We've known KA-BAR knives for a long time at Heinnie. They're rarely delicate, seldom understated, making them a distinctive choice for collectors and enthusiasts. That's a big part of why we like them.
Which KA-BAR Knife Is Right for You?
If you came here looking for a KA-BAR fixed blade, there's a good chance the classic USMC pattern is already somewhere on your shortlist.
Originally adopted during the Second World War, its clip-point blade, stacked leather handle and distinctive profile have made it one of the most recognisable American knives ever produced. There have been plenty of variations since, but put a traditional KA-BAR on the table and most knife people know exactly what they're looking at.
The KA-BAR Becker range is different. Designed with Ethan Becker, these are substantial full-tang outdoor and survival knives with generous handles and enough blade for serious work around camp. They're hefty, which won't suit everyone. If you want a lightweight belt knife, we'd look elsewhere. If you want a tough working fixed blade, we'd certainly have a Becker on the shortlist.
Built to Be Used
You'll see 1095 Cro-Van steel across many of KA-BAR's best-known fixed blades. It's tough, takes a good edge and is relatively straightforward to sharpen. As a carbon steel it needs a little more care around moisture, but that's a trade-off plenty of KA-BAR owners are happy to make.
We wouldn't buy a KA-BAR because we're chasing the newest steel anyway. That's rather missing the point.
These are knives we look at for proven designs and dependable construction. A classic USMC and a hefty Becker might wear the same name, but we'd recommend them for very different reasons.
Have a good look through the KA-BAR knives below. If you want to widen the search, compare them with our Fixed Blade Knives, Bushcraft Knives or other American Knives.
Stuck between a classic KA-BAR and a Becker? Send your shortlist to Kit Assist. Tell us what you're actually going to do with it and we'll tell you which one we'd reach for. View Less
