how well they fulfill
these characteristics.
WHEN IT COMES TO THOSE WHO ARE
READY TO PUT THEIR LIVES ON THE
LINE AT A MOMENT’S NOTICE, FEW
ASSETS ARE MORE VALUABLE THAN
THE PERFECT TACTICAL KNIFE.
5.11 Tactical SidePick
SIDEPICK COMBO EDGE
OVERALL: 5.5 inches
BLADE: 3.5 inches
STEEL: AUS-8
HANDLE: G-10
WEIGHT: 3.2 ounces
MSRP: $49
The SidePick from 5.11 Tactical is a
small fixed-blade designed to be carried
on a neck chain, belt or boot. You could
also carry the SidePick on web-gear; with
the included Velcro strap, the possibilities
multiply according to your imagination, ingenuity and needs. As a personal protection tactical knife (PPTK), it will be best
carried as a hidden boot knife so that its
sharp, partially serrated blade is quickly
accessible from a variety of positions and
in tight areas.
The SidePick is not designed to be an
offensive weapon. While its twin edges
are very sharp, they only measure two
inches. You could use it in a knife fight, but
you would be wiser not to if you have other options. The SidePick would function
most effecti vely in tactical situations for
5.11 TACTICAL SIDEPICK
"THE SIDEPICK WOULD FUNCTION MOST EFFECTIVELY IN
TACTICAL SITUATIONS FOR CUTTING IN A TIGHT SPACE."
cutting in a tight space, or in a last-ditch
situation requiring you to slash quickly before making a run to safety.
The SidePick is well designed, well
made and has great potential as a personal protection tool. For example, the
large hole in the handle would make it
possible to carry the knife securely in the
Camo finishes. The molded scales are
held in place by torx-head screws and include dual lanyard holes, joining with the
ribbed portions of the tang just behind the
guard to give the user a secure and comfortable grip.
The Intrepid XL comes with a black,
MOLLE-compatible, heavy-duty nylon
sheath, which offers various methods of
carry and r etains the knife securely. It also
includes a sharpening stone pocket. This
knife and sheath combination is sure to
earn the reputation for strength and utility
for which Buck Knives is known.
Buck Knives Intrepid XL
INTREPID XL
OVERALL: 10.5 inches
BLADE: 5.5 inches
STEEL: 420HC steel with black traction
coating
HANDLE: Molded nylon
MSRP: $130
If ever a vote was taken about who's responsible for founding the American knife
industry, Al Buck would be one of the
strongest contenders. Buck Knives has
not only a history of producing knives so
well-crafted they’ve been used by military
personnel, but the company also continues to create new designs for the tactical
market.
One of the latest from Buck is the Intrepid XL fixed-blade tactical field knife.
The tough 420HC steel tanto blade,
measuring 5.5 inches long, has a full tanf
and both upper and lower integral guards.
The molded nylon handle scales are
available in either black or Reaper Black
same hand as your keys. Place your index
finger in the hole a nd hold the knife in
your hand as if making a fist. Then using
your index finger, middle finger and thumb
you can hold your key-fob and keys and
the knife at the same time. If attacked,
you can strike out at your assailant with a
punching motion.
BUCK KNIVES INTREPID XL
"THIS KNIFE AND
SHEATH COMBINATION
IS SURE TO EARN THE
REPUTATION FOR
STRENGTH AND UTILITY
FOR WHICH BUCK
KNIVES IS KNOWN."
FAMARS USA SRT Black
SRT BLACK
BLADE: 3.75 inches
STEEL: 154CM
WEIGHT: 165 grams
HANDLE: 6061T6 Aluminum
MSRP: $149
FAMARS USA may be a newer player in
the American market, but they have more
than 50 years of experience in the Italian
knife industry. The SRT Black, part of their
new Azione SRT series, demonstrates the
company’s thorough understanding of the
American tactical knife field.
Designed for military professionals, the
SRT Black boasts a 154CM blade that is
3.75 inches and an eighth of an inch thick.
The modified tanto blade design has a robust tip, while the razor-sharp, partially
serrated edge enhances the SRT’s cutting
"THE SRT BLACK …
DEMONSTRATES FAMARS
USA'S THOROUGH
UNDERSTANDING OF THE
AMERICAN TACTICAL KNIFE
FIELD."
ability. The assisted opening feature may
be activated by with either the flipper protruding from the spine, or by the dual
thumb studs. Once opened, the liner-lock
mechanism ensures safe operation.
The handle is fashioned with stainless
steel liners and 6061 T6 aluminum handle
scales, which enable the hardest use and
abuse. Additional features include a razor
belt/strap cutter, as well as a glass-breaker protrusion at the pommel. These features, combined with the strength of the
blade and the robust textured handle
scales, speak to the tactical abilities of
the SRT Black. Likewise, the fit of the
parts and smooth operation of the blade
testify to the quality of the knives produced by FAMARS USA.
FAMARS USA SRT BLACK
KA-BAR U.S. Army combat knife
KA-BAR ARMY COMBAT KNIFE
OVERALL:11.9 inches
BLADE: 7 inches
STEEL: 1095 Cro-Van
HANDLES:Leather
WEIGHT: 11.2 ounces
MSRP: $102.64-$111.95
One cannot discuss tactical knives without including the KA-BAR combat knife, arguably the
epitome of tactical blades. KA-BAR's knives are
the product of good old American craftsmanship,
and many military men and women trust KA-BAR
as the best of the best they can rely upon.
The KA-BAR combat knife (the company's
original and so well-known that it is referred to
simply as “the KA-BAR”) is a truly well-designed
and excellently made knife. At seven inches, the
AUS-8 steel blade is an ideal length for a combat
knife — which should generally measure between
four and seven inches. The time-honored leather
handle is comfortable in the user's hand, inspiring confidence.
Classics can be hard to beat, and the KA-BAR
is no exception — especially for it s affordable
price of just over $100. As a bonus, this combat
knife is available with custom engravings for the
various military branches.
"CLASSICS CAN
BE HARD TO
BEAT, AND THE
KA-BAR IS NO
EXCEPTION."
KA-BAR U.S. ARMY
COMBAT KNIFE
Pohl Force USA Hornet XL
HORNET XL OUTDOOR
BLADE: 3.35 inches
STEEL: D2
HANDLE: G-10
WEIGHT: 6.55 ounces
MSRP: $225
From Germany comes a newer knife
maker called Pohl Force. The company
was founded by Dietmar Pohl, an internationally renowned knife designer who
specializes in combat, tactical and survival knives.
Earlier in the company’s history, Pohl
Force collaborated with designer Spencer
A. Reiter on its first knife, the Hornet XL
Outdoor fixed blade. The knife went out of
production for a time, but with a spike in
demand, Pohl Force has revived the Hornet XL for a limited run of 999 knives,
made by Italy’s Lion Steel.
The Hornet XL has a full-tang D2 stee l
drop-point blade and black G-10 handles.
The knife comes with a Kydex sheath and
customizable belt attachment. Each knife
is etched with its individual serial number
and includes a dated certificate of authenticity.
We were impressed with this stout, fulltang fixed-bladed knife. Though small in
size, it’s large in strength and attitude. The
workmanship is excellent and the quality is
top-notch. You can easily tell that this knife
was designed for compact, discreet carry.
Those with larger hands may find the
handle too small, but for everyone else,
this knife is one strong little tool for personal protection, law enforcement and
the military.
"THOUGH SMALL IN SIZE,
[THE HORNET XL] IS LARGE IN
STRENGTH AND ATTITUDE."
POHL FORCE USA
HORNET XL
Spyderco Domino
and Szabo Folder Black
As a company, Spyderco
could be characterized as
“prolific.” They recognize that
their customers have varying
ideas of what makes a good
tactical knife, and are committed to fulfilling each customer's needs. In this endeavor they have called upon
the skills of outside designers such as Eric Glesser and
Laci Szabo.
The Domino, designed by
Glesser, is a new tactical
folder — o nly the second
Spyderco knife to feature the
Kit Carson-inspired flipper
opening mechanism. The
blade, flat ground, is made
from CTS XHP steel and
comprises 3.13 inches of the
knife's overall 7.68-inch
length. The handle is fashioned from a solid titanium
scale on the lock side, and a
titanium liner with a carbon
fiber laminate scale on the
opposite side. The frame
lock, a Reeve Integral Lock,
SPYDERCO DOMINO
SZABO FOLDER BLACK
DOMINO
SZABO BLACK
BLADE: 3.13 inches
STEEL: CTS XHP
WEIGHT: 4.2 ounces
HANDLE: Carbon
fiber/G-10 laminate
and titanium
MSRP: $329.95
OVERALL: 10.25
inches
BLADE: 4.6 inches
STEEL: CPM S30V
WEIGHT: 7 ounces
HANDLE: Carbon
fiber/G-10 laminate
MSRP: $329.95
KI_1312_14-21-TACTICAL.CX 10/30/13 10:57 PM Page 20
includes a steel interface for high
strength. For increased versatility, the
Domino features a four-position pocket
clip.
Szabo’s new design ups the ante with a
4.6-inch CPM S30V, scimitar-shaped
blade paired with a generously sized handle. The stainless steel handle liners are
capped with carbon fiber and G10 laminated scales. Not only is the knife unique
aesthetically, Szabo has drawn from his
experience in law enforcement and as a
world-class martial artist to raise the bar
for defensive-blade design. The hollowground blade is combined with an unsharpened swedge to enhance penetration, while the trademark “Spyderco hole”
and dropped choil act as a subtle hand
guard. The four-position clip ensures the
knife stays in place in your pocket, while
the compression-lock mechanism keeps
the blade secure once deployed.
"SZABO’S NEW DESIGN UPS
THE ANTE WITH A 4.6-INCH
CPM S30V, SCIMITARSHAPED BLADE PAIRED
WITH A GENEROUSLY SIZED
HANDLE."
Wilson Combat Eagle Tactical Folder
EAGLE TACTICAL FOLDER
OVERALL: 8.5 inches open
BLADE: 3.6 inches
STEEL: Carpenter CTS XHP stainless
HANDLE: Titanium
WEIGHT: 4.8 ounces
MSRP: $524.95
To develop the Eagle, Wilson Combat
commissioned Les George, a Marine and
knife designer and maker with more than
20 years of experience. This folding tactical knife uses a frame-lock system, which
keeps the blade fixed in the open position.
A lower section of the blade, called the
flipper, protrudes slightly from the back of
the ha ndle. When the user presses the
flipper inward, the blade flies open and
locks into position. A flick of the wrist can
help ensure the blade locks securely.
The Eagle is one slim, rugged folding
pocketknife. The blade, designed for
maximum functionality, is made from
Carpenter XHP stainless tool steel,
which is corrosion-resistant and holds an
edge fantastically. The rest of the knife is
made from titanium, which makes it so
lightweight that you’ll barely notice it’s in
your pocket. The Eagle is precision ma-
chined and tumble blasted for a great
finish.
After opening boxes, cutting copper
wire and prying staples out of wood, the
blade remains sharp and still looks nearly
like it’s fresh out of the box. We can recommend the Eagle to anyone who wants
an excellent cutting tool for hiking, camping, hunting an d personal protection,
though the price tag of $500 may deter
civilians. Any law enforcement officer who
demands excellence from their equipment may find this knife ideal, however.
The Eagle would make an especially fine
complement to a Wilson 1911 pistol.
WILSON COMBAT
EAGLE TACTICAL
FOLDER
Zero Tolerance 0300BW
0300BW
BLADE: 3.75 inches
STEEL: S30V
WEIGHT: 8 ounces
HANDLE: G-10/titanium
MSRP: $340
the rest of knife, its operation smooth and
secure. Once opened, the flipper acts as a
small lower guard and combines with the
heavy jimping on the thumb ramp to further enhance the grip. ZT's quad-mount
pocket clip can enable a tip-up, tip-down,
left- or right-handed carry.
Zero Tolerance was formed to create a
line of hard-use knives that would meet
the needs of the military, first responders,
For those who may not know, Zero Tolerance is a division of Kai USA Ltd., which
also is the parent company for Kershaw
Knives. In 2006 Kai saw a market for
hard-use, American-made knives, and
thus Zero Tolerance was born.
If there is a flagship model of ZT, the
classic Beast (model 300) would fill the
role. Recently Zero Tolerance has released
the 0300BW in their new blackwashed
fini sh. Blackwashing gives the knife an already-broken-in look, but also provides a
non-reflective surface, which is beneficial
for a tactical knife.
The 0300BW has all the standard ZT
features. The knife is extremely solid, made
of premium materials, with extra care given
to the ergonomic design of the knife. The
blade is 3.75 inches of S30V stainless steel
and has a width of about 1.5 inches, making
for a big, beefy appearance.
The handle is textured G-10 on one side
with blackwashed textured titanium on
the opposite side. The titanium side incorporates the frame lock, which supplies a
secure blade lock during use. The
0300BW is equipped with ZT’s SpeedSafe assisted opening which activated by
either pulling back on the flipper or pushing forward on the thumb studs. The Zero
Tolerance opening system i s as robust as
and law enforcement. The 0300BW is
proof they have been successful.
In Conclusion
Ultimately, the user alone can determine whether a particular tactical knife
will fulfill his or her needs. But when it
comes to determining the best options on
the market, these nine knives put up one
heck of a fight. KI
ZERO TOLERANCE
0300BW
"THE [ZERO TOLERANCE 0300BW] IS EXTREMELY
SOLID, MADE OF PREMIUM MATERIALS, WITH
EXTRA CARE GIVEN TO THE ERGONOMIC DESIGN
OF THE KNIFE."
CONTACT INFO
5.11 TACTICAL
1360 Reynolds Ave.
Irvine, CA 92614
(949) 800-1511
www.511tactical.com
BUCK KNIVES
660 South Lochsa St.
Post Falls, ID 83854
(800) 326-2825
www.buckknives.com
FAMARS USA
2091 Nooseneck Hill Road
Suite 200
Coventry, RI 02816
(855) 326-2771
www.famarsusa.com
KA-BAR
200 Homer Street
Olean, NY 14760
(716) 372-5952
www.kabar.com
POHL FORCE USA
13012 Park Cresent Cir.
Herndon, VA 20171
(727) 468-2002
www.pohlforceusa.com
WILSON COMBAT
2234 CR 719
Berryville, AR 72616
(800) 955-4856
www.shopwilsoncombat.com
SPYDERCO
820 Spyderco Way
Golden, CO 80403
(800) 828-1925
www.spyderco.com
ZERO TOLERANCE
Kai USA Ltd.
18600 SW Teton Ave
Tualatin, OR 97062
(800) 325-2891
www.zt.kaiusaltd.com
KI_1312_22-25-QA 10/28/13 5:41 AM Page 22
Q&A
Behind the Scenes
A Force to be
Reckoned With
BY BETHANY MILLER
PHOTOS COURTESY OF POHL FORCE USA
his month, we spoke with Pohl Force USA founder and
CEO Dietmar Pohl, who told us about the challenges and
accomplishments of his European company’s new stateside offshoot.
T
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED: Pohl Force USA is a newer face on the knifemaking scene. Can you give us a brief rundown of how the company came to be?
DIETMAR POHL: In the last 20 years, I have designed more than 100
knives, all of which went into production. In 2008, I decided to run my own
business after 15 years working for other knife companies. Now, I can realize
my own designs.
Because I was well known in Europe for all my activities within the knife industry, Pohl Force had a very successful start. We have now been in business
for five years and have also a NATO supplier code. We deliver many knives to
Special Forces teams in Germany and Europe.
We hesitated with the U.S. distribution and promotion because we were
looking for a strong and rel iable partner. We finally found Sylvia Ehinger and
Phil Cookson, who both have military backgrounds and excellent knowledge
of the tactical equipment market.
KI: Is there a particular philosophy that drives the way Pohl Force runs its
business?
DP: Our philosophy is to create knives and equipment that can be used by
soldiers and law enforcement around the world. Outdoorsmen also benefit
from the designs we make for professionals. Customer service is also a very
important point for us. If a soldier has problems with his knife in Afghanistan,
for example, we supply the same quality service we would in Germany.
KI_1312_22-25-QA 10/28/13 5:42 AM Page 23
Alpha Three
Survival
Hornet XL
Survival
Romeo One
Military
KI_1312_22-25-QA 10/28/13 5:42 AM Page 24
KI: What is your research and development process like?
How do you conceptualize new products? Who is responsible
for that process, etc.?
DP: I’m proud to say that I personally design and create all
the knives we produce. Most of our knives were designed to
meet professional demand in a way that other knife companies
do not.
As just one example, w hile other knife companies produce
excellent knives, many simply do not know that almost every
solider or SWAT officer wears gloves in service. This limits the
way they handle their weapons, gear tactical vests, radios and,
of course, knives. The dimensions of our handles are always
designed with that in mind. We make larger handles and all
moving parts like thumb studs, etc. are big enough for someone to operate while wearing gloves.
The second example of how Pohl Force goes the extra mile is
accessories for the knives. For almost every knife, we offer a
whole series of Kydex, leather or nylon sheaths/holster, etc.
Not many knife companies do this.
KI: What product or line are you most proud of, to date, and
why?
DP: I am very proud of the Alpha series, because in the Alpha design you will find a ll the features that a professional operator needs. That knife has become standard issue for many
Special Forces teams.
KI: What upcoming product or line are you most excited
about?
DP: We are currently working on two new knife projects with
our partner LionSteel. One knife will reflect a modified classic
design from the Vietnam War era. I’m sure that this will become a bestseller in the U.S. among co mbat-knife enthusiasts.
KI: Personally and from a company’s perspective, what have
been your greatest challenges in this industry? What challenges do you foresee ahead?
DP: The greatest challenge was to found my company in
2008, when the whole world economy was on the ground. People called me crazy for starting a company during that time.
But we were successful and have continued to grow. Our motto
is: “Who Dares, Wins.”
KI: What keeps your customers coming back?
DP: Since we are a small company, we can give our customers a very personal service. People like that.
KI: What are Pohl Force’s goals as a company for the near
and distant future?
DP: Our goal for the future is to work more and more with
the Italian Maniago knife industry. We’re not interested in becoming a big company with hundred of models; we want to
stay small and specialized, like Randall Knives or Chris Reeve
Knives. We want to be the industry’s first choice when it comes
to Special Forces knives. KI
Dietmar Pohl, founder and CEO
of Pohl Force and Pohl Force
USA, has 20 years of experience
in the knife industry.
KI_1312_22-25-QA 10/28/13 5:42 AM Page 25
ABOUT THE INTERVIEWEE
NAME: Dietmar Pohl
TITLE: Owner and CEO
HOW LONG EMPLOYED THERE: Five years
ABOUT THE COMPANY
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS?:
Five years in Europe, in U.S. since mid-2013.
HOW MANY EMPLOYEES?:
Two full time and two part time.
WEBSITE AND CONTACT INFORMATION
www.pohlforceusa.com
Pohl Force USA
1744 Golf View Dr.
Belleair, FL 33756
(727) 468-2002
Mike One
KI_1312_26-32-SURVIVAL 10/28/13 5:51 AM Page 26
STORY BY ABE ELIAS
PHOTOS BY ABE ELIAS AND
COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS
ollow-handle knives have
waxed and waned in popularity since they first appeared on the scene in the 1920s.
Lately, demand for these survival
knives has seen a resurgence.
H
The all-time peak for public interest in
hollow-handle knives was 1982, when
Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo used a Jimmy
Lile hollow-handle survival knife in the
movie “First Blood.” Today, knife users are
attracted to hollow handles for storing
compact survival kits; the survival crowd
seems to love the idea that they only
need to grab a knife and know that they’ll
have all the basics they need.
Top options for hollow-handle knives
come from Schrade, Kizlyar Supreme,
Boker and, of course, Lile.
Like them or hate them,
hollow-handle knives —
like this one featured in
“First Blood” — are
formidable tools.
“THE SURVIVAL CROWD SEEMS TO
LOVE THE IDEA THAT THEY ONLY
NEED TO GRAB A KNIFE AND KNOW
THAT THEY’LL HAVE ALL THE
BASICS THEY NEED.”
HOLLOW-HANDLE KNIVES MAKE A COMEBACK
Schrade SCHF1SM
Schrade knives closely mimic the hollow-handle knives Chris Reeve used to
produce. The Schrade design leans toward urban survival because the handles
are loaded with a bit-and-driver set. The
driver is part of the handle, but the whole
set is removable, allowing you to make
use of the space any way you see fit.
For this article , I worked with the
Schrade SCH1FSM. Its blade profile uses a
narrow spear-point design, and the blade
edge is created using a hollow grind. The
spine is a full .1875 inches, the grind only
running two-thirds of the way up the
blade, which measures 1.1875 inches wide.
In all, this is a stout, strong blade with a
good cutting edge.
The knife is constructed from one piece
of 1070 steel, bead blasted and fini shed in
a matte gray. I was very impressed with
how well this knife cut; Schrade definitely
got the edge right. Not too long, the blade
is easily maneuverable for small cutting
and carving. The guard, which on many
hollow-handle knives is too large, is quite
manageable on the SCH1FSM.
Another bonus is that Schrade did not
waste too much cutting edge with a large
ricasso; for carrying, the knife comes in a
M OLLE-compatible sheath with a removable pouch and a plastic insert liner. The
retaining strap is not easy to operate,
however, requiring some concentration to
line up. To seal the handle, Schrade uses a
chunky bolt-like screw-on cap with Orings. This gives you a good grip to turn
the driver.
Schrade’s MOLLE-compatible sheath
features a removable utility pouch.
“I WAS VERY
IMPRESSED WITH
HOW WELL THIS
KNIFE CUT;
SCHRADE
DEFINITELY GOT THE
EDGE RIGHT.”
Schrade’s SCHF1SM
definitely has an urban
lean to it, with its
concrete-gray color and
combat-style profile.
Schrade packs a
removable
screwdriver set in
the handle of the
SCHF1SM.
FUN FACT
The popularity of hollow-handle knives kicked into gear in
1982, when Sylvester Stallone’s Rambo used a Jimmy Lile
model in the movie “First Blood.”
Boker Apparo
Boker’s Plus Apparo is one of the company’s
newer offerings in the hollow-handle arena. Like the
Schrade knife, the Apparo’s profile used is a spearpoint design, but this one has a sabre grind. On the
spine, there’s a false grind near the tip and toward
the back is a saw blade.
For the blade, Boker uses a .25-inch-thick stock
that is sabre ground. Due to the thickness of the
blade, the knife has to be heeled up a little, causing
the angle to dig. The large, chunky guard prevents
you from creeping up on the blade to do detail work.
Usually people complain about the saw blades on
hollow-handle knives, but this one works like a
charm. You may not win any cutting contests with
it, but it will cut and make great sawdust for starting
fir es.
Boker’s saw back is exceptionally functional compared with similar knives.
Boker’s Apparo is a beefy mass of a knife with
full guard and .25-inch-thick blade.
A large guard is fitted to the Apparo and
the hollow handle is wrapped in small
cord resembling bank line. In fact, before
paracord-wrapped handles became popular, it was common to see the hollowhandle knives use a fine cord wrap. One
large disappointment would be the
sheath: it’s universal, for either-side carry,
but I feel such a knife warrants something
sturdier.
Cas Iberia Survivalist
Cas Iberia is now importing Kizlyar
Supreme knives to complement their
“THE (CAS IBERIA) SURVIVALIST HAS BEEN
ONE OF THE LIVELIEST CUTTERS FOR BOTH
WHITTLING AND LIGHT CHOPPING.”
many lines of cutlery. Amongst the Kizlyar
Supreme is a line of survival and outdoor
knives from Russia. I picked the Survivalist, made from titanium-coated AUS-8
coated in titanium.
Kizlyar’s design of the hollow-ground
blade provides two extra edges. The tip
has a double edge ground on it for 1.75
inches on the spine, while further back is a
chisel grind in the middle of the spine,
somewhat like the bone crusher on the
Cold Steel Outdoorsman.
I find a lot of people lift their nose up at
AUS-8, but this blade held up well during
The Cas Survivalist worked wonders for making a quickie bow drill set.
testing. Out of the group of knives reviewed for this feature, the Survivalist has been one of the liveliest cutters for both whittling and light
chopping. I don’t see much use for
the sharpened back end; you can still
baton with it since there’s a flat spot
between the double grind and the
chisel grind. A downside to the knife
is the thin gu ard. With prolonged use,
your fingers will become irritated by
the crisp edges on the guard.
Made from a material called Dural,
the handle is 5.25 inches long and
knurled to form a textured grip. The
hollow handle comes with a prepacked survival kit in its own case.
The Survivalist comes with a
MOLLE-compatible sheath that has
two retaining straps and a plastic insert for protection.
A WORD OF CAUTION
When choosing a hollow-handle survival
knife, ensure the options you’re considering
are sturdy. A cheaper, poorly made hollowhandle knife could break with heavy-duty
use, putting you at risk for injury.
The CAS Iberia
Kizlyar
Supreme
Survivalist has
a saw back
and one-third
serrated edge.
For the Survivalist, Cas and Kizlyar Supreme provide a well-made MOLLE-compatible sheath with plastic blade
protection insert.
Lile First Blood
The knife widely credited for igniting the
hollow-handle knife craze is the Lile First
Blood design. The knife I used for this article
is a commemorative version made from
CPM D2. The largest of the bunch, the First
Blood is an effective small chopper and has
narrow enough blade geometry to be a
good slicer. A drawback, though, is that with
the first .875 inches of the blade taken up
by r icasso, you miss out on your sweet spot
for power cuts.
The First Blood comes with a traditional heavy guard that has a standard
screwdriver head in the bottom and a
Phillips in the top. Such a heavy guard
makes it hard to choke up and do detail
work. The material used to construct the
handle is 303 stainless steel wrapped in
cord. The handle is hollow, of course, and
comes with a compass. The container is
sealed with O-rings.
In Conclusion
Hollow-handle survival knives have been
around a long time, and I see no reason to
expect they’ll fade from the scene any time
soon. They’re not right for everyone, but
they certainly serve their purpose. A wellmade hollow-handle knife can be as rough
and tough as you need, yet still handle all
the tasks a knife is made to do. KI
“THE KNIFE WIDELY CREDITED FOR IGNITING THE HOLLOWHANDLE KNIFE CRAZE IS THE LILE FIRST BLOOD DESIGN.”
CONTACT INFO
BOKER USA INC.
1550 Balsam St.
Lakewood, CO 80214
(800) 835-6433
www.boker.de/us/
CAS IBERIA
650 Industrial Blvd.
Sale Creek, TN 37373
(800) 635-9366
info@casiberia
www.casibera.com
JIMMY LILE, LLC.
ATTN: John Henry Hill, Jr.
P.O. Box 849
Prosper, TX 75078
www.jimmylile.com
TAYLOR BRANDS LLC.
1043 Ford Town Road
Kingsport, TN 37663
(800) 251-0254
info@taylorbrandsllc.com
www.schradeknives.com
KI_1312_33 10/29/13 11:47 PM Page 33
COAST’S PATENTED DOUBLE-LOCK DX355.
FIXED BLADE SAFETY IN A G10 FOLDER.
CH
A
LOCK ON
M
The Double-Lock safety mechanism works
in conjunction with a primary Liner-Lock to
prevent disengagement. It includes a safety
detent-action that is fully tension adjustable.
LE
LYSTEEL
PO
IN E D H A N
D
TENSION
ADJUST
LOCK OFF
DX355
DOUBLE-LOCK
DOUBLE-LOCK
U.S. Patent 5,596,808
COAST Products • Portland, OR
COASTportland.com • dealer.help@COASTportland.com
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THE UNDEAD APOCALYPSE
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KI_1312_34-41-CUSTOM 10/28/13 11:29 PM Page 34
HOW CUSTOM MAKER ALAN FOLTS HONES HIS CRAFT
STORY BY LES ROBERTSON
PHOTOS BY LES ROBERTSON AND CHUCK WARD
ll it took was the sight of his great-grandfather's kitchen
knives, handmade from old sawmill blades, to spark Alan
Folts’ interest in knifemaking — an interest that would
lead him into a prolific and thriving career.
A
KI_1312_34-41-CUSTOM 10/28/13 11:29 PM Page 35
ORIENTAL BOWIE
BLADE LENGTH: 10 inches
OVERALL LENGTH: 14.75 inches
BLADE STEEL: Clay heattreated 1095
HANDLE HARDWARE: Copper
guard, spacers and pommel
HANDLE MATERIAL: Stingray
skin over wood handle wrapped
with cotton cord
SHEATH: Distressed calf inlaid
sheath with Mokume Concho
and laced loop
“[ALAN] FOLTS HAS
CRAFTED JUST ABOUT
EVERY STYLE OF KNIFE
YOU CAN NAME.”
KI_1312_34-41-CUSTOM 10/28/13 11:29 PM Page 36
History and Habits
Folts has been making knives for nearly
a quarter-century now: 20 years as a hobby, three years as a full-time career.
Throughout that time, Folts has crafted
just about every style of knife you can
name. He primarily makes his knives using
the stock removal method, but he does
offer forged blades as well.
Folts’ fixed blades range from neck
knives to larger Japanese-style fighters to
filed-type knives such as the DFK (Desert
Fighting Knife). This 10-inch knife features
a 5.5-inch 154CM blade with epoxy powder coating, an integral guard, and tan and
coyote G10 scales. Also included is a
matching multi-position Kydex sheath.
The blade features the re-curve style, giving an excellent cutting edge with the
weight slightly forwar d, which can aid in
chopping.
Greatest Hits
Folts reserves carbon steel — his favorites being CPM154, S35VN and Damascus — exclusively for his forged fixed
blades. For his Damascus he prefers working with steel from Chad Nichols. One example of Folts’ forged blades is the Oriental Bowie, featuring a 10-inch, clay
heat-treated blade made from 1095 combined with Mokume made by Folts himself. The b lade is complemented by a
handle wrapped in ray skin and black cotton cord and finished with a copper guard,
spacers and pommel.
My favorite Folts knife is the Inertia
folder. Folts has said he greatly admires
fellow knifemaker Jose De Braga, and in
the Inertia this influence is readily apparent. In addition to the very cool-looking
and functional harpoon-style blade, the
cutouts in the bolster and hand le (often
displaying the anodization on the liners
“WHILE FOLTS
PRIMARILY USES
MODERN AND PROVEN
STEELS, HE’S NOT
AFRAID TO
EXPERIMENT WITH
NEWER STEELS AND
HANDLE MATERIALS.”
KI_1312_34-41-CUSTOM 10/28/13 11:29 PM Page 37
JANTZ
OUTDOORSMAN
SERIES
This series of blades are perfect for any
camping or hunting trip. The non-glare
bead blasted finish blends nicely with
the sharp grind lines and edges. An easy
knifemaking project for the beginner, looks
fabulous, yet can be completed in a few
hours. Kit includes 3/16” pins, blade and
profiled and drilled dymondwood handle
material.
Yellowstone
Overall 9", blade 4" x 1" & 1/8" thick.
CAT.#
DESPRIPTION
PRICE
Kit with Silver-Black
SS63209
24.95
Kit with Rosewood
SS63225
24.95
SS63249 Kit with Black Ink Cocobolo 24.95
Leather Sheath
KT102
14.50
Bigfoot Skinner
Overall 9-1/8", blade 4" x 1" & 1/8" thick.
CAT.#
DESPRIPTION
SS63309
Kit with Rosewood
SS63325
SS63349 Kit with Black Ink Cocobolo
Leather Sheath
KT102
PRICE
24.95
24.95
24.95
14.50
Dakota Drop Point
Overall 9 1/2", blade 4 3/4" x 1 1/2" & 1/8"
thick.
CAT.#
DESPRIPTION
PRICE
SS63909
24.95
Kit with Rosewood
SS63925
24.95
Leather Sheath
KT111
14.50
DESERT FIELD KNIFE
Bear Paw Hatchet
BLADE LENGTH: 5.5 inches
OVERALL LENGTH: 10 inches
BLADE STEEL: 154CM with epoxy powder coat
HANDLE MATERIAL: Tan G10
SHEATH: Kydex
Overall 9-5/8", blade 2-5/8" wide at cutting
edge, 3/16" thick.
CAT.#
DESPRIPTION
PRICE
SS63109
29.95
Kit with Rosewood
SS63125
29.95
Leather Sheath
KT631
12.95
1-800-351-8900
knifemaking.com
PO BOX 584
Davis, OK 73030
Add $9.95 for shipping.
KI_1312_34-41-CUSTOM 10/28/13 11:29 PM Page 38
INERTIA
BLADE STEEL: S30V
BLADE FINISH: Two-tone, satin and black
BOLSTER MATERIAL: Titanium
FRAME FINISH: Anodized purple
HANDLE MATERIAL: Carbon fiber
OPENER: Flipper
LOCK: Liner
CLIP: Tip-up carry
underneath) add to the very distinctive
look of this knife.
It's in the Details
Folts’ typical handle materials range
from synthetics to natural materials. He
prefers synthetics such as G10 and carbon
fiber for their stability, variety of colors
and the finishes they can take. For natural
materials, he opts for hardwoods with
easily discernible patterns that are particularly appealing to the eye. Of course, like
most professional knifemakers, Folts can
craft a knife according to the customer's
order using almost any material. He has
even previously worked with coprolite —
fossilized dinosaur dung.
The Finishing Touches
Folts is continually testing his own
knives. After building a new model, he
carries and uses it for some time in order to test both the design and his steel
of choice, ensuring the knife can perform the tasks it was designed for. While
Folts primarily uses modern and proven
steels, he’s not afraid to experiment
with newer steels and handle materials
so that he can assess their strengths
and weaknesses.
Folts builds all of his Kydex sheaths
and many of his leather sheaths himself,
“FOLTS HAS SAID HE GREATLY ADMIRES FELLOW
KNIFEMAKER JOSE DE BRAGA, AND IN THE INERTIA THIS
INFLUENCE IS READILY APPARENT.”
INERTIA (DAMASCUS)
BLADE STEEL: Random-pattern
stainless steel Damascus
BOLSTER MATERIAL: Titanium
FRAME FINISH: Anodized blue
HANDLE MATERIAL: Desert Ironwood
OPENER: Flipper
LOCK: Liner
CLIP: Tip-up carry
KI_1312_34-41-CUSTOM 10/28/13 11:29 PM Page 39
NEW YORK
SPECIAL
BLADE STEEL: ATS-34
BOLSTER: Anodized titanium
HANDLE: Jigged amber
bone scales
SHEATH: Custom-made
by Dave Cole
CONTACT INFO
2406 Parsons Ave.
Melbourne, FL 32901
Phone: (252) 341-8140
Email: alanfolts@hotmail.com
Website: www.foltsknives.com
A camp knife that teaches you.
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A. G. Russell™ Lairson Utility Camp Knife
developed by Mastersmith Jerry Lairson, Sr. for Cutting Competitions
For a free catalog, call 479-878-1644, Dept #Y1213
2900 S. 26th St. - Rogers, AR 72758
RU-T762OW
To order, call 1-800-255-9034.
$149.95
© Copyright 2013 A.G. Russell Knives
KI_1312_34-41-CUSTOM 10/28/13 11:30 PM Page 40
and to finish off each knife he offers a wide variety of embellishments. These include but are not
limited to simple titanium anodization, special coatings, carving, sculpting of blades and fixtures, exotic inlays and file work.
He also is learning how to engrave.
Folts’ commitment to quality
drives him to do everything possible to make sure his clients get exactly the knife they want — even if
it means referring the client to another maker if he feels a request is
beyond his field of expertise. His
priority is his customers’ happiness with their new custom knife
or sheath. Now that’s true customer service!
Above and Beyond
GOBLIN PROTOTYPE
BLADE STEEL: 20V
HANDLE MATERIAL: Tan and black G10
OPENER: Ambidextrous thumb stud
LOCK: Liner
In addition to making knives,
Folts enjoys educating others
about his craft. “Knifemakers in
general are a very generous about
sharing information with others,”
he says, “so I try to be just as generous.” He is part of a local mentorship program that gives high
school students the opportunity
to learn about metal working.
GED
BLADE STEEL: Rob Thomas raindroppattern Damascus
BOLSTER: Zirconium
HANDLE MATERIAL: Nitro composites —
electric blue flash cotton fiber
OPENER: Inlaid thumb stud
KI_1312_34-41-CUSTOM 10/28/13 11:30 PM Page 41
Folts’ knives range in price from $75 to
$1,500, and currently he has a 12-month
delivery time. He does attend the Blade
Show in Atlanta, Georgia, and the SHOT
Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. As time permits, he would like to add other shows.
You can contact him via email at alanfolts@hotmail.com or you can check out
more of his work at: www.folts
knives.com.
A dedicated, practiced craftsman, Alan
Folts’ goal is to provide his customers with
exactly the knife they want. Having owned
several of his knives myself, I can guarantee that should you commission his work,
you’ll be thoroughly happy you did. KI
WHERE TO FIND
FOLTS KNIVES
Folts’ knives range in price from $75 to
$1,500, and currently he has a 12month delivery time. You can find him
at the annual Blade and SHOT shows,
contact him through his website, or
order some of his designs from CRKT.
KI_1312_42 10/28/13 5:51 AM Page 42
J A N T Z Your Co
ESSENTIALS
ALABAMA DAMASCUS
The forging process on our damascus billets
starts out a mixture of 13 layers that include
5160, 203E, 15N20 and 52100 high nickel, high
alloy steels and then folded 5 times to produce
a high contrast 416 layer damascus billet. All
sizes are approximate. Sizes are over sized in
thickness up to .010".
Heat
Treat
Ovens
In Stock Now
for Immediate Shipment.
Random Pattern
These Evenheat Knife Ovens are equipped with
the Rampmaster Control. The Rampmaster
Control allows up to 12 programs and uses a
numerical keypad for data entry.
Available in
four sizes, all models measure 10” width x 6.5”
height inside chamber. Maximum temperature
is 2200 degrees F.-all are 240 volt, single phase.
For more information visit www.knifemaking.
com. Actual shipping charges apply.
CAT.#
DEPTH
SHIP WEIGHT
PRICE
13.5”
87 LBS
KF135R
1013.00
18.0”
95 LBS
KF180R
1070.00
22.5”
104 LBS
KF225R
1122.00
36.0”
200 LBS
KF360R
2089.00
CAT.#
AD100
AD120
AD140
AD155
AD190
SIZE
3/32” x 3” x 15”
1/8” x 3” x 15”
9/64” x 3” x 15”
5/32” x 3” x 15”
3/16” x 3” x 15”
Ladder Pattern
CAT.#
WKS800
DESCRIPTION
Knife Sharpening Wheel Set
CAT.#
AD300
AD320
AD340
AD355
AD390
Raindrop Pattern
PRICE
34.95 CAT.#
AD400
AD420
AD440
AD455
AD490
Knifemakers Center Scribe
Use this precision scribe
for marking center lines as
a guide for grinding knife
blades. It is designed for
accuracy, this scribe can
be adjusted from 0-1/2”.
Adjusts 1/32” per revolution
using fine adjustment screw.
Replaceable
carbide
tip
marks even the hardest knife
steel. Made In USA.
CAT.#
JS304
JS305
JS307
DESCRIPTION
Scribe without Adjustment
Scribe with Adjustment
Replacement Carbide Tip
PATTERN
Ladder
Ladder
Ladder
Ladder
Ladder
CAT.#
LF118
LF218
LF228
LF318
LF328
PRICE
LF418
119.95 LF428
119.95 LF448
139.95
139.95
149.95 CAT.#
PATTERN
Raindrop
Raindrop
Raindrop
Raindrop
Raindrop
Used to acid etch damascus after
heat treating. Dilute with distilled
water or vinegar as needed. Keep
bottle sealed tightly and stored in a
cool place. Can Not Ship Air.
PRICE
29.95 CAT.#
39.95 BS110
9.95
This versatile tool can be used for holding your
knife blades to do complex file work, filing slots
for guards to reach angles needed when hand
sanding your blades. Our file guide is precision
machined
and ground from A-2 tool
steel and hardened to
62RHc for long wear.
Overall length 3.250”,
maximum blade width
2”, each jaw is 3/8”
x 3/4”. Made in
the USA.
DESCRIPTION
File Guide
SIZE
3/32” x 3” x 15”
1/8” x 3” x 15”
9/64” x 3” x 15”
5/32” x 3” x 15”
3/16” x 3” x 15”
PRICE
49.95
CAT.#
CF418
CF518
CF558
CF618
CF658
CF718
CF758
CF778
CF918
CF958
PRICE
119.95
119.95
139.95
139.95
149.95
Ferric Chloride
Hardened File Guide
CAT.#
FG100
SIZE
3/32” x 3” x 15”
1/8” x 3” x 15”
9/64” x 3” x 15”
5/32” x 3” x 15”
3/16” x 3” x 15”
440C
PATTERN
Random
Random
Random
Random
Random
Knife Sharpening Wheels
Kit includes
two wheels,
one wheel is
slotted for
polishing
and
the
other wheel
is
coated
with silicon
carbide grit for sharpening, white rouge, silicon
carbide grit, lubricant, appropriate bushings &
instructions. 7 1/2” diameter x 3/4” thick with 1”
arbor hole & reducers for 1/2”, 5/8” & 3/4” holes.
BLADE STEEL
All steel offered below by JANTZ is mill finished
steel and made in the USA. Other widths and
thicknesses available. Visit www.knifemaking.com
to purchase blanchard ground and precision ground
steels. We also have available 154CM, 1095, 5160,
15N20, O1, A2, CPMS 90V and Cowry Steels
PRICE
14.95
19.95
24.95
22.95
30.95
26.95
34.95
64.95
34.95
44.95
CPMS 30V
SIZE
1/8” x 1” x 18”
1/8” x 1 1/2” x 18”
1/8” x 2” x 18”
5/32” x 1 1/2” x 18”
5/32” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 1 1/2” x 18”
3/16” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 4” x 18”
PRICE
23.95
32.95
42.95
40.95
56.95
51.95
65.95
125.95
SIZE
1/8” x 1” x 18”
1/8” x 1 1/2” x 18”
1/8” x 2” x 18”
5/32” x 1 1/2” x 18”
5/32” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 1 1/2” x 18”
3/16” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 4” x 18”
PRICE
24.95
33.95
39.95
43.95
58.95
51.95
69.95
129.95
SIZE
1/8” x 1” x 18”
1/8” x 1 1/2” x 18”
1/8” x 2” x 18”
5/32” x 1 1/2” x 18”
5/32” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 1 1/2” x 18”
3/16” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 4” x 18”
PRICE
23.95
30.95
39.95
39.95
52.95
46.95
60.95
116.95
SIZE
5/32” x 1 1/2” x 18”
5/32” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 1 1/2” x 18”
3/16” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 4” x 18”
1/4” x 1 1/2” x 18”
1/4” x 2” x 18”
1/4” x 4” x 18”
PRICE
37.95
49.95
43.95
57.95
113.95
55.95
73.95
143.95
SIZE
1/8” x 1” x 18”
1/8” x 1 1/2” x 18”
1/8” x 2” x 18”
5/32” x 1 1/2” x 18”
5/32” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 1 1/2” x 18”
3/16” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 4” x 18”
1/4” x 2” x 18”
1/4” x 4” x 18”
PRICE
13.95
18.95
24.95
21.95
29.95
26.95
34.95
63.95
41.95
78.95
CPMS 35VN
HF118
HF218
HF228
HF318
HF418
HF508
PRICE HF518
HF548
119.95
119.95
139.95
139.95 CAT.#
149.95 PF118
PF218
PF228
PF318
PF328
PF418
PF428
PF448
CPM 154
CMP 3V
CAT.#
PRICE
VF618
14.95 VF628
VF718
VF728
VF748
Premium quality quenching oil designed to VF918
provide controlled cooling of steel which is VF928
important in steel hardening. When quenching VF948
is started, Chevron Quenching Oil 70 provides
a high initial cooling rate inducing maximum
hardness, yet once the critical transformation CAT.#
temperature is passed, the ideal fluid cooling
rate decreases to eliminate the possibility of YF218
stresses and metal distortion. This highly stable YF318
oil resists the oxidizing effects of quenching and YF328
is less sensitive to the effects of agitation. It is YF518
highly heat resistant. No additive replacement YF528
is required and, in normal service, the product
YF718
retains the original viscosity indefinitely.
YF728
CAT.#
DESCRIPTION
SIZE
PRICE YF748
Quench Oil
1 Gallon
BS101
49.95 YF818
Quench Oil
5 Gallon
BS105
149.95 YF848
DESCRIPTION
Ferric Chloride
SIZE
1/8” x 1” x 18”
1/8” x 1 1/2” x 18”
1/8” x 2” x 18”
5/32” x 1 1/2” x 18”
5/32” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 1 1/2” x 18”
3/16” x 2” x 18”
3/16” x 4” x 18”
1/4” x 1 1/2” x 18”
1/4” x 2” x 18”
SIZE
16 oz.
ChevronTexaco
70 Quench Oil
D2
KI_1312_43 10/28/13 5:52 AM Page 43
Complete Source For
USA MADE BLADES
STABILIZED WOODS
JANTZ custom quality blades are 100% made Hand selected for figure and color then impregnated
in the USA. Flat ground from the best USA made completely through with resins. Scales are 2-piece
steels available and cryogentically heat treated you matched sets.
will not find a better product or value.
California Buckeye
Pattern 21
High Contrast
CAT.#
TW119
PRICE TW419
99.95 TW219
31.95
31.95
9.95
9.95
Overall 7 7/8”, Blade 3 1/8”, 1 1/8” wide and 5/32” thick.
CAT.#
J2189
J2108
J2128
K218
K219
DESPRIPTION
Pattern 21 Damascus Blade
Pattern 21 440C Steel Blade
Pattern 21 D2 Steel Blade
1/4” Brass Bolster and Rivets
1/4” Stainless Bolster and Rivets
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
1” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
Spalted Birch
PRICE
39.95
24.95
39.95 CAT.#
EW170
EW270
EW370
CAT.#
TW141
TW441
Overall 8 3/8”, Blade 3 1/2”, 1 3/32” wide and 5/32” TW241
thick.
DESPRIPTION
Pattern 22 440C Steel Blade
PRICE
99.95
31.95
31.95
9.95
9.95
Pattern 31
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
1” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
PRICE
29.95
19.95
29.95
Maple Burl
CAT.#
EW171
EW271
EW371
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1-1/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
CAT.#
EW172
EW272
EW372
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1-1/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
Exhibition Burl
CAT.#
TW113
TW413
TW213
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
1” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
Overall 7 5/8”, Blade 3”, 1 1/8” wide and 5/32” thick.
CAT.#
DESPRIPTION
PRICE
J3189
99.95
J3128
31.95
Pattern 31 1095 Steel Blade
J3198
24.95
K318
9.95
K319
9.95 CAT.#
TW135
TW435
TW235
Pattern 38
PRICE
30.00
35.00
24.95
PRICE
35.00
40.00
27.95
Presentation Burl
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
1” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
PRICE
34.95
24.95
34.95
Black Palm
Overall 7”, Blade 2 1/2”, 15/16” wide and 5/32” thick.
CAT.#
DESPRIPTION
PRICE
J3889
69.95
Pattern 38 CPMS 30V Blade
J3838
39.95
Pattern 38 1095 Steel Blade
J3898
24.95 CAT.#
1/4” Brass Bolster and Pins
K388
7.95 TW191
1/4” Stainless Bolster and Pins
K389
7.95 TW491
TW291
PRICE
16.00
21.00
14.95
PRICE
29.95
19.95
29.95
Reddish Spalted Maple
Pattern 33
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1-1/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
Dark Exhibition Burl
Pattern 22
CAT.#
J2289
J2208
J2228
K228
K229
DESERT IRONWOOD
We have the largest selection of ironwood burl
available. Ironwood is the hardest, rarest and most
stable wood on earth. It will not shrink or move.
This naturally stable wood is easy to work. Scales
are bookmatched for perfect mirror imaged sets.
All sizes are approximate.
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
1” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
CAT.#
EW173
EW273
EW373
EW473
PRICE
29.95
19.95
29.95
Black Ash Burl
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1-1/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
3/16”x1-1/4”x3-3/4” Scales
PRICE
40.00
45.00
36.95
26.95
1-800-351-8900
ORDER ONLINE
KNIFEMAKING.COM
Send orders to:
JANTZ SUPPLY
309 W MAIN
Davis OK 73030
Overall 7 1/8”, Blade 3 3/16”, 5/8” wide and 1/8” thick.
CAT.#
J3389
J3348
J3328
K338
K339
DESPRIPTION
Pattern 33 154CM Steel Blade
1/4” Brass Guard and Pins
1/4” Stainless Guard and Pins
PRICE
49.95
24.95
19.95
7.95
7.95
ADD $9.95 FOR SHIPPING
CAT.#
TW117
TW417
TW217
DESPRIPTION
3/8” x 1-1/2” x 5” Scales
1/4” x 1-1/4” x 4” Scales
1” x 1-1/2” x 5” Block
PRICE
39.95
24.95
39.95
Download Free Online.
JANTZ Catalog $5.00, Free with order
Knifemaking supplies, tools, equipment, leathercraft,
engraving and more.
KI_1312_44-46-ODDS 10/28/13 6:04 AM Page 44
ODDS AND
ENDS
The latest goings-on
in the world of knives
BY BETHANY MILLER
A LIVING LEGEND
Bowie knife enthusiasts won’t want to miss
this event. “A Sure Defense: The Bowie Knife in
America” promises to be the largest Bowie exhibit ever assembled, featuring more than 200
knives, including those owned by American legends such as Davy Crockett and Teddy Roosevelt.
The exhibit will not only pay homage to the
iconic design — named for frontiersman and soldier Jame s Bowie, who died in the Battle of the
Alamo — but will also trace the Bowie knife’s influence on knifecraft throughout American history and on the knife world at large.
The exhibit opens December 13 at the Historic
Arkansas Museum in Little Rock, Arkansas, and
will run through June 22, 2014.
For more information, contact Ellen Korenblat
at (501) 324-9351.
Photo courtesy of Mark Zalesky
SLIK AS CAN BE
If you’re looking for an everyday carry that is compact and
capable, while also aesthetically unique, Boker USA’s latest just
might fit the bill. The Mini Slik tanto is just less than 5 inches
long and checks in at an extremely lightweight 1.7 ounces.
Its angular, futuristic-looking body features titanium handle
scales and a 4-millimeter 440C blade, perfect for detailed
cutting tasks thanks to its thin-ground tip.
The Mini Slik includes a lanyard with an anodized titanium
bead and a Kydex sheath.
Boker USA can be reached by phone at (303) 462-0662 or
online at www.bokerusa.com.
Photo courtesy of Boker USA
KI_1312_44-46-ODDS 10/28/13 6:04 AM Page 45
THE ULTIMATE
EVERYDAY CARRY
GET
WHAT’S
HOT
Your iPhone can do almost everything: make
calls, send emails, get directions, track your fitness regimen, and now, with the Tacti-Call case,
it can even function as a tactical pocketknife.
The case is available in three models, each of
which features a 440 stainless steel blade, bottle
opener, nylon fiber sides and coated aluminum
front shields. The Alpha 1 model retails fo r $59.99,
while the Pocket Ace and TSA Over & Out are still
in production.
For more information, visit www.tacticall.com.
AT
Photo courtesy of Tacti-Call
CATALOG 50
AVAILABLE NOW!
SCALED-DOWN STYLE
Sometimes good things come in
small packages — really small packages. Tam’s Mini Knives specializes in
handcrafted Damascus cutlery as tiny
as ¾ of an inch (about the size of a
dime).
The face behind the Fitzgerald,
Georgia-based business is Tamera
Kitchens, daughter of custom knifemaker Larry Pridgen. At age 15, she began working in her father’s knife shop,
even designing two of his knives. She
was inspired to start crafting her
VISIT
miniature knives after meeting Carl
Rechsteiner of C-Rex Custom Knives,
who also makes miniatures, at the
2012 Blade Show.
Since then, Tamera has sold 17 of her
own miniatures, all crafted from scrap
materials from her father’s workshop.
Her designs range in price from $100 to
$500, and some models can be made
into pendants for jewelry.
Tamera can be reached through her
Tam’s Mini Knives Facebook page or at
tamsminiknives@gmail.com.
Photo courtesy of Tamera Kitchens
WWW.KNIFEMAKING.COM
DOWNLOAD FOR FREE!!
FINISHED BLADE BLANKS
KNIFE COMPONENTS
FOLDER PARTS
CPM BLADE STEEL
DAMASCUS BILLETS
EXOTIC HANDLE MATERIAL
SHEATHS
FINISHING SUPPLIES
TOOLS
EQUIPMENT
HEAT TREAT OVENS
LEATHERCRAFTING
BOOKS/DVDS
PARACORD
PARACORD CLASPS
BEADS
1-800-351-8900
WWW.KNIFEMAKING.COM
KI_1312_44-46-ODDS 10/28/13 6:05 AM Page 46
KNOW YOUR
RIGHTS
Before you take
your trusty blade out
in public, be sure you
know where and
how you’re allowed
to carry it. Knife laws
vary significantly
from state to state —
and even city to city.
Here’s just a small
sampling of examples from various
codes of ordinances:
ATLANTA, GEORGIA
“It shall be unlawful for any person to have in such person's
possession, except within such person's own residence or
place of business, any of the following implements unless securely wrapped so as not to be readily available for use:
1. Any knife which has a blade which opens automatically
by hand pressure applied to a button, spring or other device in
the handle, the blade of which when open projects from the
handle more than two inches;
2. Any knife which has any obstruction or other device of
any kind which holds the blade partly open, the blade of
which when open projects from the handle more than two
inches;
3. Any knife of any kind, the blade of which when open projects from the handle more than three inches; this is intended
to include all knives such as butcher knives or other knives
which do not close;
4. Any razor; or
5. Any ice pick or similar device having a sharp point.” (Section 106.6.3.106-306)
CHEYENNE, WYOMING
“No person shall wear or carry concealed any knife the
blade of which exceeds four inches in length, any dirk, dagger,
sword-in-cane, slingshot, revolver, pistol or any other dangerous or deadly weapon. No person shall openly wear or carry
any such weapon or any combustible or explosive material
with the intent or avowed purpose for i njuring any person. …
No person shall possess, own, carry, wear, buy or sell within
the city any weapons commonly called blackjacks, saps, brass
knucks or switch knives.” (Section 9.24.040-050)
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA
“It shall be unlawful for any person to carry about his person any pistol, dirk, butcher knife, case knife, sword or spear,
cane, metal knuckles, razors or other weapons of offense
within the corporate limits of the city. … It shall be unlawful for
any person to sell, offer for sale or possess a switchblade
knife within the city. For the purposes of this section, the term
"switchblade knife" shall mean a knife having the appearance
of a pocket knife, the blade of which can be opened by a flick
of a button, pressure on the handle, or other mechanical devices.” (Section 14.4.14.103-103)
LOS ANGELES COUNTY, CALIFORNIA
“As used in this chapter, the terms "knives and daggers"
shall include any knife having a blade of three inches or more
in length; any spring-blade, switch-blade or snap-blade knife;
any knife any blade of which is automatically released by a
spring mechanism or other mechanical device; any ice pick or
similar sharp stabbing tool; any straight-edge razor or any razor blad e fitted to a handle. … It is unlawful for any person to
carry on his person, in plain view, any knife or dagger.” (Section
13.62.010-020)
NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY, TENNESSEE
“It is unlawful for any person within the urban services district, to carry, publicly or privately, any dirk, razor concealed
about his person, sword cane, loaded cane, slung-shot or
brass knucks, Spanish stiletto, belt or pocket pistol, revolver or
any kind of pistol, except the army or navy pistol usually used
in warfare, which shall be carried openly.” (Section
11.2.11.36.110)
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS
“It shall be unlawful for any person under the age of seventeen (17) to possess or carry any knife on a public roadway or
public right-of-way; on any other property in which a governmental entity has an interest; or on private property without
the permission of the owner or the person in control of the
property within the city limits of the City of San Antonio.”
(Section 2.21.6.21-155) KI
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
KI_1312_47 10/28/13 5:54 AM Page 47
KI_1312_48 10/28/13 11:10 PM Page 48
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KI-1308-Spotlight 6/3/13 8:20 AM Page 47
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K & G FINISHING SUPPLIES
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KI_1312_50-58-SOLID 10/28/13 11:49 PM Page 50
THE SOG SNARL AND CHRIS REEVE PROFESSIONAL
SOLDIER EPITOMIZE SOLID-FRAME KNIVES
STORY BY JIM WEISS AND MICKEY DAVIS
PHOTOS BY JIM WEISS, MICKEY DAVIS AND P.J. RYAN
CRK Professional Soldier
hris Reeve of Chris Reeve
Knives (CRK) learned about
knives as an infantryman in
the South African Army, first lugging 81mm mortar tubes and then
becoming a mortar forward observer. Reeve began a company in
South Africa making one-piece
knives and learned his skills
there. Later, in 1989, he moved his
knife company to Boise, Idaho.
C
According to Chris Reeve Knives, this
collaboration with designer Bill Harsey
was created at the request of the owners
of the website, www.professionalsoldiers.com, a discussion forum for active
duty and retired Special Forces soldiers.
The company is proud to continue the
tradition of honoring the military elite
and, in this knife, it feels it offers a discreet, no-nonsense tool.
Custom Knifemaker Paul
Granger’s Review
of the Professional Soldier
In defining solid-frame knives, Paul
Granger notes that they are skeletonized
knives with a number of positives.
KI_1312_50-58-SOLID 10/28/13 11:49 PM Page 51
KI_1312_50-58-SOLID 10/28/13 11:49 PM Page 52
The Chris Reeve Professional Soldier features a traditional drop-point edge and is ideal of everyday activities and duties.
Granger was getting ready to show about
25 of his knives at the 2013 Atlanta Blade
Show when he looked over the Professional Soldier and Snarl, and gave us his
professional appraisal.
Handle – Granger examined the knife
and liked the design a lot. He thought the
three-finger handle made it a fine utility
knife. The handle’s cutout reduces the
knife’s weight, and is also designed for
use as a shackle wrench in military marine
and waterborne environments, an especially good feature for people at sea.
The handle and knife work well in common grips such as forward, reverse, modified saber and saber. It doesn’t work well
in the ice-pick grip, but then again that’s
not the type of grip one would care to use
anyway.
The handle can be wrapped in par acord
for those who prefer a thicker handle. The
knife comes with a nylon cord.
There’s an unusual shape to the butt of
the handle, with an intentionally raised
The Professional Soldier’s handle and knife work well in common grips such as forward, reverse, modified saber and
saber.
area. For the knife user thinking of striking
or beating on something with the sloped
butt, the strikes wouldn’t be very worthwhile since the butt area is not flat in an
ergonomically way or useful for pounding.
There’s good, substantial jimping just
before the spine’s guard. The jimping
leads into the guard on the spine side, or
top of the knife. The knife’s balance is
slightly above the guard. There’s a double
KI_1312_50-58-SOLID 10/28/13 11:49 PM Page 53
guard that’s small on the spine side of the
knife.
Blade – The CRK Professional Soldier
is made of S35VN steel, a really tough
steel; its HRC 55-57 is made to take a lot
of shock. The blade was sharp out of the
box, with a drop point and hollow grind. A
false edge going inward from the tip on
the blade’s spine is somewhat sharp. It
has good balance ; the hollow grind takes
a bit of weight off the blade.
The coating, IonBond P.V.D. (Physical
Vapor Deposition), is a vapor deposition
coating, a fine protective coating that’s
nonreflective and protects against rust
under harsh conditions.
Sheath – in stock condition, the sheath
can only be carried in the pocket or with
cord-tying help around the user’s neck or
on the belt. Actually, a tech-lock/Tek-Lok
or s imilar after-market belt loop would
need to be attached to make the sheath
compatible for belt or MOLLE carry.
Professional Soldier
Field Evaluation
By Mark Allen Prince
Reeve’s Professional Soldier arrived at
the castle in the spring. As a young man,
Reeve’s earlier knives, particularly the
ones with hollow handles, always fascinated
me. Known for their quality, Chris
K
Reeve knives have been sought after by
many special operations folks throughout
the years. Recently, I evaluated the Chris
Reeve Pacific, which was without a doubt
one of the best-designed and built custom fixed-blade knives I’ve ever used. The
Professional Soldier had a lot stacked in
its favor to say the least.
Built in collaboration with Bill Harsey
and the retired and active Special Forces
community, the Professional Soldier is a
one-pie ce fixed-blade knife with a cutaway handle that can be used specifically
as a shackle wrench. It comes equipped
with an excellent sheath made out of Ky-
ABOUT THE REVIEWERS
Paul Granger is a seasoned knifemaker
who specializes in fixed-blade knives both
from traditional patterns and from his own
unique design. He has created a line of
lightweight, non-metallic, non-ceramic
knives currently in use by the American and
Canadian militaries, multiple police
departments and both the FBI and the CIA.
Mark Allen Prince is a professor of Law
Enforcement Technology/Special
Operations at Central Ohio Technical College,
a former USDOE SRT operator, and spent 18
years in local law enforcement special
operations and training. He has developed
and teaches courses in homeland security
and special operations for military, state,
and local special operations personnel and
organizations. He’s an instructor trainer
certified by the late Colonel Rex Applegate.
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KI_1312_50-58-SOLID 10/28/13 11:49 PM Page 54
dex by Blade Tech. It can be lashed, or
tech-lock/Tek-Lok attached via MOLLE
(Modular Lightweight Load-carrying
Equipment) or slung with a lanyard.
The knife I evaluated over several
weeks had the drop-point traditional
edge. This, in combination with its overall
size and variety of carry options, made the
Professional Soldier the ideal size for dayin and day-out activities and duties.
I first carried the Professional Soldier on
a lanyard slung around my neck under a
pullover for a few days. This is not my preferred mode of concealment for a knife,
but one that works and is popular with
others. Throughout my normal duties, I
wanted to see if the knife would fall out of
the scabbard since it was upside down
continuously. The knife and sheath
wor ked very well regarding this test.
The next couple of days I shoved the
sheath and knife in my blue jeans pocket
as a basic mode of carry. The flatness and
overall moderate length of this knife really
accommodated this mode of carry surprisingly well.
As the Professional Soldier is not marketed as a survival knife, I decided to forgo
the usual battery of what many see as
abusive tests, but what I see a s mission
important (who wants a tool that fails?).
However, throughout my evaluation I saw
the knife shine in tasks of cutting 550
cord, whittling and carving wood, and
carving up food like meat and veggies for
American/ Asian food dishes in the
kitchen.
The Professional Soldier is an excellent
small knife that will handle day-to-day
chores, and would be an excellent choice
for a concealable blade for last ditch/self-defense purposes.
“Compact,” “flat,” “light,” “nimble,”
“sturdy” and “sharp” are words I would
SPECIFICATIONS
CHRIS REEVE
PROFESSIONAL SOLDIER
BLADE STEEL: CPM S35VN
BLADE HARDNESS: 55-57 RC
FINISH: IonBond P.V.D.
WEIGHT: 3 ounces
SHEATH: Kydex made by Blade Tech
MSRP: $195
SOG SNARL
BLADE STEEL: 9Cr18MoV
BLADE HARDNESS: HRC 58-60
FINISH: Satin
WEIGHT: 1.9 ounces
MSRP: $55
use to market this knife to our community
of quiet professionals to whom this country is beloved and I cannot say thank you
to enough. Chris Reeve and Bill Harsey
have done it again in designing and producing a fantastic American-made (Idaho, specifically!) knife, for our special operations co mmunity. Well done.
SOG Snarl
The Professional Soldier's handle cutout is designed for use as a shackle wrench in military marine and
waterborne environments.
An imprint on the blade of the Professional Soldier certifies it as Idaho-made.
According to SOG Knives
(www.sogknives.com/type/knives/snarl.h
tml) the Snarl was designed in conjunction with Jason Brous, a 10-year CNC machinist and custom knifemaker. Brous
prefers to use stock removal and ground
bevels to create his “functional fantasy”
knife designs.
The front side of the Professional Soldier bears the marks of designers Bill Harsey and Chris Reeve.
KI_1312_50-58-SOLID 10/28/13 11:49 PM Page 55
&U\RJHQLFDOO\7HDWHG
57-58 HRC
8A Stainless Steel
Mini Serrated
Mini Folder
The Original
605 Folder
The Professional Soldier comes equipped with an excellent sheath made out of Kydex by Blade Tech. It can be
lashed, Tek-Lok attached via MOLLE or slung with a lanyard.
Custom Knifemaker's
Review of the SOG Snarl
Blade – This is a discreet carry knife
designed by Jason Brous, who makes
knives that are freaky looking, functional
and very cool.
The knife has a satin finish. Its fingerring-grip appearance looks like a brass
knuckle, but that’s not the case in real life.
The steel is 9Cr18Mov, a Chinese steel
made up of .09 percent carbon and 18
percent chromium, with about 1 percent
of molybdenum with vanadium added. Its
hardness on the Rockwell Scale is HRC
58-60, which makes it a good steel for
cutting. A user could probably filet a fish
with it in a survival situation.
There is a sheepsfoot design to the
blade, which is good for cutting ropes, or
even activities like cutting articles out of
the newspaper. There’s a flat grind to the
blade and it’s shaving sharp.
Using the element of surprise, it might
be effective defensively in a pending situation of a violent nature. It could be effective cutting soft body tissue, but could
possibly hurt the user’s hand and force
the user to let go if a bone was struck with
the blade.
There’s not any really comfortable way
to hold the knife with its two finger-sized
holes se parated like they are. Perhaps it
would be more comfortable if the two finger holes were placed closer together. The
best way to hold the knife seems to be
with just the user’s trigger finger in the
hole closest to the blade, although it
would get uncomfortable if used for more
than a couple of minutes. A reversed grip
is slightly more comfortable than a forknivesillustrated.com
ward grip. Holding the knife sideway in a
modi fied saber grip is effective.
The blade is thick and won’t break.
There is effective jimping on the top of the
knife that overlaps part of the blade area.
The knife has good balance.
Sheath – The knife comes with a nice,
really good, snap fit, molded nylon sheath.
The sheathed knife can be carried in
about eight different ways: belt, neck,
etc., and locks in really well.
SOG Snarl Field Evaluation
The SOG Snarl arrived at the castle on
a drafty and cool early spring morning. It
was delivered in a non-descript brown
box. Inside, the Snarl was packaged in an
attractive (for a weapons enthusiast) box
with the SOG logo and a plethora of specific technical information regarding the
weapon enclosed. This sharp piece of
steel was unusual looking, and based
upon my experience, was designed with a
specific objective in mind. The field evaluation was on.
The Snarl is a Jason Brous plus SOG
collaboration. It’s a single piece of
9Cr18MoV RC. 58-60 steel that weighs 1.9
ounces, is 4.3 inches long, with a blade
length of 2.3 inches and is of a sheepsfoot
design. Special characteristics include a
skeletonized handle with a finger ring grip
(actually there are two finger holes or
rings in the grip area). It comes with a
mold ed nylon sheath where the knife
“snap fits” into, a removable belt clip, and
a neck chain.
In the 2003 Webster’s New World Dictionary, the word “knife” is defined as “a
cutting instrument with a sharp-edged
Satin Finish
605 Mini’s
are overall 5
3/4” opened,
3 3/8”
closed.
Blade 2 3/8”
long, 11/16”
wide, and
3/32” thick.
605 Original
is overall 7
7/8” open, 4
1/2” closed,
blade is 3
1/4” long,
7/8” wide,
and .114”
thick.
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Holes in the profiled handles are drilled and
countersunk for proper fit. Handles are a
bit larger than the liners for final fitting.
The surface is left flat for final shaping.
Optional jeweled thumb openers and
other handles available. See more at
www.knifemaking.com.
CAT.#
DESPRIPTION
PRICE
605 Mini Folder
KV605M
24.95
KV605MS 605 Mini Serrated Folder
24.95
Mini Red Linen Handle
UG203
7.95
Mini Maroon Linen Handle
UG206
7.95
Mini Olive Canvas Handle
UG207
7.95
KV605
UG300
UG302
UG309
Original 605 Folder
29.95
605 Blk/Green Linen Handle
7.95
605 Black Linen Handle
7.95
605 Black/Red Linen Handle 7.95
JANTZ
1-800-351-8900
knifemaking.com
PO BOX 584
Davis, OK 73030
Add $9.95 for shipping.
KI_1312_50-58-SOLID 10/28/13 11:49 PM Page 56
The SOG Snarl’s sheepsfoot design makes it good for cutting ropes, or even things like cutting articles out of the newspaper. Its blade is flat ground, and it’s shaving sharp.
PROS OF
SOLID-FRAME KNIVES
1) Weight and size reduction:
Reduced weight with reduced
thickness — and often shortened
length — are the chief reasons to
make a skeletonized knife. The
reduced size of a skeletonized
knife, and the smaller/lighter
sheath that it requires, allows one
to travel lighter, stow the knife in a
smaller area, and use the knife in
tighter quarters.
2) Lower cost: A skeletonized
knife is typically less expensive
than a full-handled knife due to
the lower cost of both materials
and labor.
3) Handle material
absorption: Most handle
materials allow some absorption,
but a skeletonized knife has no
place for liquid to hide.
4) Cleaning and Sterilization:
Because it’s single piece of heattreated steel with nothing
attached but a lanyard, a solidframe knife can be thoroughly
cleaned and disinfected of any
salt, blood, biohazards and
dangerous chemicals with soap
and water, alcohol, or chemical
neutralizers.
blade set in the handle.” The Snarl meets this
definition at its most basic level. And that is
where it shines. Through my evaluation I have
determined that the SOG Snarl is a cutting instrument… period. Not just a cutting instrument, but one that’s designed to cut people.
The Snarl is marketed as a tactical knife.
The same dictionary that d efines the word
“knife” clearly identifies the word “tactical”
as an adjective that refers to military maneuvers. We all know our military’s primary purpose (may God bless them all!), so one
would conclude that a tactical knife is designed for military purposes. Now some will
insist that all military knives are not designed to hurt people, and that is correct.
However, all knives can be used to hurt people. And once you see and handle the Snarl,
you will see what I mean.
The Snarl is a concealable, one-piece, sharp
metal instrument that’s primarily designed for
slashing with its extremely sharp factory edge.
It’s also well designed for a punching or
thrusting stab. Surprisingly, it’s nimble in fine
cutting tasks that include shaving or whittling
small items. The aggressive jimping on the
backside of the ¼-inch-thick blade lends to
such tasks, and were performed during the
field evaluation.
I carried the Snarl continuously for over a
month. Along the way, I carried it concealed on
its neck chain, concealed inside the beltline of
my trousers, and I ran many days with it including completing a 26.2-mile marathon with it
clipped inside my fuel belt. At no time was I
compromised. The little knife conceals well
thanks to its design and the design of the
scabbard.
As the knife was designed for a “tactical”
purpose, I felt no need to put it through the
usual battery of tests of chopping, smashing
and prying. However, the basic cut tests that
were applied to multiple layers of cardboard
rendered very positive results.
The sheepsfoot or Wharncliffe design, the
thickness of the blade, the factory edge, and
th e fact that the knife is not a folder, give the
user the ability to deliver incredibly powerful
cuts. Once the full-finger ring grip is achieved,
the results are astonishing, devastating and
quite possibly deadly.
The full-finger grip is excellent for retaining
the knife in an altercation as it’s almost impossible to remove it from or disarm the user. In the
field evaluation, I sustained many forceful
blows to the forearm area in an attempt to see
if I would drop the knife. Although the medial
nerve strikes caused my fist to open, the knife
KI_1312_57 10/28/13 5:55 AM Page 57
KI_1312_50-58-SOLID 10/28/13 11:50 PM Page 58
CONTACT INFO
CHRIS REEVE KNIVES
2949 S. Victory View Way
Boise, ID 83709
(208) 375-0367
www.chrisreeve.com
SOG
6521 212th St. SW
Lynnwood, WA 98036
(425) 771-6230
www.sogknives.com
was not lost. This is a positive thing as a
fight for your life is a down-and-dirty thing.
The Yin to this Yang is that the user
must achieve a full-finger ring grip to
achieve such results. If not, I found the
“half-finger grip” into the ring to be less
effective, and when punching a target,
quite painful.
Minor improvements could include radiusing all the 90-degree cuts from the
circular and ring areas on the knife as well
as those found on the sheath. This would
allow for a smoother, less painful — and
therefore swifter and more effective — usage. These modifications could probably
be accomplished in the home armory if so
desired. Also, a dark gray powder coating
variant of this knife could be advantageous at times versus the current satin
finish that’s offered.
It appears that SOG has done it again
in designing and producing an excellent
tool for those of us who go into harm’s
It’s almost impossible to disarm a user holding the SOG Snarl in the full-ring grip.
way. The SOG Snarl bears a close resemblance to Brous’s custom-built “Silent
Soldier,” which is a bit more expensive.
The SOG website shows the Snarl at
$55 MSRP, which is an excellent individ-
ual purchase price for a military or public
service professional. Be you a soldier or
peace officer, should you need a hideout
knife, the SOG Snarl could give you something to smile about. KI
The Snarl’s full-ring grip is excellent for retaining the knife in an altercation.
KI_1312_59 10/29/13 12:44 AM Page 59
STRONGER.
ARPER
™
DEALER INQUIRIES CALL 800-548-0835
OR VISIT WWW.UNITEDCUTLERY.COM
KI_1312_60-64-SHARP 10/28/13 6:08 AM Page 60
ON THE
EDGE
LANSKY LEADS THE INDUSTRY IN
KNIFE-SHARPENING SYSTEMS
STORY AND PHOTOS BY PAUL GRANGER,
JIM WEISS AND MICKEY DAVIS
ansky Sharpeners is perhaps the most widely recognized name in knife sharpening across the globe, and
for good reason.
L
A privately owned company based in Henderson, Nevada, Lansky is
continually developing innovative sharpening technologies for hunting,
outdoor sports, and kitchen and workshop use. They are known for their
hunting-knife sharpeners and precision sharpening kits.
Our expert reviewer, custom knifemaker Paul Granger, evaluated Lansky’s latest sharpening systems to see how well they live up to the company’s reputation — and to give his advice on how to use the systems to
their full potential.
PAUL GRANGER’S REPORT
An Introduction to Lansky Sharpeners
Harry Truman once said, “There are about as many ways to do a thing
as there are men who want to do it.” When it comes to knife sharpening,
this may be an understatement. A quick Google image search shows at
least 50 different types of commercial sharpening devices, as well as
pictures and plans to create your own knife sharpeners from belt
sanders, motors and other mechanical marvels that were never intended to operate near a knife.
KI_1312_60-64-SHARP 10/28/13 6:09 AM Page 61
This Lansky sharpening kit contains extra coarse, coarse, medium,
fine, and extra fine grit hones; honing oil; and a knife clamp.
KI_1312_60-64-SHARP 10/28/13 6:09 AM Page 62
“LANSKY IS CONTINUALLY
DEVELOPING INNOVATIVE
SHARPENING TECHNOLOGIES FOR
HUNTING, OUTDOOR SPORTS, AND
KITCHEN AND WORKSHOP USE.”
The Lansky Sharpening System has
been in use since 1979, and its longevity
speaks to its popularity and effectiveness.
It’s designed according to one basic principle: You can sharpen a knife most effectively when each stroke of the blade
across the sharpening stone (or hone) is
at the same angle.
I’ve been a knife enthusiast since my
youth, and it took me many years to develop the skills needed to use a whetstone properly in order to bring a razor
edge to a knife. Soon after, I discovered
the Lansky Sharpener System. I realized
that I could use a whetstone and a great
deal of care, attention and caution to
achieve satisfactory results about 85 percent of the time, or I could use the Lansky
System and, once past the learning curve,
ABOUT THE REVIEWER
Paul Granger is a seasoned knifemaker who
specializes in fixed-blade knives both from
traditional patterns and from his own unique
design. He has created a line of lightweight, nonmetallic, non-ceramic knives currently in use by
the American and Canadian militaries, multiple
police departments and both the FBI and the
CIA.
Granger secures a
knife in the Lansky
system clamp.
I could b e successful 99 percent of the
time. It was an easy decision to make.
A Foolproof System?
A knife-sharpening system must clamp
your knife in place, thereby ensuring that
each stroke brings the blade across the
stone at the same angle. Otherwise you’re
left with a margin for error. If you’re holding the knife in your hand and moving it
across a whetstone, or using either a ceramic rod held in a “V” formation, a ceramic or diamond-coated “stick” with a
handle on it, or any other abrasive device,
it’s too easy for you to rotate the knife a
few degrees in either direction with any —
or perhaps many — of the strokes you
make.
There are many other types of sharpeners, and I’ve tried most of them. I’m sure
people have had varying degrees of success, but unless you’ve developed an uncanny ability to achie ve consistent results
with your current method, I truly believe
that you’re wasting time and effort if
you’re not using a clamp and angle system like the Lansky.
At knife shows, people often stop by my
table ask me how I get my knives so
sharp. I’ve always told them I use the Lansky systems. However, I have sometimes
met with the reply: “I have one, but I can’t
get it to work that well.” That’s when I r ealized that over time, I had developed
some techniques and modifications for
my benefit, and I began to share my techniques with my customers.
Techniques and Modifications
First, I recommend gluing leather or
rubber pads on both sides of the knife
clamp. In the area where the blade touches the clamp — from the end of the clamp
all the way to the screw — I epoxy a pad
about one millimeter thick. This helps
protect the finish of the blade, and helps
the clamp grip the blade more securely. I
had a few tightly clamped blades slip out
during sharpening before I added the
pads.
Secondly, be sure that each half of the
knife clamp is exactly parallel to the other.
If you are a few degrees off parallel, you’re
changing the angle of the hone’s movement across the blade, and are grinding a
new angle on the edge, thereby defeating
the purpose of the Lansky system. It may
take a bit of time to put the first edge on
KI_1312_60-64-SHARP 10/28/13 6:09 AM Page 63
For effective use,
ensure your knife is
clamped into the
system properly.
your knife with the Lansky system, but if you
keep the knife clamp halves parallel each time
you use it, you can make your knife razor sharp
again in two minutes.
I did have one recurring problem with the
Lansky System. The thumbscrews that hold the
guide rods tight into the hone assemblies tended to work loose, pivot and come out of alignment with the surface of the hone. When repeated tightening failed, I began to epoxy or
Loctite the thumbscrews in place. That took
care of the problem.
Effective Use
The specific hones I’ve found to be most efficient are the extra-coarse and the coarse diamond hones, because diamond hones really do
“IF YOU KEEP THE KNIFE
CLAMP HALVES PARALLEL,
YOU CAN MAKE YOUR
KNIFE RAZOR SHARP AGAIN
IN TWO MINUTES.”
remove material faster (ergo sharpen faster)
than regular hones. I use the medium standard
hone and an old, fine standard hone LS600
made during the 1990s, which I feel is superior
to the fine standard hone made today. For an
extra-fine hone, I use the Black Hard Arkansas,
as the standard Extra Fine Ceramic hone with
the yellow handle loads up too quickly with
metal filings, and is very difficult to clean.
Once you have your hones in order, I recommend the following method:
•
Begin sharpening by making about 10 to 12
strokes on each side of the knife. Continue with
the grit you’re using until you feel a burr or wire
edge form on the opposite side from the sharpening stone. When you move to the next grit,
Note the difference between the Standard Fine Hone (LS600) made in the 1990s (top) and the one being made today (bottom). Also
note that the guide rod has been epoxied in place on the upper hone. The upper hone was originally in a blue handle just like the
lower one.
A RESOURCEFUL
SOLUTION
As it’s currently
designed, the Lansky
System will barely
accommodate blades 3/16
of an inch thick. Many
knives are made in this
thickness, and a few are as
thick as 5/16 of an inch and
3/8 of an inch. In order to
use the Lansky to sharpen
knives that are thicker,
Granger uses Phillips-head
screws that are longer than
the screws that come with
the sharpener. The two
screws on the knife clamp
each have 1/2-inch-long
bodies, so Granger keeps a
pair of screws with a ¾-inch
and 1-inch bodies in his
Lansky kit to be prepared
for those thick-knife
occasions.
KI_1312_60-64-SHARP 10/28/13 6:09 AM Page 64
If you have trouble with your blade slipping, Granger
recommends epoxying leather or rubber pads to both
sides of the clamp.
Granger demonstrates his method of moving the hone
across the blade. Always be sure to keep a clean cloth at
hand (as shown) to wipe the metal filings off the knife
and the hone.
start off on the side with the burr in order
to knock it off with your first stroke or two.
Then continue per the directions. The
Lansky System is very effective at sharpening a knife with a chisel grind (ex: Emerson Knives). This is a grind that seems to
give a lot of knife enthusiasts a bit of trouble.
When sharpening a double-ground
blade, as found on most knives, you would
take 10 to 12 strokes at the 20-degree an-
gle on each side of the blade before moving on to the next finer grit. However,
when sharpening a single (chisel) ground
blade, you would take 10 to 12 strokes at
the 40-degree angle on the ground side,
then take five to seven strokes at the 17degree angle on the unground side. Repeat this from the coarsest grit necessary
down to the finest grit. (Please note: The
recipe of angles and stroke quantities listed here are for illustration. Your knife may
require different angles and number of
strokes.)
The Lansky Sharpening System works
very well on longer blades. Ten-, 24-, and
36-inch blades are no problem. Simply
place the blade clamp about 2.5 inches
from the handle, then sharpen the 2.5
inches on either side of the clamp. When
you’re finished in that area, move the
clamp down 5 inches toward the tip.
•
•
A knife clamp, hone
and knife are
positioned for use.
The ultimate test of a sharpening job is will it effortlessly
shave hair? Granger finds that it does.
AN OLD FAVORITE
At the 2013 Blade Show, Lansky CEO
Christopher Fire told Paul Granger that
Lansky is considering once again offering the
LS600 pink ceramic hone as was made in the
1990s. This is great news for knife
enthusiasts, as the older version of the
LS600 works much better than today’s
version.
Sharpen the 2.5 inches on either side of
the clamp. Repeat until you have sharpened all the way to the tip.
In Conclusion
You’ll find value where quality, affordability and function intersect. There are
other clamp and angle sharpening systems available, but virtually all of the other ones are either too expensive, too plastic, or too large and complex to be
portable. The Lansky system is a top option in both usability and value, and will
make a great long-time companion for
any knife user. KI
CONTACT INFO
Lansky Sharpeners
P.O. Box 800
Buffalo, NY 14231
Phone: (800) 825-2675
Website: www.lansky.com
KI_1312_65 10/28/13 5:55 AM Page 65
KI_1312_66-71-STEEL 10/29/13 12:05 AM Page 66
KNIFEMAKERS WEIGH IN ON THEIR PREFERRED STEELS
BY BETHANY MILLER
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS
STEEL type can make or break a knife — quite literally.
Consequently, if you’re looking to purchase a blade or even forge your own, it
pays to be familiar with your spectrum
of choices. With so many options, an
even greater variety of knife styles, and a
greater range still of users’ expectations,
it’s no wonder why steel is a topic of debate amongst knife enthusiasts.
While no one steel is perfect for every
knife or every purpose, experts in the
field do have their preferences, and they
were willing to tell us why.
BLAKE POGUE,
ACTING PRODUCT MANAGER,
CAS IBERIA
At CAS Iberia, we hold many of the
simple high-carbon steels such as 1095,
T10 and 1060 in high regard. Many work
well for the longer blade lengths we are
producing in our reproduction sword
lines.
More recently, marquenched 5160 has
become one of our most popular options in sword lengths where the superior shock absorption of the steel combined with a mid-high level carbon
content leads to very tough and resilient
blades.
However all of these steels take a
great amount of care to keep well maintained, and many users find it too much
of a hassle for a pocketknife that might
see mud, sand and an apple core all in
the same day. In addition, while a sword
owner may never need to sharpen the
blade, the ability of the customer to put
a good edge on their knife without much
fuss is a big concern.
When evaluating our new Russianmade knife line, Kizlyar Supreme, we
had the option of offering two stainless
steels — 440C and AUS-8 — and what
many classify as semi-stainless, D2. After it was obvious Kizlyar Supreme was
doing a good job heat treating all three
of the steel choices, we decided to carry
all of them so the knife user could decide what was most important for what
they were going to put the knife through.
440C and AUS-8 are more-than-adequate steels to stand up to harsh conditions where corrosion is a concern or
when the act of giving a blade a wipe
with oil everyday just isn't wanted.
These steels both take a good edge
without much practice, and while they
might need a touch-up to the edge,
KI_1312_66-71-STEEL 10/29/13 12:05 AM Page 67
“THE ABILITY OF THE
CUSTOMER TO PUT A GOOD
EDGE ON THEIR KNIFE
WITHOUT MUCH FUSS IS A BIG
CONCERN.”
— Blake Pogue
KI_1312_66-71-STEEL 10/29/13 12:05 AM Page 68
The blade of CAS Iberia’s Supreme Biker Z is made from D2 steel.
more often it's a simple matter to get a hairpopping edge.
D2, on the other hand, takes a little practice
to sharpen well, but after a few trial runs with
your sharpening method you've got a great
edge that will keep on cutting. D2 doesn't really
rust like simple high-carbon steels, but will spot
tarnish over time. An occasional wipe-down
with a n oily rag will keep it looking good.
CHRIS CASBAUGH,
SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER,
SOG KNIVES
“THE 400 SERIES
REMAINS ONE OF
THE MOST
POPULAR CHOICES
FOR KNIFEMAKERS
BECAUSE IT’S EASY
TO SHARPEN AND
IT’S RESISTANT TO
CORROSION.”
— CHRISTOPHER COSTA
For a large portion of our knives we use AUS8 stainless steel. Overall performance and cost
are the biggest reasons for this. We have been
using AUS-8 for many years, and because of
our familiarity with the steel we can reliably get
a good heat treatment on it. This allows us to
maximize the performance of the ste el, offering
a really solid solution to the compromise between hardness, user serviceability and cost.
CHRISTOPHER COSTA,
DIRECTOR OF PRODUCT
MANAGEMENT AND PACKAGING,
VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY
The 400 series remains one of the most popular choices for knife makers because it’s easy
to sharpen and it’s resistant to corrosion.
410 is a harden-able, straight-chromium
stainless steel which combines superior wear
resistance with excellent corrosion resistance.
416 is very similar to 410, with the addition of
sulfur to improve machinability. 420 has more
carbon than 410, but less than 440. As such it’s
softer than 440, but has a higher toughness.
420HC has a higher carbon content 420
stainless. The HC stands for “high carbon” and
this steel can be brought to a higher hardness
than 420, which is an inexpensive, highly corrosion-resistant steel. Knife manufacturers use
420 in budget knives, and also in diving knives
due to its high resistance to corrosion.
440A is relatively a low-cost, highly corrosion-resistant stainless steel. 440B is almost
identical to 440A, but has a higher carbon content range compared to 440A. 440C is considered a high-end stainless steel. It’s very resistant to corrosion and is one of the most
common stainless alloys used for knifemaking.
We utilize 440A and 440C primarily across our
SAK product line.
FRED FEIGHTNER,
MEDIA RELATIONS MANAGER,
W.R. CASE
Case has been using its Tru-Sharp surgical
steel for decades. In fact, we’ve been using
stainless steel at Case since it first came onto
KI_1312_66-71-STEEL 10/29/13 12:11 AM Page 69
The SOG Flashback is an example of an AUS-8 blade.
the manufacturing scene. Most knife
manufacturers today are using a high-carbon stainless, generally either 420 or 440
steel, for pocket folder blades. So the real
difference in blade performance is more
dependent upon the heat treatment of
the steel.
We’ve found with our heat treating that
we get superior strength, edge-holding
and overall wear resistance from our
stainless steel. Case consumers rely on
our Tru-Sharp surgical blades for knives
they use every day.
There are lots of folks who still like our
original carbon steel, and that’s where our
chrome vanadium (CV) steel comes into
play. Even though CV steel ends up being
a bit softer than our stainless — it’s more
prone to rusting, pitting and staining —
the people who use our CV steel regul arly
swear by its easy sharpening and edge-retention qualities. In fact, we’ve added
more patterns with CV steel blades to our
catalogs over the last few years specifically for this growing community of CV
enthusiasts.
Occasionally Case has produced knives
as special projects with stainless and
non-stainless blades made from designer
steels like Damascus, BG-42 and others.
Our annual Tony Bose custom col laborations call for 154-CM stainless steel
blades. We also use that steel in our Desk
knives because it’s very hard and resists
wear. The hardness makes it a little
tougher to sharpen quickly, but once you
get a nice edge on a 154-CM steel blade it
will stand up to a lot of use before resharpening is needed.
THE ROCKWELL
HARDNESS SCALE
The Rockwell scale was an innovation of
metallurgist Stanley P. Rockwell designed to
determine the hardness of particular metals.
In the simplest terms, the system works by
putting a blade underneath a particular
pressure load and measuring the depth of the
indents. Softer steels, according to the
Rockwell test, include 420 and GIN-1 (or G2),
while ATS-34 and BG-42 are among the
harder steels. Most commonly used steel
types range between 56 and 60 on the
Rockwell scale.
KI_1312_66-71-STEEL 10/29/13 12:06 AM Page 70
JAY FISHER,
MASTER SMITH,
JAY FISHER CUTLERY
The modern, full-time professional
knifemaker may use many types of steel
for blades, and others for fittings, bolsters, guards, ancillary devices, sheaths
and stands. In my studio, these materials
define a system, not simply a cutting
edge.
Currently, I use more than a dozen
types of steel for my blad es, and half a
dozen types of pattern-welded Damascus. The decision of the type of steel chosen for any particular project involves the
ultimate knife client, user or owner. I use
three categories and 12 specific features
to determine the blade type for each of
my customers.
It’s important to know that there’s no
ultimate, super steel; if there were, it
would replace all others in the industrial,
militar y and medical fields, and thus be
reflected in knifemaking. Each steel has
its pros and cons. Ultimately, performance
of a particular steel for a specific application is more determined by the correct,
certain, and accurate heat treating, hardening and tempering, and processing of
the blade than the simple choice.
LARRY BUCHTMANN,
VICE PRESIDENT
OF TECHNOLOGY, CAMILLUS
A great many things determine the cutting performance that a user will experience — among them
blade thickness
and shape,
edge grind
quality, and
heat treatment but it all
starts with the
blade alloy.
The main factors in selecting a blade alloy are:
what kinds of things you will be cutting;
how often you will use the knife; how hard
These Fisher custom chef knives are made from CPM 154CM, a particularly high-quality steel.
“THE REAL DIFFERENCE IN BLADE PERFORMANCE IS MORE
DEPENDENT UPON THE HEAT TREATMENT OF THE STEEL.”
— FRED FEIGHTNER
and durable a blade you want and are
willing to pay for; what your tolerance is
for blade maintenance (resha rpening and
cleaning).
The Camillus brand strives to offer customers a variety of choices. Most of our
blades are made from stainless steel, to
provide lasting performance. By varying
the amount of chromium and carbon in
the steel, different properties can be
achieved. Value-priced sport and hunting
knives come with an entry-level stainless
steel usually made in China. While
they have good all-around cutt ing function, they need to
be resharpened according to how often
they are used. As you go up in price from
there, blade hardness, edge retention
(how long the blade stays sharp) and rust
protection get better and better.
Three of our most popular, premium
knife alloys are 440 series, AUS-8, and
VG-10. The 440 series are workhorse
steels suitable for a variety of end uses. It
was the top-selling blade alloy in the
1980s. AUS-8 comes only from Japan and
represents a step up in performance. It
contains higher chromium plus vanadium,
which will improve edge retention and
wear resistance. The ultimate alloy in the
DON’T FORGET…
While steel type is certainly important,
experienced knifemakers tend to agree that
the treatment of the steel has equally
significant bearing on the quality and
performance of a blade.
The blade of W.R. Case’s Desk knife is made from
154-CM stainless steel.
KI_1312_66-71-STEEL 10/29/13 12:06 AM Page 71
Victorinox Swiss Army products,
such as the Classic SD pocketknife,
typically feature blades made from
steels within the 400 series.
Camillus brand is VG-10, which also
comes from Japan. It contains vanadium
plus two additional elements to provide
more wear-resistance and more corrosion-protection than any other alloy we
have tested.
MIKE VELLEKAMP,
OWNER, FOX KNIVES USA
I like S30V because it’s a tough powder
metal that‘s pretty easy to grind and is
well known for great edge retention. I
grind after heat-treating. S30V can be
tough on belts and wheels but well worth
the extra cost.
154CM, which is a modification of 440C
stainless with molybdenum added, is also
a staple for us. Originally developed for
tough industrial uses, it makes for a great
premium grade stainless knife steel.
At Fox Italy and Fox USA, we also use
Austrian N690 (N690Co), which is similar
to 440C, but with c obalt and vanadium
added. It grinds and sharpens easily and
holds a great edge.
440C is another great stainless steel
from the 400 series. 440C is much less
expensive than S30V, 154CM, or N690. It
grinds and polishes nicely and is a wellknown and much-used steel in the knife
industry.
I really like the performance of AUS 8
for the price point. AUS-8 is a Japanese
steel and is similar to 440C. It has less
ca rbon than 440C, but it has vanadium
added and I have found it to be pretty
tough. KI
KI_1312_72-75-KITCHEN CX2 10/30/13 10:58 PM Page 72
FOR THE
INDOORSMAN
12
Top
Chef’s Knives
BY BETHANY MILLER
hile large blocks of assorted knives are a common fixture in
most households, all that the typical, everyday chef really
needs are two or three high-quality pieces of cutlery.
W
For one thing, blades will dull far more quickly after being moved into and out of a
block repeatedly than they will being stored safely elsewhere. But more importantly,
most cooking-related tasks can be easily accomplished with a bread knife, paring knife
and 8- to 10-inch chef’s knife. It makes more sense in most cases, therefore, to invest in
high-quality versions of those three knives.
To guide your purchasing decisions, we’ve gathered a selection of 12 knives highly
praised by culinary enthusiasts.
THE CLASSICS
For chefs who prefer their tools a little more traditional.
1. Henckels Chef’s Knife
BLADE: 8 inches, high-carbon stainless steel
HANDLE: Features triple rivets and full bolster
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Spain
MSRP: $67.95 at A.G. Russell
KI_1312_72-75-KITCHEN CX 10/29/13 12:20 AM Page 73
2. Victorinox Swiss Classic
Straight Edge Chef’s Knife
3. Victorinox Rosewood
Collection Santoku
HANDLE: Polyproylene — ergonomic and slip resistant
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Switzerland
MSRP: $50
NOTE: This knife is made to be dishwasher safe.
HANDLE: Rosewood, triple-rivet design
MSRP: $61.40
NOTE: Includes lifetime warranty against
manufacturer defects.
4. Victorinox Rosewood
Collection Chef’s Knife
5. Richmond
Kohetsu Gyutou
BLADE: 8 inches
HANDLE: Rosewood, triple-rivet design
MSRP: $64.90
NOTE: Includes lifetime warranty against
manufacturer defects.
BLADE: Aogami super with stainless
steel cladding
HANDLE: Ho wood with buffalo horn
ferrules
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan
MSRP: $169.95 from Chef Knives to Go
PHOTO COURTESY: Scott Sebastian
6. Korin Special Inox
Yo-Deba Butcher Knife
BLADE: 8.2 inches, special-grade AUS-10
stainless steel
HANDLE: Polyoxymethylene
MSRP: $278
THE UNIQUE
For those who like a knife with a bit of
artistic flair.
7. A.G. Russell
Japanese Chef’s Knife
BLADE: 8.25 inches, VG-10 stainless steel
HANDLE: White Corian with triple rivets
MSRP: $149.95
8. Ken Onion Rain Series
8-inch Chef’s Knife
BLADE: 7.75 inches, CTS-BDZ1 stainless steel
HANDLE: G10 Garolite
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA
MSRP: $169.95 from A.G. Russell
9. Miyabi Artisan SG2
Collection Santoku
BLADE: 7 inches, SG2 microcarbide core with
hammered stainless steel cladding
HANDLE: Cocobolo Rosewood pakkawood
MSRP: $250 from Sur La Table
NOTE: Blade features Damascus texturing and
katana edge.
10. Miyabi Artisan SG2
Collection Chef’s Knife
BLADE: 9.5 inches, SG2 microcarbide core with
hammered stainless steel cladding
HANDLE: Cocobolo Rosewood pakkawood
NOTE: Blade features Damascus texturing
and katana edge.
11. Miyabi Birchwood
Paring Knife
BLADE: 4.5 inches, SG2 microcarbide core with
stainless Damascus cladding
HANDLE: Masur birchwood
NOTE: Includes limited lifetime warranty.
10:55 AM
Page 1
12. Korin
Togiharu
Nickel
Damascus
Gyutou
BLADE: 10.5 inches,
63-layer nickel Damascus
HANDLE: Composite wood
MSRP: $269
NOTE: Works for right- or
left-handed use.
Cutting Edge Artists Choose Tormach Mills
Knifemakers around the world are using Tormach PCNC milling machines to add new dimensions to
their craft. Today’s top blade artists are embracing CNC technology to shape and sculpt blades and
handles, cut precision blade locks and other mechanisms,
and customize designs with engraving and detail.
Tormach PCNC 1100 Series 3
starting at
$8480
(plus shipping)
Follow knifemaker John Grimsmo as he
makes his own knives with a PCNC 1100 on
his web series, Knifemaking Tuesdays, at
www.tormach.com/kmt.
CONTACT INFO
A.G. RUSSELL
2900 S. 26th St.
Rogers, AR 72758
(800) 255-9034
www.agrussell.com
CHEF KNIVES TO GO
2141 University Ave.
Madison, WI 53726
Email: info@chefknivestogo.com
www.chefknivestogo.com
Shown here with optional
stand, LCD monitor, machine
arms, and accessories.
Grimsmo Knives milling a fixed blade, called
The Tor, on a Tormach PCNC 1100.
www.tormach.com/knives
KORIN
57 Warren St.
New York, NY 10007
(800) 626-2172
www.korin.com
SUR LA TABLE
P.O. Box 840
Brownsburg, IN 46112
(317) 858-5521
www.surlatable.com
VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY
7 Victoria Drive
Monroe, CT 06468
(800) 442-2706
www.victorinox.com KI
KI_1312_76-79-ACCESSORIES 10/28/13 6:18 AM Page 76
BELLS &
WHISTLES
Ideal Stocking Stuffers
for Knife Owners
BY ABE ELIAS
MYTH
SHOTGUN
MULTITOOL
The Myth Shotgun
Multitool by Gerber was
developed specifically for
the shotgun shooter/
hunter. It comes with a pin
drive, choke-tube wrench,
knife saw and measuring
tape. It’s handy for cleaning
your game or cleaning your
gun and would make a
great gift for the upland or
small-game hunter in your
life.
MSRP: $40
KLECKER
KNIVES
TRIGGER
Ready to introduce your kids
to the world of knife
collecting? Klecker has made
it easier to do just that. They
offer a number of designs in
fully functional model knives
to help people teach youth to
handle and appreciate cutlery.
Pictured here, the Trigger
model is available in a variety
of colored plastics that you
can even paint to look more
realistic if you so desire.
MSRP: $9.95
CRKT VEFF
SHARP
Designed by Tom Veff, the
Veff Sharp is a compact,
versatile sharpening tool.
On one side, the diamondcoated rod is available in
diameters ranging from
.093 inches to .085 inches,
making it great for tackling
any rounded serration
patterns. On the opposite
side is 6 inches of flat
surface for sharpening
straight edges. With its
rod-like style and knurled
aluminum handle, the Veff
Sharp can be used in a file
fashion, allowing you to
sharpen anything from
axes and large machetes to
small pocketknives. It
comes with its own
carrying case.
MSRP $49.99
CRKT EAT’N TOOL XL
For those of us knife users who love the outdoors, CRKT’S Eat’N Tool is
just the thing for long treks. Made from Cr13 stainless, it’s a spork
(spoon/fork) that also incorporates a number of other tools such as a
bottle opener, can opener, flat-head screwdriver and a hex wrench cutout ranging from .028 inches to .5 inches.
MSRP $14.99
LEATHERMAN CAM,
PUMP AND RAIL
Leatherman has come out with three new area-specific tools.
The cam tool is designed for the archery crowd, with a number
of tools for crossbows and a broad-head wrench. The pump
was made with the shotgun hunter in mind and features a pin
punch, long screwdriver bits and a choke wrench, amongst
other features. Lastly, designed for tactical shooters, the rail
offers tools for AR platform rifles, a sight-adjustment wrench,
a bit holder and other tools. Both the cam and the pump
come with gut hooks.
MSRP $40 TO $45
LED LENSER P4BM FLASHLIGHT
You can find LEDs for sale in all shapes and sizes, including LED
Lenser’s powerful pen-sized LED. It works great as a bore light or
as a small work light for tight places. It includes a focusable lens,
pen clip and carrying case. The light casts out to 27 meters and
uses two ordinary AAA batteries.
MSRP $24.99
K
CONTACT INFO
COLUMBIA RIVER KNIFE AND TOOL
(800) 891-3100
www.crkt.com
GERBER
(855) 544-0150
www.gerbergear.com
KLECKER KNIVES AND TOOLS
(503)-930-5087
www.kleckerknives.com
LEATHERMAN TOOL GROUP, INC.
(503) 253-7826
www.leatherman.com
LED LENSER
(800) 650-1245
www.ledlenser.com
SPYDERCO
(800) 828-1925
www.spyderco.com
PROVEN,
LIKE THE
TEAMS THAT
USE THEM.
FORGED
OUT OF TRADITION.
HARDENED
IN THE FIELD.
HONED
FROM EXPERIENCE.
SOG knives and tools are born of the military, preferred
by U.S. Special Forces teams for decades. So whether
you’re answering the call of duty or arming yourself with
innovation, lead the way with SOG. sogknives.com
TAKE POINT.
TM
SPYDERCO
SPYDERPACS
One challenge knife users face is transporting
our knives both safely and easily. Spyderco’s
SpyderPacs, small and large, may be the
perfect solution. SpyderPac’s clear pockets
eliminate the need to blindly guessing at where
you put each knife, and there’s no crowding —
each knife can have its own pocket so you can
easily tell where each of your knives are.
MSRP SMALL $39.99, LARGE $49.99 KI
KI_1312_80-AD INDEX 11/4/13 2:02 PM Page 80
AD INDEX
5.11 TACTICAL SERIES
11
NIAGARA SPECIALTY METALS
69
A.G. RUSSELL KNIVES
39
ONTARIO KNIFE COMPANY
53
BEAR AND SON CUTLERY
57
PARACORD
71
BLADE HQ
47
PAT CRAWFORD KNIVES
59
BLUE RIDGE KNIVES
13, 80
RANDALL MADE KNIVES
80
CAMPCO
3, 5
SOG SPECIALTY KNIVES
49, 79
COAST PRODUCTS
33, 81
SPARTAN BLADES USA
71
COLONIAL KNIFE COMPANY
41
SPYDERCO INC.
13
DIAMOND MACHINING TECHNOLOGY 53
TANDY LEATHER FACTORY
49
EAGLE GRIPS
69
TIM BRITTON
59
FAMARS USA
83
TOPS KNIVES
9
GREATEASTERNCUTLERY
29
TORMACH LLC
75
HALLMARK CUTLERY
71
TRU-GRIT, INC.
75
JANTZ SUPPLY
37, 42-43, 45, 55
TUFF-WRITER
79
JOHN H. DAVIS CUSTOM KNIFE MA
81
UNITED CUTLERY CORPORATION
59
KERSHAW KNIVES
84
W.R. CASE & SONS CUTLERY CO.
2
KNIFE AND GUN FINISHING SUPPLY
19, 41
WILSON COMBAT
75
KNIFE CENTER OF THE INTERNET
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1. Publication Title: Knives Illustrated
2. Publication No.: 0898-8943
3. Filing Date: 10-01-13
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17. Publication of Statement of Ownership: Dec 2013
18. Signature: Nick Singh
KI_1312_81 10/28/13 5:57 AM Page 81
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KI_1312_82-READER 10/28/13 6:19 AM Page 82
SHOW
& TELL
Show and Tell is a new column that appears at the end of every issue
of Knives Illustrated. In it, readers tell us about their favorite knives
from their own personal collections. Interested in showing off your
knife? Email Bethany Miller at bmiller@beckett.com.
BY KI STAFF
PHOTOS BY FRANCESCA WILBURN
1. How long have you had this knife?
I made this knife for my Master Smith review by a panel of
seven American Bladesmith Society judges in April 2013.
2. What was your thought process in designing it?
I wanted a hefty blade to show off the intricate Damascus — and a blade like this deserves a handle to match. I
made this Bowie specifically as an art knife, but it’s also
made for the highest level of performance. With my
knives, form always follows function.
3. What is its most unique feature or your favorite
feature?
The Damascus steel.
4. Have you made other knives for your own personal
collection? If so, how many and what types?
I make many knives for others to enjoy. My culinary line is
especially popular.
5. Do you have any advice for other knifemakers or
collectors?
Anytime you can afford a Master Smith test knife for your
collection, you should get it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get one of the knives a Master Smith passed
his review test with. KI
ABOUT THE OWNER
NAME: Aaron Wilburn
CITY AND STATE OF RESIDENCE: Redding, CA
OCCUPATION: Full-time knifemaker
KNIFE INFO
MANUFACTURER: Wilburn Forge
MODEL: Snakewood frame handle Bowie
KI_1312_C3 11/4/13 8:43 AM Page C3
KI_1312_C4 10/28/13 5:58 AM Page C4
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knivesillustrated.com

Transcription

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