KA-BAR Knives

About KA-BAR

KA-BAR has been manufacturing legendary knives since 1898, with roots tracing back to Wallace Brown's mail-order cutlery business started in 1894.

The company evolved from Union Razor Company to Union Cutlery Company before adopting the iconic KA-BAR trademark from a customer testimonial letter in the early 1900s.

In 1942, KA-BAR submitted their knife design to the U.S. Marine Corps, and the USMC officially adopted the KA-BAR as their fighting and utility knife.

The KA-BAR knife became so synonymous with military combat knives that "Kabar" became the generic term used for this knife pattern, regardless of manufacturer.

Today, KA-BAR Knives is owned by Cutco Corporation and continues to manufacture high-quality knives for military, law enforcement, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts from their headquarters in Olean, New York.

Popular KA-BAR Features

1095 Carbon Steel Construction

• High-carbon steel provides exceptional toughness, superior edge retention, and easy field sharpenability.

Clip-Point Blade Design

• The 7-inch blade features a concave false edge for enhanced penetration and effective slashing capabilities.

Stacked Leather Washer Handle

• Hand-molded leather washers provide a secure, non-slip grip even in wet or challenging conditions.

Full Tang Construction

• The blade extends through the entire handle for maximum strength and durability in heavy-duty applications.

Non-Reflective Coating

• Black epoxy powder or parkerized finish eliminates reflection while providing corrosion resistance.

Optimal Hardness Rating

• Rockwell hardness of 56-58 HRC delivers the perfect balance of edge retention and toughness.

Best-Selling KA-BAR Knives

Full-Size USMC KA-BAR Straight Edge (Model 1217)

• The legendary 7-inch blade that became the most famous fixed blade knife in military history.

USMC Fighting Knife with Serrated Edge

• Features the iconic KA-BAR design with a partially serrated edge for enhanced cutting versatility.

Short KA-BAR Variants

• Compact versions of the classic design offering easier carry while maintaining the legendary KA-BAR performance.

USMC Tactical Bowie Knife

• Combines the traditional Bowie knife design with KA-BAR's military-grade construction and materials.

Tanto-Style KA-BAR Knives

• Features the popular tanto point design for enhanced piercing capability and strength.

Becker Knife & Tool Collaboration

• Heavy-duty survival and utility knives designed in partnership with renowned knife designer Ethan Becker.

Popular Uses for KA-BAR Knives

Military and Tactical Applications

• KA-BAR knives serve as fighting knives and utility tools for Marines, soldiers, and law enforcement professionals.

Survival and Emergency Preparedness

• The robust construction and versatile design make KA-BAR knives essential tools for wilderness survival and emergency situations.

Hunting and Outdoor Recreation

• Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts rely on KA-BAR knives for field dressing game, camping tasks, and general outdoor utility work.

Heavy-Duty Utility Tasks

• The full tang construction and durable blade steel handle batoning, chopping, cutting rope, and opening supply crates.

Collecting and Military History

• Military history enthusiasts and knife collectors value KA-BAR knives for their historical significance and iconic status.

KA-BAR FAQs

QUESTION: What warranty does KA-BAR offer on their knives?
ANSWER: KA-BAR provides a limited lifetime warranty for original purchasers covering defects in material and craftsmanship under normal use.

QUESTION: What type of steel does KA-BAR use in their knives?
ANSWER: KA-BAR primarily uses 1095 Cro-Van carbon steel known for its toughness, edge retention, and easy field sharpening.

QUESTION: Are KA-BAR knives made in the USA?
ANSWER: Yes, KA-BAR manufactures over 75 knife models in the United States at their facility in Olean, New York.

QUESTION: How do I maintain my KA-BAR knife properly?
ANSWER: Keep the blade oiled when stored to prevent corrosion, and condition the leather handle occasionally for optimal performance.

QUESTION: What is the blade length of a standard USMC KA-BAR?
ANSWER: The standard USMC KA-BAR features a 7-inch blade with an overall length of 11â…ž inches.

QUESTION: Does KA-BAR ship internationally?
ANSWER: KA-BAR does not ship directly outside the United States due to varying international knife laws and regulations.

QUESTION: What is the difference between straight edge and serrated edge KA-BAR knives?
ANSWER: Straight edge models offer clean cutting performance, while serrated edge versions provide enhanced cutting versatility for rope and fibrous materials.

QUESTION: How can I verify if my KA-BAR knife is authentic?
ANSWER: Purchase only from authorized dealers and look for proper KA-BAR markings, as counterfeit knives are common in the market.