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Best Ka-Bar Knives in 2021

Jordan Carter
This product guide was written by Jordan Carter
Published August 30, 2018
Support us! GearHungry may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article. Learn more

A knife is a great tool for survival and can help you out of a tough situation while camping or hunting. Above all knives, there is perhaps one brand that stands out and that is the Ka-Bar knife. Purchasing a Ka-Bar is considered so much more than purchasing a knife, it is purchasing an experience, and so we’ve compiled a list to give you an idea of what are the best Ka-Bar knives to take your outdoor adventures to the next level.

The Best Ka-Bar Knife

1
Ka-Bar Full-Sized US Marine Corps Fighting Knife

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The undisputed king of Ka-Bar knives, the Ka-Bar USMC fighting knife is perhaps the best hunting knife that money can buy, but it can be used for a whole host of other purposes, too, if hunting isn’t your thing.

Featuring a 7” blade and crafted using 100% Cro-van steel, it is durable and fit-for-purpose with all of the quality that you only get with Ka-Bar. With construction that puts all other knives to shame, you can feel comfortable using this blade for decades to come. Its reputation certainly precedes it.

Key Features:

1095 Cro-van steel

7’ straight-edge blade

Leather handle and sheath

20 degree angle edges

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • ModelKBAR1217
  • Weight11.2 ounces
Pros

The most famous knife design in the world

Durable steel blade

Comfortable handle

Cons

Sheath not ‘flat’

Sheath could do with lanyard hole for easy attachment

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

2
Ka-Bar Black Straight Edge Knife

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A great looking tactical fixed blade, Ka-Bar Black Straight Edge Knife is both stylish and substantial in both design and weight. Not too heavy to cause discomfort, but still with enough weight to ensure that it does not slip from your hand at the worst moments, there is little to complain about with this knife.

Along with the knife itself, its hard sheath ensures full protection when not in use and an ability to withstand even the most extreme environments. This knife will keep you safe and confident when used as a camping knife, or simply something to have around the home.

Key Features:

Hard sheath

Plain edge blade

7” blade

Black carbon steel

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • Model1213
  • Weight1.25 pounds
Pros

Great handle

Strong, reliable sheath

Great balance

Cons

Carbon steel can rust

Comes sharpened at awkward angle

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

3
Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife

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An ideal companion to any camping trip (hence the incredibly clever ‘campanion’ moniker, well done Ka-Bar), this Becker fixed blade is perhaps the best fixed blade camping knife that you could ask for to take with you as you head deep into the wild.

While not being great at merely one thing, it excels in several different areas that give it a versatility not found in other camping knives. Whether you want to use it to shred kindling, mark your way or any other needs while camping and surviving out in the wilderness, consider the Becker as your go-to purchase. Make sure you also check our boot knives review for more great picks.

Key Features:

Heavy duty knife

Black nylon sheath provided

USA made

Ideal for all your camping needs

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • Model3297
  • Weight1 pounds
Pros

Durable

Comfortable handle

Versatile

Cons

Knife locks too tightly into sheath

Dull on first opening

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

4
Ka-Bar BKR7-BRK Compact Utility Knife

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This small knife is an excellent blend of utility, durability, and affordability that puts it ahead of many other tactical knives of similar size. BKR7-BRK comes in a great, handy size that is not too small to still be effective in survival situations that provides sufficient balance between blade and handle.

The lack of weight makes it an ideal partner in casual camping situations when you don’t want nor need to bring a larger knife along with you and can still adequately cut up kindling and remove joints. Great for functional use and reliable as a tactical fixed blade, don’t let its size make you underestimate its potential. 

Key Features:

Combat or utility purpose

Sturdy

Lightweight

Easy-to-sharpen blade

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • ModelBKR7-BRK
  • Weight13.6 ounces
Pros

Multi-purpose

Easy to handle

Corrosion-resistant coating

Cons

Nylon sheath retains moisture

Unsecure belt loop

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

5
Ka-Bar KA1214 BRK USA Fighting Knife

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A semi-serrated tactical hunting knife that will get anyone who receives one as a gift praying for an end-of-the-world scenario just so they have an excuse to show it off, Ka-Bar KA1214 BRK USA Fighting Knife is easy to handle, easy to sharpen and just looks good in anyone’s grip.

Famously used across all branches of the military, you can channel your inner warrior and feel safe wherever you go, whether it be into the depths of the wilderness or merely sat at home. The serrations add a great extra dimension to its functionality, while the straight edge part of the blade ensures clean, reliable cutting that won’t dull and is easy to clean. A great survival knife, no doubt.

Key Features:

Partially serrated edge

Man-made Kraton G handle

1095 Cro-van steel

Multi-purpose

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • ModelKA1214-BRK
  • Weight2 pounds
Pros

Secure and dural hard sheath

Serrations provide added utility

Steel holds sharpness through much use

Cons

Potential for rust

Kraton grip more slippery than leather grip

Serrations difficult to sharpen

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

6
Ka-Bar TDI Law Enforcement Fixed Blade Knife

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Our choice for the best value of all Ka-Bar knives comes in the form of this Ka-Bar TDI which combines compact design with efficiency to guarantee quick access in either the right or left hand. The blade is strong enough to complete any number of tasks that include box-cutting and opening packages while also doubling perfectly as a reliable defense weapon if you want to take it camping.

At an affordable price, the TDI should be high on your list of considerations if you are looking for something that will provide guaranteed quality without needing you splurge on a knife. Great looking and easy to carry, it The Ka-Bar TDI stakes its claim as a contender for the best stainless steel survival knife. Our handy guide to the best Spyderco knives features more great products like this. 

Key Features:

Compact design

Drop-point edge

AUS-8A Stainless steel blade

Steel hardness: 57-59 HRC

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • Model1480
  • Weight6.4 ounces
Pros

Small and compact design

Fast deployment

Great value

Cons

Poor quality sheath

Belt loops can alter carry position

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

7
Ka-Bar KA1245-BRK Black Tanto

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Ka-Bar KA1245-BRK Black Tanto is crafted with Cro-van steel and is larger than it appears in photographs. It can function as a multipurpose knife for any kind of cutting needs and will serve you well when trekking through the woods keen to survive.

Designed with style and sleekness in mind, this does not mean that Ka-Bar have skimped on its quality and effectiveness. The blade is strong and the handle makes it comfortable to hold in either hand. Strong and durable, it might be the only knife you will ever need. Be sure to also check out our list of the top pen knives for more great items like this. 

Key Features:

1095 Cro-van steel

8” blade

Thick pointed blade

Strong and durable

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • ModelKA1245-BRK
  • Weight11.2 ounces
Pros

Sturdy design

Sharp out of the box

Lightweight

Cons

A bit large to carry every day

Carbon steel rusts easily

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

8
Ka-Bar Short Edge Knife with Leather Sheath

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This short-blade tactical hunting knife is a superb companion for any venture out into the woods. It is small enough to carry without weight down one side while still being effective enough for fast deployment in a survival situation.

Those used to full-sized Ka-Bar knives might take some time to get used to this knife, but when they do, their whole world will be transformed. It fits perfectly on your waist or even a survival pack and can be removed from its sheath with ease. With the Short Edge knife, Ka-Bar is making a statement that bigger is not always better. Love knives? Check out our review of the pocket and folding knives for our top picks. 

Key Features:

Commonly used across all military branches

Durable

Quality assured

5 ¼” blade

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • ModelKAB1256
  • Weight6.4 ounces
Pros

Fits naturally in hand

Readily sharpened out of the box

Compact and easy to carry

Cons

Smaller than you might expect

Steel might rust

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

9
Ka-Bar KA1218-BRK USMC Fighter

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This partially serrated knife comes with all of the functionality you would expect to be used by the US Marine Corps. It comes with a leather handle for unrivalled grip, and has been crafted using Cro-van steel to effortlessly continue the standard that Ka-Bar has maintained after all these years.

Sturdy and sharp right out of the box, you will have the confidence in KA1218-BRK USMC Fighter to help you through all situations. It is well balanced and can fit comfortably in your hand no matter if you are a righty or lefty. Crafted to last a lifetime, this durable fighting knife can keep you safe throughout all situations. You may also like to check our Bushcraft knives review for more great items like this.

Key Features:

Leather handle

Famous fixed blade design

1095 Cro-van steel

7” serrated blade

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • Model3257
  • Weight2 pounds
Pros

Strong and sturdy construction

Sharp out of the box

Unrivalled design

Cons

Handle can be difficult to grip when wet

Might need to purchase a replacement sheath

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

10
Ka-Bar 1282 Extreme Fighting Knife

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Our premium choice is perhaps the best camping survival knife that you can buy. 1282 Extreme can cut through thick tree branches, help shred kindling and even act as a steak knife when you’ve been too lazy to do the dishes. It is razor sharp right out of the box so you do not need to waste time sharpening and is sturdy enough to withstand years of use, as long as you treat it right.

Whether you want to take it out into the wilderness or just have on your person for a feeling of security, this is the knife to do whatever job you need it to. Despite its size, it is still lightweight enough to carry with ease. Despite the price, the quality speaks for itself, and it is worth every penny. If you need a smaller knife, we’ve got you covered. Check out our keychain knives review.

Key Features:

Great for outdoor services

Quality and durability ensured

7” blade

Handle made from Kraton G material

Specification:
  • BrandKa-Bar
  • Model1281
  • Weight12 ounces
Pros

Sturdy and durable

Massively effective

Sharp enough to dry shave out the box

Cons

Can’t draw as quickly as desired

CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON

Ka-Bar Knife Buying Guide & FAQ

How We Chose Our Selection of Ka-Bar Knives

There are three primary factors we considered when making our selection of Ka-Bar knives. These were the quality, reviews and the price. We want to ensure that we only choose the best possible products to recommend to you and so we searched high and low across the valleys of the internet to find the best, most reliable and most thorough information.

Quality - When it comes to any product at all, quality is key. Without quality, you could end up purchasing a Ka-Bar knife that will break the first time you use it. Unlike some products, such as electronics or clothes, you cannot skimp on quality when it comes to knives. Whether you need it as a pocket knife, hunting knife, or survival knife, you want to be sure that it will not let you down, even over years of use. For these reasons, we have focused on the quality of the knives above all else.

Reviews - Looking at user reviews is the best way of gauging just how reliable and useful a Ka-Bar knife is. These come from customers who have used them and more than likely have a vast array of experience when searching for the best hunting knife, even if they don’t want or need to use for it for hunting.

When we were considering the best selection of Ka-Bar knives, reviews were invaluable in getting information that we might otherwise have missed. The existing experience from these customers provided a different perspective than the mere feel and appearance of the knife itself and therefore allowed for a more comprehensive idea of which knife is the best for you.

Price - Nobody wants to spend hundreds of dollars on something only to find it does not do what is intended. Conversely, nobody wants to go cheap (especially when it comes to knives) and realise their mistake as soon as they take it from the box.

It is often tempting to pay for cheaper products with the idea that you can always buy a new one should it fail, but these consistent purchases will eventually add up to cost more than what a more expensive knife could have cost originally. We hope that we have given you a fair enough idea when it comes to price so that you know when you have bought it, you have done so for life.

best ka-bar knives

Features To Look For In Ka-Bar Knives:

There is a variety of features that you need to look for when considering which Ka-Bar knife is the best one for you. There are so many that it might seem a bit overwhelming at first, but by separating each feature into smaller sections, we have tried to make this decision process as simple as possible. Different people have different needs for different knives and it might be that what you need is not what somebody else is looking for. You know yourself better than we do, and you know what you need in a knife, so here are the most common features that people look for when they want to purchase a Ka-Bar knife.

Blade Material/Design - The type of blade will have direct effects on the enjoyment and effectiveness of your knife, so consider what you will be using the knife for. Some blade materials are stronger than others, so if you plan to use this knife in extreme situations, then consider this. Furthermore, choosing serrated vs straight edge will affect the ease of cleaning and sharpening, so keep that in mind.

Blade Length - The length of the blade affects how well the knife balances. Too short a blade will not be effective in cutting, whereas too long a blade will make it difficult to handle.

Blade Grind - The blade grind means the angle at which the blade is sharpened. There needs to be a balance between the angle of the blade and its sharpness to be fully effective. However, this can be altered when you sharpen the knife yourself.

Weight - Nobody wants to carry around something that weighs them down on one side, especially through the woods as it can tire you out quicker than you might think. Many of the Ka-Bar knives are lightweight, so find the right one for you.

Durability - To prevent buying a new knife every other year or so, durability is key. Ka-Bar knives are famously long-lasting, but ensure that you take care of it yourself, too.

Handle Material - Handle material can affect the ease of grip. Leather handles look nice, but have a tendency to slip from your hand if they get wet. Conversely, other handle materials might not feel right so it might be best to test friend’s knives of those in-store.

best ka-bar knives

Types of Ka-Bar knives

There are two types of Ka-Bar knives: the fixed blade and the folding knife. Both have their benefits and, as with every product, it will all depend on what you need. The idea of which one is better is heavily contested among those who know their knives, but we’ll leave it up to you to decide.

Fixed Blade Knife

A fixed blade knife is, as the name suggests, a knife where the blade cannot be moved, or fixed in place, as it were. It makes you wonder where they got the name from…

Typically, these knives are twice as long as folding knives and are stronger as well as more durable, as there are no moving parts that can be wiggled loose during use. Because of the lack of moving parts, such as hinge, they are also easier to clean, which takes away a lot of time and energy (and frustration) when trying to maintain it.

When it comes to tactical situations, the fixed blade can ‘come into play’ much quicker due to the blade already being exposed. In dangerous situations, this is key to survival and is touted by many fixed blade fans as the primary reason why the fixed blade is superior.

Folding Knife

A folding knife has a blade that folds away into the handle, which makes it easier to conceal and is smaller than a fixed blade knife so you don’t need to dedicate a whole pocket (or knife sheath belt) just to carry it around comfortably.

The folding knife is also referred to as a pocket knife, which is probably what many people more commonly know it by. It has many different uses which range from survival to hunting to just your day-to-day living. Many people use their folding knives when camping or fishing to cut through branches or to measure outline. It can also come in handy for first aid for fashioning bandages if you are without gauze and need to think quick and use a piece of clothing.

The belief that a fixed blade is stronger is only true for cheaply crafted pocket knives that you would find at the supermarket. A properly constructed folding knife can be just as sturdy as a fixed blade.

best ka-bar knives

Ka-Bar Knife FAQ

Q: What is a Ka-Bar Knife?

A: A Ka-Bar (or Ka-bar) knife is a brand of knives that specialise in hunting, survival and military. You might have heard of Ka-Bar USMC, which are known for their durability and high quality and were used all the way back in World War II. it is their most famous knife.

Since then, their reputation has only grown and Ka-Bar is considered by many knife enthusiasts as the number one brand when wanting to purchase a knife for any kind of outdoor activity. They product both fixed blade and folding knives and are ideal for those who love to hunt, fish, hike and camp all over the world.

Q: Should I get Straight or Serrated edge blade?

A: Another topic that anyone who loves knives can debate about for hours. The straight or serrated edge blade argument is one that will inspire the greatest passion in any and all knife enthusiasts.

Straight edge blades give you a cleaner cut, are easier to clean and are also easier to sharpen due to the flat surface. Serrated blades have an advantage when it comes to forceful cutting, which anybody who has ever tried to enjoy a particularly good steak are well aware of. However, the serrated teeth of the blade make it a challenge to clean properly, which could affect the purpose of the blade itself and means that its longevity is much shorter than you would like.

Again, it all depends on what you want to use the knife for. Serrations will cut better than straight blades, but these same straight edge blades will last longer. Before purchasing your knife, consider what exactly you will be using it for, and make your decision accordingly.

Q: Will the blade rust?

A: Despite all of the improvements and advances in knife technology, we have still not yet discovered a way to make the blade entirely rust proof. We say entirely, because there are many knives that are pretty damn good at avoiding rust, but over time and when exposed to the elements will suffer the same fate as any other blade out there.

Stainless steel blades are more resistant to rust than other, carbon-based blade, which we got into more detail about below. To prevent rusting, it is advised that you keep your knife well out of the way of humidity and anywhere it might end up getting wet - especially if you forget about it.

best ka-bar knives

Q: How do I sharpen Ka-Bar Knife? 

A: The best way to sharpen your Ka-Bar knife is to ensure that you sharpen it regularly, as the longer you leave it to dull, the more difficult it will be to sharpen later on. Many people who are novices with their Ka-Bar knives experience frustration in getting the technique down to a science.

To ensure that you sharpen the knife correctly, you need to work out the angle of the blade, as this will make it easier to sharpen in the future. You can, of course, choose who sharpen at a new angle, but this will take time to smooth out the edge. With this figured out, you can use mineral oil to lubricate a whetstone or diamond stone which will help with smooth sharpening than battling against any friction.

To actually sharpen the knife, simply run the blade across the stone evenly to achieve the desired sharpness. If you do this frequently enough, it will not take too much time at all and you will soon get into the groove of understanding what angle works best for you.

There are a few different ways to sharpen your knife, and the whetstone/diamond stone method is just one. Others include a honing rod and, if you are without either this or the stones, a coffee mug can provide sufficient sharpening, just make sure you get rid of the particles before your next cup of coffee.

Q: How should I store a Ka-Bar knife?

A: The obvious answer to this is ‘out of harm’s way’. When you are not using your knife, keeping it stored safe or out of reach of children is crucial to ensuring that no accidents occur when your back is turned.

We have all heard and read the stories of people leaving their knives out in the open and then suffering the consequences, whether something terrible happened to them or to someone they love. Nobody wants to be that person who knows what they could have done but didn’t due to laziness or carelessness, so find a secure place for your knife and keep it there.

In terms of keeping your knife properly maintained, make sure to keep it away from moisture or anywhere that could cause damage to it. This includes keeping it in its sheath or folded in when at home or when carrying it around. It is not advised to walk around in public with the knife fully exposed, as this could grant you undesired attention.

When hunting, fishing or generally out in the wilderness, it is smart to keep the knife close at hand so it can be accessed quickly if the situation calls for it. You don’t want to encounter danger and have to rummage through your bag to retrieve the knife that could - potentially - save your life.

Q: Should I register my Ka-Bar knife?

A: There is no need to register your Ka-Bar knife with any authority. However, if you want to ensure that you are protected under a warranty, it is wise to register the knife with Ka-Bar themselves, as this will help you should your knife become damaged during the warranty period.

best ka-bar knives

Q: Is it legal to carry a Ka-Bar Knife?

A: The US has quite complex rules regarding the legality of carrying knives. In some states, such as Texas, open-carrying is all perfectly legal, but in others, such as New York, you could find yourself charged pretty quickly if the police come across you and find a knife on your person.

But there are different types of knives. You won’t get arrested for carrying a Swiss Army knife, but if you have a foot long, serrated fixed blade hunting survival knife, you might run into some problems depending on where you are in the US.

There is a helpful little list on Gizmodo that can give you all of the information you need about whether or not it is legal to carry your Ka-Bar knife in your state, so check that out if you need more information.

Q: What is the best steel for the knife?

A: There are two types of steel that are generally considered the best for hunting knives. These are stainless steel and carbon steel.

Stainless steel is famous due to its increased levels of chromium, which make it less susceptible to rust. If you are out and about in the wilderness during rainy season, in humid climates, or fishing, then a stainless steel knife is the ideal companion as you do not have to worry about water damage to the blade. This potential damage can cause corrosion in the metal and be a detriment to its effectiveness.

However, stainless steel blades have a habit of dulling much faster than carbon blades. When hunting, this can hinder your progress and so having a knife that can remain as sharp as possible for as long as possible will help you in more ways than you might think. These carbon steel blades are harder than stainless blades and so can be relied on to last longer.

When it comes down to it, the preferred steel type for your knife all depends on what you require it for. For durability during damp and humid climates, then steel is your best best. If you do not find yourself in this kind of places when in the wilderness, though, then choosing a carbon steel knife will do you well.

Sources:

  1. Fixed Blade vs. Folder - Krudo Knives
  2. Ka-Bar - Ka-Bar
  3. 3 Ways to Sharpen a Knife - WikiHow
  4. What’s the Best Hunting Knife Steel? - Reliable Knife
  5. What Knives You Can Carry Where in the United States - Gizmodo
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