Knives Illustrated - November 2016

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FEELS RIGHT. RIGHT AWAY.
26291 POCKET WORN

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26298
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Some things get better with age. From its smoother surface to its slightly rounded
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NOVEMBER 2016
VOLUME 30, NO. 6
www.knivesillustrated.com
12
COVER STORY
18 TRIBUTE TO AN AMERICAN LEGACY
The limited edition Spartan/Ek Dagger picks up where
history left off and gives us a solid remake of the Ek
Commando Knife Company dagger.
BY GARRETT LUCAS AND JOSHUA SWANAGON
FEATURES
12 COLLECTIBLE CRAFTSMANSHIP
Will Morrison utilizes his own personal style to bring us
traditional Bowies with a classic look.
BY LES ROBERTSON
26 TOUGH JUST GOT TOUGHER

ESEE Knives have revamped their flagship knives to
create a solid survival duo in their new HM Series 18
bushcraft knives.
BY REUBEN BOLIEU
36 ENTROPY WITHOUT CHAOS

Kershaws EDC blade is anything but chaos and brings
order to every task from the mundane to the most
demanding.
BY JIM HOUSE
42 THE C.U.M.A. PROTECTOR

Built American-tough from DayOne Gear, it pushes the
limits of edged self-defense weaponry and crosses into
dominating force.
BY CLINT THOMPSON
50 EDITORS TOP FINDS

The 2016 Blade Show is under wraps and our Field
Editors went above and beyond to bring you some of
the best offerings displayed.
BY KI EDITORS
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NOVEMBER 2016 DISPLAY UNTIL: 10/18/16
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DESIGN
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EDITORS
LETTER
PHOTO BY JOSHUA SWANAGON

A Part of You
multi-tool. Which folder I carry often
depends on where I am going and what I
am doing. I have a nice gentlemans knife
that I carry when I am dressed for a
BY JOSHUA SWANAGON formal occasion, a custom Texas
Toothpick slipjoint I carry at deer camp,
This past weekend I got to spend some time in and a hard use folder for regular daily
beautiful northern Michigan with family and friends. chores.
Anyone who has ever been in that area knows that it is With so many different walks of life
and so many different needs, selecting
heavily rural and mostly farming communities.
EDC knives is a very personal task. We all
While there, I pondered this issue of laws and ordinances and it has to be have knives in our collections for our
Knives Illustrated and the topic of something that you enjoy using. various jobs and hobbies, such as
everyday carry (EDC), and it occurred to However, someone living in a rural camping, hunting, self-defense, and so
me that EDC is really different for farming community is going to have a on, but your EDC blade is the one that
everyone and tends to be based a lot on completely different view of what EDC is will always be on you and will perform
where you live, work or play. Obviously than someone living in the city. EDC the most tasks during its lifetime. For
the same rules apply to everyone when it blades can range from bushcraft or many, their knife is a part of them and is
comes to what you carry on a day-to-day tactical knives (for people who live in begrudgingly not with them only while
basis; you want a knife that is going to areas where carrying a large knife on your they are sleeping or in the shower. As for
become almost part of you without being hip is acceptable) to simple, small pocket me, I always get a slight chuckle when
unwieldy or uncomfortable, it has to be knives. I personally have EDC knives that someone asks, Does anyone have a
able to perform typical daily tasks include my trusty Swiss Army Knife, belt knife?
without failure, it has to conform to local buckle knife, folder and sometimes a Stay sharp and keep it real. KI

POINTSof
INTEREST
Doug Ritter of Knife Rights

presents Jim Bruhns (left)
with the 2016 Freedom's
Guardian Award.
Commitment to a FREEDOMS GUARDIAN ANGEL

Knife Rights annual Freedoms Guardian
Sharper Future
Award honors a production knife
manufacturer or industry partner that has
demonstrated their commitment to a
Sharper Future, by leadership in the fight
to protect or enhance our knife rights.
KNIFE RIGHTS RECOGNIZES NEIL HOGUE AND JIM BRUHNS
As Knife Rights founder and chairman Doug Ritter noted when we talked at 2016 FREEDOMS EDGE
this years Blade Show, We couldnt possibly accomplish all that we have, AWARD RECIPIENTS
Wisconsin State Representative Kathleen
without the support of those who generously donate time, money, knives and Bernier and Senator Terry Moulton are the
other valuable prizes to the cause. At the start of Blade Show, Ritter surprised recipients of Knife Rights 2016 Freedoms
Edge Award. They sponsored AB 142 that
two of Hogue, Inc.s owners, Neil Hogue and Jim Bruhns, with its 2016
repealed Wisconsins switchblade ban and
Freedoms Guardian Award. that also added knife law preemption to
Wisconsin statutes.
Ritter said, Although Hogue is the Second Amendment. You have
The new law was signed by Governor
relatively new to the knife business, our support and appreciation. Scott Walker on February 6 of this year,
delivering their first knife just seven You can view a video of the making Wisconsin the eleventh state in
years ago, they have stepped up big presentation at: http://tinyurl.com/ which Knife Rights has repealed a
time to support Knife Rights efforts hogue-freedoms-guardian switchblade ban, and the ninth in which we
have passed Knife Law Preemption.
to forge a Sharper Future. With over
four decades of experience in the
firearms industry, fighting for their 2016 FREEDOMS POINT AWARD RECIPIENT
Second Amendment rights, they Travis C. Hakes is the recipient of Knife Rights individual can make a difference in our freedom.
appreciate what it takes to fight for 2016 Freedoms Point Award that honors an Hakes said in accepting the award, I am truly
individual citizen. Hakes is a Lake Hallie Police humbled that an organization such as Knife Rights
knife owners rights and we sincerely
Officer and Elk Mound Chief of Police in Wisconsin. would present me with an award. I also would like
appreciate their generous support. Knife Rights Chairman Doug Ritter said, Travis to thank Knife Rights for fighting the battle right
When presented with the award, is being recognized for his personal initiative in alongside us to help bring some common sense to
Bruhns said, We are certainly proud addressing Wisconsins antiquated, burdensome the great state of Wisconsin.
and honored to be recognized in this and irrational switchblade ban. Travis brought the Apparently Hakes was so empowered by
issue to the attention of his state Representative participating in the legislative process through to its
way. We are just grateful to have an
which ultimately resulted in repeal of Wisconsins successful conclusion, that he recently announced
organization like Knife Rights; they ban and in enactment of knife law preemption in that he is a candidate for Representative of
are the second front in the fight for February of this year. Travis is proof that one Wisconsins 67th Assembly District. KI
knivesillustrated.com NOVEMBER 2016 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED 9

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E PROMOTE FEATURE
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t ,OJGF FEHF HVBSE DPOTUSVDUFE WE105A 1 qt #105 Resin 39.71

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COLLECTIBLE
CRAFTSMANSHIP
AUSTRALIAS WILL MORRISON
KNIVES SHARES HIS VISION OF THE
CLASSIC BOWIE
BY LES ROBERTSON
O
ne of the unique aspects of collectibles is the variety of people
they bring together. Custom knives are no different. The
spectrum of society from which makers and collectors
emanate is surprisingly diverse, and the aspect that ignites the
passion for these edge collectibles is seemingly never ending.
Samurai and Ninja

Will Morrisons passion was ignited by the martial arts movies he
watched as a 13-year-old boy in Australia. His primary interests were the
swords used by the Samurai and Ninjas in these movies. So, as Will puts
it, Armed with just enough information to get me in trouble, he
proceeded to build and use a Japanese-style box-bellows in front of a
charcoal forge. He was trying to smelt his own Tamahagane, a type of
high-quality steel made in the Japanese tradition. While he doesnt
remember finishing anything during that time, he enjoyed the process.
As he was searching for information about Japanese sword-smithing,
he would often come across articles and online forum posts by
American bladesmiths. This wealth of knowledge made available
online, along with the knifemakers willingness to share their
knowledge, is what started him along the path to becoming a custom
knifemaker. Will was quick to point out those makers who provided this
help via the internet. Makers he mentioned specifically were Don Fogg,
John White, Bruce Bump and Burt Foster, along with others. One maker
he gives special thanks to is Nick Wheeler. Nick goes to great lengths
to provide videos on the internet on many aspects of forging and
building custom knives. Will feels those educational videos
provide an invaluable contribution to the global knifemaking
community.
1 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEMBER 2016 knivesillustrated.com

TODAY MY FOCUS LIES
CLOSER TO THE BOWIE END
OF THE SPECTRUM.
WILL MORRISON
WILL MORRISON RINGED GIDGEE FIGHTER
BLADE LENGTH: 8.5 inches HANDLE MATERIAL: Ringed gidgee

OVERALL LENGTH: 14 inches SPACER MATERIAL: Black G10 and stainless steel
BLADE MATERIAL: W2 with Hamon SHEATH: Leather sheath by maker
BLADE FINISH: Etched and polished to show Hamon PHOTO: Chuck Ward
GUARD MATERIAL: 416 stainless steel
knivesillustrated.com NOVEMBER 2016 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED 1 3

WILL MORRISON
IRONWOOD FIGHTER
BLADE LENGTH: 8.5 inches

OVERALL LENGTH: 14 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: W2 with Hamon
BLADE FINISH: Etched and polished to show Hamon
HANDLE MATERIAL: Desert ironwood
SPACER MATERIAL: Black G10 and bronze
SHEATH: Leather sheath by maker
PHOTO: Chuck Ward
IT WAS WILLS LOOK His Own Style was no doubt where the root of his style
The same internet he used to learn came from, he made just enough subtle
AND STYLE THAT from, made photos of Wills knives changes to make the knives reflect his
ATTRACTED ME available to others who have an interest style. Within the world of forged blades,
TO HIS KNIVES. in quality forged blades. Seeing these

photos certainly drew my interest to his
this is no small feat.
knives. Styles and materials

AUTHOR
Most successful knifemakers have, over Will almost exclusively forges to shape
many years, developed their own style, these days, although he is quick to point
while many makers who build forged out that he will occasionally make
blades in the U.S. have the ability to learn smaller knives purely by stock removal.
directly from other knifemakers. His feeling is Better to be able to do
Consequently, early on, many adopt the both.
style or look of their mentors knives. Wills style covers the spectrum of
Perhaps the combination of gaining much fixed blades; Bowies, choppers, fighters,
of his instruction from master hunters, utility knives and even kitchen
knifemakers on the internet allowed Will knives. While he can build a wide variety
to interpret these looks and styles to of knives, Will points out that today my
make them his own. focus lies closer to the Bowie end of the
It was Wills look and style that spectrum. He primarily uses W2 and
attracted me to his knives. While there 80crv2, feeling that they are both

WILL MORRISON
JUNGLE BOWIE:

BLADE MATERIAL: W2
FINISH: Satin, etched to show Hamon
HANDLE MATERIAL: Green canvas Micarta
SHEATH: Black veg tan leather lined with
green goat skin.
PHOTO: Mag M.A.

WILL MORRISON
FAT BELLY FIGHTER
BLADE LENGTH: 7 inches

OVERALL LENGTH: 12.25 inches
BLADE MATERIAL: 80CRV2
BLADE FINISH: Satin
HANDLE MATERIAL: Ringed Gidgee
SPACER MATERIAL: Copper and brown canvas Micarta
SHEATH: Leather sheath by maker
PHOTO: Chuck Ward

fantastic performers for a range of expect one of his coppers to slice sushi those of us outside Australia, is that his
applications if heat treated properly. If he effectively. Blade design and edge current delivery time is three to four
had to pick a favorite it would be W2, geometry are utilized to provide each months.
simply because it can be differentially knife the ability to be the right tool for the
hardened to create a Hamon (temper job. Much as we would like to think that Final Thoughts
line). Will enjoys the extra creativity the there is a knife that will fill the bill no I have had the opportunity to handle
Hamon allows. matter what the task, such a knife does several of Wills Bowies. Even the most
For his handle materials he primarily not exist. critical eyes would be pleased with what
uses woods and synthetic composites (G- they see. The design of the knives flow
10 or Micarta), while he plans to start Pricing and Shows from the tip to the end of the handle, and I
utilizing more exotic handle materials, His prices range from $350 for a basic found them to be well-balanced, quick in
such as ancient Ivories. Currently, his hunter, up to $800 for a large Bowie. He the hand, and have great handle
favorite wood to use is Ringed Gidgee. will take orders, but points out that, as a ergonomics. Wills knives have one more
This wood is native to Australia, one of the rule, he doesnt take a true custom order. thing going for them that many of the U.S.
hardest woods in the world, and beautiful. He will work with you to incorporate your makers have difficulty with value for
Should someone want a knife purely for desires into something that fits in with his the money. Wills knives are priced for all
performance, he feels that a composite style and abilities. This is a policy that budgets and you will most assuredly get
like Micarta or G-10 is hard to beat. Guard generally ends up making both the buyer your moneys worth out of any Morrison
and pommel material are primarily made and the maker satisfied. The only show knife you purchase. KI
from stainless steel. he attends is the Australian Knifemakers
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Testing his knives is a common-sense, Guild Show in Melbourne Australia. He
EMAIL:
one-size-does-not-fit-all approach. He hopes to attend more shows in the future willmorrisonknives@gmail.com
doesnt expect a finely ground kitchen and will be attending the Sydney knife ONLINE:
www.Facebook.com/WillMorrisonKnives/
knife to chop through a 2x4. Nor does he show later this year. The good news for
CONQUER YOUR WORLD.

Expertly designed for all of your outdoor adventures, Camillus knives are titanium bonded and built to perform.
camillusknives.com/victory
No matter the challenge, consider it conquered.

The limited edition Spartan/Ek
Dagger brings a new perspective
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY GARRETT LUCAS AND JOSHUA SWANAGON
Tribute to an
AMERICAN
LEGACY
Sometimes its hard to start a story just
the right way, and this one is particularly
difficult to sort out because of the signifi-
THE CONSTRUCTION AND FINISH OF THEIR KNIVES ARE
cance of each part, and how closely the IMPECCABLE, AND THE EK NAME, OF COURSE, IS
threads of the story intertwine. Mainly, its
a story about a man and a knife, and the
LEGENDARY IN THE KNIFEMAKING INDUSTRY.
desire to make something that is beauti-
ful in function and imbued with the
heartfelt pride of a patriot. Oddly enough,
this has happened time and again. As
they say, theres nothing new under the
sun
Well begin with a recent quest to find
a new concealed-carry knife. Here in Ken-
tucky, the holder of a Concealed Deadly
Weapons License can legally carry just
about anything concealed as long as
its legal to own. So, a last-resort carry
weapon was up for consideration, and
during a late-evening search on the net, a
new offering was found on the Spartan
Blades website. It was the Spartan/Ek
Dagger.
I was already familiar with Spartan
Blades, having used a couple of their
knives in the past. The construction and
finish of their knives are impeccable, and
the Ek name, of course, is legendary in
the knifemaking industry. Seeing those
two names together instantly got my
attention, and within about 10 minutes of
first seeing it, I had placed my order.
The Spartan/Ek Dagger

The knife I saw on the screen (and have
with me today) is a beautiful and extremely
well-made fighting knife, though it might
be rather scarce by the time you read this,
or in the near future. The Spartan/Ek
Dagger is a limited-edition knife designed
and manufactured by Spartan Blades in
cooperation with KA-BAR Knives, which
bought the John Ek Commando Knife
Company in 2015. The agreed number of
knives for this particular run was 200
knives for Spartan Blades to market and
sell, and 200 for KA-BAR Knives.
Dubbed the EK101 by KA-BAR, the
Spartan most closely resembles what was
originally known as a Model 7, though
more recently referred to as a Model 4.
While Spartan Blades took design cues
from some of the original Ek knives, it has
brought the basic design into the 21st
century, with high-end materials that
werent previously available.

(top) The Spartan/Ek Dagger comes with a ballistic nylon sheath with a plastic insert, belt loop, and cordage on the back to lash the sheath to packs, vests and
other gear. (below, left) The pommel features a nicely designed skull crusher with lanyard hole. (below, right) The Spartan/Ek Dagger incorporates the traditional
X-Head grip fasteners that eventually made their way into the construction of Ek knives by the original Ek Commando Knife Company. This is the reverse side.

WHILE SPARTAN BLADES TOOK DESIGN CUES FROM SOME
OF THE ORIGINAL EK KNIVES, IT HAS BROUGHT THE BASIC
DESIGN INTO THE 21ST CENTURY, WITH HIGH-END
MATERIALS THAT WERENT PREVIOUSLY AVAILABLE.
The Specs the original Ek Commando Knife

The Spartan/Ek Dagger is a full-tang, Company. The oversized flathead slot is
double-edged dagger (hollow ground) large enough that you could use a small
with a brass cross-guard and scalloped coin or thin zipper pull if you were in a
G10 grip slabs. The steel is CPM S35VN, pinch and had no other tools. The pommel
which is a highly celebrated steel in the features a nicely designed skull crusher
knife industry because of its extreme with lanyard hole for increased grip.
toughness (resistance to chipping) and The sheath is an overbuilt, Molle-
its wear- and corrosion-resistance, as compatible nylon sheath with a solid
well. The blade sports a very subtle and Kydex insert. The front of the sheath
classy fuller that runs almost the full features Molle webbing for additional
length of the 6-inch blade, directly in the add-on options. As with all of Spartan
center and following almost all the way Blades sheaths, it is built as sturdy as the
to the tip on both sides. knife itself and will withstand heavy use.
The steel is 3/16 of an inch thick Despite the materials update for the
thicker than original Ek knives to add grip slabs and steel composition, one
strength and ensure tip integrity. The interesting and compelling feature of the
finishing touch performed by Spartan Spartan/Ek Dagger is that it uses legacy
Blades is a black PVD, Tungsten DLC brass cross-guards from the original John
coating. With a full length of 10.75 inches, Ek Knives Company. So, theres actually a
the balance of the Spartan/Ek is just piece of physical history incorporated
behind the hilt, right about where the into each of the limited-edition knives.
index finger sits, making it very fast and
agile in the hand. The Back Story
As described by The G10 grip slabs are attached to the Since I was interested in the historical
Curtis Iovito, co-
owner of Spartan
Spartan/Ek with heavy-duty, brass perspective and how the collaboration
Blades, the Ek style traditional X-Head grip fasteners used by with KA-BAR knives ensued, I called the
doubled-edged
dagger is a
purpose-built
knife that was
intended to do one
thing, and it does it
extremely well.
SPECS
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.75 INCHES

BLADE LENGTH: 6 INCHES
BLADE THICKNESS: 3/16 INCHES
STEEL: CPM S35VN
GUARD MATERIAL: BRASS (LEGACY GUARDS
FROM THE OLD EK COMMANDO KNIFE COMPANY)
HANDLE: BLACK G10
ROCKWELL HARDNESS: 58-60 RHC (DOUBLE
DEEP CRYO TREATED)
COATING: PVD, TUNGSTEN DLC (BLACK)
WEIGHT: 9.5 OUNCES An especially nice touch on Spartans version of the original Model 7 is the inclusion of legacy brass guards produced by the
old Ek Commando Knife Company. These guards were found by KA-BAR once the old Ek stock was inventoried.

The G10 handle scales
feature a scalloped design
for additional grip.

ONE INTERESTING AND folks at Spartan Blades to get the back
story. Curtis Iovito and Mark Carey are the
COMPELLING FEATURE OF owners, and Curtis was the one who
THE SPARTAN/EK DAGGER IS walked me through how they became

involved with this project.
THAT IT USES LEGACY BRASS At the 2014 International Blade Show,
CROSS-GUARDS FROM THE he was taking a break and heard a
conversation taking place about military
ORIGINAL JOHN EK KNIVES blades daggers in particular and he
COMPANY. stopped to listen in, eventually joining the
conversation. He quickly realized the
discussion was being led by John Stitt,
the president of KA-BAR Knives, and part
of the conversation was about the
resurrection of the John Ek Commando
Knife Company.
After listening for a while, Iovito
eventually had to leave, but before he did,
he mentioned to Stitt in an offhand
fashion that he and Mark wouldnt mind
doing some sort of project with the Ek
brand. Just a few short weeks later, they
got a call from KA-BAR and the project
was underway.
When asked why they specifically
wanted to participate in a limited-edition
run of the Spartan/Ek Dagger, Iovito
sounded almost wistful as he explained.
Both he and Carey served in the military
for over 20 years; both were in the
Special Forces, and they had an affinity
for Ek knives.
Iovito owned and used several Ek
knives during his service, and he talked
The blade features a very about the honor of being involved with at
classy, subtle fuller that
runs almost the full least part of the Ek legacy by helping to
length of the 6-inch extend the brands recognition.
blade. After seeing action during WWII, the
Korean War, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Iraq
and Afghanistan, it appears that more Ek
EK COMMANDO KNIFE COMPANY

The deeper history behind the design of blade failures occurring during use. performed superbly in the field. In fact, Eks
the Spartan/Ek Dagger began in 1939, when Unable to serve in the military because of knives had to be tested and approved by the
John Ek designed his first prototype knife, an accident that injured his hand, John Ek was U.S. Government War Production Board in
which was named the Model 1. In 1941, Ek still very patriotic and decided to see what he order for Ek to have access to the steel, since
began mass production of his knives and they could contribute to the cause, and the genesis it was scarce and military usage had priority.
soon found favor among servicemen serving of Ek Commando Knives began. The Model 1 The Model 2 was essentially the same knife
during World War II. was a full-tang knife with a single full edge, that also had no cross-guard, but both edges
I contacted Gary Ek, John Eks son, and and three inches of a false edge on the were fully sharpened to help with ease of
spoke with him over the phone about his opposite side. The only other feature on the penetration. It wasnt until the Model 6 and 7
fathers company. He stated that his father knife was a wood handle held in place by (single- and double-edged, respectively) that
had heard various complaints about the rivets made from pouring in hot lead. a cross-guard was incorporated due to
knives that were issued to service members. A couple of advantages of the Ek designs customer demand, and this is the general
Eks son mentioned that complaints were the full-width-tang construction and template by which the Spartan/Ek dagger
revolved around leather grips rotting and the use of nickel-chrome-moly steel, which was designed.

knives will be carried into battle in the
future. Each company has 200 limited-
edition knives to sell, and each set of 200
RavenTM 2
is serialized. The Spartan Blades serial
numbers begin with an SB and the KA-
BAR set begins with EK.
I asked him what it was about the Ek CrowTM 2
template that he liked so much, and as
though he was describing a beautiful
woman, he replied, Because its a
purpose-built knife that was intended to
do one thing, and it does it extremely
well.
Iovito added that it was important for
anyone that saw the Spartan/EK Dagger USA-Made CTS BD1
to be able to immediately recognize its Blade Steel
Skeletonized Stainless
lineage. To truly honor John Eks legacy,
Steel Liners with Textured
Iovito and Carey wanted people to see G-10 Scales
their creation and say, Thats an Ek. Sturdy LinerLock
Mechanism
Left/Right Tip-Up Carry
Conclusion (Crow 2)
For many, owning a piece of history 4-Position Carry (Raven 2)
gives you the opportunity to relive
days gone by each time you look at it.
For more information visit
With the Spartan/Ek Dagger, you get
www.spyderco.com or your
to own a piece of functional history local Spyderco dealer.
with a knife as solid as its past.
Following on a recurring theme with
Spartan Blades, the Spartan/Ek
Dagger is a beautifully crafted knife
that feels solid in the hand, maintains
amazing balance, is quick and agile
and is pleasing to the eye. When you
first take hold of it you come to an
immediate realization that it just
understands you. With only a limited
amount being made, it is an
understatement to say that this knife
will become as historical as its
namesake. KI
CONTACT INFO
SPARTAN BLADES USA

www.SpartanBladesUSA.com
625 S.E. Service Road
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Phone: (910) 757-0035
KA-BAR KNIVES, INC.

www.KaBar.com
200 Homer Street
Olean, NY 14760
Phone: (716) 372-5952

Tough
Just Got
FLAGSHIP KNIVES
STORY AND PHOTOS BY REUBEN BOLIEU

Compared to the original
ESEE-3 from 2007 (left) its
obvious there is more handle
space without the choil,
which gives it a similar
amount of real estate as the
Camp-Lore RB3 knife.

Ten years in the making. Besides making a wet pile of
wood into a bed of cooking
In the early 2000s, the world was
coals, the ESEE-3HM cut
introduced to the RAT-3 knife from Randalls peppers, onions, sausages,
Adventure & Training (RAT), made by the mushrooms and garlic with
absolute ease.
Ontario Knife Company. Soon after that, a
whole new breed of iconic knives appeared
on the scene, designed by Randalls
Adventure & Training for the Ontario Knife
Company, including the RTAK, TAK, RAT-7,
RAT-5, Model 1 folder and the Model II folder.
In February of 2010, Rat Cutlery changed
their name, but not their quality or
dedication to producing hard-use survival
gear derived from years of dirt-time and
real-world experience. ESEE Knives was the
new name. ESEE is pronounced SE and is
an acronym for Escuela de Supervivencia
(School of Survival), Escape and Evasion
(ESEE).
Donning the ESEE name, their knives and
gear have been extremely popular with
military and law enforcement personnel in
many parts of the United States and abroad.
Nearly a decade later, the flagship knives of
RAT Cutlery and now, ESEE Knives, are back
with a new spin.
New Breed
From the Ontario RAT-3 and TAK knives
spawned the RAT Cutlery RC-3 and RC-4.
Until this day there are many prominent
outdoorsmen who have publically stated
that they started out with the RAT-3 knife,
now called the ESEE-3.
The new face of the ESEE-3 and ESEE-4
knives have been the answer to many
customers wishes and some obsessions,
mine included. They are called the ESEE-
3HM and ESEE-4HM. The ESEE HM series
knives were designed to be outdoors knives
for field dressing game and other outdoor
field-craft work. The modified version does
not have the finger choil, and the handle
design is longer and more rounded. ESEE
still uses 1095 high carbon steel (RC 55-57)
and the cutting edges of the blades have the
same dimensions as the regular ESEE-3/4
knives. Both knives feature black powder
coating, as well. The handles are fitted with ESEE-3HM SPECS:
canvas Micarta. In addition to the handle
and choil, the sheathing is different too. OVERALL LENGTH: 8.13 INCHES BLADE EDGE: PLAIN EDGE
They now will come with a black leather belt BLADE LENGTH: 3.63 INCHES HANDLE MATERIAL: CANVAS MICARTA
sheath, also made in the USA. CUTTING EDGE LENGTH: 3.38 INCHES HANDLE THICKNESS: 0.50 INCHES
The new ESEE-3HM has an overall length MAXIMUM THICKNESS: 0.125 INCHES WEIGHT: 5.6 OUNCES (KNIFE ONLY)
of 8.13 inches and 3.38-inch cutting edge. BLADE STEEL: 1095 CARBON STEEL WEIGHT: 9.3 OUNCES (KNIFE AND SHEATH)
Maximum thickness for the ESEE-3HM is BLADE FINISH: BLACK TEXTURED POWDERED COATED MODIFIED HANDLE
0.125 inches and weighs 5.6 ounces for the BLADE HARDNESS: 55 - 57 RC COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: USA

THE ESEE HM SERIES
KNIVES WERE DESIGNED TO
BE OUTDOORS KNIVES FOR
FIELD DRESSING GAME AND
OTHER OUTDOOR FIELD-
CRAFT WORK.
knife only. The ESEE-4HM has a longer 4.13-

ESEE-4HM SPECS: inch cutting edge and thicker 0.188-inch
blade, with an overall length of 8.88 inches.
OVERALL LENGTH: 8.88 INCHES BLADE HARDNESS: 55 - 57 RC It weighs 7.7 ounces for the knife only.
BLADE LENGTH: 4.38 INCHES BLADE EDGE: PLAIN EDGE
CUTTING EDGE LENGTH: 4.13 INCHES HANDLE MATERIAL: CANVAS MICARTA The Work
MAXIMUM THICKNESS: 0.188 INCHES HANDLE THICKNESS: 0.86 INCHES For the sake of tradition, when field
testing the ESEE HM series knives I decided
BLADE STEEL: 1095 CARBON STEEL WEIGHT: 7.7 OUNCES (KNIFE ONLY)
to test them in the same way we would in a
BLADE FINISH: BLACK TEXTURED WEIGHT: 9.7 OUNCES (KNIFE AND SHEATH)
Randalls Adventure & Training survival
POWDERED COATED MODIFIED HANDLE
class. Although it has been many years since
my days as a student, Ive had the honor of

ravaged my camp and knocked over a table,
destroying it along with some camp
implements, while mother nature had done
her damage as my tarp was hanging on by
two bindings of jute twine. The worst part
was, it was raining and was expected to
continue for the next few days. After a
lengthy scout around, assessing the
damage, location and expected activity this
time of the year, I opted to move my camp to
a more secluded location. Just like when
looking for any good survival camp location,
it was time to pay attention to my
surroundings and the terrain. I had a tarp, roll
of jute twine, 21-inch bow saw, wooden
mallet, and the ESEE HM knives to help build
my new camp over the next few days.
However, I needed to be aware of the 4 Ws,
so I had to be close to water and a good
wood supply that didnt require too much
effort. In addition to that, I had to look up for
widow-makers near my camp and try to
determine which direction the wind would
be coming from in the day and at night.
Once I decided on my location, I strung up
my tarp and started the construction of my
raised log-bed. The ESEE-4HM was used as
a plane-type tool in conjunction with a
heavy maple mallet to level out the surface
of the logs and remove as many knots and
protrusions as possible. Both knives took
their turn cutting jute twine and 550
paracord to lash tripods, chairs, fire reflector
stakes, tables, and bed logs in place.
Fire-starting and making some camp
implements were left to the ESEE-4HM.
After lots of rain and humidity in the air, I
was left with the tedious task of splitting
wood lots of wood for a fire. Not just a
fire, but a good cooking fire, meant to boil
water when it was ablaze and then die down
Only a fine 750-grit diamond steel was
to coals for slow roasting. Naturally, the
used to touch up the edges of the ESEE
knives. The sheaths could also be used to ESEE-4HM was great at batoning through
strop the blades as a final step. dead poplar and maple for tinder and
kindling. I used pieces no thicker than my
teaching classes for them and helping out wrist; in fact, they were about 2-3 inches
over the years. So, making trap & stake wide. How is splitting poplar a test of any
notches, fire craft, cord cutting, making food kind on a knife? Simple, although poplar is
implements, making survival spears, utility soft wood, its also very knotted wood. Soft
around camp, limbing small saplings, wood like pine, hemlock, spruce, and poplar
sharpening points on dry wood, slicing all have hard knots that can easily chip or
vegetables and maybe some puncture roll an edge. Any thicker, harder wood like
testing would all be on the list of survival oak and maple was simply used as fuel.
knife chores for the testing process. Thats what using your brain is all about
Arriving in my private camp nestled in the thats true survival!
Northeastern woodlands, it seemed after a The knife also had the task of making a few
couple of months away, the animals have hardwood stakes for the tarp and carving a

THE NEXT TWO DAYS, WHILE
CONTINUING TO BUILD THE
CAMP, I USED THE ESEE-3HM
ALMOST EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE
UTILITY AND FIELD-CRAFT
WORK.
(top) In wet weather, wood needs to be processed down to its driest elements. The author used the ESEE-4HM to split and fuzz out wood for a much-needed fire. (below) Splitting a
long, straight, green stick is another field-craft chore performed in the camp. This is in addition to all the fire preparation needed for the cook fire.
pot lifter/fire poker. This involved cross-grain

batoning on dead wood since it was abundant
and much less work than seeking out a green
sapling and felling it. The cutting edge
seemed fine with all the work and when it was
time to create tinder from the dry inner wood,
it performed like a champ, shaving wood with
absolute ease. Once the fire was up and going
I needed a long, green sapling, about
broomstick thickness. I used the ESEE-4HM
to make a controlled split about 10 inches-
down from the end to insert a large ham steak
for roasting over the fire. I carved a simple
sharp point on the end of a Y-joint and stuck it
in the ground to prop up the roasting stick.
Afterwards, I found an old metal ammo
canister left over from some geocaching in the
woods and wasted no time pounding the
ESEE-4HM through it with a piece of oak, then
yanked it around a little before calling it good.
The next two days, while continuing to
build the camp, I used the ESEE-3HM almost
exclusively for the utility and field-craft work.

There was more lashing of camp benches thin, full flat grind. All that was left now good job at shedding water. The tight fit
and chairs to be done and more fire was to reap the benefits of a hard days does help keep out water and debris.
preparation because it was raining again. work and call this camp done. Although the leather retains moisture and
After all, it was spring. I spent some time grit, I never found the sheaths soaked or
huddled under my tarp performing small fire Leather Sheaths too dirty inside. I often will use a knife on
preparation work for my coffee can wood I found the stock sheaths to be quite food and then put it back in the sheath. I
burning stove. This means small splits and snug at first, but they are leather and will guess I am not a person who cares about
even smaller splits to mimic match stick and eventually wear-in, so to speak. The outer these things, but some people are finicky.
pencil-sized pieces of wood which were all part of the sheath is smooth and does a Still, I prefer the leather sheaths on these
soaked in the forest. I used finger-thick
sticks to create thin, curly, superfine fuzz
sticks that would need to take a spark from
my ferrocerium rod. Mind you, I had birch
bark and dry poplar bark stored under my
raised bed, but this was for emergencies. As
for now, I was simply camping. This was the
size and weight of knife I was used to for
about 10 years using the ESEE-3, but now
with more handle real estate and much
better ergonomics. I was using leather
gloves most of the time and the extra room
was much appreciated.
In the survival classes, spears are made
out of wood and bamboo, which are
designed to be frogging spears or small
game spears. However, they can be used
for roasting meat over a fire too, caveman
style. Making these spears requires a
mallet or baton to split approximately a
wrist-thick sapling four ways with a knife,
then using two small sticks to spread out
the prongs. At this point, or even before
splitting, the ends could be sharpened. I
like to split the wood using the knife in a
tip down fashion about 7 inches from the
tip, holding the knife in an icepick grip.
Then, I hammer the butt end into the
wood carefully until it splits, then rotate
the wood and repeat the process until
there are four separate points. The edge of
the ESEE-3HM was still keen enough to
sharpen the prongs of the spear and the
separate trident spear I made. While in the
mood for making traps, I quickly made a
figure-four deadfall trap with the knife
and just as I guessed it would, the handle
stayed comfortable the entire time.
Food preparation was the last chore of
the day. I had to slice mushrooms, garlic,
bell peppers, onions and sausages for
kabobs. First, was the fire making, then
the sharpening of a finger-thick stick that I
whittled down to a thin, smooth roasting
stick. The V grind of the ESEE knives is
toothy, I feel it aids in slicing through
vegetables and meat in general. The knife
performed well on food, mostly due to the

The butt of the knife has an exposed piece of steel that
makes a very good hammering surface. On the HM series,
the butt is rounded, while on the original ESEE-3 there is a
sharp glass breaker on the end.
BORN IN THE JUNGLE

I first met Mike Perrin and Jeff Randall back in them about owning the TAK and RTAK, but wanted to buy inside, field dressing a deer, cleaning piranha, as well as
November of 2007 in Lima, Peru. After 10 years of looking at something more compact, like the old Ontario RAT-3. While many other camp chores that a large machete would be
advertisements and photos of their epic jungle survival on the trip, I got to see the knife in action cutting vines used cumbersome for, unless you are from
classes, I finally signed up for one. I remember talking to for lashing, prying open nuts to extract the grub worms there!
The ESEE-4HM was pounded halfway

through the canister with the help of a piece
of wood (oak). It suffered minimal edge
damage that was easily fixed with a short
sharpening session.

knives over the molded plastic sheaths; I
feel it suits these knives.
Those who have followed RAT-designed
knives over the years may already be
accustomed to the speed and feel of the
molded sheaths and how quickly they could
be deployed. However, in a woods setting
(camping, hiking) there is never a realistic
need to quickly pull out your knife as there
may be in a self-defense or tactical scenario.
I always carry knives slung over the shoulder
or like a neck knife, so I need two hands to
get the knife out. I need one to hold the
sheath and the other to pull the knife out.
This is done intentionally and in no rush at
all, which is fine with me.
Maintenance and Sharpening

The edge-holding qualities of ESEE
Knives have always been one of their strong
points. These knives were no different. I
keep a small Smiths Edge Stick Knife &
Broadhead sharpening diamond steel (Fine
750 grit) in my camp and use it to touch up
my edged tools before they get dull. I gave a
few passes on the diamond steel with the
ESEE-3HM and it was fine, not that it was
ever that dull in the first place. The ESEE-
4HM suffered a little bit of edge rolling and
some micro chipping after being stuck into
the metal ammo canister. The Smiths
Inkosi
sharpener fixed that easily and work ensued.
The leather sheaths have a smooth front The
and back, while the belt loop has a rough
side to it. I also used the sheaths to quickly
strop the knives while working in the camp.
Try doing that with plastic! Zulu: Chief
At this time the knives are only offered Giving you more features in a
with a plain edge, but that may change. In smaller knife
the near future, the ESEE-6 is due to have
Large
the same modification options. The new
Hollow Grind
ESEE HM series knives are still the same Technology
dependable cutting tools they always were,
but less tactical, with a couple of 2.75 Blade
Length
modifications that really hit home with the
outdoors crowd who enjoy hunting, S35VN Blade
camping, fishing, and all forms of field- Steel
craft! KI
CONTACT INFORMATION Angled Pocket Clip
TransEquatorial Solutions, Inc. Ceramic Ball Lock Interface

ESEE Knives / Randalls Adventure
Training
P.O. Box 99 Oversized Washers
Gallant, AL 35972 Large Pivot
Phone: (256) 613-0372
Email: info@eseeknives.com
chrisreeve.com

ENTROPY
WITHOUT
CHAOS
TEXT AND PHOTOS BY JIM HOUSE

SPRING-ASSISTED OPENING
KNIVES HAVE BECOME VERY
POPULAR BECAUSE THEY
REQUIRE ONLY ONE HAND
TO MAKE THE KNIFE
READY TO USE. Although not recommended for a folder, the
Entropy was able to achieve some light batoning.
ENTROPY DEFINED Entropy is a thermodynamic term

From Oxford Dictionaries: that relates to the degree of
randomness or disorder of a system.
1. a thermodynamic quantity representing the unavailability of a systems thermal energy for For example, a collection of knives
conversion into mechanical work, often interpreted as the degree of disorder or randomness
in the system. may be arranged haphazardly in a pile
2. lack of order or predictability; gradual decline into disorder: (high entropy) or they may be
a marketplace where entropy reigns supreme arranged in a well-aligned row (low
synonyms: deterioration degeneration crumbling decline
entropy). When it comes to knives,
some very creative names have been
applied, and Kershaw must be a
leader in this area. Then again, a
product may be given a name that
has no connection to physical reality.
Such names as Neon, Dart, Gremlin,
Laser and Seville have been applied
to cars. One of the newest of
Kershaws models is the Entropy, and
it is a very good choice for general
use.
There are many times when a knife
is either necessary or at least handy.
The type of knife may not be critical
but it should always be available.
Such knives are referred to as
everyday carry (EDC) knives and
sometimes it seems that there are
almost as many choices as there are
The Entropy is the perfect
people who carry them. When
companion during normal
day-to-day tasks. selecting a knife for EDC, thought
should be given to such aspects as

blade length, weight, and type of
opening mechanism. Spring-assisted
opening knives have become very
popular because they require only
one hand to make the knife ready to
use. That can be very convenient
when holding a box to be opened or a
cord to be cut with the other hand.
Kershaws term for such knives is
SpeedSafe, and the blade is opened
when a tab on the top rear of the (top) Like many other folding knives, the Kershaw Entropy utilizes a liner lock. (below) The posts are red, which
provides a touch of color.
blade is pulled backward.
Entropy Attributes
One of the newest Kershaw models
that features SpeedSafe opening is
the Entropy. This little jewel was
designed in collaboration with Todd
Rexford, a designer and maker of
custom knives. It is a liner lock model
that features a 3.25-inch drop-point
blade made of 8CrMoV stainless
steel. Kershaw advertises that the
stainless steel blade receives special
heat treatment to enhance its edge
Sharpen up your carving with Flexcut

The Carvin Jack has six locking Flexcut offers the LARGEST selection of xed-blade carving knives in the world. With
edge tools, its a complete carving kit comfortable white ash handles, ergonomically designed to allow a strong grip for long periods
in your pocket. At just over 4 inches of carving with minimal hand fatigue. Blades are made from edge-holding steel and shaped
(closed), Carvin Jack comes with a to suit whatever youre carving.
leather belt mounted
sheath and a custom
t SlipStrop
for keeping Chip Carving Knife
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Visit our website to see our complete line at Flexcut.com or call 800-524-9077

Entropy is fitted with a clip that lets
the knife ride low in the pocket, and
like many other Kershaw folding
knives, the Entropy has holes on each
side so the clip is reversible. It is held
in place by two small screws that can
be removed by means of a T6 driver.
However, I confess to not liking knives
held in pockets by clips, so my
Entropy will be carried in a small
pouch-type sheath.
Perhaps it is just my specimen, but
out of the box, the sharpness of the
Entropy blade was not quite equal to
that of some of my other knives. It
was by no means a dull blade, but it
needed some attention. However, it
did not take long working with a
small stone to have the blade shaving
sharp and the edge super smooth.
Entropy Demeanor
With the overall size and weight of
the Entropy, it has that subjective
quality that is generally summed up
as having a good feel. I have one
knife that was once described in the
brochure as pleasing to the hand and
eye, and that description also fits the
Entropy. Not only do the scales have a
The Entropy easily removed sizeable chunks from this seasoned hardwood. surface that gives excellent traction,
but also the curvature of the handle is
NOT ONLY DO THE SCALES HAVE A SURFACE THAT GIVES just right. It doesnt have an
exaggerated arc, but the overall
EXCELLENT TRACTION, BUT ALSO THE CURVATURE OF THE handle shape makes it comfortable to
HANDLE IS JUST RIGHT. hold and easy to control. The bottom
side has a large finger groove in the
forward end, and that really results in
retention and strength. The blade on a good, non-slip grip. It functions
SPEEDSAFE the Entropy is given a stonewash superbly as a built-in hand guard.
finish so it is bright but not shiny. The Some flipper knives are activated
SpeedSafe is an assisted- blade pivot screws require a T8 driver by very little pressure on the tab.
opening mechanism designed for removal. From the box, the Entropy required a
by Hall of Fame knifemaker, Closed, the knife measures 4.5 rather firm pull on the tab to activate
Ken Onion. It allows a user to inches in length and it weighs a very Kershaws SpeedSafe mechanism. A
quickly open a knife with the portable 3.7 ounces. Scales are made couple of drops of silicone oil on the
push of the thumb stud or by of black glass-filled nylon, a material pivot solved that problem.
pulling on the blade protrusion widely employed for knife grips and Blade configuration on the Entropy
on the back of the grip. handles. Moreover, it has ribs and a makes it suitable for general use. It
SpeedSafe is not an automatic texture that makes the knife easy to could use a little more curvature on
opening system and requires hold and grip securely. The handle the bottom of the blade, if skinning
the user to actuate it manually. gives good traction, and it is more work is to be performed. The point is
SpeedSafe is found on many of pleasant to hold than some knives perhaps a little sharp if the knife is to
Kershaws best-selling knives. that have metal handles, particularly be used to gently pry open
in unfavorable weather. containers. For that type of work, I
For convenience in carry, the prefer the Kershaw Clash, which has a

CREATE
Turning the pivot screws
requires a T8 bit.
YOUR
OWN
KNIFE
Jantz
Pattern
blades
are at
ground and
cryogenically
processed
during heat
treating for
optimal
e d g e
holding
capability.
Choose your
f a v o r i t e
KERSHAW ENTROPY h a n d l e
material,
OVERALL LENGTH: 7.2 INCHES BLADE STEEL: 8CR13MOV color and
CLOSED LENGTH: 4.5 INCHES HANDLE: TEXTURED GLASS-FILLED NYLON texture along
with hardware
BLADE LENGTH: 3.25 INCHES CARRY MODE: REVERSIBLE CLIP such as guard,
WEIGHT: 3.7 OUNCES OPENING: SPEEDSAFE screws or pins
to complement
your chosen
very sturdy blade. But for general use, very welcome companion. One could
Jantz USA
Pattern blade.
the Entropy is a good compromise. do a lot of things with this knife.
Shown:
Exercising the Entropy The Finale Pattern 37 #J3708
440C Stainless Steel
A computer expert once told me When it is all said and done, the $31.95, #K374 stainless
that one never really understands a Entropy can be summed up in this way; bolster $6.95, #A846
program until it is used extensively. To it is neither too much nor too little. It is
stainless pins $1.99 and #G3750
Olive Drab sandstorm pattern
some extent, it is through use that just about right. The Entropy has handle material $19.95. Overall
any tool becomes familiar. In the case sufficient blade strength for most length 6 5/8, Blade Length 2
of a knife, on a daily basis, one is not cutting operations, but it is of suitable
5/8, Blade Width 7/8, Blade
Thickness 1/8. Bolster holes
likely to be making shavings to start a size and weight for EDC. When you need 1/8, Handle Holes 1/8, Thong
fire or to process a large game a knife, the Entropy may be just the right Hole 3/16. Available in D2,
animal. It is in performing chores such choice and with the MSRP of $39.99
CPMS 30V, 440C, 1095 High
Carbon and Damascus.
as peeling and slicing a potato or and a retail price of approximately $10
See other patterns
cutting sticks to hold a hotdog over a less, it is an excellent value. I leave my
of Jantz USA blades
fire that the EDC knife is likely to be Kershaw Blur at home most of the time
used. now that I have the Entropy. KI
along with supplies and
When using the Entropy in these download our full color
types of activities, it became catalog at
CONTACT INFORMATION
apparent that it was a very capable
KERSHAW KNIVES
knifemaking.com
and versatile cutting tool. It will do all
the little things that a knife should do
18600 SW Teton Avenue JANTZ SUPPLY
and more. If one were faced with
Tualatin, OR 97062
(800) 325-2891
309 W MAIN
having to be in a remote area until www.KershawKnives.com
DAVIS OK 73030
help arrived, the Entropy would be a 1-800-351-8900

THE
C.U.M.A.
PROTECTOR
BY CLINT THOMPSON PHOTOS BY KATE THOMPSON
Lets talk about a bad-boy knife made at the law enforcement is our third line of defense and we the
request of an American Hero to complement people are the last line of defense.
his equipment for the serious times coming. The C.U.M.A. Protector was born out of a need and
As one who has been overseas dealing with Islamic request from an American Hero. This Agent contacted
terrorists, I can say more dangerous and harder times are Waysun Johnny Tsai in Chicago. Waysun Johnny Tsai,
coming to the States. It seems we have some really bad known to friends as Johnny, is a Kung Fu Master, instructor
people here now and many more still seeping through our in survival including street survival, knife designer, actor
Southern Borders. Terrorists respect just one thing brute the list goes on. The American Hero is currently involved in
force. Our military is our first line of defense, our Federal counter terrorism assignments which requires us to not
Border Agents are our second line of defense, our local reveal his name. For this article we will call him Agent.

AS ONE WHO HAS BEEN OVERSEAS
DEALING WITH ISLAMIC TERRORISTS, I CAN
SAY MORE DANGEROUS AND HARDER TIMES
ARE COMING TO THE STATES.

This Agent handed Johnny a project to
design a knife which must meet three
requirements. This special duty fixed
blade knife must be able to cut
seatbelts, break glass and, when called
upon, be able to assist with weapon
retention. The first two requirements
are fairly straightforward, but the third
needs some further clarification.
C.U.M.A.
PROTECTOR Weapon Retention
Horizontal Sheath can be worn in the The term weapon retention means
the physical act of an officer or person
middle of your back or mounted
under arms, to keep total control of a
vertically on your Battle-Rattle. Its a
weapon. The fact is, bad people try to
great sheath and a bargain at just $40. take an officers sidearm to use
against the officer and others. For this
The 710 Custom Sheaths reason, as officers, we practice drills in
www.The710CustomSheaths.com weapon retention. These drills are
serious and at full speed. In training, I
have seen several $100 holsters ripped
right off a gun belt. One option in
weapon retention is to carry a backup
pistol or knife. With his or her gun-
hand elbow, an officer clamps down
on the duty weapon and holster. Then,
with the offhand, draws the gun or
knife and does whatever it takes to
make the dirtbag let go. The C.U.M.A.
Protector is designed as such a knife.
Built American Tough

While researching and studying
various knife designs, Johnny dropped
by his friend and co-designer Matt
Szbukas house. Matt showed Johnny
he had roughed out a hawkbill blade
design on some well-used 1095 steel.
Johnny liked the overall design, so Matt
went to his grinder and ground out the
prototype of the C.U.M.A. Protector.
This prototype was shown to the
requesting Agent who gave them two
thumbs up. From this point the
prototype was sent to TOPS Knives for
production.
In receiving my C.U.M.A. Protector
sample, I took time to carefully
examine this duty fixed blade knife. I
could see the practicality of the design
The C.U.M.A. Protector
in a custom sheath and liked the fact that this knife was
made by The 710 built by TOPS Knives, a premier knife
Custom Sheaths
production company, while DayOne
Company.
Gear is the exclusive retailer. I found
the hawkbill design to be very

Unique is the word to
describe the C.U.M.A.
Protectors overall design.
With functions beyond
self-defense, the Protector
is equipped to cut
seatbelts and break glass.
THE TERM WEAPON

RETENTION MEANS THE
PHYSICAL ACT OF AN OFFICER
OR PERSON UNDER ARMS, TO
KEEP TOTAL CONTROL OF A
WEAPON.
DESIGNER
C.U.M.A. Protector was
designed by Kung Fu Master
Waysun Johnny Tsai. Johnny,
as hes known by his friends,
is a native of Chicago. In
addition to his martial arts
accomplishments, Johnny is
an accomplished freelance
writer, published author, and
has produced 9 DVDs in
practical street defense.
Johnny currently designs
blades for several knife
producers and retail vendors.
www.CumaSurvivalSchool.com
functional and liked the sharpened G10 and red G10 accentuation. You a sidearm, slung rifle and toting a
slot on the spine of the blade it is can also order a Protector with rucksack. My thinking is when you have
well-placed for a very effective Blue/Black G10 handle. This badass tools which are used to keep you alive,
seatbelt cutter. knife weighs in at 14.5 ounces and you would want them near at hand.
The C.U.M.A. Protector is well- come with a straight line Kydex When I would stop to rest or make
designed. I like the sturdy construction Sheath. This has become one of my camp, thereby dropping my rucksack,
with the 0.19-inch thick 1095 steel and favorite Anti-Dirtbag knives. my C.U.M.A. Protector and sidearm
4.63-inches cutting edge. The overall For the purposes I had planned for would still be on my person.
length of 10.88 inches includes the this knife, I felt a need for a specialized I shipped off my C.U.M.A. Protector
5.25-inch total blade length. The finish Kydex Sheath. I called my friend J.D. of to J.D. with some instructions. A week
of the C.U.M.A. Protector is a very hard The 710 Custom Sheaths and later, I received the knife and one
Black Traction Coating. After some explained how I wanted this bad-boy fantastic Kydex Sheath. The Kydex
serious field testing, this Black to be carried. My idea was to carry it in sheath and knife fit perfectly in the
Traction showed no sign of wear. My the small of my back. In this way, the middle of my back and was designed
sample sported a fantastic handle C.U.M.A. Protector would be for a right-hand draw. The reason for
which is complemented with Black accessible to my reach when carrying this is I am ambidextrous, a curse and

The C.U.M.A. Protector was born
out of a need for a specialized
fixed blade knife for those who
go into harms way. Law
enforcement and military
warriors would do well to be
equipped with this knife.
SPECS
blessing at the same time. J.D. did a on the sidearm and holster. I then drop
great job in making this sheath, as with my right hand out of the fray, and BLADE LENGTH: 5.25 INCHES
the high quality of all sheaths he has reach for the terminating factor resting CUTTING EDGE: 4.63 INCHES
made for me in the past. If you have a in the center of my back. With the
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.19 INCH
favorite fixed blade knife that deserves attacker using both of their hands, the
a great sheath and carrying system, first blow is unopposed. If and when OVERALL LENGTH: 10.88 INCHES
The 710 Custom Sheaths is where to one would be called upon to use the BLADE STEEL: 1095 RC 56-58
go. You will have to ship the knife to C.U.M.A. Protector in this type of
BLADE FINISH: BLACK TRACTION COATING
J.D., as every knife design is unique and scenario, I believe one good blow will
requires his hands-on touch. terminate the attack. HANDLE MATERIAL: BLACK G10 OR
In my many years of law BLUE/BLACK G10
Fulfilling Requirements enforcement, there have been only KNIFE WEIGHT: 14.5 OUNCES
In weapon retention situations, I two or three times where there was a
SHEATH MATERIAL: BLACK KYDEX
clamp down with my right elbow, and need to cut a seatbelt loose from a
then turn into my attacker, reaching driver or passenger. The reason is, MANUFACTURER: TOPS KNIVES INC.
around with my left hand for a full grip most of my career has been in

In one of my cutting exercises, I
went to slashing live bamboo.
The Protector is not made for
cutting bamboo, but it did a full
two inches with ease.
I LIKED THE SHARPENED

SLOT ON THE SPINE OF THE
BLADE IT IS WELL-PLACED
FOR A VERY EFFECTIVE
SEATBELT CUTTER.
investigation and International

policing, and when I was on patrol I
was not assigned to accident
investigation. For those law
enforcement officers who do deal with
motor vehicle accidents and boating
type enforcement, I can say the
C.U.M.A. Protectors seatbelt cutting
device is very functional. If your duty
requires the occasional nylon rope use,
the cutting device on the back of the
C.U.M.A. Protectors blade works well
for this too.
On the base of the grip of the
C.U.M.A. Protector, there are two 90-
degree points which could be used to
break glass. With enough force, one
could use the entire blunt end of this
knife to pop some side-window glass.
One of the requirements of the
C.U.M.A. Protector was for it to have a However, if you were to use any glass-
pommel designed to break glass. With breaking device, including the C.U.M.A.
the proper force and a leather glove Protectors pommel, I highly
the windows will break.
recommend you put on some decent

leather gloves. The high impact of the damaged. Pushing down hard, I then built and perfect for first responders
glass-breaking device on the pommel dragged the point multiple times and gun-toters. For those warrior
of this knife could cause flying glass to across the same plywood, making citizens who go about their lives
injure your hand. I would recommend deep cuts. fighting the good fight, keeping wolves
using some other tool to break glass, After the cutting and hardwood test, away from the door, the C.U.M.A.
but if none are to be had, the C.U.M.A. I went to the meat- and-jeans test. I Protector is a hefty knife tipping in at
Protector is very sturdy and capable put a large chunk of meat in the leg of close to a pound. I am sure a proud
enough to accomplish this task. a pair of jeans. With this target, I took owner could carry this knife inside their
one strong, slashing strike. The waistband using the basic Kydex
Functional Defense C.U.M.A. Protector cut through the sheath which is included. I love this
In the cutting and slashing denim leg, leaving a four-inch-long, knife, as I do all of Johnnys designs.
department, I talked with many of my two-inch-deep cut in this chunk of This is a mans knife, a warriors knife,
friends and neighbors, but none would meat. I was amazed at the deadliness a knife one would take going into
volunteer as a test subject. So, the next of this truly badass, lethal knife. The harms way. The C.U.M.A. Protector is
best thing was to cut some living C.U.M.A. Protector laid the jeans leg sold exclusively at DayOne Gear a
bamboo. This knife cut at a steep angle and meat wide open. On inspection of great online company with great
and severed over two inches of the C.U.M.A. Protectors point, I found people. KI
bamboo. I then stabbed the C.U.M.A. it not damaged and as razor sharp as
CONTACT INFORMATION
Protector two inches into a 4x4 treated when it was shipped to me.
post. With gloved hands and an DAYONE GEAR
overhand, downward striking motion Final Thoughts 241 Elgin Ave
Forest Park, IL 60130
into -inch plywood, I penetrated of My overall evaluation of the C.U.M.A.
(800) 421-7015
an inch with a curved hawkbill blade; Protector is that this fixed blade knife www.DayOneGear.com
the blade and point were not is one bad boy. It is strong, excellently

JOSHUA SWANAGON

SOME OF THE
BEST OF 2016
BLADE SHOW
E
ach year Atlanta Georgia plays host to hundreds of the knife industrys finest.
Everything from custom makers to large production and distribution companies there
is something for everyone. Although the doors didnt officially open until afternoon on
the first day, people were lined up outside the main event room early in the morning, and the
anticipation from the crowd was electric.
As we do every year, we had a group of staff editors attend the show and report back on
some of the cool new knives coming out from some of our favorite manufacturers. This year
did not disappoint.

CRKT KAREN HOOD CHOPPER
WWW.CRKT.COM
You can do a small job with a big

knife, but you cant do a big job with
a small knife. Words of wisdom from
survival expert, Karen Hoods late
husband, renowned survival
instructor, Ron Hood. So it is only
fitting that the latest knife to join
Karen Hoods line of knives with
CRKT would be a large chopper. The
9.125-inch-long, 1095 high carbon
steel blade features a nice recurve
that gives it a well-balanced forward
weight for chopping, while the choil
at the index finger allows for
increased control during finer tasks.
SPECS
WEIGHT: 15.5 ounces
BLADE STEEL: 1095 high carbon
HANDLE: Polished resin-infused fiber
MSRP: $375.00

TOPS TAC RAZE CAS IBERIA CASSTRM
WWW.TOPSKNIVES.COM WWW.CASIBERIA.COM
There is just something From Sweden CAS Iberia brings you

about a friction folder that I the excellent Casstrm line of
have always liked, maybe its bushcraft knives. They discovered the
the history. The new TOPS Casstrm line while at the IWA trade
Knives TAC Raze is eye- show in Germany and are the first ones
catching, even before you to bring this line of quality knives into
reach their booth. Featuring the country. CAS Iberia is bringing in
black G10 handle scales with both the No. 10 Swedish Forest Knife
the new Cryptic Cyber pattern, and the No. 14 Woodsman. The knives
the TAC Raze is very grippy in come in both flat and Scandi grinds in
the hand with a very either high carbon Bhler K720 or
ergonomic design. The 1095 stainless Sandvik 14C28N, and with a
high carbon steel blade is variety of handle materials such as
reminiscent of the old straight Micarta, Bubinga, curly birch and
razors, but with a flair all its ancient bog oak. High quality leather
own. The deep friction lock sheaths with firesteel and dangler
and finger choil help the TAC options are provided depending on
Raze stay open during use. which model you choose.
SPECS SPECS
WEIGHT: 5 ounces
WEIGHT: 2.7 ounces
BLADE STEEL: 14C28N Sandvik stainless
steel
HANDLE: Black G10
HANDLE: Curly birch
MSRP: TBA
MSRP: $230.00

CAMILLUS - MORPH CRKT HOMEFRONT
WWW.CAMILLUSKNIVES.COM WWW.CRKT.COM
Anyone who has
Drawing from
seen, held or
an impressive pro-
operated a Ken
staff of designers
Onion design knows
ranging from
that he is no
Special Forces
stranger to
veterans to
innovation. Ten
wilderness
years in the making,
survival experts
Ken, along with
Camillus always
CRKT, has
strives to find
developed the
solutions. The
Homefront, a
Morph is a good
folding knife that
example of that.
has to be
For those who
experienced to get
need a higher
the full impact of
leverage cutting
just how cool it is.
point, the Morph
The Homefront is
has an offset
the first to feature
blade of Titanium-
CRKTs new Field
bonded AUS-8
Strip technology,
steel designed for
allowing you to
just that purpose.
completely
High offset blades
disassemble the
are not new in
knife, clean it and
themselves, but
put it back together
Camillus has
without any tools
engineered this
whatsoever.
profile into a
Definitely on the
folding blade for
leading edge.
EDC, so you have it
when you need it
most.
SPECS SPECS
OVERALL LENGTH: 8 inches OVERALL LENGTH: 8.313 inches
BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches BLADE LENGTH: 3.502 inches
BLADE STEEL: Titanium-bonded WEIGHT: 4.8 ounces
AUS-8 BLADE STEEL: AUS-8
HANDLE: Stainless steel and G10 HANDLE: 6061 aluminum
MSRP: TBA MSRP: $150.00

ESEE KNIVES TERTIARY
WWW.ESEEKNIVES.COM
Born of a need for hard-use knives for their
adventure and training school, ESEE Knives has been
a popular staple for bushcrafters and wilderness
survival enthusiasts since their days as RAT Cutlery.
Breaking from their traditional bushcraft knives and
forging their way into the law enforcement realm (of
which they are also responsible for providing survival
training courses), the Tertiary is a strong take on the
push dagger. The 2.5-inch blade and sharpened top
edge make for the perfect weapon-retention tool.
SPECS
WEIGHT: 5.7 ounces
HANDLE: G10
MSRP: $162.00
CONDOR MAINZ SPYDERCO - ROC
GLADIUS WWW.SPYDERCO.COM
WWW.CONDORTK.COM Its not every day that
you see a cleaver-style
If your blade play favors
blade in a folder. This
Western designs, then you
design has a very sleek
may want to check out
look when closed, but
Condors Mainz Gladius. The
when open, there is just
Mainz Gladius uses a
something menacing
traditional pattern grip of
about it. The 3.07-inch VG-
walnut with a stout double
10 stainless steel blade is
edged 18.75-inch blade of
held open by a liner lock,
1075 high carbon steel. The
and the handle, made of
scabbard is made of walnut
skeletonized stainless
with steel fittings and makes
steel and G10 scales, is
for a rugged and utilitarian,
very ergonomic and
but attractive appearance.
includes a reversible
pocket clip. Featuring
Spydercos Trademark
Round HoleTM, the ROC is
very easy to open single-
handedly.
SPECS SPECS
OVERALL LENGTH: 28.625 inches OVERALL LENGTH: 7.76 inches
WEIGHT: 2 pounds, 13.6 ounces WEIGHT: 4.2 ounces
BLADE STEEL: 1075 high carbon BLADE STEEL: VG-10 stainless steel
HANDLE: Walnut HANDLE: G-10
MSRP: $249.98 MSRP: $259.95

HELLE MNDRA
WWW.HELLE.NO
For 2016, Helle brings us another

collaboration from Les Stroud and Anders
Haglund, this time in the form of a compact
belt or neck knife. The Mndra features a
full tang, Scandi ground, 2.5-inch drop-
point blade of triple-laminated stainless
steel. The Mndra is a compact but
powerful cutter, perfect for the
outdoorsman who wants performance.
SPECS
WEIGHT: 2.4 ounces
BLADE STEEL: Triple-laminated stainless
HANDLE: Curly birch
MSRP: $209.00

CHRIS REEVE ZERO TOLERANCE
LARGE INKOSI ZT 0427 LIMITED
WWW.CHRISREEVE.COM EDITION
HTTPS://ZT.KAIUSALTD.COM
While I do not believe
anyone was surprised at
While Zero
the release of the Chris
Tolerance introduced
Reeve Large Inkosi, there
most of their 2016
were many fans in line to
knives at Shot Show,
get their hands on it.
they were well-
While the Large Inkosi
represented at Blade
looks identical to the
Show. ZT offered the
Sebenze 25, it has the
0427 as a contender
integral lock features of
for American-made
the Small Inkosi, using a
knife of the year; a
single ceramic ball
collaboration piece
bearing for the blade
between Zero
detent that also serves
Tolerance and Dmitry
as an extremely stout
Sinkevich, which offers
locking detent, which
a dual-opening
fits into a groove cut into
capability. As a flipper,
the blade face. This
this knife flies open,
knife also features the
but there is also a hole
same washer system as
in the blade that will
the Small Inkosi, with
assist in opening.
large twin washers and
Additionally, there is a
large lube reservoirs.
new innovation called
the TDS or Tuned
Detent System,
putting the detent ball
in the front scale
rather than in the
hybrid lock; available
as a limited edition
sometime in 2017.
SPECS SPECS
WEIGHT: 4.96 ounces WEIGHT: 6 ounces
BLADE STEEL: Crucible S35VN BLADE STEEL: CTS XHP cutting
HANDLE: 6A14V titanium edge/CPM154 spine
MSRP: $445.00 HANDLE: Titanium, bronze PVD,
carbon fiber inlay
MSRP: $600.00

CONDOR MAYFLOWER KNIFE
WWW.CONDORTK.COM SPECS
If you are a fan of bushcraft blades, another standout at the Condor booth was the OVERALL LENGTH: 7 inches
Mayflower knife a collaboration between Condor designer Joe Flowers and custom BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches
knifemaker Charlie May. The Mayflower features a 3-inch 420 HC stainless steel blade and WEIGHT: 3.16 ounces
a nicely contoured Micarta handle. The Mayflower comes with a high-quality leather BLADE STEEL: 420 HC Stainless
sheath and would make for a great bushcraft and camp blade. HANDLE: Micarta
MSRP: $69.98
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SPARTAN BLADES BENCHMADE
SPARTAN HARSEY 940-2
FOLDER WWW.BENCHMADE.COM
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Popular among out-
Known for high quality door enthusiasts, mar-
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enough to fit into any seri- ment and military
ous collection, but tough personnel, Benchmade
enough for the hardest com- Knife Company is
bat, Spartan Blades are built known for solid EDC
for hard use professionals knives that stand up to
and combat elite. The Spar- hard use. This year,
tan Harsey Folder comes Benchmade releases
from a collaboration be- the 940-2, a 2.65-
tween Spartan Blades and ounce EDC that virtual-
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enough for EDC but tough handle and CPM-S30V
enough for any field of ac- blade promise to stand
tion, with a body construct- up to any task. The 3.4-
ed completely of 6AL-4V Ti- inch reverse tanto
tanium and a blade of CPM blade is held open by
S35VN. The Spartan Harsey Benchmades AXIS
Folder is built to last while lock mechanism and
remaining light in the pocket the pocket clip is re-
or on your rig. versible for right- or
left-handed carry.
SPECS SPECS
BLADE LENGTH: 4 inches BLADE LENGTH: 3.4 inches
WEIGHT: 5.89 ounces WEIGHT: 2.65 ounces
BLADE STEEL: CPM S35VN BLADE STEEL: CPM-S30V
HANDLE: 6AL-4V Titanium HANDLE: G10
MSRP: $460.00 MSRP: $200.00

KA-BAR JAROSZ
GLOBETROTTER
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A newcomer to the KA-

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introduction through KA-
BAR is his eminently
practical Jarosz Globetrotter
fixed blade. The knife has
sleek lines, a comfortable
handle and a 3.5-inch blade
and 7.5-inch overall length.
Perfect for just about any
use, from EDC to hiking and
hunting, and even as a solid
tactical utility blade that
wont take up much space
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Globetrotter is a great,
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ath
MADE IN
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ut
SPECS
WEIGHT: 6.4 ounces
BLADE STEEL: 1095 Cro-Van, HRC 56-58
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TOPS DESERT NOMAD IS READY TO TAKE ON THE
HARSHEST ENVIRONMENTS
STORY AND PHOTOS BY LUKE CAUSEY

IN USE AS A GENERAL CAMP
IMPLEMENT, A SURVIVAL TOOL AND AS A
COMBAT WEAPON FOR ALL MANNER OF
CHORES, VERSIONS OF THIS KNIFE HAVE
BEEN GETTING THINGS DONE FOR OVER
150 YEARS.
knivesillustrated.com
ONE THING I NOTICED, WAS
THAT I COULD CHOKE UP ON
THE KNIFE, PUT MY INDEX
FINGER IN THE CHOIL, AND DO
DETAIL WORK IN A VERY
CONTROLLED MANNER.

(top) Although not technically a chopper, the Nomad was able to stand up to the task. (opposite) A full-grain, black leather sheath is included with the knife. Built to last, it features a
full welt, lashing holes in the belt loop, and black hardware.
Jim Bowie was clearly on to something. the Desert Nomad is combat oriented deal of work, but can be brought back to
He knew it, all his buddies knew it, and and has smart features. After using the shaving sharp with everyday sharpening
ever since the legendary Sandbar Fight knife extensively, Id say theyre right. tools. No need to plug anything in, or hook
near the bustling metropolis of Vidalia, a draft horse to a mill grinder.
Louisiana, the world knew it. A well-made Purpose Built The handle of the Desert Nomad is
Bowie knife is a formidable tool to have. In The knife has a blade length totaling 6.5 black G10 slabs over red liners and is well-
use as a general camp implement, a sur- inches. The choil at the base of the blade shaped with no square edges or useless
vival tool and as a combat weapon for all results in a cutting edge of 5.6 inches, with designs; just plain grippy, as it should be.
manner of chores, versions of this knife an overall length of 11.75 inches. The knife The G10 scales are secured with three
have been getting things done for over 150 is very stout, with a spine and tang thick- Allen-head bolts. All the exposed metal is
years. Enter a new model from TOPS ness of 0.190 inches. The knife has a full, stonewashed with a very light gray finish.
Knives the Desert Nomad. exposed tang all the way around, with a All of this is contained in a high-quality
While Tops Knives doesnt describe the pommel protrusion that measures 0.75 leather sheath, reminiscent of more tradi-
knife as a Bowie, I think youd agree that the inch and can be used for everything from tional combat Bowies, being a pancake
similarity is obvious. The Desert Nomads cracking nuts to chipping ice. The cross design with open belt loop. The belt loop
straight spine, clip point, and cross guard guard is aluminum, quite thick, and is nice- has holes punched in it, which enable it to
pretty well put it in that camp. But the ly shaped, making it very comfortable in be easily lashed to a Molle platform, or a
Desert Nomad wasnt just designed to look the hand. The steel is 440C stainless, and loop tied through it to add a second layer
the part, it was designed to function well in seems to be heat treated spot on. This of security around the handle. The sheath
any chore you throw at it. TOPS Knives says combination holds an edge through a great is dyed black entirely, and has a tie-down
BLADE THICKNESS: 0.190 INCH WEIGHT W/ SHEATH: 16.0 OUNCES

SPECS
BLADE STEEL: 440C RC 58-60 CRYO TREATED SHEATH INCLUDED: YES
OVERALL LENGTH: 11.75 INCHES BLADE FINISH: TUMBLE FINISH SHEATH MATERIAL: BLACK LEATHER
BLADE LENGTH: 6.50 INCHES HANDLE MATERIAL: BLACK G10 SHEATH CLIP: BELT LOOP
CUTTING EDGE: 5.60 INCHES KNIFE WEIGHT: 10.8 OUNCES DESIGNER: TOPS TEAM

(top) Quick, dry firewood is necessary for a fire in an emergency. Most often, that's found inside the wood you have available.
The Desert Nomad is up to the task of getting to it. (below) Here, the knife is driven through 5-inch diameter juniper that is loop at the bottom. This is a nice feature if
extremely knotted. It accomplished this with no damage and retained its shaving edge. (opposite) The finger choil was perfect youre tying the knife to a pack, but I prefer
for choking up on the blade for finer tasks.
to let the knife swing freely while it hangs
on my belt. Ive found lashing it to your leg
only invites trouble when the entire affair
gets caught on something, especially if
youre moving quickly on a dirt bike or ATV.
Preferences aside, this is a high-quality
sheath that will last for generations.
Getting the Job Done

I took it along on a backcountry dirt bike
ride in the Colorado Rockies to stretch its
legs. Miles from the nearest road, I set
about building a lunch fire in a favorite spot.
The Desert Nomad threw huge chunks of
juniper and aspen. The factory edge shaved
easily, and the knife cut small curls as well
as the big ones. Splitting open a 5-inch ju-
niper log that was three-foot-long with a
baton was a significant chore. Juniper is
knotty, twisted, and generally difficult to
BOWIES SANDBAR FIGHT

On September 19, 1827 Jim Bowie attended a duel ended without injury, Bowie was inadvertently shot clubbing. Bowie was eventually helped to safety by
on a small sandbar near Vidalia, LA, directly across when an altercation erupted between other Col. Crain, the man who originally shot him to begin
the Mississippi river from Natchez, MS. Not being a attendees. Bowie, not taking to the idea of being the affair. Bowie is recorded as telling Col. Crain while
participant of the duel himself, Bowie was present to struck with a bullet, fought back. In the end, he being helped to aid, Col. Crain, I do not think, under
support dueler Samuel Levi Wells III. After the duel suffered two gunshots, seven stab wounds, and a the circumstances, you ought to have shot me.

work. It took a lot of batoning, but in a few
minutes it was split in half. Splitting the
halves went easier, then the quarters even
easier still. In less than 10 minutes time, I
had enough firewood to boil water for the
meal and coffee, and keep things burning
over the duration of lunch.
Moving on to more detailed work, I used
the Desert Nomad to build a trigger for a
twitch up snare. This trigger is simply two
sticks with shelves that interlock for a trip-
wire or snare. The fine work was easy with
the Desert Nomad, and the trigger was
ready for practice set-up. One thing I no-
ticed, was that I could choke up on the
knife, put my index finger in the choil, and
do detail work in a very controlled manner.
The upper part of the guard wasnt in the
way as much as you would expect. Its not
quite as comfortable as a knife without
one, but the guard is designed with this
use in mind.
AMERICAN MADE TOPS Knives has been making knives completely in the USA since 1998 in the heart of the Rocky
Mountains. If you have a specific question, send them an email at info@topsknives.com

THE DESERT NOMAD HANDLED
EVERYTHING I ASKED IT TO, AND
I WOULD BE PERFECTLY
COMFORTABLE WITH THIS AS A
ONE-KNIFE OPTION.

(top) The pommel can be used for everything from cracking nuts to chipping ice. (opposite) The Desert Nomad is very 58-60 ROCKWELL
reminiscent of the old Bowie-style with a modern feel.
3-3/8 BLADE LENGTH
On a second trip into the backcountry, I and so was the tea. A solid performance 5-3/8 CLOSED LENGTH
worked on more bushcraft style skills. Im from the Desert Nomad. 4.5 OZ. WEIGHT
no bow drill expert, but Ive made several Back in the shop, all the normal chores
sets in the past. Splitting out dry, sea- were handled by the Desert Nomad. From MADE IN
THE U.S.A.
soned juniper got me the hearth board opening boxes, breaking down cardboard, to
and the spindle. The bearing was a lucky plastic packages, garden hose, and milk jug,
find, really. I came across a flat metal cap the Desert Nomad handled it all. I even used
used for iced tea bottles. The pommel of it for some electrical work when running line
the Desert Nomad dented in the center for a new water heater. The Desert Nomad MODEL : B-400-LD
with a few sharp whacks. The bow was a
convenient branch and the cordage was
cut insulation on 10x4 wiring, stripped it back,
and trimmed the excess. This would normally
M
paracord. The starting divot was made by be abusive to a blade to cut and trim ten-
twisting the tip of the knife into the gauge wire, but in the spirit of the test, I didnt
HIGH DEFINITION
hearth board and I was in business. Burn- let it bother me. With a 2x4 as an anvil, quick DAMASCUS STEEL
ing the divot in went quickly, then the chop cuts got the job done just fine. The BLADE WITH
T6 AIRCRAFT
notch had to be cut to collect to the hot smallest of edge rolls resulted, but life was
ALUMINUM HANDLE.
dust; again, choking up on the choil made right again after a date with a ceramic rod.
this detail work go quickly. On the first at- The Desert Nomad handled everything I
tempt I got smoke, but no ember. The asked it to, and I would be perfectly comfort-
second was the same. Resetting into a able with this as a one-knife option.
thicker section of the hearth board that I
wouldnt burn through easily was the Final Thoughts
trick. Attempts The folks over at TOPS Knives have built
CONTACT INFO both three and four a heck of a knife in the Desert Nomad. Its
both produced fit to roam wherever, and handle things
TACTICAL
OPERATIONAL coals, the last of when it gets there. If youre in the market
PRODUCTS
which was put into for a general-use knife thats tough-as-
P.O. BOX 86 some char cloth, nails and built to last decades, give the
UCON, ID 83454 USA
then into a juniper- TOPS Desert Nomad a look. Because you
PHONE: (208) 542-0113
WWW.TOPSKNIVES.COM bark birds nest. just never know when that next sandbar GET YOURS AT
WWW.BEARANDSONCUTLERY.COM
The flame was on fight will come around. KI

BEHINDthe
SCENES
7 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED NOVEMBER 2016 vesillustrated.com

KT GIVES BACK TO
HOSE WHO HAVE
GIVEN SO MUCH
STORY BY JOSHUA SWANAGON
PHOTOS BY CRKT
Typically, our Behind the Scenes

column serves the purpose the name
indicates: to go behind the scenes of
different knife companies and check out
their processes and other aspects of the
company itself. We also like to place a
special emphasis on veteran-owned
companies and makers. However, while
speaking with a rep for CRKT at the 2016
SHOT Show, I learned of a very unique
program CRKT has started with their
Forged By War program and I thought it
was worth going behind the scenes of this
special program and see what they are
doing for our veterans and veteran-related
non-profit organizations.
Left to right: Elmer Roush, Darren Sirois & Austin McGlaun

Sangrador
THE PROGRAM
SANGRADOR SPECIFICATIONS Background
In 2013 Ryan Johnson of RMJ Tactical
OVERALL LENGTH: 10.5 INCHES GRIND: DUAL
and designer for CRKT, approached CRKT
WEIGHT: 7.4 OUNCES STYLE: SPEAR POINT
to discuss work he had been doing with
BLADE LENGTH: 5.54 INCHES EDGE: DUAL- VEFF SERRATIONS AND PLAIN
returning combat veterans. For a few
THICKNESS: 0.183 INCHES HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
years at that point, he had been working
MATERIAL: SK5 CARRY SYSTEM: NYLON SHEATH
with combat vets who have returned with
BLADE-HRC: 54-56 WEIGHT: 2.6 OUNCES
post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
FINISH: BLACK POWDER COAT MSRP: $150.00
and have turned to steel to work through
their trials, by designing and forging their
own tools.
As I spoke with a CRKT rep, it was very
apparent to me that CRKT has a
profound respect and concern for our
returning combat veterans, and in 2016
launched the Forged By War program,
where they are working with these
designers/makers and bringing their
designs to a production level. By doing
this, the designers brought on board are
sharing the designs they wished they had
in the field with the general public at
large. Also, more importantly to the
designers, they are sharing their creations
with active military personnel, currently in
harms way, who can use all the help they
can get from back home.
It has not been an easy process for
CRKT the struggles did not lie on the
logistical side of things, but on the
selection side. While speaking with CRKT
I was told that the selection process was
very challenging because there were so
many great designs shared with them, it
was difficult selecting the right models to
bring to production. With so many great
designers and relationships they have
Darren Sirois grinding one of his original Sangradors. built, they wish they could make them all.

Maybe that is a good sign for the future of so that these tools can be in the hands of
this program. those who need them the most. To find
out more about this discount or to take
Philanthropy advantage of it, visit
Not content with resting on simple www.crkt.com/militarysales.
PURPLE HEART HOMES
laurels, CRKT is not only helping returning
www.PurpleHeartHomesUSA.org
combat veterans bring their visions to a A SOLID START 1551 Salisbury Road
broader market and getting them into the At the moment, there are only two
PO Box 5535
hands of those who need them most, they knives and an axe in the Forged By War
Statesville, NC 28687
are also helping other returning veterans program, but this is only the start of the
(704) 838-4044
by donating 10% of the CRKT net profits good things to come. After speaking with
855-PURPLE-9
to the veterans charity of choice. While CRKT about the Forged By War program, I
the two current charities supported by this was assured that they will have more to
program are Purple Heart Homes and debut at the 2017 SHOT Show. From
Green Beret Foundation, there are so everything I have been able to gather
many more charities that CRKT would about this program, it looks as though it is
really like to support, every one that is out gaining traction.
there, as I am told. I believe that this
program will eventually be able to go a Sangrador
long way toward accomplishing a large Ten and a half inches of mean, the
part of that goal. Sangrador is a dual-edged dagger with GREEN BERET FOUNDATION
Along with their donations to veterans one purpose, and it does it well. The dual www.GreenBeretFoundation.org
causes, CRKT also provides a edge gives you the benefit of a plain edge 14402 Blanco Rd., Suite 101
professional discount for military, law on one side and the Veff Serrations on the San Antonio, TX 78216
enforcement and logistics professionals other, providing the best of both worlds. (844) 287-7133
THE SCHRADE SURE-LOCK. Self-sufciency is more attainable with

all your digits. Blade lock rated to 300 pounds. Razor-sharp high-carbon
AUS-8 stainless steel blade. Aluminum handle. Pocket clip.

Clever Girl
AFTER SPEAKING
WITH CRKT ABOUT
CLEVER GIRL SPECIFICATIONS
THE FORGED BY
WAR PROGRAM, I OVERALL LENGTH: 10.125 INCHES GRIND: HOLLOW
WAS ASSURED WEIGHT: 6.3 OUNCES STYLE: PERSIAN
BLADE LENGTH: 4.6 INCHES EDGE: PLAIN
THAT THEY WILL THICKNESS: 0.158 INCHES HANDLE MATERIAL: G10
HAVE MORE TO MATERIAL: SK5 CARRY SYSTEM: GLASS-REINFORCED NYLON
BLADE-HRC: 54-56 WEIGHT: 1.6 OUNCES
DEBUT AT THE 2017 FINISH: BLACK POWDER COAT MSRP: $125.00
SHOT SHOW.
Austin McGlaun forging an original Clever Girl.

The aggressive spear point tip on the steel blade features a hollow grind for
5.54-inch blade is ideal for maximum ultimate slicing capabilities. The G10
penetration, yet sports a slightly broader handle scales feature a grooved pattern
tip for strength. The Sangrador is to enhance the grip when wet or dirty,
constructed of black-powder-coated and are built to withstand hard use in
SK5 high-carbon steel and finished with hard environments. At 6.3 ounces (7.9
G10 handle scales, giving it a great feel in ounces with sheath), the Clever Girl will
the hand, while being strong enough to disappear until you need her to appear
withstand the harshest environments. and get the job done.
Weighing in at only 7.4 ounces (10 ounces
with sheath), the Sangrador easily makes Birler Axe
itself a permanent part of your belt or kit. Harkening back to the old lumberjacks,
who were tough as nails, the Birler Axe
Clever Girl makes its home in the field or in combat.
If you saw the movie Jurassic Park and The 16-inch axe features a head
remember the scene where Bob Pecks constructed of 1055 high-carbon steel
character, Game Warden Robert sporting a 5.165-inch blade. At 10.3
Muldoon, had a velociraptor sneak up on ounces, the Birler Axe is heavy enough to
him while hunting her, then youll work its way through the toughest job,
remember the now famous line spoken but still light enough to not be a burden
seconds before being devoured clever in your kit. The Hickory handle features a
girl. As aggressive as a velociraptor, the nice throat at the base for increased
10.125-inch Clever Girl sports a 4.6-inch control that is reminiscent of Viking
Persian-style blade designed to get the designs of the past, while the long beard
job done with extreme prejudice. The allows you to choke up deep behind the
black-powder-coated SK5 high-carbon bit for finer work. It has a nice, flattened
DARRIN SIROIS SANGRADOR

From CRKT.com
create a quality sheath
for your quality knives
Coming from a Special Ops background, Darrin doesnt
design knives that just work in theory. They need to work in
action, too. And he knows the missing element to any great
blade: human input. Thats why youll often find him
hounding his Special Operations teammates and asking
them what they like and dont like about their knives. Now
as part of the Forged by War program hes fine-tuning
until his knife-making mission is complete. Along the way,
hes earning nods from awards shows and fellow soldiers
all around the world.
AUSTIN MCGLAUN CLEVER GIRL

From CRKT.com
There are those who fight with knives. There are others
who design them. And thentheres Austin. Having served
in the 101st Airborne Division in Iraq, and as a street cop in
Columbus, GA, he knows that a knife has to work as both a
weapon and a tool. As part of the Forged By War
program he applied his skills as both a combat vet and
knife maker to develop the Clever Girl. Not to mention a
new way to bring his fellow soldiers home. When asked
about his design philosophy, hell tell you that if a knife is All the supplies you need at tandyleather.com
ugly but effective, its not ugly. Its perfect. FREE Buyers Guide available
TLF_KNIVESILLAD_0315

Birler Axe
BIRLER AXE SPECIFICATIONS

OVERALL LENGTH: 16 INCHES BLADE-HRC: 50-55
WEIGHT: 10.3 OUNCES FINISH: SATIN
BLADE LENGTH: 5.165 INCHES HANDLE MATERIAL: HICKORY
THICKNESS: 1.113 INCHES MSRP: $89.99
MATERIAL: 1055 CARBON
Elmer Roush putting some finishing touches on a custom Birler Axe.

ELMER ROUSH BIRLER AXE
From CRKT.com
Elmer has spent his fair share of time on the battlefield. But these days, what really gives him
excitement is battling hot steel with a hammer as a blacksmith. He enjoys hand forging functional
edged tools and brings over 40 years of experience to the Forged By War program. Axes, froes,
hatchets, and historical replicas, such as Viking axes, are his specialty. Though his designs look
modern, theyre actually based on tools and implements that go back thousands of years.
poll protruding slightly away from the of patriotism and support for those who
shoulder allowing for hammering jobs put themselves in harms way for us all.
without being in the way in your kit. The Forged By War program not only
helps our returning vets deal with issues
Conclusion such as PTSD and integrating back into
Being a big supporter of our returning vets society, but it also helps other organizations
and all that they have done for us as a that are helping our vets on a larger scale.
country, I am always quick to do whatever I With the three current models in the
can to support them in whatever way program and the designs yet to come,
possible. What the Forged By War program Forged By War shows a lot of promise, that it
is doing speaks volumes to me about where will be around for years to come and help
CRKT stands on the topic of veteran countless lives. For more information about
support and I find that to be just another the Forged By War program visit
great thing about CRKT as a company. More www.CRKT.com/forged-by-war. KI
than just CRKT as a company, but each
CONTACT INFORMATION
individual that I have spoken with about this COLUMBIA RIVER KNIFE & TOOL
program has spoken about it with a great www.CRKT.com
deal of pride and enthusiasm, 18348 SW 126th Place
demonstrating that CRKT fosters a culture Tualatin, OR 97062 USA
Phone: (503) 685-5015
F.A.S.T.
FAST ACTION
SOFT TOUCH
FIXED BLADE
Solid one-piece tang with soft-touch

Mossy Oak grip and lanyard hole
Black Oxidized Stainless Steel Blade
10 1/2" Overall Length
5 3/4" Blade Length
Heavy-duty Ballistic Sheath with
Belt Loop Included
GET YOURS AT
WWW.REMINGTONCUTLERY.COM
Keeping the
CUTTING
EDGE
A QUICK GUIDE TO SHARPENING
STORY BY STAN WATSON, TECHNICAL DIRECTOR, DMT,
ACME UNITED CORPORATION
PHOTOS BY DMT, ACME UNITED CORPORATION
D
uring my 29 years at DMT, Ive gained a variety of knowledge and
experience in the art of knife sharpening. I often hear people say theyre
afraid to sharpen their knives. Usually theyre worried theyll either ruin
the knife or hurt themselves in the process. While it is a very refined skill,
anyone can learn to sharpen a knife accurately, efficiently, and most
importantly, safely. Knowing what sharpener to use, how to properly sharpen
and when to sharpen your knives will not only help you build your skills, but
also improve the quality of your cutlery.
Before You Begin

Sharpening the blade is a crucial part of knife maintenance. Always
remember, a sharp knife is a safe knife. Using a dull knife requires far more
force, increasing the likelihood youll slip hurting yourself or someone else.
That being said, sharpening is an inherently dangerous activity. Even the
most seasoned professionals can make a very costly and painful mistake if
they arent paying careful attention. Whenever sharpening knives or
any other tool, find a quiet area that allows for great
concentration. Knives should never be sharpened if you are
upset, distracted or ill.
Choosing a Sharpener
Choosing the proper sharpener is a critical
piece of the process. There is no shortage
of sharpeners on the market, each with
its own unique features. Popular types
include water stones, bench grinders,
oil stones, grinding wheels, Arkansas
stones and diamond sharpeners. While
each tool has its own merits, I have a strong
preference for diamond sharpeners, like those
from DMT.
While other stones require messy oils or petroleum, diamond stones
PHOTO BY JOSHUA SWANAGON
require no lubricant aside from a few drops of water. These tools are long-
lasting and offer the cleanest, most consistent sharpen on the market. I
consider a diamond sharpeners greatest asset to be its efficiency. What may
take 30-40 strokes on a conventional whetstone takes only 5-7 strokes on a
DMT diamond bench stone.

WHILE IT IS A VERY REFINED SKILL,
ANYONE CAN LEARN TO SHARPEN A KNIFE
ACCURATELY, EFFICIENTLY, AND MOST
IMPORTANTLY, SAFELY.

Its also important to consider the type of
knife you are sharpening when picking out
the proper tool. If you are looking to sharpen
a serrated or concave blade, a curved
sharpener that can address each individual
serration is ideal. Conversely, if you are
sharpening a straight edge or convex blade,
a flat sharpener would be best.
The final and most important thing to
consider when choosing a diamond
sharpener is grit. The grit of a sharpening
stone indicates how coarse or fine the
stone is. The finer the stones grit, the
smoother the blade cuts. When deciding
Diamond sharpeners are durable and provide an extremely clean, consistent sharpen on knives and other tools. the proper grit, think about how the knife is
used. Is it an everyday carry (EDC) or
GRIT: The structure of the stone that adapts it to sharpening and grinding pocket knife you use to cut rope or
BEVEL: The slant of a blades cutting edge cardboard? If so, use a sharpener with a
GLOSSARY CONCAVE: Curving inward (like the inside of a bowl) coarse grit that produces a rougher finish. If
CONVEX: Curving outward (like the outside of a bowl) you are looking to sharpen kitchen cutlery
you use to slice meats or fish, a much finer
grit would be the right choice.
Sharpening a Knife
People often ask about the proper angle
to use when sharpening a knife. While using
the correct angle is undoubtedly important,
maintaining a consistent angle is the key to
success. Constantly adjusting and shifting
WHENEVER SHARPENING the knife between strokes, even if its only a

few degrees, makes it difficult to produce a
KNIVES OR ANY OTHER good, straight edge.
TOOL, FIND A QUIET AREA Slowly adjusting the blade to the proper
position is an easy exercise to help
THAT ALLOWS FOR GREAT maintain a consistent angle. First, place the
CONCENTRATION. KNIVES blade at a 90-degree angle with the stone.
Next, adjust the knife to a 45-degree angle
SHOULD NEVER BE and then a 22.5-degree angle. Take note of
SHARPENED IF YOU ARE the position and stroke the blade into the
UPSET, DISTRACTED cutting edge across the stone multiple

times. Continue to begin the stroke at a 90-
OR ILL. degree angle and adjust every time you
switch sides.
Using a magic marker can also help you
visualize the proper sharpening angle.
BENEFITS OF DMT
DIAMOND SHARPENERS:
P Clean, consistent sharpen
Using a diamond steel on your kitchen P Far less time-consuming
cutlery at least once a week helps keep P Doesnt require messy applicants,
blades in perfect working order between
like oil
monthly sharpenings.
P Extreme durability

A sharp knife is a safe knife.
ALWAYS Practice makes perfect.
REMEMBER Always match the stones grit to the knifes job.
DMT diamond sharpeners come in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is important to choose the proper sharpener for
the task at hand.
Simply draw a line along the bevel edge of Sharpening Schedules

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Advertiser Page Nomber
the blade and take one stroke across the Creating a sharpening routine not American Gunsmithing Institute 7
diamond whetstone. If the marker is only helps maintain a knifes quality, Bear and Son Cutlery 61, 69, 77
BladeGallery.com 45
removed, you matched the bevel angle. If but also makes the process less time-
Blue Ridge Knives 35, 75
not, adjust the angle and continue the consuming. It is far easier and much Bradford USA 31
exercise. more efficient to sharpen sharp knives Camillus & Western Cutlery 17
Chris Reeve Knives 35
Be sure to maintain even pressure and as compared to dull ones. After
Colonial Knife Company 57
long, consistent motions when running the initially sharpening your cutlery, Columbia River Knife & Tool 67
blade along the stone. Flailing and flipping consistently doing so keeps them Doublestar Corp 3
Fiddleback Forge 5
the knife like you often see on TV only performing at a high level. Kitchen
Flexcut Tool Company 39
creates an improperly sharpened and knives should be thoroughly Hogue Grips 55
shaped blade. A well-maintained knife sharpened every few months and the Jantz Supply 10-11, 41
Kayne & Son 33
generally requires five to seven strokes per blade touched up with a diamond
Knife and Gun Finishing Supply 25
side on a diamond stone, while a dull knife steel once a week or more. A utility or Knife Center Of The Internet 77
may take between 10 and 14 per side. EDC knife should be sharpened at Krudo Knives 59
Mission Knives 57
It is important to remember that practice least once a month.
Niagara Specialty Metals 33
makes perfect in knife sharpening. Knife sharpening is an art and an Ontario Knife Company 49
Sharpening is like any other skill; it requires invaluable skill. While it may take serious Pat Crawford Knives 23
Randall Made Knives 81
both practice and patience in order to create concentration and precision, it is very
Schrade 73
muscle memory. I often recommend that rewarding. Through patience, practice and Spartan Blades USA 35
those who are new to sharpening or are perseverance, anyone can become a Spyderco Inc. 25
Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. 84
using a DMT stone for the first time purchase seasoned sharpener. With a safe
Tandy Leather Factory 75
an inexpensive set of knives to practice with. environment as well as the proper tools TOPS Knives 83
This prevents any novice slipups that could and technique, youll be sharpening blades Tru-Grit, Inc. 77
W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co. 2
damage a more costly cutlery set. like a pro in no time. KI
Wilson Combat 23

on the
EDGE
Rising Talent
Navarrete Knives
Material Preference
4 Josh prefers to work with 1095, O1,
CPM 3V, S35V and Damascus. For his
handle scales he likes to work with exotic
woods such as Amboyna Burl, African
Ebony, Snakewood and Mexican
Cocobolo, but he has recently started
making his own Micarta, and it is quickly
becoming his favorite.
Creative Process
5 When getting ready to start working
on a design, Josh likes to sit in his shop
and play with a few of his knives for a
while and think about the design. He then
begins sketching, focusing on the
customers needs.
Personal Favorites
6 When asked what his favorite
busy mind and creative drive can
A
and get that under control. However, he is designs to work on are, he said that he
drive some people crazy, but for still battling his tendency to overthink likes making drop point with a high
others, like Josh Navarrete of things. flat/saber, straight clip point and straight
Salem, Oregon, it can drive them into a point with a Scandi/saber or
new passion. Finding Fulfillment Scandi/convex hybrid grind.
Having made his first knife, after
watching a do-it-yourself video back in
2 Josh finds great joy in the knife
community as a whole and finds that it is Looking to the Future
2014, Josh says it was the ugliest thing
you have ever seen, but when he looked
one of the strongest communities he has 7 Josh is currently working on a
ever belonged to. The relationship production model of one of his knives and
at it, he saw the most beautiful thing in between knifemakers has become a will have it available soon. He is also
the world. This began his walk down the brotherhood and his relationship with his hoping to get into forging someday and
path of a new calling. customers is more than a business plans to use that process to make neck
transaction and has resulted in some knives.
The Challenges
1 As with many knifemakers, Josh has
great friendships.
Ordering
struggled with time management. But Finding Inspiration 8 Josh considers his customer requests
lately he has been working to prioritize 3 Doing mostly custom work, he works to be his bread and butter and his favorite
directly with his customers to help bring work to do. For that reason, when ordering
Website: www.NavarreteKnives.com
their vision to reality. He finds his greatest a Navarrete Knife, the wait time is
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/NavarreteKnives
inspiration during this process. approximately 16 weeks. KI
8 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED November 2016 knivesillustrated.com

EVERYTHING AND ANYTHING RUGER
RUGER KNIVES

Manufactured by CRKT under

license from Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc.
The exclusive Ruger knife line includes designs for everyday carry, hunting, tactical uses and
self-preparedness. Designed and built by CRKT , an industry leader in knives and tools, this line
of knives offers a variety of sizes and finishes, with an assortment of blade edges. Developed by five
master knife-smiths who combined their knowledge of the art with aesthetic details from Ruger firearms, the line is
comprised of unique knives with the important features that every good knife should have. These knives are purpose
built to be durable and highly functional in the environments where Ruger customers will expect them to perform.
PURCHASE RUGER KNIVES AT SHOPRUGER.COM

Join Ruger and help us raise $5,000,000 for the NRA.

RUGER .COM/2MILLION
2016 Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. 052716

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kn ivesillu strated.

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