Knives Illustrated - December 2013 USA

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DECEMBER 2013 • DISPLAY UNTIL: 1/14/14

VOLUME 27, NO.9 • $5.99 U.S.

knivesillustrated.com

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Ready whenever you are, wherever life takes you. Carbon Fiber Case Knives The unparalleled combination of strength and feather-light weight of Carbon Fiber has made it one of the most favored reinforced polymers for many of today’s high-tech industries, from sporting goods to automotive and even aerospace. Now Case brings you Carbon Fiber pocket knives – tough tools that are up to 40% lighter than their bone or synthetic handled counterparts. Seven handy patterns make up the Case Carbon Fiber family, each with satin finished Tru-Sharp™ surgical steel blades that are ready for heavy duty work. Available at Case dealers everywhere. BackPocket® #42945

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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

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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 [email protected] David Beckler: Outdoor Group Director (972) 448-9173 Casey Clifford: Senior Account Executive (717) 896-8956 Mark Pack: Senior Account Executive (714) 200-1939 Gennifer Merriday: Ad Traffic Coordinator

DIRECT MARKETING GROUP John Bartulin (866) 866-5146 ext. 2746 Paul Caca (866) 866-5146 ext. 4961 Ryan Lauro (866) 866-5146 ext. 2756 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 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200 Yorba Linda, CA 92887 (714) 939-9991 Fax: (800) 249-7761 www.knivesillustrated.com facebook.com/knivesillustrated facebook.com/eembybeckett

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 (239) 653-0225 Foreign Inquires [email protected] [email protected] Back Issues www.engagedmediamags.com Books, Merchandise, Reprints (239) 280-2380 Dealer Sales (239) 280-2380 Letters to the Editor, New Products or to Contribute a Story or Photo Bethany Miller 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 [email protected] Subscription Rates $17.95/1 year, $27.95 2/years. Foreign $27.95/1, $47.95/2 years payable in US funds. Single copy price is $5.99. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for new subscriptions to begin.

Cover photography by TERRILL HOFFMAN

Beckett Media, LLC Nick Singh: Executive Director Erin Masercola: Business Unit Editorial Director GST #855050365RT001 Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542 London, ON N6C 6B2 This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by Beckett Media, LLC as to the legality, completeness or technical accuracy.

6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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

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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 knivesillustrated.com

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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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] www.antiquearmsshow.com JAN. 25-26 SAN ANTONIO, TX American Bladesmith Society All Forged Blade Expo (512) 446-3111 [email protected] 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 [email protected] www.gatorcutlery.com FEB. 22-23 LITTLE ROCK, AR Arkansas Custom Show [email protected] 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 [email protected] 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 [email protected] www.badgerknifeclub.org APRIL 4-6 HARRISONBURG, VA Greater Shenandoah Valley Knife Show (540) 828-0778 [email protected] www.svkc.org APRIL 12-13 EUGENE, OR Oregon Knife Show [email protected] www.oregonknifeclub.org MAY 3-4 MYSTIC, CT Northeast Cutlery Collectors Association Annual Show (401) 742-6779 [email protected] www.ncca.info JUNE 6-8 ATLANTA, GA Blade Show (877) 746-9757 [email protected] www.bladeshow.com KI knivesillustrated.com

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VISIT 511TACTICAL.COM/HOLIDAY

THIS YEAR, GET GEAR! 25% OFF SALE IN-STORE OR ONLINE Starts on Black Friday, November 29 through December 5

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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

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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 [email protected] Chris Tatulli [email protected] knivesillustrated.com

KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013 1 3

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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.

1 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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.

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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 1 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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." knivesillustrated.com

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FAMARS USA SRT Black SRT BLACK OVERALL: 8.25 inches 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

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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 OVERALL: 7.25 inches 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 1 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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. knivesillustrated.com

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"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,

knivesillustrated.com

SPYDERCO DOMINO

SZABO FOLDER BLACK

DOMINO

SZABO BLACK

OVERALL: 7.68 inches 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

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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

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Zero Tolerance 0300BW 0300BW OVERALL: 8.625 inches 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

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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 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013 2 1

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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.

2 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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Alpha Three Survival

Hornet XL Survival

Romeo One Military

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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

2 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

Dietmar Pohl, founder and CEO of Pohl Force and Pohl Force USA, has 20 years of experience in the knife industry.

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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

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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.”

2 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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HOLLOW-HANDLE KNIVES MAKE A COMEBACK

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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.” 2 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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.

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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.” 3 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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 knivesillustrated.com

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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.

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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.” 3 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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 [email protected] www.schradeknives.com knivesillustrated.com

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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 • [email protected]

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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

3 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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.”

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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.” 3 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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 Kit with Silver-Black 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 Kit with Silver-Black SS63909 24.95 Kit with Rosewood SS63925 24.95 SS63949 Kit with Black Ink Cocobolo 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 Kit with Silver-Black SS63109 29.95 Kit with Rosewood SS63125 29.95 SS63149 Kit with Black Ink Cocobolo 29.95 Leather Sheath KT631 12.95

1-800-351-8900 knifemaking.com PO BOX 584 Davis, OK 73030 Add $9.95 for shipping.

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INERTIA BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 inches OVERALL LENGTH: 7.5 inches 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 LENGTH: 3.25 inches OVERALL LENGTH: 7.5 inches 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

3 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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NEW YORK SPECIAL BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches OVERALL LENGTH: 6.5 inches 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: [email protected] Website: www.foltsknives.com

A camp knife that teaches you. A tuning fork embedded in the handle helps you find the sweet spot for every cut.

SHOP ONLINE AT www.agrussell.com 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

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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 LENGTH: 4 inches OVERALL LENGTH: 8.5 inches 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 LENGTH: 3 inches OVERALL LENGTH: 7.38 inches BLADE STEEL: Rob Thomas raindroppattern Damascus BOLSTER: Zirconium HANDLE MATERIAL: Nitro composites — electric blue flash cotton fiber OPENER: Inlaid thumb stud

4 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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 [email protected] 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.

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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

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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 Damascus Blade Pattern 22 440C Steel Blade Pattern 22 D2 Steel Blade 1/4” Brass Bolster and Rivets 1/4” Stainless Bolster and Rivets

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 Pattern 31 Damascus Blade J3189 99.95 Pattern 31 D2 Steel Blade J3128 31.95 Pattern 31 1095 Steel Blade J3198 24.95 1/4” Brass Bolster and Rivets K318 9.95 1/4” Stainless Bolster and Rivets 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 Pattern 38 Damascus Blade 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 Damascus Blade Pattern 33 154CM Steel Blade Pattern 33 D2 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

4 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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

knivesillustrated.com

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 [email protected]. 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

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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

4 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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

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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.

5 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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 5 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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 knivesillustrated.com

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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KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013 5 3

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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 OVERALL LENGTH: 7.25 inches 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 OVERALL LENGTH: 4.3 inches 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.

5 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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. knivesillustrated.com

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.

%HDG%ODVW)LQLVK

3URÀOHG +DQGOHV 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.

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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.

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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 knivesillustrated.com

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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.

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STRONGER.

ARPER

™

DEALER INQUIRIES CALL 800-548-0835 OR VISIT WWW.UNITEDCUTLERY.COM

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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.

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This Lansky sharpening kit contains extra coarse, coarse, medium, fine, and extra fine grit hones; honing oil; and a knife clamp.

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“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.

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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 knivesillustrated.com

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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. knivesillustrated.com

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.

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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 6 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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.

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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,

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“THE ABILITY OF THE CUSTOMER TO PUT A GOOD EDGE ON THEIR KNIFE WITHOUT MUCH FUSS IS A BIG CONCERN.” — Blake Pogue

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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.

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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 knivesillustrated.com

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The blade of W.R. Case’s Desk knife is made from 154-CM stainless steel. knivesillustrated.com

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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 knivesillustrated.com

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FOR THE INDOORSMAN

12

Top Chef’s Knives

BY BETHANY MILLER PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS 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

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2. Victorinox Swiss Classic Straight Edge Chef’s Knife

3. Victorinox Rosewood Collection Santoku

BLADE: 8 inches, high-carbon stainless steel HANDLE: Polyproylene — ergonomic and slip resistant COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Switzerland MSRP: $50 NOTE: This knife is made to be dishwasher safe.

BLADE: 7 inches, high-carbon stainless steel HANDLE: Rosewood, triple-rivet design COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Switzerland 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 COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Switzerland 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 COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan MSRP: $278

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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 COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan 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 COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan 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 COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan MSRP: $290 from Sur La Table 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 COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan MSRP: $240 from Sur La Table NOTE: Includes limited lifetime warranty. 7 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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12. Korin Togiharu Nickel Damascus Gyutou BLADE: 10.5 inches, 63-layer nickel Damascus HANDLE: Composite wood COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan 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: [email protected] 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 knivesillustrated.com

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BELLS &

WHISTLES

Ideal Stocking Stuffers for Knife Owners BY ABE ELIAS PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS

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

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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

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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 7 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

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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 knivesillustrated.com

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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

13

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8 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • DECEMBER 2013

1. Publication Title: Knives Illustrated 2. Publication No.: 0898-8943 3. Filing Date: 10-01-13 4. Issue Frequency: Published 9 times a year, January/February, April, May, June/July, August, September, October, November and December 5. No. of Issues Published Annually: 9 6. Annual Subscription Price: $17.95 &RPSOHWH0DLOLQJ$GGUHVVRI.QRZQ2I¿FHRI3XEOLFDWLRQ Beckett Media LLC., 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General %XVLQHVV2I¿FHRI3XEOLVKHUBeckett Media LLC., 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Publisher Beckett Media LLC., 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 Editor Bethany Miller, Beckett Media LLC., 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 Managing Editor Jeffrey Rick, Beckett Media LLC., 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 10. Owner: Beckett Media LLC., 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, Suite 200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent of More of Total Amount of Bonds,Mortgagees, or Other Securities.: None 7D[6WDWXV)RUFRPSOHWLRQE\QRQSUR¿WRUJDQL]DWLRQV DXWKRUL]HGWRPDLODWQRQSUR¿WUDWHV Not applicable 13. Publication Title: Knives Illustrated 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: Nov 12-Oct 13 / Oct-13 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation:  $7RWDO1RRI&RSLHV1HW3UHVV5XQ 17,422 / 19,364 B. Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 1. Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541: 2,583 / 2,862 2. Paid In-County Subscriptions: 0 / 0 3. Sales through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution: 4,074 / 4,489 4. Other ClassesMailed Through the USPS: 0 / 0 C. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation: 6,657 / 7,351 D. Free Distribution By Mail: 1. Outside-County as Stated on Form3541: 62 / 82 2. In-County as Stated on Form 3541: 0 / 0 3. Other Classes Mailed Through USPS: 0 / 0 4. Outside the mail: 174 / 135 E. Total Free Distribution Outside the Mail: 236 / 217 F. Total Distribution: 6,893 / 7,568 G. Copies Not Distibuted: 10,529 / 11,796 H. Total: 17,422 / 19,364 I. Percent Paid: 96.57% / 97.13% 16. Total Circulation includes electronic copies. Report circulation on PS form 3526-X worksheet: Print Only (No electronic copies) 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership: Dec 2013 18. Signature: Nick Singh

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Visit our new website today!

www.KnivesIllustrated.com The premier knife magazine s The hottest knives and latest innovations in steel and design s sThe latest news, views, and reviews s sHard testing of knives and the results

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 [email protected].

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

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the New Black NEW! 0560BW

BlackWASH Series A blackwashed knife is like a battle-tested tool or a favorite pair of well-worn jeans. Knife components are Tungsten DLC coated, then tumbled to produce the already-broken-in look. Like any coating, it will wear eventually, but with blackwashing, who cares? Additional ZTKNIVES.COM

FACEBOOK.COM/ZTKNIVES

wear just adds to the distinctive look.