Suzy Kinney

Written by Suzy Kinney

Published: 02 Feb 2024

Camryn Rabideau

Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau

6-best-ka-bar-knives
Source: Spartanbladesusa.com

If you're looking for a reliable and sturdy knife, then you might want to consider a Ka Bar knife. Ka Bar is known for producing high-quality knives that are built to last. In this article, we'll be discussing the 6 best Ka Bar knives that are worth considering for your collection. Whether you're a survivalist, outdoorsman, or simply looking for a dependable knife for everyday use, these knives are sure to meet your needs. So, let's dive in and explore the top 6 Ka Bar knives that you should have on your radar!

Top Picks:

Overall Score: 9/10

The KA-BAR #1213 Black Straight Edge Knife / Hard Sheath is a top-quality, American-made knife designed for heavy-duty use. With a carbon steel blade and Kraton handle, it offers excellent grip and balance. The Kydex sheath adds to its versatility, allowing for multiple carrying options. Users appreciate the sharpness of the blade and the overall durability of the knife.

Key Features

  • Blade Detail: Plain Edge
  • Blade Length (inches): 7.00
  • Carry System: Kydex Sheath
  • Handle Material: Kraton
  • Special Features: N/A
  • Made in USA

Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 13.25Lx3.13Wx2.25H
  • Size: One Size

Pros

  • High-quality carbon steel blade
  • Excellent grip and balance with Kraton handle
  • Durable Kydex sheath with multiple carrying options

Cons

  • Kraton handle may feel odd initially
  • Black coating may feel a bit cheap to some

The KA-BAR #1213 Black Straight Edge Knife / Hard Sheath is a standout option for those seeking a reliable, versatile, and sharp-edged weapon. Its American-made quality, combined with the tough Kydex sheath, makes it a no-brainer for anyone in need of a high-performance knife. While some users may find the Kraton handle a bit odd at first, its advantages in grip and balance quickly become apparent. Overall, this KA-BAR model lives up to its reputation for excellence in design and construction.

Overall Score: 9.5/10

The Ka-Bar 1282 D2 Extreme Fighting Knife in Black is a versatile and durable knife. It is used by all branches of the military and is great for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts. The blade is made of D2 steel for strength and the handle is Kraton G material. The knife measures 11-7/8 inches with a clip-shaped blade. It comes with a glass-filled, nylon sheath and is made in the USA. The knife has been tested for quality and durability. The sheath has various carrying options and it has a tight fit to secure the knife. Note though that some users have encountered issues with the quality of the sheath. The knife has gotten great reviews for its sharpness, balance, and performance in various tasks. Overall, it is considered a great deal for its quality and value.

Key Features

  • Used by all branches of the military and service members
  • Great for collectors and outdoor services
  • Tested to ensure quality and durability
  • 7-inch D2 steel blade; 11-7/8 inches long
  • Handle made of Kraton G material
  • Made in USA; includes glass-filled, nylon sheath

Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 5.00Lx5.00Wx5.00H
  • Size: 11.87 inch

Pros

  • High-quality D2 steel blade
  • Versatile for various tasks
  • Tight fit in the sheath for secure carry

Cons

  • Quality issues with the sheath reported by some users

The Ka-Bar 1282 D2 Extreme Fighting Knife is highly recommended for its quality, durability, and versatility. While there have been some concerns about the sheath, the overall performance and value of the knife make it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts and collectors.

Overall Score: 8/10

The KA-BAR TDI Law Enforcement Knife Fixed Blade, Steel: AUS 8A stainless steel is a compact and versatile knife ideal for everyday carry and self-defense. It features a 2 5/16 inch AUS-8A stainless steel blade, a black handle, and sheath. With a customer rating of 4.8/5, it offers a fast draw, concealability, light weight, and sturdiness. It is well-suited for self-defense and offers good value for money, but the belt clip on the sheath may be weak. Although it is recommended for self-defense, some users may find it less suitable for multi-use EDC.

Key Features

  • Complete length- 5 5/8 inches, Blade length- 2 5/16 inches
  • Drop point edge
  • Blade quality- AUS-8A stainless steel blade
  • Hardness of steel- 57-59 HRC
  • Includes a black handle and sheath

Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 8.38Lx4.25Wx1.50H
  • Size: One Size

Pros

  • Fast draw
  • Concealable
  • Light weight
  • Sturdy
  • High value

Cons

  • If handle material had a layer of G-10 it would never leave my side
  • Sheath can be cumbersome ( HK-PLAN D has a superior sheath for waist carry)
  • Belt clip is weak

The KA-BAR TDI Law Enforcement Knife is a highly recommended option for those looking for a compact, reliable, and affordable self-defense knife. While it may have some minor drawbacks, its overall performance and quality make it a worthwhile investment for personal safety and protection.

Overall Score: 9/10

The KA-BAR Full Size US Marine Corps Fighting Knife is a legendary fixed blade knife made of 1095 Cro-van steel. It features a 7" straight edge blade with a 20-degree edge angle, and an overall length of 11.875 inches.The leather handle and USMC fighting knife design make it a popular choice for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and fishing. The knife is made in the USA, and it comes with a leather sheath made in Mexico.

Key Features

  • Edge Angles – 20 Degrees
  • Overall length 11.875 inches
  • The most famous fixed blade knife design in the world
  • 1095 Cro-van steel
  • Leather Handle, USMC Fighting Knife
  • 7" Straight Edge Blade
  • Knife Made in USA, Leather Sheath made in Mexico

Specifications

  • Color: As Shown
  • Dimension: 13.25Lx3.13Wx2.25H
  • Size: 11.875"

Pros

  • High-quality craftsmanship and design
  • Versatile and suitable for various outdoor activities
  • Razor-sharp blade with durable coating
  • Comes with a nice leather sheath
  • Well balanced and fairly lightweight

Cons

  • Slightly pricey compared to other options
  • May require additional sharpening out of the box

The KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife offers excellent craftsmanship, versatility, and durability, making it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and hikers. While it may be on the pricier side, its razor-sharp blade and heirloom quality make it a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate high-quality knives.

Overall Score: 9/10

The Ka-Bar 1220 US Army Straight Edge Fighting/Utility Knife with Leather Sheath features a traditional KA-BAR design, made in the USA. The blade is adorned with a U.S. ARMY tang stamp and comes with a leather sheath. Its strong build and history make it a desirable choice for collectors and users alike.

Key Features

  • Traditional KA-BAR design
  • Leather sheath included
  • Made in the USA
  • U.S. ARMY tang stamp

Specifications

  • Color: Beige
  • Dimension: 13.25Lx3.13Wx2.25H
  • Size: 7" Blade

Pros

  • Solid build with great history
  • Simple and recognizable design
  • Good self-defense and combat knife
  • Made with 1095 cro-van steel
  • Great sheath included

Cons

  • Leather sheath could be of higher quality
  • Not ideal for heavy camping use

The Ka-Bar 1220 US Army Straight Edge Knife is a well-made, historical piece ideal for collectors and those in need of a reliable combat or self-defense knife. Its strong build and rich history make it a popular and desirable choice for many users.

Overall Score: 8/10

The KA-BAR TDI Law Enforcement Straight Edge Knife is an ideal last resort weapon for law enforcement officers. Designed with input from the founder of Tactical Defense Institute, this knife features a black powder-coated AUS 8A stainless steel blade and a textured Zytel handle. The knife comes with a well-concealed sheath that can be worn on the pant belt. Available with a choice of serrated or straight edge, this compact knife is made for concealment and quick access.

Key Features

  • Black metal belt Clip (1480Clip) included
  • Designed by john benner, founder and owner of tactical defense institute
  • Aus 8a stainless steel blade
  • Zytel handle
  • Overall length 5-5/8 inch
  • Law enforcement knife ideal as 'last option' knife
  • Sheath wears on pant belt in well-concealed location
  • Black powder-coated blade made of AUS 8A stainless steel
  • Choice of serrated or straight edge
  • Textured Zytel handle
  • Overall length: 5-5/8 inches

Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 7.75Lx4.00Wx1.25H
  • Size: One Size

Pros

  • Compact and concealable design
  • Sharp and well-constructed blade
  • Comfortable grip for self-defense situations
  • Well-made sheath for secure and concealed carrying
  • Versatile carry options with reversible clip

Cons

  • Some users found the screws prone to stripping
  • Sheath may be uncomfortable for some body types

The KA-BAR TDI Law Enforcement Straight Edge Knife is a highly functional and concealable self-defense tool, designed with input from law enforcement professionals. It offers a reliable grip and sharp blade, making it an ideal last resort weapon. While some users may find the sheath uncomfortable, the overall quality and versatility of this knife make it a valuable addition to any law enforcement officer’s gear.

Best K Bar Knife Buyer's GuideBudget

  • Determine your budget before looking for a K Bar knife.
  • Consider the quality and durability of the knife in relation to your budget.
  • Remember that a higher price does not always guarantee a better knife.

Blade Material

  • Look for a K Bar knife with a blade made of high-quality steel, such as carbon or stainless steel.
  • Consider the intended use of the knife when choosing the blade material.
  • Research the maintenance required for the specific blade material.

Blade Type

  • Decide on the type of blade that suits your needs, such as a straight or serrated edge.
  • Consider the potential uses for the knife when choosing the blade type.
  • Research the advantages and disadvantages of different blade types before making a decision.

Handle Material

  • Pay attention to the material used for the handle, such as leather, Kraton, or synthetic materials.
  • Consider the comfort and grip of the handle material.
  • Research the durability and maintenance requirements of different handle materials.

Size and Weight

  • Determine the ideal size and weight of the K Bar knife based on your intended use.
  • Consider the ergonomics and ease of handling when choosing the size and weight.
  • Remember that a heavier knife may offer more power, while a lighter knife may provide better maneuverability.

Sheath

  • Look for a K Bar knife that comes with a high-quality sheath for safe storage and transport.
  • Consider the sheath material and design to ensure it meets your needs.
  • Research additional features, such as belt loops or MOLLE compatibility, if required.

Brand Reputation

  • Research the reputation of the K Bar knife brand to ensure quality and reliability.
  • Consider the company's history and customer reviews when evaluating brand reputation.
  • Remember that a well-established brand may offer better customer support and warranty options.

Intended Use

  • Determine the primary purpose of the K Bar knife, such as camping, hunting, or self-defense.
  • Consider any specific features or requirements based on the intended use.
  • Research the best K Bar knife options for your specific use case.

Additional Features

  • Look for any additional features that may enhance the functionality or versatility of the K Bar knife.
  • Consider features such as a full tang construction, lanyard hole, or serrated spine.
  • Research the benefits of different additional features before making a decision.

Local Laws and Regulations

  • Familiarize yourself with any local laws or regulations regarding the ownership and carry of knives.
  • Ensure that the K Bar knife you choose complies with any applicable laws and regulations.
  • Research any permits or licenses that may be required for certain types of knives.

Warranty

  • Consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer when purchasing a K Bar knife.
  • Look for a knife with a generous warranty period and clear terms and conditions.
  • Research the customer support options provided by the manufacturer.

Personal Preference

  • Trust your instincts and personal preferences when choosing a K Bar knife.
  • Consider factors such as aesthetics, feel, and overall appeal in your decision-making process.
  • Remember that choosing a knife that you truly enjoy using is important for a positive experience.

Remember that the best K Bar knife for you may not be the same as someone else's, so take the time to consider your own needs and preferences when making a decision. Happy hunting for your ideal K Bar knife!

Frequently Asked Questions about 6 Best Ka Bar Knives

What makes the K Bar knife the best option?

The K Bar knife is considered the best because of its durable construction, sharp blade, and versatility for various outdoor activities.

Is the K Bar knife suitable for camping and hiking?

Yes, the K Bar knife is perfect for camping and hiking as it can be used for cutting, chopping, and various other tasks in the wilderness.

Can the K Bar knife be used for self-defense?

While the primary use of the K Bar knife is for outdoor activities, it can also be used for self-defense if necessary due to its sturdy and reliable design.

How do I take care of my K Bar knife?

To maintain the performance of your K Bar knife, it’s important to regularly clean and oil the blade, as well as store it in a dry place when not in use.

What sets the K Bar knife apart from other options?

The K Bar knife stands out from other options due to its long history of military and outdoor use, as well as its reputation for being a reliable and durable tool in various situations.

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