Knives Illustrated - September October 2014
Transcription
Knives Illustrated - September October 2014
KI-1409-COVER 6/26/14 4:42 AM Page US_C1 knivesillustrated.com SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 • VOLUME 28, NO. 5 $5.99 U.S. • DISPLAY UNTIL: 9/16/14 09 0 71658 03124 1 Engaged Media By Beckett KI_1409_C2 6/24/14 11:47 PM Page C2 KI_1409_3 6/30/14 1:57 PM Page 3 MADE BY AMERICAN HANDS FOR YOUR HANDS Bear Song TM IV T-6 Aircraft Aluminum Handles 14C28N Stainless Steel Blade Blade rides on Bronze Phosporus Washers All New B-450-ALBD-S Available in 2 sizes & 3 Colors B-450-ALCF-S B-400-ALCF-S B-400-ALBD-S B-450-ALPD-S B-400-ALPD-S KI-1409-4-6-TOC 6/25/14 11:32 PM Page 4 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 VOLUME 28, NO. 5 www.knivesillustrated.com 24 SPECIAL SECTION: 56 The Best of Blade The hottest knives, the most exciting moments. We were in Atlanta for the recent Blade Show, and we’ve got full coverage of this annual event. BY KI STAFF COVER STORY 12 On the Hunt The experienced woodsman knows that a knife is the perfect companion to his rifle. We found five top options for the hunter on any budget. BY TERRILL HOFFMAN TACTICAL/RESCUE 42 34 A New Direction Long known for its outdoor and military knives, Ontario is expanding its reach into tactical knives for the urban user. BY ABE ELIAS 42 Back with a Vengeance Fans of renowned knife maker Jerry Hossom will recognize the latest tactical offering from Fox Knives USA: the Vengeance, a revamped take on Hossom’s Reprisal. BY JIM WEISS AND MICKEY DAVIS 70 50 In Heroic Hands When every second could mean the difference between life and death, a first responder needs a tool he can trust. We’ve rounded up the best of the best. BY TIM STETZER KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) Vol. 28, No. 5 is published 7 times a year, January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/ October, November and December, by Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887. Periodical postage paid at Anaheim, CA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Knives Illustrated c/o Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001 © 2014 by Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI_1409_5 6/24/14 11:50 PM Page 5 SANTI D2 - MSRP: $121 AUS-8 - MSRP: $104 Multi-National Designs, Made in Russia Kizlyar Supreme utilizes the highest tech processes and materials available today to produce superior performance knives. They are backed by a multinational team of talented designers and engineers from Russia, Germany, Australia and Japan. See the full line of high-quality knives at http://casiberia.com. BIKER Z DELTA VENDETTA http://casiberia.com | (800) 635-9366 KI-1409-4-6-TOC.CX 6/29/14 11:31 PM Page 6 SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 Volume 28 • Number 5 12 EDITORIAL Editorial Director: Doug Jeffrey Editor: Bethany Miller Managing Editor: Jeffrey Rick Art Director: Ronald Abella Creative Director: Eric Knagg CONTRIBUTORS Mickey Davis, Abe Elias, Terrill Hoffman, Les Robertson, Dave Spaulding, Tim Stetzer, Clint Thompson, Jim Weiss OUTDOOR CUSTOM 28 Bigger, Burlier Bushcraft 24 The Master Mora of Sweden is known for its sturdy everyday carry and camping/hunting knives. Now, they’re stepping up their game with their largest knife yet: the Bushcraft Pathfinder. ADVERTISING Gabe Frimmel: Ad Sales Director (714) 200-1930 [email protected] Casey Clifford: Senior Account Executive (717) 896-8956 Mark Pack: Senior Account Executive (714) 200-1939 Gennifer Merriday: Ad Traffic Coordinator DIRECT MARKETING GROUP BY TIM STETZER John Bartulin (866) 866-5146 ext. 2746 Paul Caca (866) 866-5146 ext. 4961 Ryan Lauro (866) 866-5146 ext. 2756 Mary Ann Jaca (866) 866-5146 ext 2716 BY LES ROBERTSON COLUMNS OPERATIONS Gus Alonzo: Newsstand Sales & Marketing Manager Celia Merriday: Newsstand Analyst Amit Sharma: Business Analytics Manager Mohit Patel: Newsstand & Production Analyst Alberto Chavez: Senior Logistics & Facilities Manager John Cabral: Creative Graphic Designer 10 Points of Interest Guess the Maker, upcoming events and the latest goingson in the knife world. EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200 Yorba Linda, CA 92887 (714) 939-9991 Fax: (800) 249-7761 www.knivesillustrated.com facebook.com/knivesillustrated facebook.com/eembybeckett 20 How To… …Start a custom knife business. KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) Vol. 28, No. 5 is published 7 times a year, January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, November and December, by Beckett Media, LLC, 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887. Periodical postage paid at Anaheim, CA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Knives Illustrated c/o Beckett Media, 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON N6C 6B2 GST#855050365RT001 © 2014 by Beckett Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. 70 Behind the Scenes A Q&A with TOPS Knives. 74 Bells and Whistles 10 hot accessories for knife owners. CUSTOMER SERVICE Beckett Media, LLC 4635 McEwen Road, Dallas, TX 75244 Subscriptions, Address Changes, Renewals, Missing or Damaged Copies (800) 764-6278 (239) 653-0225 Foreign Inquires [email protected] [email protected] Jim Siska’s background in gunsmithing didn’t limit him from becoming an accomplished knife maker. You’re about to go inside his creative world. 82 Show and Tell Cover photography by TERRILL HOFFMAN A reader’s favorite knife from Böker. Back Issues www.engagedmediamags.com Books, Merchandise, Reprints (239) 280-2380 Dealer Sales (239) 280-2380 Letters to the Editor, New Products or to Contribute a Story or Photo Bethany Miller 22840 Savi Ranch Parkway, #200, Yorba Linda, CA 92887 [email protected] Subscription Rates $17.95/1 year, $27.95 2/years. 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Box 25542 London, ON N6C 6B2 This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by Beckett Media, LLC as to the legality, completeness or technical accuracy. 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI_1409_7 6/25/14 11:15 PM Page 7 TWO is better than One Subscribe Now and SAVE BIG only $29.95 /RJRQWRwww.engagedmediamags.com/combo_kiasg &DOORXUWROOIUHHQXPEHU )LOORXWWKHRUGHUIRUPEHORZDQGPDLOLWZLWK\RXUSD\PHQWLQIRUPDWLRQWR %HFNHWW0HGLD//&/RFNER[3KLODGHOSKLD3$ to subscribe Take advantage of this special offer and get a 1-year subscription to Knives Illustrated (7 issues) with a 1-year subscription to American Survival Guide (6 issues) and SAVE UP TO 69% off the cover price! ❑ YES! sign me up for a subscription to Knives Illustrated and American Survival Guide That is a total of 13 issues for a total savings of $65.92 off the cover price Method of Payment Check enclosed Payment through credit card Visa Credit Card MC AMEX Money Order Discover Name on credit card Expiration Credit card number Subscriber name First MI da te / / Last Address City State Phone Enter Promo Code Email Signature Date / / A543L011 For a full listing of our titles, visit www.engagedmediamags.com today! Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of first issue. Outside US, add $28 per year for additional postage. Pay in US funds only. KI-1409-8-EDIT.CX-jc 6/29/14 11:32 PM Page 8 EDITOR’S LETTER BY BETHANY MILLER More Than Tools e do this demonstration to show that knives aren’t weapons, but tools,” said three-time BladeSports champion Donavon Phillips at the 2014 World Cutting Championship—one of the highlights of the Blade Show. W Knife by Vulture Equipment Works Photo by Tim Stetzer “ And what tools they are. In a truly impressive display, this demonstration showcased the chopping power of larger blades as competitors almost effortlessly hacked and sliced through everything from 2x4 planks to ropes to full water bottles. Inside the convention center, meanwhile, knife enthusiasts of every stripe milled around tables upon tables of knives on display. Some ogled the finest custom blades, which were nothing short of works of art. Others handled the variety of survival, tactical and everyday carry knives making their midseason debuts. No matter who you were or what you needed, someone had just what you were looking for. Yet even so, the appeal of the show was not just the knives themselves. Much though all of us in attendance all enjoyed being the first to see and hold the newest, coolest offerings from our favorite makers, what we enjoyed more was sharing our passion with each other, from the floor of the Cobb Galleria to “the Pit” at the Waverly Hotel. Knives aren’t only tools for performing particular tasks; they’re also tools for bringing together a community. And even better, in some cases, they’re tools for doing good. Benchmade, for example, auctioned off four concept knives that altogether netted nearly $6,000 to split between the American Knife and Tool Institute and Knife Rights, while Queen Cutlery brought in $2,250 in support of wounded veterans through its own auction of a custom collaboration. It’s because of this community that organizations like BladeSports or Knife Rights or AKTI exist, and why magazines like Knives Illustrated exist: not only to counter misperceptions of knives as mere weapons, but to share our conversations and knowledge, our preferences and our passions. Knives are fine tools indeed, but thanks to the knife-loving community, they’re also so much more. KI “KNIVES AREN’T ONLY TOOLS FOR PERFORMING PARTICULAR TASKS; THEY’RE TOOLS FOR BRINGING TOGETHER A COMMUNITY.” 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI_1409_9 6/30/14 1:59 PM Page 9 KI-1409-10-11-NEWS 6/25/14 11:43 PM Page 10 POINTSof INTEREST UPCOMING EVENTS Dates and locations subject to change; please contact the show managers before arranging your travel. THE LATEST GOINGS-ON IN THE KNIFE WORLD Name the Maker SCORE A CHANCE TO WIN A SUBSCRIPTION BY CORRECTLY IDENTIFYING THE MAKER OF THIS BLADE PHOTO BY JIM COOPER We congratulate Knives Illustrated reader Tara Gimber, who correctly identified Jay Fisher as the maker of the knife featured in our May/June issue. JULY 31- AUG. 3 LOUISVILLE, KY Knifemakers’ Guild Show (502) 585-3200 www.KnifemakersGuild.com AUG. 15-17 DENVER, CO Denver Custom Knife Show (785) 820-6928 [email protected] www.ProKnifemakers.com AUG. 16-17 TORONTO, ONTARIO Canadian Knifemakers Guild Show www.CanadianKnifemakersGuild.com AUG. 22-24 TROY, OH Mid-America Bladesmithing Symposium (419) 832-5801 [email protected] www.AmericanBladesmith.com SEPT. 13-14 WINSTON-SALEM, NC Southeastern Custom Knife Show www.SoutheasternCustomKnifeShow.com OCT. 3-4 WAUWASOTA, WI Northern Lakes Knife Company Annual Fall Knife Show (414) 771-6472 [email protected] OCT. 4-5 TOPEKA, KS Heartland Bladesmithing Symposium (785) 484-0146 [email protected] www.AmericanBladesmith.com OCT. 11-12 GARDEN GROVE, CA California Custom Knife Show www.CaliforniaCustomKnifeShow.com OCT. 18-19 CLYDE, NC ABS Smoky Mountain Fall Hammer-In (828) 266-2551 [email protected] www.AmericanBladesmith.com OCT. 24-26 TULARE, CA California Hammer-In (559) 636-0501 [email protected] www.AmericanBladesmith.com HOW TO WIN If you correctly identify the maker of the featured knife, you will be entered into a drawing for a free one-year subscription to Knives Illustrated. If you’re already a subscriber, you may choose to extend your current subscription or to receive a subscription to one of our sister magazines, Gun World or Bow & Arrow Hunting. All entries must be received by 4 p.m. PST on August 25. Winners are determined by placing entries in numerical order and generating a random number using www.random.org. Please submit guesses to [email protected] and specify your preferred prize option. Please also include the mailing address where you would like to receive your subscription should you win. 1 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 HINT: This knife’s maker is a Union Pacific Railroad worker by day. Most of his knives are forged, though he also will do stock removal upon a customer’s request. He specializes in Damascus, heat treating and cryogenic treatment. NOV. 21-23 JERSEY CITY, NJ New York Custom Knife Show (417) 866-6688 www.FiftyFiftyProductions.net JAN. 23-25, 2015 LAS VEGAS, NV SHOT Show (855) 355-7468 www.SHOTShow.org JAN. 24 LAS VEGAS, NV Tactical Knife Invitational (417) 866-6688 www.FiftyFiftyProductions.net knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-10-11-NEWS 6/25/14 11:43 PM Page 11 Knife App-titude Unsure of knife regulations in your area? The new LegalBlade app, produced by grassroots organization Knife Rights, makes it easy for you to quickly reference your local laws. This first-of-its-kind app gives you access to the most current laws and ordinances in all 50 states in the form of easily readable text, color-coded tables, and helpful legal references. “Knowledge of the law is the first step in avoiding an unfortunate arrest, loss of your knife or other legal complications,” says Doug Ritter, Knife Rights president. LegalBlade is currently available for Android in the Google Play Store, and is pending approval for Apple’s App Store. The cost to download is only $1.99. End of an Era They say all good things must come to an end. That is the case for the National Knife Museum, which closed its doors recently, but there’s a happy ending. Its knives are being distributed to the National Rifle Association Museum in Springfield, Missouri; the Berman Museum of World History in Anniston, Alabama; and the Janney Furnace Museum in Ohatchee, Alabama. The museum was run by the National Knife Collectors Association and originally located in Chattanooga, Tennessee. In 2006, the museum moved to Sevierville, Tennessee, where it was housed by Smoky Mountain Knife Works. For more information, visit www.NationalKnifeMuseum.com. Training Tool It’s the perfect compromise between training realistically and training safely. The Practice Metal Folding Knife by Ronin Gear gives anyone training in combat knife usage—from martial artists to law enforcement—the chance to test their skills with a tool that feels as dangerous in hand as a sharpened blade, but without risk of serious injury. While many training knives are made of wood or plastic, this folder features a dulled stainless steel blade and composite handles with rubber inserts. While no one can put a price tag on safety, the Practice Metal Folding Knife retails for $14.95. To purchase, visit www.IISports.com. KI knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 1 1 KI-1409-12-19-HUNTING 6/25/14 11:56 PM Page 12 5 HARDY BLADES FOR ANY BUDGET STORY AND PHOTOS BY TERRILL HOFFMAN man’s thoughts may turn toward romance in the spring, according to the old saying, but in the summer, his thoughts turn toward hunting. A While he waits for the crispness of fall, the hunter prepares by cleaning, oiling and generally fondling the tools of his trade: the rifle and the knife. The rifle has only been his weapon of choice for a couple of centuries, but the knife has been with man ever since he learned to chip rocks. While the knife has been refined over the ages, there remains a primal bond between the hunter and his blade. With this in mind, I’ve taken a look at some of the hunting knives now on the market. One of these knives just might be the perfect companion for your next hunting trip. 1 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-12-19-HUNTING 6/25/14 11:56 PM Page 13 “THERE REMAINS A PRIMAL BOND BETWEEN THE HUNTER AND HIS BLADE.” From left to right: Kershaw’s Diskin Hunter, Benchmade’s Hidden Canyon Hunter, FAMARS USA’s Predatore Hunter Medium, Buck’s PakLite Skinner, TOPS’s Scandi Woodsman. knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 1 3 KI-1409-12-19-HUNTING 6/25/14 11:57 PM Page 14 To accommodate every pocketbook, here are five knives that run the gamut to budget-friendly to luxury. UNDER $50 Buck PakLite Skinner The Kershaw Diskin Hunter makes an excellent hunting knife but can also be a capable camp knife. The hunter wanting the most bang for his buck would do well to try out this knife. This skeleton-style knife is ground from 0.19-inch thick 420HC stainless steel. The knife has a full 3.5-inch blade with a pronounced recurve, which gives the design an ample “belly” to aid in skinning. Even with a full-sized handle, which gives the knife an overall length of 8 inches, the PakLite weighs a mere 4.1 ounces. The single finger groove and jibbing along the spine ensures a comfortable and secure grip. The Orange Traction Coating finish guarantees you won’t misplace this knife if you set it down in the woods. The PakLite Skinner is supplied with a black heavyduty nylon sheath. Even without handle scales, the PakLite proved to be rather comfortable during use. The broad handle profile filled in the palm space vacated by the lack of scales. While I didn’t have an animal available, I can tell you from experience that the recurve will come in handy while skinning out a The Buck PakLite Skinner has everything you need in a knife without the excess weight. It will provide a hunter with a fullsized knife without the bulk. 1 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-12-19-HUNTING.CX 6/29/14 11:34 PM Page 15 CONTACT BENCHMADE 300 Beavercreek Rd. Oregon City, OR 97045 (800) 800-7427 www.Benchmade.com BUCK KNIVES 660 S. Lochsa St. Post Falls, ID 83854 (800) 326-2825 www.BuckKnives.com FAMARS USA 2091 Nooseneck Hill Road Coventry, RI 02816 (855) 326-2771 www.FAMARSUSA.com KERSHAW KAI USA Ltd. 18600 SW Teton Ave. Tualatin, OR 97062 (800) 325-2891 www.Kershaw.KAIUSALtd.com The size of the Diskin Hunter made it very useful for other tasks beyond cleaning and skinning game, such as cutting brush to clear firing lanes. This knife could cross over and be considered as a good utility blade for just about any outdoor chore. MSRP: $89.99 UNDER $150 Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter The Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter, Model 15016-1, is the smallest knife of the group, but its modified clippoint blade is capable of big chores. Fashioned from CPM-S30V stainless steel, the full tang construction has contoured G-10 handle scales. The steel is only 0.14 inches thick, and the knife has a total length of 6.32 inches. The Kydex sheath has a reversible belt loop and is designed to be worn in a horizontal carry. TOPS KNIVES Tactical Operational Products P.O. Box 2544 Idaho Falls, ID 83403 (208) 542-0113 www.TOPSKnives.com deer. It’s also big enough to take on larger game, such as elk or bear. MSRP: $38 UNDER $100 Kershaw Diskin Hunter Kershaw offers the hunter a full-size knife in the form of their Diskin Hunter, designed by custom knifemaker Matt Diskin. The Sandvik 14C28N stainless blade is 4.4 inches long, 1/8 inches thick, and has a stonewashed finish. The drop-point pattern has a full-tang construction with textured G-10 handle scales. The knife has an overall length of 9.5 inches, but the slim handle keeps the weight down to 5 ounces. A black leather sheath with belt loop is included. Matt Diskin is known for his handle style and, even though this was the longest knife of the group, I felt as if I always had total control while using this blade. The slim handle profile and rounded scales were very comfortable. knivesillustrated.com “WHEN YOU CAN’T SEE WHAT YOU’RE DOING, YOU WANT YOUR BLADE TO FEEL LIKE AN EXTENSION OF YOUR HAND.” It’s imperative that the hunting knife you choose feels like an extension of your arm when you’re working on the insides of a deer and can’t see what you’re doing. KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 1 5 KI-1409-12-19-HUNTING 6/27/14 2:13 AM Page 16 The Benchmade Hidden Canyon Hunter may be smaller than some of the other knives, but it’s the design that counts. In use, this little knife feels like an extension of your hand. 1 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-12-19-HUNTING 6/27/14 2:13 AM Page 17 IN THE FIELD As an avid (my wife would say fanatical) deer hunter myself, I share the summertime itch with my fellow hunters and continue the search for the perfect knife. Hunting can take on many forms and is defined mainly by the type of prey being sought. The No. 1 game animal in the U.S. is the whitetail deer, and most hunting knives are therefore designed with this animal in mind. To some degree a knife designed for deer hunting may cross over from one game animal to the next, but its usefulness while deer hunting is the baseline by which I judge a knife. The rifle may be my primary weapon, but the knife is my primary tool. Before taking any game, the hunting knife is used as a utility tool for cutting firing lanes, preparing blinds and performing the tasks of a general camp knife. After the rifle fires its one shot (because no hunter will admit to missing), however, the hunting knife takes on an entirely different persona. Here in North Carolina, the first and most important use of your hunting knife is to cut, or The Hidden Canyon Hunter proved that there are times when size doesn’t matter. Anyone who has ever reached into the body cavity of a deer to cut away the organs knows that this is normally done by feel and not sight. When you’ve got both hands and knife in use, and can’t see what you’re doing, you want your blade to feel like an extension of your hand. The deepest cut you will make while processing a deer is done while removing the backstraps. The 2.67 inches of the Benchmade is more than enough blade. MSRP: $135 UNDER $200 TOPS Scandi Woodsman The TOPS Scandi Woodsman was introduced at the 2014 Blade Show and is the only knife in this roundup to feature a Scandi grind. The 1095HC steel blade is 3.5 inches long, and overall the knife has a length of 7.6 inches. The knivesillustrated.com The hunter knows that there’s nothing more mystical than a whitetail deer stepping out on a cool, crisp and foggy morning in autumn. poke, a hole in your hunting license. This simple procedure is required by law before you can possess a game animal. Then the animal must be field dressed, which involves opening the body cavity and removing the organs. This allows the meat to cool more quickly and prevents contamination. Once the animal is transported back to camp, or home, you can then skin and butcher the deer. Each process requires a knife to have certain attributes, and only the best designs will fulfill each need. green canvas Micarta handle scales with white liners provide a nice contrast to the tumbled finished blade. The 1/8-inch thickness of the blade keeps the weight down to a mere 3.8 ounces. TOPS supplies a double stitched black leather sheath with the Scandi Woodsman. I confess I have a bias for TOPS Knives, as they produce a couple of my own designs, but this knife was designed by Leo Espinoza, who has the knowledge and skill to produce objectively high-quality knives. The Scandi Woodsman may not look the same as other traditional American hunting knives, but it didn’t take long to become comfortable in its use. Though the handle may look different from traditional hunting knife handles, it form fits to your hand. For those who prefer this style of grind, and for those wanting to experiment, the Scandi Woodsman has plenty to offer. MSRP: $149.95 “IT’S UP TO THE USER, WHETHER YOU’RE A BARGAIN HUNTER OR A GAME HUNTER, TO FIND THE KNIFE THAT FITS BEST FOR YOU.” KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 1 7 KI-1409-12-19-HUNTING 6/25/14 11:57 PM Page 18 Hunting has always involved some degree of luck, but even more important is having the right tools. The TOPS Scandi Woodsman is designed to be there when you need it. OVER $200 FAMARS USA Predatore Hunter Medium Rounding out our selection of hunting knives is the Hunter Medium, part of the Predatore Series by FAMARS USA. This 8.25-inch knife features a droppoint blade made from 154CM and measuring 4.25 inches. The handsome handle scales are made of horn and are capped by stainless bolsters. An enlarged finger groove in the choil and matching finger FAMARS USA played on tradition with the design of this hunting knife in a time-proven pattern. The horn scales and stainless bolsters add in a little style. While the majority of my hunting is chasing after deer, there are times when a hunting knife may be called upon for extra duty. From a rabbit to a bear, the process of cleaning and butchering is about the same; there’s just a bit more work involved. A hunting knife capable of handling both is a prize to be cherished. 1 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 grooves along the base of the handle allow for a more secure grip. The double stitched leather sheath is embossed and handmade. Hunting has a long heritage, and as such, many traditions attached to it. The Predatore is just dripping with tradition. The bolsters add a stylish contrast, and knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-12-19-HUNTING 6/25/14 11:57 PM Page 19 the horn scales provides a touch of elegance. MSRP: $249 Parting Words These five knives are not the only hunters on the market, but after testing all of them—by slicing strips of jerky from knivesillustrated.com a deer’s hindquarters and using them in the woods and around the house—I can attest that they give a fair representation of what’s available. Ultimately, though, it’s up to the user, whether you’re a bargain hunter or a game hunter, to find the knife that fits best for you. After all, during hunting season it’s not only a tool, but a trusted extension of yourself. Some hunters may say that finding the perfect hunting knife is like finding a girlfriend, but true hunters know it’s more than that. Besides, unlike finding a girlfriend, with so many options available, no one will blame you if you decide you need to have more than one knife! KI KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 1 9 KI-1409-20-23-PRO 6/26/14 12:07 AM Page 20 HOW TO... Going Pro TURN YOUR KNIFEMAKING HOBBY INTO A CAREER STORY AND PHOTOS BY ABE ELIAS significant number of new businesses fail within the first year. Yet while the odds may be daunting, you can succeeed as a knifemaker. A Despite those statistics, you can succeed as a knifemaker. I know. I’ve been one for 10 years. In the following story, I’ll discuss five important factors that can set you on the path to success. Do the Math Most people aren’t familiar with manufacturing. Fewer are familiar with running a business. To succeed, it’s important to understand both. To get your product out there, it’s wise to initially sell knives at a very low price. When you’re ready to go fulltime, then you have to turn a profit. Let’s determine what profit is for the owner of a sole proprietorship. Many simply take the cost of the material and subtract it from the final sale price and consider that profit. The mistake, however, is that they don’t consider their time spent making the knife. Following is an example. Let’s say it takes you five hours to make a knife. After you subtract the materials from the sale, you have $100 remaining. You might think you made a profit of $20 per hour, but that is wrong. Instead, that’s what your company paid your employee, which happens to be you. If you were paid $20 per hour, then the company has just broken even … and breaking even is no reason to stay in business. In reality, your profit is what remains after you have paid for the material, overhead and labor. Thus, if there isn’t any money left after you’ve paid your expenses and your salary, you need to raise your prices so you can go full-time. 2 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-20-23-PRO 6/26/14 12:07 AM Page 21 knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 2 1 KI-1409-20-23-PRO,CX 6/29/14 11:38 PM Page 22 Prepare to Commit Don’t plan on working 9 to 5 with weekends off. Running a business is a full-time commitment, and expect to get calls all hours of the day and any day of the week, including Sunday. You also need to be strong mentally. The business is always in your head, as you’ll be thinking of ways to improve, new products and other methods to succeed. Give yourself some time to relax, so the business does not wear you down. Plus, don’t be surprised when you find yourself doing the same thing over and over again, but remember this: You should be so lucky to have to make the same knife over and over again. That means you have sales. Understand that you’ll experience famine or feast. As a new knifemaker, you may go weeks without orders. Then you will be flooded. Be ready to deal with the stress and ride out the lean times. Value Your Time Figure out what your time is worth, so you can determine what you charge. Your money is split in a sole proprietorship, as you pay for materials, labor and FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Abe Elias operates Diving Sparrow Knife Works Find him on the web at www.DSKW.ca. A knifemaker works on his knife’s grind. overhead. At the end of the day, you have to be able to walk away from a day’s work being capable to pay the bills. Before you go full-time, decide what you personally need to live on. After you have determined that amount, figure out how long you can go without making money should things be slow. It’s not uncommon for businesses to take several years before they turn a profit. On average, revenue agencies will give you five years to start reporting a profit. Before you quit your full-time job, have a plan to support yourself through the lean times. Find Your Niche We can’t be all things to all people at all times. Establish a specialty. Having a huge variety is great if you can charge for all the extra time and effort for the project. However, if you’re not commanding such prices, you’ll encounter problems. Plus, you’ll end up with too many supplies if you can’t move all the products. Interestingly, you’ll find that a wide variety of products can actually create confusion for the customer. Some people don’t have the easiest time trying to buy anything, not to mention picking out a custom knife. When people can’t determine which product they need, they often won’t buy anything at all. A large part of finding value in a product is just being happy with it. You’ll also save money when you specialize, as you won’t be buying materials that aren’t moving. Furthermore, when your focus is narrower, you might be using enough of the same supplies to warrant a price break from a supplier. Determine Worth Artisans often forget the key thing about value. A maker will focus heavily on how hard they have had to work and what their time was worth. In the end, however, if customers don’t find value in an item, they won’t pay for it. Finding value in an item can be confusing for both sides. If someone doesn’t want to pay you what you’re asking, that does not mean it’s not worth what you’re asking. It could simply be that the person doesn’t value it at that price. It’s all very subjective. Don’t take it personally; simply walk away from it. You can’t blame people for wanting a deal. Unfortunately, some consumers will say the price is too high when in actuality they simply don’t want to pay that much because they can’t see the value in it. I’ve had people on the Internet tell me they can’t see paying my asking price for a knife. Some have even figured out what they think is the value of the materials. I tell them there’s a lot more to it than they “ … YOU CAN SUCCEED AS A KNIFEMAKER. I KNOW. I’VE BEEN ONE FOR 10 YEARS.” Inside author and knifemaker Abe Elias’ workshop. 2 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 — ABE ELIAS, OWNER OF DIVING SPARROW KNIFE WORKS knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-20-23-PRO,CX 6/29/14 11:38 PM Page 23 KEYS TO SUCCESS 1 Understand the nature of running a business. 2 Establish prices that allow you to succeed. 3 Determine your specialty. 4 Always think of ways to improve. 5 Take time to relax. 6 Be prepared for the time commitment it takes to succeed. realize and recommend that they buy the materials for their estimated price and then buy all the tools to change the materials into a knife. I then mention that they should not forget the cost of all the material they will need to build a finished product equal to mine. In other words, a price is often not just the sum of all the parts. Good Thoughts A wise friend of mine once said to me, “If I want you to be there for me tomorrow, I have to pay you what you need to stay in business today.” Knife buyers and knifemakers should all remember this. Sure, most of this is just the tip of the iceberg, but this should get you on your way. For you consumers out there, please take note that the knives do not simply appear out of nowhere. To make a product worth having requires a lot of time and detail, and that’s very rewarding. KI One of the author’s finished knives. knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 2 3 KI-1409-24-27-SISKA 6/26/14 2:11 AM Page 24 “IT CAME AS NO SURPRISE... THAT SISKA’S WORK WAS IMPECCABLE.” From top: Jim Siska’s Chute Knife with snakewood handle, Chute Knife with lacewood handle, and Bird and Trout with ivory handle. STORY BY LES ROBERTSON PHOTOS BY JIM COOPER AN INSIDE LOOK AT JIM SISKA’S ELITE KNIFEMAKING 2 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-24-27-SISKA 6/26/14 2:11 AM Page 25 IN academics, you can’t do worse than straight “Fs.” In the world of custom knives, however, you can do no better. The best custom knives demonstrate excellence in the four Fs: fit, finish, function and flow, and Jim Siska’s knives are the epitome of each. I discovered this in 1987 when I bought my first knife from him. As an infantry officer making the transition from user to collector, I was attracted to Model 16. When I received it from him about two months later, two words came to mind: exceptional quality. I took the knife out to the field later and put it through its paces, and it came as no knivesillustrated.com surprise that it performed flawlessly. Siska’s work was impeccable. This is his journey to elite knifemaker, which began in the world of guns. The Path While working as a gunsmith, Siska had a variety of clients, including one who had a custom-made leather case for a rifle Siska was modifying for him. The case had KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 2 5 KI-1409-24-27-SISKA 6/26/14 2:11 AM Page 26 a “cutout” for a knife, but the client could not find a knife to fit the space. So, Siska volunteered to make it. Although the knife fit the cutout, Siska was not happy with how it turned out. Several years later, Siska traded his former client a new knife for that first one. To further his skills, Siska started to attend knife shows, where, in 1995, he met three makers: Jerry Rados, Joe Szilaski and Jim Pugh. The Massachusetts resident credits these three makers as being instrumental in his development as a custom knifemaker. About the Knives Siska utilizes the stock removal method for the majority of his knives, and currently he’s learning to forge blades and make some damascus under the tutelage of ABS Master Smith Joe Szilaski. Siska’s choices in stainless steels are primarily the powdered-metal type. For carbon steel he prefers 1084, 1095 and W2 because when forged properly their toughness and edge-holding abilities are second to none. Siska’s primary styles are hunters, utility knives, fighters and sub-hilt fighters. He also does an occasional Bowie and dagger. While he does use a full-tapered tang on some knives, most feature a hidden tang. His hardware material of choice is 416 stainless steel or damascus when a client requests it or when it is appropriate. His handle materials of choice are stag and exotic woods, and Siska also uses Micarta and G-10 for handles. As to be expected, he makes an exceptional leather sheath that adds to the overall quality of this package. From left to right: Model 5 Hunter, Model 16 Sub-Hilt Fighter, Model 16 Fighter, and Bird and Trout, all with amber stag handles. Testing While heat-treating, Siska places small pieces of scrap steel from the blades into the oven along with the blades. These BIRD AND TROUT OVERALL LENGTH: 9.25 inches (top), 8 inches (bottom) BLADE LENGTH: 4.5 inches (top), 3.5 inches (bottom) BLADE STEEL: 1095 (both) HANDLE: Amber stag (top), cocobolo (bottom) Both include custom-made leather sheaths 2 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-24-27-SISKA 6/26/14 2:11 AM Page 27 Siska’s new logo for his forged knives. CONTACT INFORMATION EMAIL: [email protected] PHONE: (413) 642-3059 small pieces are then checked for Rockwell hardness, as well as being broken to check the grain structure. A friend who owns a mobile slaughtering business does additional testing. Siska provides his friend with different knives and steel to butcher the animals. In turn, the friend provides Siska with performance information on the knives. The steels are rated on edge-holding ability and toughness. Prices And Ordering Currently, Siska’s price range begins at $450 and goes to $2,500. His delivery time is 12 to 14 months. Siska attends the New York Custom Knife Show in Jersey City, New Jersey, and the Northeast Cutlery Collectors Association shows in both Marlboro, Massachusetts, and Mystic, Connecticut. As someone who has set up at shows with Siska for more than 20 years, my advice is to get there when the doors open if you want one of his knives. He always sells out— and quickly. +ÛÔÚÏÔÍ 6ÇÉÚÏÉÇÒ 5ÛØÜÏÜÇÒ /ÏÒÏÚÇØß /ÇÉÎËÚËÙ &ÛÚÒËØß $ÍØÏÉÛÒÚÛØÇÒ (ÓÖÏØË5ÚØËËÚ21%ÕÞ )ØÇÔÑÒÏÔÜÏÒÒË0u 2+ ÌÇÞ -ÔÏÌËÙÇÒËÙ#ÕÔÚÇØÏÕÑÔÏÌËÉÕÓ ÝÝÝÕÔÚÇØÏÕÑÔÏÌËÉÕÓ Value For Money As a custom knife purveyor, I’m always looking for custom knives that feature value for the money. This was the reason I bought my first knife from Siska in 1987 and this still holds true today. Those of you who already own one of his masterpieces know what I’m talking about. For those of you considering your next knife purchase, I cannot recommend a knife from Jim Siska highly enough. His four-F knives easily earn straight “As.” KI knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 2 7 KI-1409-28-33-MORA 6/26/14 2:36 AM Page 28 MORAKNIV STEPS UP ITS GAME WITH THE HEAVY-DUTY PATHFINDER STORY AND PHOTOS BY TIM STETZER YOU might call Morakniv an international sensation. Made in Sweden, these knives have long been favorites with the bushcraft crowd in both Europe and the U.S., thanks in large part to their Scandi edges, comfortable handles and modest prices. Some folks, however, consider them starter knives, as the thinner blades and shorter tangs were not rugged enough for their taste. This perception created a mission for the European-based company. In recent years, they have introduced a number of heavierduty models. The latest of these is the Bushcraft Pathfinder, which debuted earlier this year, and this new knife has already gotten some heavyduty credentials. Pathfinder Particulars Many of the older Moras—and some current ones—have blades of either high-carbon steel or 12C27 Sandvik stainless steel ranging in thickness from 0.08 to 0.10 inches. Mora bumped the thickness of the Pathfinder’s blade to 1/8 of an inch. While that’s no sharpened prybar, that’s a fair bit thicker than previous models, and plenty sturdy for most reasonable bushcraft knife use. “THE BUSHCRAFT PATHFINDER IS DEFINITELY THE CADILLAC OF THE MORAKNIV LINE.” 2 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-28-33-MORA 6/26/14 2:36 AM Page 29 knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 2 9 KI-1409-28-33-MORA 6/26/14 2:36 AM Page 30 The Bushcraft Pathfinder is a good bit bigger than previous Mora knives. Shown here with a Morakniv Bushcraft Forest knife (top) and an old Frosts 760 (bottom). The Bushcraft Pathfinder uses a rubber overmolded handle with comfortable contours. It provides a good grip in slippery conditions. “EDGE RETENTION PROVED EXCELLENT DURING MY TESTING.” The Pathfinder’s high-carbon blade steel is treated with a black tungsten Diamond Like Coating (DLC). Its Rockwell hardness is in the 59-60 range, which should result in good edge retention. In addition to the thicker blade, the Bushcraft Pathfinder is one of the overall 3 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 larger Mora models available, weighing 5.9 ounces and measuring 11.75 inches overall. Factory specs list the blade at 6 inches long, but my sample measured 6.75 inches. You can feel the difference from a 4-inch Mora when you handle this knife; the balance point is about an inch in front of the guard. The handle is the same rubber overmolded model used on previous Morakniv bushcraft knives. It’s well contoured and provides a solid grip, even when your hands are wet. Instead of the simple molded plastic sheaths users are accustomed to, the Pathfinder comes with a black nylon sheath with a hard plastic inset. A strap with a thumb snap secures the handle of the blade. The sheath can be carried on the belt in the traditional manner, but it’s also equipped with MOLLE straps, making it compatible with myriad packs, bags and vests. Two grommets on the top and bottom of the sheath give you even more options to lash or attach the sheath to your gear. knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-28-33-MORA 6/26/14 2:37 AM Page 31 WHERE TO BUY Industrial Revolution, Inc. 5835 Segale Park Drive C Tukwila, WA 98188 PHONE: (425) 285-1111 EMAIL: [email protected] WEB: www.IndustrialRev.com While Mora has built a reputation on low-priced knives, the Bushcraft Pathfinder is definitely the Cadillac of the Morakniv line. Its heavier build, longer length, DLC coating and MOLLE sheath easily justify the MSRP of $129.95. At 1/8 inch, the Pathfinder’s blade is much thicker than that of many older Mora knives. Out in the Field To see what Mora gives you for this higher price, I field-tested the Bushcraft Pathfinder over a few months in the late winter and early spring. I’ve used a lot of Moras over the past couple of decades and I immediately noticed that this one handles a little differently. As mentioned previously, the balance point is different than on most Mora models. This is not a bad thing; it just takes some getting used to in order to find the sweet spot for carving, especially when you’re accustomed to working with the smaller blades. The Pathfinder uses the traditional Scandinavian zero grind found on all Moras, and it cuts just as you’d expect. The factory edge was excellent and I found that it bit deeply into both green and dried wood. I was able to make precise notches and fine curls. Edge retention proved excellent during my testing. The high-HRC carbon steel held a great edge; even after a number of outings of use, including chopping and batoning, the edge still seemed as sharp as when I started working with it. In fact, on my last day of testing I slipped and barely touched the edge of the blade with my thumb. I ended up with one of those scalpel-like cuts that doesn’t even hurt or bleed initially, so you aren’t even sure if you really were cut. But sure enough, I had to finish my testing after a brief first-aid refresher. In a departure from previous Morakniv offeringss, the Bushcraft Pathfinder includes a nylon belt sheath with a hard plastic liner. knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 3 1 KI-1409-28-33-MORA 6/26/14 2:37 AM Page 32 Heavy-Duty Handling The longer blade really comes into its own when chopping and batoning wood. While the blade is not heavy, the extra length and increased thickness allow it to make deep, hard snap cuts into wood. I was able to quickly chop 2- to 3-inch diameter limbs both green and dried with relative ease. This is something that I definitely couldn’t do with my 4-inch Moras. The longer blade improved batoning, too, as I had more surface area to strike than I would with a shorter blade. I know batoning can be a controversial practice, but it’s a common task amongst bushcrafters and likely a chore that the Pathfinder will be subjected to. While I wanted to give the knife a good workout, I don’t go too crazy when I baton. I use the practice to break down smaller prices for kindling or to get to drier wood when needed. I generally stick with pieces of wood in the 1- to 3-inch range. When you attack a 3-inch piece of wood with a 4-inch knife, you don’t have a lot of blade sticking out the other side of the log to use as an anvil. However, this wasn’t a problem with the Pathfinder, as I always had 3 or 4 inches of blade protruding to strike with my baton. It made breaking down tinder and kindle fast and easy to do. Durability was excellent as well. I had no issues whatsoever while chopping or batoning with the Pathfinder. While I do believe that anyone can break anything if SPECIFICATIONS BLADE LENGTH: 6.75 inches BLADE STEEL: High-carbon steel, 59-60 HRC BLADE THICKNESS: 0.125 inches OVERALL LENGTH: 11.75 inches HANDLE MATERIAL: Rubber WEIGHT: 9 ounces with sheath MADE IN SWEDEN TRIAL BY FIRE The last test I did with the Bushcraft Pathfinder was to use some of that tinder I had prepped to make a fire. I used a Light My Fire Scout-sized ferro rod and the spine of the Pathfinder, rather than the striker provided with the rod. Morakniv has left the spine of the Pathfinder sharp, and I found that it works extremely well with the LMF fire steel. I have had blade coatings interfere with the ability of a knife to scrape a ferro rod sufficiently to throw good spark, but that was definitely not an issue with the Pathfinder. Frankly, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to throw sparks with the spine of the knife. This thing is a flamethrower! I have great confidence in my ability to make fire with the Bushcraft Pathfinder and wouldn’t even bother carrying a striker for my ferro rod if the Pathfinder was on my hip or in my pack. The sharp spine of the Pathfinder worked extremely well with a Light My Fire ferro rod. The Pathfinder was a veritable flamethrower when it came to throwing sparks. The Pathfinder is a big knife in the hand. While larger than other Moras, it’s still easy to tote, weighing in at only around 6 ounces. The longer, heavier blade on the Bushcraft Pathfinder makes it a solid chopper. I easily chopped through limbs up to 3 inches in diameter. 3 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-28-33-MORA 6/26/14 2:37 AM Page 33 a fan of blade finishes, but this one holds up well, doesn’t interfere with the function of the blade and does what it’s designed to do. Wrapping It All Up Moras have always been known for their blades of Swedish steel. Whether high-carbon or the stainless Sandvik steels, they tend to take and hold great edges. If you’re a fan of the Mora and have been waiting for the bigger, badder brother to come along, the Bushcraft Pathfinder is it. It does everything its smaller predecessors can do, but adds the ability to chop and process wood to the package, as well as beefing things up with the thicker blade and DLC blade coating. Many folks may still be content with smaller Morakniv models, but for folks who appreciate the quality-made Swedish blades but need something with a bit more punch to it, the Bushcraft Pathfinder is here to serve. It’s bigger and burlier, and the company definitely accomplished its mission. KI The excellent Scandi edge was capable of producing fine curls and did extremely well at notching and carving. they try hard enough, I’m confident that the Bushcraft Pathfinder will hold up to any sort of reasonable use. Diamond Durability After all of the chopping, batoning and ferro rod use, I was wondering how the black DLC finish was going to hold up. I’ve stripped the finish off of other blades while performing similar tests. The DLC seems to be pretty tough stuff, though. I had a couple small marks on the spine from the ferro rod and some minor wear on the bevel of the blade, but overall the finish seems to be holding up very well. Corrosion resistance was equally excellent. Until cleaning the blade at the end of my testing, I didn’t really do any maintenance on the Pathfinder. Even after using it around the campsite, stuffing it back into the sheath and carrying it in my pack or with my gear for months, I detected no signs of rust on the blade. I’m not always MOLLE SHEATH PROS AND CONS PROS: • Durable • Versatile ways to carry CONS • Without MOLLE webbing, belt loop is slightly loose • Knife edge can slice retention strap knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 3 3 KI-1409-34-40-ONTARIO 6/26/14 2:58 AM Page 34 OKC BRANCHES OUT TO MILITARY/CIVILIAN CROSSOVERS WITH TWO IMPRESSIVE AND PRACTICAL LINES STORY AND PHOTOS BY ABE ELIAS 3 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 Call them “practical tactical.” Long known for its military-style fixed blades and tools, Ontario Knife Company has steadily been moving into products that, while still tactical, are also geared toward the urban civilian knife user. For starters, the company is now offering slimmer fixed-blade series, such as the Fortune series, and folders such as the XM-2 series. I gathered up a few of these knives to take for a test spin. knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-34-40-ONTARIO 6/26/14 2:58 AM Page 35 Ontario’s new Fortune series. From top to bottom, the Morta, the Decima and the Nona. knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 3 5 KI-1409-34-40-ONTARIO 6/26/14 2:59 AM Page 36 While the blades of each Fortune model vary in size, the handles stay the same, keeping the grip comfortable for the user. COMPARE AND CONTRAST FORTUNE SERIES SIMILARITIES The Fortunate Few Ontario’s Fortune series includes three knives: the largest is the Morta, the medium is the Decima and the smallest is the Nona. All three feature the same handle and a straightforward drop-point profile. A good design point is that while the blades get smaller, the handles do not also shrink. Ontario leaves you with a full grip, which is a refreshing change. The knives in this series have a gray, textured blade coating for extra rust protection. For those who haven’t kept up, solid gray is the new urban tactical norm. While I personally don’t prefer a textured coating, because it increases the friction of the blade passing through materials, it does serve to tone down the visibility of the blade. The color is subdued and the texture prevents glare. The handles on the Fortune series use a textured G-10; mine is black and blue. Overall, the handle layout on the Fortune line is pretty comfortable, but you can tell the line has a definite lean toward a grip meant for thrusting with the thumb ramp and articulated front finger groove. Slim and trim is the order of the day. Both the steel and the scales measure .1875 inches thick, making for easy carry close to your body. Ontario keeps the line 3 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 • All three models have the same comfortable handle size. • All three models have a gray textured coating. DIFFERENCES • The smaller Decima and Nona have saber grinds, while the Morta is a full, flat grind. • The Decima and Nona come with plastic sheaths, while the Morta’s is nylon. uniform for the most part amongst the three sizes, except in a couple of notable areas. First, there’s some variation in the grind of the two smaller models. The Decima and the Nona are saber-ground with knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-34-40-ONTARIO 6/26/14 2:59 AM Page 37 “[ONTARIO] IS NOW OFFERING SLIMMER FIXEDBLADE SERIES, SUCH AS THE FORTUNE SERIES, AND FOLDERS SUCH AS THE XM-2 SERIES.” The handles are a textured G-10 with a flared arrow pattern. accompanying false grinds, whereas the Morta is a straightforward full, flat grind. A second difference is in the sheath. Again, both the Decima and Nona share the same sheath, a molded plastic sheath with Tek-Lok-style belt clip. Meanwhile, the Morta has a straightforward nylon sheath with plastic liner. From large to small, the blade lengths are 4, 3 and 2 inches. Overall length from large to small is 9, 8 and 7 inches—basically a “three bears” story. For steel, Ontario uses 420HC. Mine held an edge well during testing. If I weren’t reviewing them first, I probably would have touched the edges up a bit before use, but out of the box they weren’t bad. The whole series has weight to it in hand, mostly thanks to the .1875-inch stock. I tend to like a bit of weight, KI-1409-34-40-ONTARIO 6/26/14 2:59 AM Page 38 The Fortune series blades are sharp enough to use right out of the box. especially in a knife that I might use for conceal and carry. If it’s too light, sometimes I find myself checking to make sure it’s still there. One addition I would like to see is for Ontario to provide an alternative sheath for the Morta, as the nylon one limits carry options. Into the EDCs The Decima and Nona models come with a plastic sheath with a Tek-Lok fastener. For any knife company to be truly successful nowadays, they must have solid The XM-2 is available in plain- or serrated-edge models. 3 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-34-40-ONTARIO 6/26/14 2:59 AM Page 39 MORE TO COME Diversification is key for a company’s success, which is something Ontario is proving it takes to heart. One of their upcoming ventures will be a line of domestic cooking knives called Agilite, made from 14C28N steel. So far, my preliminary tests have been nothing but outstanding. See our Blade Show section for a sneak preview. offerings in the everyday carry (EDC) folder field. This is an area where Ontario has an opportunity to make great strides. To date, we’ve seen a number of models for military use, and tactical users certainly should give their Joe Pardue a close look. But for civilians, Ontario is looking to introduce new series and/or modify previously made series into the EDC market. For example, their XM series was originally designed for the military, made large and beefy for ease of use in gloved hands. The updated XM-2 series, however, has the same toughness, but is designed to be a trim carry. The .1875-inch-thick drop-point blade is made from 5690Co steel and is saberground with a false edge. The model comes in both plain edge and partially serrated blades. I was impressed by the original XM series, but thought they were too bulky for comfortable EDC use with regular street clothing. The more slender design of the XM-2 allows for a much wider range of convenient carry. This knife is entirely coated—even the liners are coated—and the pocket clip has a nice, narrow profile. The knife nests deep in your pocket with little showing above the pocket rim. An ambidextrous thumb stud makes it friendly for either right- or left-handed users. The handle is milled aluminum with a textured pattern, which compensates for the slightly slick surface created by the coating. A lanyard hole is placed at the end of the handle. CONTACT ONTARIO KNIFE COMPANY (800) 222-5233 www.OntarioKnife.com knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 3 9 KI-1409-34-40-ONTARIO 6/26/14 2:59 AM Page 40 “THE MORE SLENDER DESIGN OF THE XM-2 ALLOWS FOR A MUCH WIDER RANGE OF CONVENIENT CARRY.” The blade length of the XM-2 is 3.375 inches. Overall, the knife measures 8 inches when open, which is a bit on the large side for a folder. While a slimmer profile is good progress, I’d like to see Ontario continue with more compact versions. To The Future OKC is off to a good start in their venture into everday carry options, and they’ll soon be extending to other areas as well, such as kitchen knives. I’m sure we’re all interested to see what they do next; whatever that is, we can trust that each new knife will be distinctly Ontario. KI Well-positioned thumb studs and a smooth pivot make opening the XM-2 a breeze. 4 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI_1409_41 6/25/14 11:17 PM Page 41 TWO is better than One Subscribe Now and SAVE BIG only $29.95 /RJRQWRwww.engagedmediamags.com/combo_bahasg &DOORXUWROOIUHHQXPEHU )LOORXWWKHRUGHUIRUPEHORZDQGPDLOLWZLWK\RXUSD\PHQWLQIRUPDWLRQWR %HFNHWW0HGLD//&/RFNER[3KLODGHOSKLD3$ to subscribe Take advantage of this special offer and get a 1-year subscription to Bow & Arrow Hunting (6 issues) with a 1-year subscription to American Survival Guide (6 issues) and SAVE UP TO 64% off the cover price! ❑ YES! sign me up for a subscription to Bow and Arrow Hunting and American Survival Guide That is a total of 12 issues for a total savings of $53.93 off the cover price Method of Payment Check enclosed Payment through credit card Visa Credit Card MC AMEX Money Order Discover Name on credit card Expiration Credit card number Subscriber name First MI da te / / Last Address City State Phone Enter Promo Code Email Signature Date / / A543M011 For a full listing of our titles, visit www.engagedmediamags.com today! Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of first issue. Outside US, add $28 per year for additional postage. Pay in US funds only. KI-1409-42-47-FOX.CX 6/27/14 1:57 AM Page 42 JERRY HOSSOM’S REPRISAL IS BACK, AND THE TACTICAL BLADE IS BETTER THAN EVER SPECIFICATIONS OVERALL LENGTH: 12.59 inches BLADE: 6.69 inches, N690Co stainless steel HANDLE: Green Micarta WEIGHT: 11.1 ounces SHEATH: Kydex with Tek-Lok MSRP: $250 4 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-42-47-FOX.CX 6/27/14 1:57 AM Page 43 “THE SAW-LIKE JIMPING ON THE FOX VENGEANCE IS SUPREME, PROVIDING A SUPERB GRIP.” STORY AND PHOTOS BY JIM WEISS AND MICKEY DAVIS HIS inspiration resulted from 9/11. After that tragic day, renowned longtime knifemaker Jerry Hossom devoted his skills to making top-of-the-line combat knives, designed to be carried by U.S. soldiers in the most dangerous theaters of war. His first four models—the Retribution, Massive Retribution, Revenge and Reprisal—all of which were popular with the military, showcased impeccable design and aggressive function. The military now has more reason to be excited, as Hossom has collaborated with Fox Knives USA to update his Reprisal model. Dubbed the Vengeance, this tactical blade is a fearsome force. knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 4 3 KI-1409-42-47-FOX.CX 6/27/14 1:57 AM Page 44 At nearly a foot long with a 6.6-inch blade, the Vengeance is an ideal size for a fighting knife. ABOUT PAUL GRANGER Paul Granger specializes in making fixedblade knives of his own unique design, as well as in traditional patterns. He has created a line of lightweight, non-metallic, non-ceramic knives currently in use by the American and Canadian militaries, multiple police departments, and the FBI and CIA. His website is: www.PaleHorseFighters.BlogSpot.com. Our expert reviewers evaluated and tested the knife; following are their results. A Knifemaker's Review Custom knifemaker Paul Granger evaluated the Hossom Vengeance for its appearance, construction and feel in hand. HANDLE – The handle is made of bead-blasted canvas Micarta—one of the finest knife handle materials there is. The grip material is comfortable in the hand; its “grippiness” is a great feature. On top of the blade, where the blade meets the handle, is a thumb ramp with jimping, which Granger said is the grippiest he remembers coming across. Some The spine of the Vengeance features extremely aggressive jimping, which provides an excellent grip. 4 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-42-47-FOX.CX 6/29/14 11:39 PM Page 45 FIELD EVALUATION BY MARK PRINCE other knives have thumb ramps that are just too smooth, causing the user’s thumb to slide up. The saw-like jimping on the Fox Vengeance, however, is supreme, providing a superb grip. It’s a terrific feature. On the bottom of the handle, toward the guard area, is a groove for three fingers and a separate slight finger groove for the pinky. This secondary indentation is useful for chopping, when the fingers are positioned farther back upon the handle. The handle provides the user with honest ergonomics in forward, inverted and reverse grips. Granger said he appreciates these features and considers them an indication of high quality. The Vengeance is a three-piece knife with all of the handle screw heads recessed below the handle’s surface. The countersunk screws are a bit of a rarity and are a real plus. At the butt of the handle, a thong hole is chamfered (angled knivesillustrated.com countersink), preventing or diminishing the wear on the thong. A thong is a beneficial safety feature when using the knife for chopping. For example, keeping the thong wrapped about the user’s wrist prevents the knife from flying out of the user’s hand and into a field. BLADE – The blade has a hardness of 58-60 HRC, which indicates excellent edge retention. It’s made with a (high) saber grind and PRINCE’S RESUME Mark Allen Prince is a professor of law enforcement technology/ special operations at Central Ohio Technical College; a former USDOE SRT operator; and spent 20 years in local law enforcement special operations and training. He has developed and teaches courses in homeland security and special operations for military, state, and local special operations personnel and organizations, and is an instructor-trainer certified by the late Colonel Rex Applegate. The Fox Vengeance arrived at the “castle” on a blustery day late in winter. Therefore, it was excellent for extreme weather training, and I became quite familiar with the Vengeance over the few weeks I carried and trained with it. The knife came shaving sharp from the factory. I carried the Fox first vertically on a belt and concealed under a long, square-cut shirt just aft of my hip. Once I figured out the TekLok fastener, I then carried it vertically on my belt with the knife on the front of my body, below where I could access it quickly and draw it lightning fast. This knife from Maniago, Italy, has the lines of a true fighter, straight from the pommel to the dangerous ice pick tip. This design improves the penetration capabilities, making it dagger-like. From the keen drop point, through the belly of the blade to the choil, the edge is relatively straight, which provides strength and allows for easy cutting movement. Should the false edge on the top of this knife be sharpened in its entirety, it would indeed increase the stark and direct lines of this dangerous blade. The choil or cutout forward of the guard allows for grip repositioning and detailed cutting tasks should the user need such a thing. The jimping forward of the back of the Micarta grip is the most aggressive I have felt in a long, long time. It’s very harsh and would warrant a gloved hand for serious usage. As this knife is not marketed as a bush knife, I saw no need to punish it excessively with a hammer or pry things with the keen point. However, because the Vengeance is marketed as a military tactical knife, I evaluated the tip on the Jeep truck bed. It penetrated the circa 1977 thick steel without breaking its tip and with minimal removal of the bead-blasted coating. I also used the pommel of the blade to crack open a drying walnut on the sidewalk, causing no damage to the end of the tang or Micarta slabs. I then coated the grips with canola oil and stabbed a poplar stump to determine if my hand would slip forward when using aggressive stabbing motions. The oily handle was a bit slippery, but the combination of the pinky finger indentation and the other finger grooves—along with the guard forward of the handle area—prevented any dangerous movement toward the blade. The Fox Vengeance performed superbly in carving up the hams for our family’s Easter celebration. The Kydex sheath is form fitting and secure. However, as the Vengeance has only single retention via the molded design using friction, I do not recommend upside-down carry. I inverted the knife in the sheath and shook it. After two shakes, the knife fell out. As there’s no provided second retention device, I would not carry it any way other than vertically on my person or gear. The sheath has a drain hole and the ability to lash the scabbard via nine available holes around its edges—a high-quality scabbard, but carry it tip down, lads. Training with the knife for use against an adversary is where I think this fighter belongs. The Vengeance excels when hacking and slashing, and is in its true medium when thrusting linearly into a target. The Fox Vengeance would be hard to press into police service, as the protectors normally don’t need a foot-long knife with a 6-inch-plus, dagger-like blade. The Fox is a true military-style knife with a very clear anti-personnel purpose in mind. It would no doubt serve a military spec-ops warrior very well for such tasks. At $250 MSRP, the knife is a bit steep for an individual purchase. But if it’s issued or you have the dollars, pounds, euros or rubles for such kit, then attack the purchase of this Fox with a vengeance! KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 45 KI-1409-42-47-FOX.CX 6/27/14 1:57 AM Page 46 DOING “WRONG” WELL: WHAT SETS HOSSOM APART Before Jerry Hossom began making knives in 1980, he was a U.S. Army infantryman, and then worked in biomedical instrumentation. In 1997, he turned his knifemaking hobby into a full-time career. Hossom says that he does his knifemaking work “wrong,” according to traditional technique. For example, while most knifemakers will grind their blades edge up, Hossom grinds edge down, focusing more upon the grind line as he goes. He makes his high hollow grinds all the way to the top. While his method may be unorthodox, Hossom does “wrong” well; his knives are aggressive and high quality. (The Fox-made Vengeance varies slightly from Hossom’s usual work, with a flat-ground blade rather than hollowground.) Before collaborating with Fox, Hossom had worked with Spyderco and Ontario Knife Company. Currently, he has two other designs with Fox, as well as designing partnerships with Boker, Outdoor Edge and Mil-Tac. is a drop point. A swedge (false edge) may be sharpened if the owner wishes. There’s a finger cutout forward of the guard. The blade’s sharp edge runs into the finger groove, though it’s radiused or rounded where it meets the finger cutout. This feature could cause a pinch or cut to the knife user’s bare finger at that specific point. Otherwise, though, this is a well thought-out feature. Measuring about 6.5 inches, the blade is just the right size for a fighting knife (less than 7 inches, according to most experts). SHEATH – The sheath is made of Kydex and has a Tek-Lok beltmounting attachment. The Tek-Lok is an interesting, detachable belt fastener. The user can put it on a belt where he or she wants it, and its belt hold is adjustable for different widths. It can be worn in any of the common positions. The sheath is well made and includes a drain hole. It has excellent retention security, allowing the user to insert the blade easily, but requiring much more effort to remove it. Granger declares the Fox Vengeance is a great knife. KI “THIS KNIFE FROM MANIAGO, ITALY, HAS THE LINES OF A TRUE FIGHTER, STRAIGHT FROM THE POMMEL TO THE DANGEROUS ICE PICK TIP.” The stainless steel blade features a high-saber grind and a swedge. 4 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-42-47-FOX.CX 6/27/14 1:57 AM Page 47 CONTACT FOX KNIVES USA (253) 843-5550 www.FoxKnivesUSA.com www.Hossom.com The Vengeance comes with a Kydex sheath with Tek-Lok fastener, which can be adjusted to fit belts of varying sizes. Find us on Discover the premier knife magazine. www.facebook.com/knivesillustrated knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 4 7 KI_1409_48 6/26/14 11:19 AM Page 48 KI_1409_49 6/26/14 11:20 AM Page 49 KI-1409-50-55-EMERGENCY 6/26/14 3:33 AM Page 50 5 MUST-HAVE TOOLS FOR FIRST RESPONDERS STORY AND PHOTOS BY TIM STETZER Seconds matter. No one knows that better than medics, firefighters, police officers and search-and-rescue patrollers, and that’s why it’s critical for these first responders to have a good multi-tool. In the following story, we have compiled some of the best options available. These are the products that can meet high demands, and they’re also ideal for preparedness-minded civilians. If you’re one of these everyday heroes, you should have no trouble finding a tool that matches your training and your daily duties. 5 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-50-55-EMERGENCY 6/26/14 3:34 AM Page 51 knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 5 1 KI-1409-50-55-EMERGENCY 6/26/14 3:34 AM Page 52 Victorinox has long been known for its dependable, multipurpose pocket tools, and the RescueTool is no exception. It includes a variety of blades and other features, and its bright handle glows in the dark. 1 Victorinox RescueTool Let’s start with a tool from the grandfather of multiuse blades, Victorinox. Since 1884, Victorinox has been crafting designs that pack a lot of utility into a small package, and they’ve brought more than a century’s worth of experience to a modern tool designed for first responders the world over with their RescueTool. The RescueTool starts with a 111mm One Hand Trekker and features a full dozen tools, including the blade. These tools are: large lock VICTORINOX RESCUETOOL BLADE TYPE: Partially serrated stainless steel LOCK: Liner OVERALL LENGTH: 7.75 inches CLOSED LENGTH: 4.8 inches BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches WEIGHT: 5.9 ounces MSRP: $108 5 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 blade for one hand opening; a Phillips head screwdriver; a window breaker; a strong flat-head screwdriver/crate opener with cap lifter and wire stripper; a reamer and punch; a one-hand belt cutter; key ring; tweezers; toothpick; and a glass disc saw for use on shatterproof glass. The scales of the knife are Victorinox’s bright yellow Stayglow material, which glows in the dark after being exposed to a light source. The knife also comes with a lanyard and a sturdy red-and-yellow nylon belt pouch. “I’d say that EMT shears are excellent and a great tool in the hands of medics or any public safety personnel. Much safer and more effective than traditional scissors and knives for cutting through all types of clothing and seatbelts.” —Eric W., medic, 27 years of experience knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-50-55-EMERGENCY 6/26/14 3:34 AM Page 53 GERBER HINDERER RESCUE KNIFE Gerber collaborated with Rick Hinderer to produce the Rescue Knife. Its highlights include a handle that provides an excellent grip, and a blunted tip that ensures safety when cutting in close quarters. Hinderer Rescue Knife 2Gerber Gerber tapped into the design prowess of Rick Hinderer for their rescue knife. The end result is a one-handed opening liner lock knife with some useful extra features. A firefighter and EMT himself, Hinderer brings firsthand experience to his design and Triage 3Benchmade The Triage 915 and 916 series are designed with first responders in mind. They use Benchmade’s AXIS lock mechanism, BLADE TYPE: Fully serrated, blunt tip, stainless steel LOCK: Liner OVERALL LENGTH: 8.5 inches CLOSED LENGTH: 5.1 inches BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches WEIGHT: 5.6 ounces MSRP: $100 keeps things simple and easy to work with, even in bunker gear and turn-out gloves. In addition to a partially-serrated main blade with its blunt safety tip, the Rescue Knife incorporates a hook cutter for slicing seatbelts, a window punch and an oxygen tank valve opening slot. Although the Hinderer has a wide paddle-style pocket clip, a sturdy black nylon pouch sheath is also included. That sheath houses a nine-bit tool kit complete with wrench handle and adapter coupler. “The beauty of a rescue knife is that it doesn’t take up a lot of space, but it offers a lot of utility, especially in an emergency situation where seconds can matter, as you don’t always have time to go back to your car or wait for someone else with better tools to arrive.” —Rob B., police, 15 years of experience with a handle of black or orange textured G10 scales over 420J stainless liners. The blades on the Triages are of N680 and come in plain-edge and serrated versions, with either satin-finish or black-coated blades. These knives are equipped for reversible tip up carry with a deep-seated pocket clip. Incorporated into the rear of the handle is a 440C seatbelt cutter, and the butt has a carbide tip designed for breaking automotive window glass. The 915 (seen here) and the 916 are essentially identical knives with the exception of blade shapes. The 915 uses a 3.5inch modified sheepsfoot blade, whereas the 916 has a 3.5 inch opposing bevelstyle blade. Both have dual thumb studs for ambidextrous opening. The Triages carry a MSRP of $175 to $190, depending on the exact options chosen. BENCHMADE 915 TRIAGE A more straightforward and streamlined tool, the Benchmade 915 Triage is a knife first, but with essential extras like a seatbelt cutter and glass breaker. knivesillustrated.com BLADE TYPE: Modified sheepsfoot, N680 stainless steel LOCK: Axis OVERALL LENGTH: 8.2 inches CLOSED LENGTH: 4.7 inches BLADE LENGTH: 3.5 inches WEIGHT: 5.1 ounces MSRP: $175-$190 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 5 3 KI-1409-50-55-EMERGENCY 6/26/14 3:34 AM Page 54 Leatherman’s heavyduty Raptor shears can be folded to half their deployed size for easy carry. LEATHERMAN RAPTOR BLADE TYPE: Safety shear, 420HC stainless OVERALL LENGTH: 8.25 inches CLOSED LENGTH: 5 inches BLADE LENGTH: 1.9 inches WEIGHT: 5.8 ounces MSRP: $74.85 Raptor 4Leatherman A departure from the knife-based tools featured here is the Leatherman Raptor. Instead of starting with a folding knife, Leatherman went to one of the standby tools of medics and EMTs, the EMT shear and started from there. The Raptor is much more heavy-duty than common shears found on an ambulance or in a medkit, but Leatherman still kept it convenient to carry with locking handles that fold inward, cutting the overall size of the tool in half. In addition to the basic shears, the Raptor also has a fold-out strap cutter, a ring cutter, a 5-centimeter ruler, an oxygen The Funxion EMT from Kershaw is designed for fast functionality, using Kershaw’s patented SpeedSafe opening. tank wrench and a carbide glass breaker. A lanyard hole and a pocket clip allow you to carry it in your pocket or clipped to your gear. The Raptor also comes with an injectionmolded polymer sheath, which the tool snaps into securely. The sheath is reversible for right- or left-handers and can be clipped to a belt or a MOLLE vest or bag. Funxion EMT 5Kershaw If you need a tool that’s really fast to put into play, look no farther than the Kershaw Funxion EMT. The Funxion uses a partially serrated, 3-inch, drop-point blade of 8Cr13MoV steel with a black oxide coating, which opens via a spine-mounted flipper in conjunction with Kershaw’s SpeedSafe KERSHAW FUNXION EMT BLADE TYPE: 8Cr13MoV, SpeedSafe assisted opening LOCK: Liner OVERALL LENGTH: 7.25 inches CLOSED LENGTH: 4.25 inches BLADE LENGTH: 3 inches WEIGHT: 5 ounces MSRP: $59.99 5 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-50-55-EMERGENCY 6/26/14 3:34 AM Page 55 12106 NE Ainsworth Circle Portland, Or 97220-9001 www.LeatherMan.com that you have a solid grip on the knife under any weather conditions. But there’s more to the Funxion EMT than a quickly deploying blade. Fitted into the rear of the handle is a seatbelt cutter that folds away when not in use. The shaft of the cutter houses a quarter-inch hex head wrench, a flathead screwdriver tip and bottle opener for use after your shift is over. A carbide tipped glass breaker is mounted on the bolster of the knife rather than the butt as is common on many rescue knives. The Funxion EMT can be carried either via a carabiner that unfolds from the left side of the handle or with its deep carry clip mounted to allow right-side, tip-down carry. VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY INC. Tools of Choice CONTACT BENCHMADE KNIFE COMPANY 300 Beavercreek Rd. Oregon City, OR 97045 www.Benchmade.com GERBER GEAR 14200 SW 72nd Avenue Portland, OR 97224 www.GerberGear.com KERSHAW KAI USA Ltd. 18600 SW Teton Ave. Tualatin, OR 97062 (800) 325-2891 www.Kershaw.KAIUSALtd.com LEATHERMAN TOOL GROUP, INC. 7 Victoria Drive Monroe, CT 06468 www.Victorinox.com assisted opening system. A liner lock ensures that the blade stays open while in use and a rubber inset in one of the scales of the anodized aluminum handle ensures Preparedness-minded civilians and first responders alike have plenty of options among the current multitool market. If you’re one of these everyday heroes, you should have no trouble finding a tool that matches your training and your daily duties. KI “Every firefighter has a pocket-type knife. It has to have a foldable blade, so that when not in use, it can be safely kept in your pocket. It has to be sharp enough to cut through a variety of materials quickly and efficiently. The same knife that cuts through seat belt material has to also cut through thin and coated wire.” —Steve B., fire captain, 25 years of experience Knifemaking is easy when you buy from JANTZ USA Made Blade Steel Abrasives & Polishing G-10 & Micarta® Rivets & Fasteners Folder Components Grinders Sanders Buffers Pre-Shaped Blades 1-800-351-8900 knifemaking.com knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 5 5 KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:42 PM Page 56 /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// the BEST of BLADE BY BETHANY MILLER, ABE ELIAS AND TIM STETZER PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE INDUSTRY’S BIGGEST SHOW W BEST IN SHOW Designed by Ken Onion, CRKT's Hi Jinx took home the award for Best Overall Knife of 2014. Other winners included the RAT Worx MRX, People's Choice Award; the Zero Tolerance 0562CF, best American-made knife; and the Spyderco Rubicon, best import. For a complete list and photos of winners, visit www.KnivesIllustrated.com. 5 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 Photo by Tim Stetzer e wish we could show you every single knife we saw at the annual Blade Show in Atlanta, Georgia—but that would take an entire issue and then some. Our January buyer’s guide will have plenty of room to show off everything we liked this year; for now, we’ve narrowed it down to a select few favorites and crammed in as many as we can fit. So if you weren’t able to attend the Blade Show, no worries. We’re bringing the Blade Show to you. knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:42 PM Page 57 the BEST of BLADE /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// From left, Bear & Son President Ken Griffey; Michael Higginbotham, sales coordinator; and Matt Griffey, vice president, man their company booth at the Blade Show. knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 5 7 KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:42 PM Page 58 /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 1A.G. Russell Knives 2Anglesey Gear WHAT: 50th Anniversary Dogleg Trapper WHERE: www.AGRussell.com WHY WE LIKE IT: A classic model from a classic American company, this handsome trapper was designed by founder A.G. Russell himself to commemorate the company’s 50th anniversary. Featuring both spey and clip blades of VG-10 steel, stainless steel bolsters and liners, and deer antler handles, you’ll be proud to snag one of the mere 50 pieces that will be produced. It’s a true collector’s item! WHAT: Rival Featherweight WHERE: www.AngleseyGear.com WHY WE LIKE IT: We can’t say we’ve ever seen anything quite like this ultra-lightweight tactical Bowie. Designed with Special Ops forces in mind, a portion of the 440C skeletonized blade is partially hollowed out and replaced with a glass-filled polymer fill. “We kept the steel where we needed the strength, took it out where we didn’t, and added the polymer to make it strong and flexible,” said designer Paul Hendrixson. For the skeptic who doubts the durability of a large knife that weighs only 5 ounces, owners Russ and Becky Owens were proud to show a demonstration video of the Rival Featherweight being batoned into a stump and emerging unscathed. 1 2 5 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:42 PM Page 59 the BEST of BLADE /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 3Bear & Son Cutlery 4Benchmade WHAT: G149LB Cowhand WHERE: www.BearAndSonCutlery.com WHY WE LIKE IT: KI is always a fan of knives made in the USA, and Bear & Son’s new Blue Jean Series is as all-American as they come. The attractive blue G-10 handles recall your favorite worn pair of Levis, but with sophisticated touches in the form of nickel silver bolsters, 440 stainless steel blade and classic Bear & Son shield. With its slim, lightweight design, it’s an excellent everyday utility pocket folder. WHAT: 5400 Serum WHERE: www.Benchmade.com WHY WE LIKE IT: Benchmade’s Black Class is designed for the military elite, and the Serum is one fine addition to this collection. The Elmax premium steel drop-point blade, machined G-10 scales and beautifully fluid opening would be selling points enough, but the real highlight is the innovative AXIS Dual-Action lock. Users will be hard pressed to find a more secure, yet simple, locking mechanism anywhere on the market—and best of all, it’s ambidextrous. BEYOND THE 3 4 knivesillustrated.com FLOOR Even when the convention floor closes, the day is hardly over. After official show hours, the action moves to the Pit, the sunken hotel bar at the center of the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly, which is attached to the Cobb Galleria Centre where the show is held. It’s a great place to mingle with other collectors and knife aficionados and to see your favorite makers and manufacturers in a social setting. It’s also entertaining to watch the Blade crowd in everything from camouflage to kilts, sporting every manner of cutlery imaginable, from slip joints to shortswords, and passing them back in forth amid the plush setting of the hotel bar. The hotel staff is well used to this by now, never batting an eye as they set your next drink down alongside a battle-axe resting on your cocktail table. A lot of business occurs in the Pit after hours as well. For example, this year I ran into the folks from Zombie Tools and had a great time checking out their versatile array of swords, axes and cleavers, all ready for the undead apocalypse or anything else you might encounter while you’re waiting. You just never know who or what you’ll run into in the Pit, and no Blade Show experience is really fulfilled until you spend some time there and soak in the afterhours scene. —Tim Stetzer KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 5 9 KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:42 PM Page 60 /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 5Böker USA 6Brous Blades WHAT: Davis Classic Hunter – Anniversary Edition WHERE: www.Boker.de.us WHY WE LIKE IT: In good company among other names marking milestones in 2014, Böker is commemorating an impressive 145 years since its German genesis. Whereas other competitors celebrated with particularly intricate or flashy designs, Böker opted for perfectly refined, classic simplicity in this limited edition version of one of its all-time most popular knives. WHAT: Strife WHERE: www.BrousBlades.com WHY WE LIKE IT: Reviewer Tim Stetzer remarked in the last issue of Knives Illustrated that when he first saw Jason Brous’ T4 folder, he had what he called a “wow moment.” We felt the same when Brous showed us one of his latest designs, a collaboration with Dustin Turpin. Sleek, streamlined and sturdy, the knife is impressive to look at—but even more impressive to hold. With a flick of the wrist, the flipper opens smoothly and breathtakingly fast, locking immediately and firmly into the open position. This one would be a great investment for the user looking for a tactical blade or for an edgier everyday carry. Only 145 serial numbered pieces will be sold of this handsome knife, which features beautiful Grenadill wood scales, nickel silver bolsters and liners, sterling silver emblem, and a polished N690BO steel blade laser engraved with Böker’s 145th anniversary logo. A special presentation package and certificate of authenticity are included. 5 8 7 6 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:43 PM Page 61 the BEST of BLADE /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 7Buck Knives 8Chris Reeve Knives 9Cold Steel Knives WHAT: Crosslock Hoof Pick WHERE: www.BuckKnives.com WHY WE LIKE IT: We’ve seen our fair share of multi-function blades recently, ranging from classic Swiss Army multitools to Spyderco’s marlin spike Tusk. And now, for the equine-loving knife user, Buck has designed a handy folder with a hoof pick. A modified spear point blade will serve for everyday utility, while the 3-inch hoof pick is perfect for dislodging dirt and debris from a horse’s hooves. Both components are made from corrosion-resistent 420HC steel, while the textured anodized aluminum handle provides an excellent grip under any conditions. At only 4 ounces, the Crosslock Hoof Pick is convenient to carry wherever you and your horse may go. WHAT: Sebenza 25 WHERE: www.ChrisReeve.com WHY WE LIKE IT: Chris Reeve is one of the masters of combining excellence in form and function, crafting beautifully machined knives with artful handles, but also perfecting and streamlining their practical parts. Some 25 years ago, he introduced the Sebenza Integral Lock, which refined the traditional liner lock into a single piece. WHAT: Warcraft Tanto WHERE: www.ColdSteel.com WHY WE LIKE IT: On a large TV screen outside the Cold Steel booth, passers-by were treated to footage of owner Lynn Thompson using a countless variety of blades to effortlessly dismantle everything from logs to skinned game to life-size mannequins filled with fake blood. The message was clear: You can’t find many things more fierce and fearsome than a Cold Steel knife. The Sebenza 25 is a celebration of both that technical achievement and of newer achievements since. For example, this knife is the first to feature large hollow grind technology, while the grip and washers have been fine-tuned to perfection. The blade is CPM S35V stainless steel, while the handle is 6A14V titanium, available with CRK’s popular Micarta inlays. The Warcraft Tanto is no exception. The balance was perfect, giving me a surprising amount of momentum even with a few careful test swings, and the blade was so sharp it seemed just looking at it wrong could have cut me. Thicker than many of its peers, the blade is made from American CPM 3-V steel and protected with DLC (Diamond Like Coating) for exceptional durability. Don’t take our word for it: Cold Steel has video of the Warcraft Tanto supporting the weight of a Volvo! 6 9 knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 6 1 KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:43 PM Page 62 /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// WHAT: Mountain Climber Switchblade WHERE: www.ColonialKnifeCorp.com WHY WE LIKE IT: From one of the burliest knives we saw at the show to one of the smallest: Colonial president and avid rock climber Steve Paolantonio worked with late designer Blackie Collins to produce this compact yet sturdy knife, with fellow rock climbers in mind. The ATS-34 blade deploys in the blink of an eye and is serrated to easily sever a tangled rope or other heavy-duty materials, while a push button and back-up lock ensure the blade stays secured even if dropped. At only 1 ounce and with a 1.75-inch blade, it’s so lightweight you’ll hardly notice you’re carrying it, and it’s legal to carry even in California. 11CRKT WHAT: HoodWork WHERE: www.CRKT.com WHY WE LIKE IT: Survival knives made quite a strong showing at the Blade Show, but among the most eyecatching was this beefy fixed-blade, designed by Karen Hood. Made in the USA, the base of the Wilderness Outdoor Recreation Knife (Work, for short) is 1095 high-carbon steel, sandblasted and sealed with Cerakote coating for ultimate durability. Its standout features include removable G-10 scales, holes in the handle for straightening arrows, aggressive jimping on the spine, and CRKT’s patented Veff Serrations. An orange paracord lanyard and custom leather sheath are included. 10 12 Diving Sparrow Knife Works WHAT: Kephart Wing WHERE: www.DSKW.ca WHY WE LIKE IT: We can’t deny that we’re a bit biased, as this knife was designed and crafted by Knives Illustrated’s own Abe Elias. But we’re certain anyone would agree that there’s a good reason why this Ontario, Canada-based workshop has gained something of a cult following in the bushcraft industry. Elias specializes in no-nonsense, traditional designs with meticulously perfected handle ergonomics and blade geometry. This particular model features Micarta handles and a 1095 steel blade with a Scandi grind. While it’s a bit beefy at 9.25 inches long, even in my smaller hands it was one of the most comfortable knives I’ve handled. Photo by Tim Stetzer 10 Colonial Knife Company 11 12 6 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:43 PM Page 63 the BEST of BLADE /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 13Emerson Knives 14Light My Fire 15HallMark Cutlery WHAT: ETAK B WHERE: www.EmersonKnives.com WHY WE LIKE IT: Blade Show attendees were abuzz over the Emerson Tactical Assault Knife, an impressive tanto from “father of the modern tactical knife” Ernest Emerson. Longtime aficionados will immediately recognize the signature Emerson wave and thumb stud features, which make for nearly effortless opening. While the V grind of the 154CM blade is aggressive, the ETAK is also simple enough for everyday utility. With its ergonomic G-10 handles, it’ll fit your hand so well you may not want to put it down. WHAT: Swedish FireKnife WHERE: www.LightMyFire.com WHY WE LIKE IT: The sparks were flying at the Going Gear booth—literally. “Those look like Moras,” I said of the brightly colored handle of the tool a representative was striking to create those sparks. And indeed it was. Specifically, it was the product of a collaborative effort between the Swedish Morakniv and Light My Fire to create the ultimate dependable camping tool. Chop your tinder with the sturdy Sandvik 12C27 blade at one end, set it ablaze with the Swedish FireSteel Scout the other. No matter what elevation you’re camping at, and even under wet conditions, this tool will produce 5,400-degree sparks. The next time I set out for a longoverdue trip into the woods, I expect I’ll have one of these by my side. WHAT: Mosier Drifter Tanto WHERE: www.HallMarkCutlery.com WHY WE LIKE IT: “These guys could justify selling their knives for much higher prices— they easily rival Emerson,” one of our writers remarked after visiting HallMark’s booth. And no wonder: This small, family-owned business has partnered with some of the best custom designers in the business to produce several lines of fierce blades. We’re currently particularly impressed with the Bad Blood tactical line, and specifically this fixedblade tanto, designed by David Mosier. Impeccably designed, the Drifter measures 7.9 inches from the tip of its 8Cr14 blade to the butt of its contoured, textured G-10 handle. It’s large enough for combat, but not too large for everyday carry, and fits nicely into an included fitted sheath. 14 13 15 knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 6 3 KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:43 PM Page 64 /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 16Hogue 17Klecker Knives 18Olamic Cutlery WHAT: Neck Knife WHERE: www.GetGrip.com WHY WE LIKE IT: It should come as no surprise that a company that built its business on grips is giving its knife-using customers the freedom to customize interchange their handle scales. At its most basic, you’ve got a skeleton neck knife with either a hawkbill or clip-point Damascus blade. But thanks to interchangable scales, you can convert this basic design into just about any configuration you want, even a karambit. Sometimes you really can have it all, including a secure Kydex sheath. WHAT: KLAX Lumberjack WHERE: www.KleckerKnives.com WHY WE LIKE IT: There’s no question that Glen Klecker’s KLAX was the most innovative design we saw all weekend (and the Knife of the Year voters agreed). Right out of the box, the wilderness adventurer can use it as an ulu knife, while various cutouts in the blade function as a hex wrench, 1/4-inch bit drive socket, hammer head, ruler and and bottle opener. Chop into a solid stake or branch, and a patent-pending mechanism allows you to screw and clamp the blade on, creating a full-fledged axe. Suffice it to say the KLAX in all four of its current variations promises to be the ultimate tool for any outdoorsman! WHAT: Battle Chef WHERE: www.OlamicCutlery.com WHY WE LIKE IT: Speaking of blades with versatile outdoor uses, Eugene Solomonik of Olamic Cutlery debuted a rather unique combination at the show: a tactical kitchen knife. Dubbed the Battle Chef, the knife would be ideal, Solomonik says, for outdoorsmen who want a knife that can effortlessly transition from chopping brush to preparing a meal. The Battle Chef checks in at 10.5 inches overall length and 10.3 ounces in weight and features G-10 handles. At 7 inches, the N690Co blade is the perfect length for a chef’s knife or a good camp blade. This unique chopper is produced by Fox Knives USA. 16 17 18 Photo by Tim Stetzer 6 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:43 PM Page 65 the BEST of BLADE /////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 19 Ontario Knife Company WHAT: Agilite steak knife set WHERE: www.OntarioKnife.com WHY WE LIKE IT: We mentioned in our story on page 34 that Ontario Knife Company is branching out into new types of knives, and the Agilite series is a prime example. These extremely lightweight knives—which include steak knives, chef’s knife, bread knife and paring knife—feature ergnomoic double injection-molded handles of Ultem and Kraton and 14C28N fine carbide steel, meticulously engineered by master bladesmith Dan Margani. Heat resistant, flexible, durable and best of all, affordable, these knives were already gaining plenty of attention at Blade, and surely will continue to do so. 20RAT Worx USA WHAT: Mini MRX WHERE: www.RATWorxUSA.com WHY WE LIKE IT: At the RAT Worx booth, a rigged machine opened and closed the MRX flipper every second or two nonstop while the floor was open, in an impressive demonstration of the company’s peerless chaindrive opening mechanism. While the average flipper wears down after opening about 50,000 times, the MRX has been tested up to 418,000 openings and change before starting to fail. Apart from the knife, the chain drive system—which consists of selflubricating ceramic-coated roller bearings, dual-nested extension springs and a miniature roller chain—has been tested even up to 40 million cycles. In addition to being impressively durable, this knife is just plain fun. The blade flips open quickly, with no play whatsoever, and immediately locks securely into place. I didn’t want to put it down! The MRX is available in a variety of blade profiles, materials and finishes, as well as two sizes: the 8.5-inch Standard, and the 6.9-inch Mini. 21 SOG Specialty Knives & Tools WHAT: Zoom WHERE: www.SOGKnives.com WHY WE LIKE IT: We wish we could show you the special limited-edition version of the Zoom, which had a dazzling handle inlay of titanium laser-centered spheres (the two available at Blade were still in the mail by press time), but its everyday counterpart still caught our eyes. The standard Zoom may be the less flashy sibling, but its function is equally on point. Built with SOG’s patented assisted opening technology, the satin-finish AUS-8 blade flips smoothly and easily using either hand. Meanwhile, a hard anodized aluminum handle feels slim and comfortable in hand and allows the knife to slip easily in and out of your pockect. Lightweight and compact, it’s an ideal no-frills EDC. 21 19 20 knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 6 5 KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:43 PM Page 66 //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// 22Spyderco Knives 23TOPS Knives 24Zero Tolerance WHAT: Rubicon CLIPIT WHERE: www.Spyderco.com WHY WE LIKE IT: With so many exciting new blades constantly in production, it’s hard to narrow down just one to highlight from Spyderco. Fortunately, the Knife of the Year awards made the Rubicon an easy choice. Taking home the trophy for best imported design, this knife by Peter Carey is the epitome of a gentleman’s tactical blade. From the Carson Flipper opening mechanism to the premium S30V blade, to the 3-D polished carbon fiber handle, to the cutomized pivot cover, this folder is nothing short of sophisticated—and yet not too sophisticated to be useful. Even without an award, it would be a winner in our eyes. WHAT: El Patron XXX WHERE: www.TOPSKnives.com WHY WE LIKE IT: You can tell with just a glance that this knife means business, and it’s even more fierce in hand. The powdercoated 1095 blade is thick, and the whole knife feels beefy and reassuringly weighty in hand. A deep thumb groove, jimping, karambit-style index finger ring and removable G10 scales allow for a variety of secure grips while making good use of the drop-point blade or aggressive opposing pitch saw teeth. Overall, the El Patron is nasty in the best possible way. WHAT: 0392 Eclipse WHERE: www.ZT.KAIUSALtd.com WHY WE LIKE IT: It’s been a good year for KAI USA as the company’s three brands— Shun, Kershaw and Zero Tolerance—all took home Knife of the Year awards; their blackwash-finish knives have been hugely popular and seen excellent sales; and Kershaw and ZT have embarked on successful partnerships with renowned custom makers such as Ernest Emerson and Rick Hinderer. The latter collaboration debuted the 0392 Eclipse at Blade. 22 ZT refers to this limited-edition knife as “factory custom.” While the knife is assembled at the KAI USA factory, all of the parts are custom made by Hinderer himself. Customers have the option to select their preferred color components from Hinderer’s available options. KI 24 23 6 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-56-67-BLADE.CX-jc.qxp 6/29/14 11:43 PM Page 67 the BEST of BLADE //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// IN ACTION As much as I enjoyed seeing, learning about and handling the latest and greatest knives at the Blade Show, easily the most exciting part of the weekend was watching the 2014 BladeSports World Cutting Championship. The contestants—all seasoned sportsmen who compete year-round—took up their blades to face off against a series of chopping tasks including thick ropes, plastic water bottles, 2x4 planks, soda cans, straw, and even a golf ball and tennis ball. They were judged according to their technique (such as hitting each “victim” at a precise point) and the time within which they accomplished every task. Last year’s runner-up and champion were BladeSports directors Dan Keffeler and Donavon Phillips, respectively. This year, the two switched places, Keffeler taking the victory and Phillips following close behind. For more information, visit www.BladeSports.org. - Bethany Miller A drop point and enough belly for skinning makes the Nyala useful in a multitude of applications. The integral handle and blade is sturdy and practical. ClipiTools: A refreshing approach to multi-function pocketknives C176P&S ClipiTool Serrated Blade C175P ClipiTool Bottle Opener/ Screwdriver C169P ClipiTool Scissors See your local dealer or visit us at www.spyderco.com Toll Free: 1-800-525-7770 + All stainless steel construction + Pocket clip for convenient carry knivesillustrated.com + Non-locking slipjoint with fore-finger choil + Non-locking secondary tool + Full-flat ground blade + User friendly trademark Round Hole™ KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 6 7 KI-1409-68-QUEEN 6/26/14 3:45 AM Page 68 the best of BLADE ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////// QUEEN’S COLLABORATION WITH RUPLE SUPPORTS THE WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT STORY BY LES ROBERTSON PHOTO BY TERRILL HOFFMAN he beauty of a custom knife is only enhanced when that knife is made for a good cause. Queen Cutlery’s collaboration with Bill Ruple is a fine example. T To benefit the Wounded Warrior Project, the Pennsylvania-based company commissioned Ruple to design a special trapper knife that would be auctioned at the Blade Show; the knife went for $2,250. to his attention to detail. This trapper model epitomizes his use of 20th-century patterns, top-of-the-line materials and world-class craftsmanship. While the trapper is one of Ruple’s original models, Queen is producing only 300 pieces of this particular version. The Details The knife features a Ruple Hump Spey blade and a large clip blade, both made of high-polished, hollow-ground D-2 A Blade’s Backstory Queen, one of America’s oldest knife companies, chose its collaborator wisely: Ruple, who has 26 years of experience, is a favorite among collectors of both custom and factory knives, largely thanks FOR MORE INFO The Wounded Warrior Project provides assistance to U.S. veterans injured in the line of duty and for their families. To learn more, visit www.WoundedWarriorProject.org. steel. Each blade has a deep-cut swedge and crescent nail nicks for opening. The front and rear bolsters along with the liners and pins are made from nickel silver, while the scales are genuine torched stag with an oval nickel silver shield. Each blade is 3.9 inches, the overall open length is 7.5 inches, and the knife weighs in at 5.1 ounces. The trapper auctioned at Blade also included a special presentation box by GunBoxesUSA.com, part of John P. Scott Woodworking, which proudly produces the presentation boxes for Medal of Honor recipients. KI QUEEN’S CONTACT INFO www.QueenCutlery.com (814) 827-3673 This custom collaboration trapper was auctioned at the 2014 Blade Show for $2,250. 6 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI_1409_69 6/25/14 8:02 AM Page 69 www.knifeandgun.com K & G FINISHING SUPPLIES Your #1 Stabilizer for over 23 years We can stabilize your wood, horn, bone, Ivory and gemstone. Custom Dying and Stabilizing Call for more information 800-972-1192 KI-1409-184-187-QA.CX 6/29/14 11:44 PM Page 70 BEHINDthe SCENES The TOP of the Heap HOW TOPS KNIVES BECAME THE SUPPLIER OF CHOICE FOR THE MOST HARDCORE KNIFE USERS STORY BY BETHANY MILLER PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOPS KNIVES This month, we spoke with Leo Espinoza, vice president and one of the founders of TOPS Knives. How, when and why was TOPS founded? TOPS Knives was created in December 1998. Several old military friends who had worked together during the Vietnam era felt the military’s standard-issue knives of the time just were not strong enough for rigorous field use. We combined our time, money, contacts, ideas, testing and unique experiences to jointly design our first knife, the Steel Eagle 107D. We’re pleased to report that, 15 years later, we’re still selling this model. When we were designing it, we actually passed it between many of our old military buddies to get their input on its size, function, comfort, color, material and price. We used their feedback to improve the knife. We then produced our first 20 pieces, which sold out at our first show. Soon after that, we started to get requests from active members of the Special Operations community, as well as from various U.S. law enforcement agencies and the survival-oriented community, for a special knife/tool. Are TOPS products designed to fill a niche that is unfilled, or to surpass other knives and tools on the market? Our products were initially designed for special requests or for mission-oriented tasks. However, as years have passed by we realized that “flexibility is the keynote of success and survival in business.” We first specifically targeted the military and SWAT personnel, then moved into the survival/bushcraft markets. How do you research and develop your products to ensure you fulfill the demands of this niche? Over the years we’ve been able to utilize the testing of many real field operators. These are people who have had ABOUT THE INTERVIEWEE NAME: Leo Espinoza TITLE: Vice president of operations EMPLOYED FOR: 15+ years 7 0 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-184-187-QA 6/26/14 3:48 AM Page 71 “AT FIRST, WE WERE GOING TO START WITH ONLY A COUPLE MODELS, AND NOW HAVE A LINE OF MORE THAN 350 PIECES.” — LEO ESPINOZA knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 7 1 KI-1409-184-187-QA 6/26/14 3:48 AM Page 72 significant exposure in many terrains, under a variety of extreme conditions. We also have developed our own market here in the Rocky Mountains. Many members of our staff have grown up regularly hunting, fishing and engaging in many other outdoor activities. What have been some of your greatest challenges, personally and as a company? Personally, I’ve been fortunate, because even before I was out of school I got into a vocation that I really liked and to which I could apply my experience in the outdoors, as well as creative design applications. Several members of my family have worked with us over the past 15 years, and to this day even my wife and father are still working with us. Today, long hours, design modifications and reaching a happy medium between good designs and affordable steel are what keep me on my toes. The company has had its challenges; although we’re now in a highly ABOUT THE COMPANY: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS? 16 years HOW MANY EMPLOYEES? 20 -25 full time, plus some part-time employees WEBSITE AND CONTACT INFORMATION: www.TOPSKnives.com (208) 542-0113 competitive field, all of us in the industry continually fight against the high number of Chinese knockoffs. The counterfeiters use our official trademarks and styles, and distribute their products around the world. The knockoffs are, invariably, Leo Espinoza founded TOPS along with 11 other military and survival professionals. DID YOU KNOW… “TOPS” is an acronym for “Tactical Operational Products.” Scandi Woodsman The Steel Eagle 107D was TOPS’s first knife and is still in demand today. 7 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-184-187-QA 6/26/14 3:48 AM Page 73 THE A-TEAM NOTEWORTHY NAMES AMONG THE 12 TOPS FOUNDERS INCLUDE: • Outdoor survival expert Ron Hood • Military martial arts instructor Kelly Worden • 23-year Force Recon Marine Larry Keen (retired) • 30-year SEAL Team Three Command Master Chief Bill Hill (retired) facility, which can house our manufacturing, quality control, shipping and administration. During our rapid growth period we’ve had three facilities spread out over 12 miles of countryside. Our objective is to continue to grow strategically, while maintaining high standards throughout our production. We know that an individual’s life may someday depend upon one of our knives, hence our motto: “One knife, one life.” KI Wild Hog Hunter poorly made, but people buy them because they’re cheap and they believe they’re getting the real thing. However, we’ve noticed in the last few years that a new breed of nationalism has become apparent and that Americans care more about buying American-made products. What have you been most proud of? I’m most proud of having been with TOPS since almost day one, seeing TOPS grow so fast and proudly working as a part of it. At first, we were going to start with only a couple models, and now have a line of more than 350 pieces. Who are your customers, and what do they love the most about your knives? Our clientele are certainly diverse. Nowadays, we could include military, SWAT, search and rescue, outfitters, preppers, bushcrafters, hikers, bikers and so knivesillustrated.com “…15 YEARS LATER, WE’RE STILL SELLING [OUR ORIGINAL] MODEL.” —LEO ESPINOZA on. Most of our clientele own several of our knives, and many have large collections that they’re always adding to. Which knife is your personal favorite, and why? To be perfectly frank with you, this question would be like asking me which of my kids is my favorite. I love them all; every single one has its own unique look and feel. What are TOPS’s goals for the next year, and for the long term? This year we’re progressing into a larger Tex Creek and Tex Creek XL KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 7 3 KI-1409-74-79-ACCESSORIES 6/26/14 4:02 AM Page 74 BELLS & WHISTLES Get The Edge FROM SHARPENERS TO SHEATHS, PERFECT ACCESSORIES FOR EVERY KNIFE BY KI STAFF PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS A re you an outdoorsman searching for that extra “edge” in the wild? Maybe you’re a knife collector looking for a tasteful display idea. It could be that you’re a law enforcement/military professional with something tactical in mind. Then again, you might be a general knife user in need of a vital accessory. 2 ESEE Replacement Handles Has the handle of your favorite ESEE knife become worn through use or otherwise need to be swapped out for a new one? If so, you’re in luck, as the company is offering replacement handles for a number of their popular knives, including the Izula and Junglas. The handles include model-specific hardware for an exact fit. Except for the orange G-10, all handles are made from either linen or canvas Micarta. MSRP: $17.50-$25 Whatever you desire, the knife industry offers something for just about everyone. Need convincing? Check out these 10 top products. FOR THE OUTDOORSMAN: 1 CRKT Kangee Woods T-Hawk Leather Sheath Are you the proud wielder of a CRKT Woods Kangee THawk but find yourself in need of a leather sheath to tote the tomahawk while protecting the axe head? CRKT has a special 6- or 7-ounce heavy-duty protective sheath made of handcrafted leather that’s been vegetable tanned so it won’t corrode metal and features a hand-oiled finish for durability. The seams are lock-stitched with heavyweight nylon thread. CRKT also makes sheaths for the Woods Chogan T-Hawk. MSRP: $24.99 7 4 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-74-79-ACCESSORIES 6/26/14 4:27 AM Page 75 3 SOG BladeLight Sheath The BladeLight knife from SOG was featured in the May/June 2014 issue of Knives Illustrated, and the new molded nylon BladeLight sheath was designed to work with this innovative line of camp/tactical knives. The sheath allows the LED in the handle of the knife to shine through, allowing it to be safely used as a flashlight. The BladeLight sheath includes a carbide sharpener and groove for cutting cord. MSRP: $25 FOR THE COLLECTOR: 4 A.G. Russell Cherry Display Box Give your finest knives the presentation they deserve with a cherrywood box from A.G. Russell. All boxes include a glass lid and a bed of fabric over foam to cushion your knives in style. Available sizes include 5x10, 9x13, 9x25 and 18x24 (in inches). MSRP: $34.95-$119.95 knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 7 5 KI-1409-74-79-ACCESSORIES 6/26/14 4:02 AM Page 76 FOR THE TACTICAL USER: 5 CRKT Hook & Loop Tool Keep your Velcro fastener free of dirt and debris with CRKT’s new Hook and Loop tool, designed by Trip Felton. It’s easy to clean your hooks and loops with the wire or soft brush, thereby creating a tighter bond that could make a big difference out in the field. The tool includes a folding boot cleaner. MSRP: $29.99 6 TOPS Ballistic Nylon Combat Sheath The TOPS Knives line of Ballistic Nylon Combat Sheaths includes a variety of sizes ranging from the smaller 5- , 6- and 7-inch models to the larger 8.5- , 9.5- and 12-inch sheaths seen here. All sheaths feature a durable Spectra 40 highstrength plastic insert and an external pocket for a sharpener or clip. The handle secures with a nylon and Velcro strap, with a tie-down for added security. MSRP: $39 7 6 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-74-79-ACCESSORIES 6/26/14 4:02 AM Page 77 FOR EVERYONE: 7 Quick Release Oil Find out what many knife owners already know— Quick Release penetrates, lubricates and protects. It’s designed to drive out dirt, moisture and corrosion, and leave a slick protective film that prevents their return. Folding knives, tools or anything with moving metal parts will last longer and work better when Quick Release is applied. Quick Release is available through A.G. Russell and other fine specialty retailers. MSRP: $7.45 Cutting Edge Artists Choose Tormach Mills Knifemakers around the world are using Tormach PCNC milling machines to add new dimensions to their craft. Today’s top blade artists are embracing CNC technology to shape and sculpt blades and handles, cut precision blade locks and other mechanisms, and customize designs with engraving and detail. Tormach PCNC 1100 Series 3 starting at $8480 (plus shipping) Follow knifemaker John Grimsmo as he makes his own knives with a PCNC 1100 on his web series, Knifemaking Tuesdays, at www.tormach.com/kmt. Shown here with optional stand, LCD monitor, machine arms, and accessories. Grimsmo Knives milling a fixed blade, called The Tor, on a Tormach PCNC 1100. www.tormach.com/knives knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 7 7 KI-1409-74-79-ACCESSORIES 6/26/14 4:03 AM Page 78 8 Benchmade Brag-Bag Now here’s something for knife owners to crow about— the Brag-Bag from Benchmade. You can add or remove pages depending on how many knives you wish to carry, and there are pages for large knives as well as smaller folders. There’s also a MOLLE grid feature for attaching accessories of your choice. The Brag-Bag comes standard as a shell that can hold up to 20 folding knives with additional pages available separately. MSRP: $60 9 Benchmade Bali-USB Drive The Bali-USB from Benchmade is a fully functional 4Gb USB flash drive that makes it easy to bring your important files anywhere. Constructed from three pieces of injection-molded plastic, the little fliphandle Bali can handle any type of file format. Despite its lethal appearance, the Bali-USB is legal in all 50 states. MSRP: $30 7 8 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI-1409-74-79-ACCESSORIES 6/26/14 4:03 AM Page 79 10 Jantz Supply WMTH6 Tri-Hone Sharpener This new three-stone knife sharpener from Jantz Supply features a coarse 220-grit carborundum stone, Washita stone and hard Arkansas stone to sharpen any blade edge to its maximum potential. The sharpener comes with a 1-ounce bottle of high-quality honing oil to clean and protect the surface and an angle guide to ensure the correct angle every time. KI MSRP: $19.95 PROVEN, LIKE THE TEAMS THAT USE THEM. FORGED OUT OF TRADITION. CONTACT INFO A.G. RUSSELL KNIVES (800) 255-9034 www.AGRussell.com BENCHMADE HARDENED IN THE FIELD. HONED FROM EXPERIENCE. (800) 800-7427 www.Benchmade.com COLUMBIA RIVER KNIFE & TOOL (800) 891-3100 www.CRKT.com SOG knives and tools are born of the military, preferred by U.S. Special Forces teams for decades. So whether you’re answering the call of duty or arming yourself with innovation, lead the way with SOG. sogknives.com TAKE POINT. TM ESEE KNIVES (256) 613-0372 www.ESEEKnives.com JANTZ SUPPLY (800) 351-8900 www.KnifeMaking.com SOG SPECIALTY KNIVES & TOOLS (888) 405-6433 www.SOGKnives.com TOPS KNIVES (208) 542-0113 www.TOPSKnives.com knivesillustrated.com KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 7 9 KI-1409-80-AD INDEX 6/30/14 2:00 PM Page 80 ADINDEX LEE'S CUTLERY Specializing in: Custom Knives, Anza Handmade Knives, Chris Reeve, Microtech, Collectible Knives, Military Knives, Great Eastern Cutlery, Randall Knives, Protech, Newt Livesay Knives, Sticks & Canes Bear and Son Cutlery 3 Blade HQ 39 BladeGallery.com 37 Blue Ridge Knives 77, 80 Cas Iberia 5 Chris Reeve Knives 67 Global Trading Agents 33 HallMark Cutlery 55 Hogue Grips 23 Jantz Supply 48-49, 55 Kershaw Knives 84 Knife and Gun Finishing Supply 39 Knife Center Of The Internet 27 Krudo Knives 23 Leecutlery.com 80 Niagara Specialty Metals 27 Ontario Knife Company 27 Randall Made Knives 80 SOG Specialty Knives 79 Southeastern Custom Knife Show 77 Spyderco Inc. 67 Tandy Leather Factory 69 TOPS Knives 83 Tormach LLC 77 Tru-Grit, Inc. 79 *Anza Handmade W.R. 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For questions on downloading this app contact 800-764-6278 KI-1409-82-READER 6/26/14 4:09 AM Page 82 SHOW & TELL Show & Tell appears at the end of every issue of Knives Illustrated. In it, readers tell us about their favorite knives from their personal collections. Interested in showing off your knife? Email Bethany Miller at [email protected]. ABOUT THE OWNER NAME: D. Andrew Kopas RESIDENCE: Washington Township, New Jersey OCCUPATION: Process improvement consultant ABOUT THE KNIFE MANUFACTURER: Boker MODEL: Tirpitz Damascus Folder, customized by owner OWNED SINCE: August 2013 What made this knife catch your eye? I was impressed by the excellent craftsmanship of the knife, the "Great Pyramids” Damascus pattern on the blade, and its history. How many knives do you own, and why does this one stand out? I have five knives in my collection. This one is by far the best, in terms of history and appearance. The only ones that compare to it were a custom Lloyd Pendleton fighter with deep hollow grinds and a Japanese sword I once owned that was almost 500 years old from the Uda Period, Bizen Provence. I started collecting knives and swords more than 30 years ago. What is this knife’s most unique feature or your favorite feature? The exceptional history of the knife blade is what makes it unique. Steel from the armor plating on the salvaged World War II German battleship Tirpitz, sister ship of the Bismarck, was combined with carbon tool steel to make the 300-layer Damascus blade. I then handcrafted a mammoth ivory scale insert to provide an additional distinctive look to the folder. I’d recommend this knife to anyone who’s interested in a customizable, high-quality folding knife with military history behind it. My father landed troops on Omaha Beach on D-Day during World War II, so it has special significance to me. KI PHOTOS BY JEFF ANDERSON D. Andrew Kopas particularly loves his customized Boker knife for its historical significance. 8 2 KNIVES ILLUSTRATED • SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2014 knivesillustrated.com KI_1409_C3 6/25/14 12:09 AM Page C3 ()'&!*+%##%'##('+& !"#$%&' !" '!(!)$ *+, )!,&$ +'+ "# !"#$% & KI_1409_C4 6/25/14 12:12 AM Page C4 Self-reliance is self-evident. Rebellion has a cause. Being prepared is a way of life. Being tested is to be expected. Fear is to be embraced. One opinion counts. Independence goes without saying. And there are no excuses. What are YOU carrying? STARTER 1301BW LIFTER 1302BW MANIFOLD 1303BW kershawknives.com