Cuchillos

BÖKER KWAIKEN AUTOMATIC
FAST IN THE HAND
BEHIND THE SCENES ALL-AROUND UTILITY

DAVID BAKER 3 GRANGE PARK EDC BLADES
of
FORGED IN FIRE MULTI-PURPOSE TACTICAL
GREG MOFFATT MG1
BUGGING OUT
EJ SNYDER’S KNIFE CHECKLIST
EMPEROR
SCORPION
SIG AUTO FOLDER
COMMANDS RESPECT
WARRIOR NO NONSENSE
knivesillustrated.com
JULY/AUG 2018 • VOL. 32, NO. 4 • U.S. $5.99 • DISPLAY UNTIL: 7/17/18
07
0 71658 03124 1
TOUGH BUSHCRAFT
ENGAGED MEDIA INC. WINKLER’S WK F3 FOLDER WHITE RIVERS’ URSUS 45
KI_1807_COVER.indd 1 4/27/18 12:29 AM

KI_1807_C2 4/24/18 4:06 AM Page C2
AVAILABLE IN BLACK CANVAS LAMINATE - #43177

AND TAN CANVAS LAMINATE - #43176 (SHOWN)
F E AT U R E D H E R O
Harry Bologna is a decorated Navy SEAL, serving 22 years. Losing

both lower legs in Afghanistan in 2015 didn’t dissuade Harry from his
passion for life and the outdoors. His collaboration with Winkler Knives
and Case to build the Recurve Utility No. 6 is just another milestone in
his incredible life story.
CASE, , , CASEXX, TESTED XX, XX, Case 6.5 BoneStag and various other marks used herein are registered trademarks of CaseMark,Inc.
KI-1707-BladeGallery.com 4/25/17 7:11 AM Page 1
KI_1807_3.indd 3 4/23/18 3:03 AM

JULY/AUGUST 2018
VOLUME 32, NUMBER 4
WWW.KNIVESILLUSTRATED.COM
COVER STORY
22 BRING THE STING
Hogue Knives and SIG Sauer team up to make an
automatic knife that is the perfect companion to
the SIG Sauer Emperor Scorpion line of firearms.
BY JOSHUA SWANAGON
FEATURES 30
30 BUSHCRAFT WORKHORSE
The Ursus 45 by White River Knife and Tool utilizes high-quality,
corrosion-resistant steel to create a knife perfect for field work.
BY JONATHAN KILBURN
38 A MODERN CLASSIC
Böker takes its already popular design and gives it a definitive
modern twist with the Böker Plus Kwaiken Auto.
BY TIM STETZER
46 EDC TRIFECTA
Grange Park Knife Works offers a three-knife EDC team that
works together to take you into the field or the kitchen.
BY BRIAN GRIFFIN
52 EVER PRESENT, 38
NEVER PRONOUNCED
It is small, lightweight and versatile, making the Benchmade
535 Bugout the perfect knife to grab when heading out on
the town.
BY TIM STETZER
60 URBAN SURVIVAL
Recognized by silent professionals the world over, Winkler
Knives offers a folding knife for those who demand the best in
its WK F3.
BY CLINT THOMPSON
KNIVES ILLUSTRATED (ISSN 0898-8943) is published 7 times a year, January/February, March/

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JULY/AUGUST 2018
Volume 32 • Number 4
EDITORIAL
Doug Jeffrey Editorial Director
Joshua Swanagon Editor
Kelly Nomura Executive Managing Editor
Michelle Salcedo Managing Editor
DESIGN
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CONTRIBUTORS
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Greg Moffatt set out to design an all-purpose knife for tactical and © 2017 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue
field use, and his MG1 is on point. in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST#855050365RT001
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KI_1807_TOC.indd 5 4/24/18 10:36 PM

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LOCKED ON
THE URBAN
LEGISLATIVE
LABYRINTH
“… IN AN URBAN ENVIRONMENT, THERE

ARE DIFFERENT CONSIDERATIONS THAT
HAVE TO BE FACTORED.”
STORY AND PHOTO BY JOSHUA SWANAGON
P
roper planning prevents poor A well-made multi-tool For the purpose of my letter I want to focus on
is always a good choice
performance. I am a big proponent of in urban environments. helping ensure that you are carrying within all
They are viewed as
always having a knife on your person, so tools and generally
legal parameters.
much so that I usually carry anywhere have blades 3 inches
or shorter, which will
from three to four knives on me at any given time; ensure that you are When it comes to carrying a knife in any urban
within your legal rights
but almost never fewer than two. It isn’t because in almost all municipal-
environment, I recommend that you do your
I am paranoid, it is because I use knives multiple ities. In addition, they homework and check your local, county and state
have many uses for a
times a day for myriad chores. variety of tasks. laws relating to what you can and cannot carry.
Although knives are tools that have been around
In an urban environment, there are different since man figured out that you can cut with chipped
considerations that have to be factored. What is obsidian, the government has its own ideas on what
the legal size to carry? What type of knife can you knives are. Like it or not, they get the final say.
carry? What types of tasks would be common in an
urban environment? I recommend checking your state legislature’s website
for the specific laws in your state, but for those of
These are all very specific questions that would pertain us who don’t speak legalese, there are some good
to your location. Each state has its own laws relevant reference sources to help put your state’s laws into
to what is legal and what isn’t. To make matters even laymen’s terms. Just do a quick Google search, and
more interesting, each county has its own legislation you will find different resources to help guide you
governing the carry of knives. And if that wasn’t enough, through the labyrinth of legislation.
many towns even have their own ordinances.
Stay sharp and keep it real. KI
Although I am an advocate of carrying a knife that can
also double for self-defense in an urban environment,
that brings with it its own serious legal considerations.
KI_1807_EDIT.indd 8 4/26/18 1:08 AM

POINTS OF INTEREST
THE BATTLE
CONTINUES
EMBATTLED TEXAS
EMBROILED IN AN
ATTEMPT TO REVERSE THE
LEGISLATION ELIMINATING
KNIFE PROHIBITION
BY KNIVES ILLUSTRATED STAFF
S
Top right: Mulkey
ome things are destined to Knives, Knife Rights
2018 Ultimate Steel
be revisited. In the last issue donation. Photo by
of Knives Illustrated we cov- Mitchell D. Cohen.
ered Knife Rights presenting

Texas Governor Greg Abbott with Right: Andrew Meers,
a custom Jason Fry Texas Heritage Knife Rights 2018
Ultimate Steel donation.
bowie to celebrate last year’s enact- Photo by SharpByCoop.
ment of HB 1935. That bill eliminated
Far right: Mike
from Texas statute the prohibition Zscherny, Knife Rights the fact that murder is, itself, a capital knives, available in any home, so such
2018 Ultimate Steel
against carrying “illegal knives,” donation. Photo by offense. Criminals are never dissuaded restrictions as these make no sense.”
including throwing knives, daggers, SharpByCoop. from committing criminal acts by laws
dirks, stilettos, poniards, swords, or weapons-free zones. Reinstating Ritter continued,“We cannot begin to
spears and most notably, bowie bans will not be any more effective at comprehend her grief. It is understand-
knives—as well as blades longer than stopping some future violence using any able that this grieving mother would
5.5 inches—except in a few locations, knife, banned or not.” want to do something to address the
including schools. Here’s the latest. cause of her son’s murder, but restricting
The young man’s mother also said the freedom of law-abiding Texans by
Knife Rights passed that bill with over- that she will seek restrictions on sales reinstating clearly irrational and inef-
whelming votes despite a fatal stabbing of some types of knives and perhaps fective bans on some particular type of
on the University of Texas campus, just licensing of individuals and/or back- knife is not a solution.”
blocks from the State House, shortly ground checks to purchase or possess
before the vote. The mother, whose son certain types of knives. Ritter said that Knife Rights will oppose
was tragically murdered, is now calling any effort to reinstate any knife ban
for the reinstatement of that same Ritter noted, “The vast majority of and will continue to fight to repeal
knife ban that didn’t prevent her son’s violence committed with knives is ineffective and irrational knife bans
senseless murder, as well as additional accomplished with common kitchen throughout America. KI
knife restrictions.
Her son’s life was taken, and two others

ULTIMATE STEEL KNIVES, GUNS & MORE
who were also stabbed, by an individual
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public and which remains banned from win some incredible prizes and join or renew/extend your membership.
the campus.
With more than $150,000 in prizes, there’s plenty for almost any knife or gun lover to drool
Knife Rights Chairman Doug Ritter points over. Tactical and traditional, folders and fixed-blade knives, pistols and rifles—including some
with suppressors and optics—are all on offer. Pictured above are just a few of the many custom
out, “There is no clearer repudiation of
knives that can be won. When it comes to “more,” how about a seven-day South African safari
any knife ban than the fact that the donated by Tollie’s African Safaris? There are also free donation bonus knives from Kizer, SOG,
knife used in the murder of this young Spyderco, Cold Steel and another very limited-edition Damascus Hogue automatic for those who
man was illegal to carry at the time of contribute to Knife Rights at specific levels.
his murder. And, let’s not lose sight of
KI_1807_INTEREST.indd 9 4/24/18 10:47 PM

GEAR UP
THE ENHANCED
EXPERIENCE
PRODUCTS TO MAKE EVERY TRIP ALL IT CAN BE
STORY BY JOSHUA SWANAGON, PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS
01
02
05
04 06
03
KI_1807_PRODUCTS.indd 10 4/24/18 10:50 PM

01 Shower’s Pass 04 WorkSharp
CROSSPOINT WATERPROOF SOCKS POCKET KNIFE SHARPENER
One of my personal pet peeves is wet feet. A big problem during the fall Anybody who carries a knife in the field should also carry a means for
and spring in Michigan is the wet foliage encountered while hiking. On maintaining it, but a lot of sharpening systems are too big, bulky and
more than one occasion I have reached my destination only to find that heavy. The WorkSharp Pocket Knife Sharpener solves that problem
my feet are soaking wet. Having waterproof boots is a good start, but if with a sharpening system that fits right into a small pocket in your
the waterproofing has worn off there isn’t much you can do in the field. pack, and also offers a 320-grit diamond sharpening plate and ceramic
However, waterproof socks are a game-changer. The Crosspoint Water- honing rod. Twenty- and twenty-five-degree angle guides are also in-
proof Socks from Shower’s Pass provide the comfort of a regular sock, cluded, so you can make sure that you maintain the proper angle during
but they’re fully waterproof, with a Coolmax FX moisture wicking sharpening. It’s perfect for beginners and experienced sharpeners alike.
anti-bacterial lining for maximum comfort.
FEATURES
FEATURES A 320-grit diamond plate with 20° sharpening Work Sharp’s exclusive Lifetime Legacy Warranty
Three-layer waterproof breathable seamless Artex Colors: Neon, Pink, Forest Camo, Gray Camo, guides
construction Black, Gray Fine grit ceramic rod with 25° honing guides MSRP: $19.95
Coolmax FX moisture-wicking knit lining Lanyard attachment points WorkSharpTools.com
Reinforced toe and heel for durability MSRP: $34-36 A detailed user’s guide
Ergonomic fit ShowersPass.com
Sizes: S/M, M/L, L/XL and XXL
05 Puritii
TRITAN WATER BOTTLE AND PURITII FILTER
02 Garmin I am very particular about water when I am camping. It only takes a
FENIX 5 little unpurified water to ruin a perfectly good trip. Typically, you either
In a world of ABC (Altimeter, Barometer, Compass) watches, the Garmin have to spend time and energy pumping water through a filter, boil it,
Fenix has stood out as an innovation from the beginning, thanks to the drink through a straw, or wait up to half an hour before purification tabs
addition of true GPS to its ABC offerings. With the Fenix 5, Garmin’s ABC/ and other means work completely. With the Puritii Water Filter Bottle
GPS watch just got better. With the GLONASS satellite reception for a you fill it and start drinking. Not only is this a great option for the field,
connection, even in harsher environments, and the addition of preloaded but it is great when traveling abroad or in areas of the United States
maps— including topographical—the Fenix 5 is a self-reliant navigation with tainted water supplies.
tool that is ready to go, right out of the box. With the addition of the built-
in heart-rate monitor, you can keep an eye on your cardio when you need FEATURES
to most. This watch is so feature-rich that it would be impossible to fit it all Two-step filtration process An excellent flow rate so it’s like drinking water
here. I highly recommend checking it out for yourself. Magnet-like electrostatic charge traps from a straw.
contaminants; the proprietary pleat pack has a FDA-approved plastics for food contact
SPECS large surface area within the filter to remove more Backed by stringent third-party testing to ensure
Lens Material: Chemically Display Size: 1.2 inches (30. mm) Garmin Elevate wrist heart-rate contaminants. results.
strengthened glass or sapphire diameter monitor Contains an exclusive granular blend of zeolite
crystal Display Resolution: 240x240 pixels Barometric altimeter and coconut carbon in the center of the pleat pack. MSRP: $114.27
Bezel Material: Stainless steel Display: Color display Compass Antimicrobial properties make it easy to store and BuyPuritii.com
Case Material: Fiber-reinforced Battery Life:Smartwatch Gyroscope maintain the filter.
polymer with stainless-steel Mode: Up to two weeks Accelerometer
rear cover GPS/HR Mode: Up to 24 hrs Thermometer
Physical Size: 47x47x15.5 mm UltraTrac Mode: Up to 60 hrs
Weight: 85 grams without wrist heart rate MSRP: $549.99-799.99
Water Rating: 10 ATM Memory/History: 64 MB Garmin.com 06 Doublestar Knives
Display Type: Sunlight-visible, Sensors NOOGIE BOTTLE OPENER
transflective memory-in-pixel GPS While at SHOT Show this year, I stopped by the Doublestar booth for a
(MIP) GLONASS visit and out came the Noogie. Legal considerations aside, the Noogie
is a really cool bottle opener. It fits the hand well and is constructed of
very lightweight T6061 aluminum. The edges of the Noogie are round-
ed nicely for a comfortable fit without hot spot development. The spot
03 UCO Gear for the index finger is intentionally left open so you can hold the bottle
VAPOR + HEADLAMP between your thumb and index finger while you hand it to its intended
I am always looking for good, hands-free flashlights for backpacking, recipient. However, I think it must be noted that you should check your
but they are usually really heavy and awkward on the head. The UCO local and state ordinances before carrying it in public.
Gear Vapor + Headlamp changes that. This headlamp is super light
and, other than the fact that you are wearing a headband, it virtually SPECS
disappears. It features a 300-lumen LED that includes a red lamp for Material: T6061 aluminum Finish: Gray or Black Type 2 anodizing
map reading. The battery pack includes a rechargeable Li-ion battery OAL: 4.25 inches
but can also take three AAA batteries for times you are unable to charge Width: 2.75 inches MSRP: $39.99
the included battery. Thickness: 0.5 inch Star15.com
Weight: 3.6 ounces
SPECS Handle Opening: 2.75 inches
Head Strap: Hook-and-loop adjustment Weight with Battery Pack: 3.7 ounces
Lumens: Up to 300 Dimensions: 2.3x.65x1.4 inches
Hybrid Power Source: 520 mAh Li-Ion battery
(included) or three AAA MSRP: $39.99–49.99
Battery Life: 1.4 hours on high UCOGear.com
Water Resistance: IPX4
KI_1807_PRODUCTS.CX.indd 11 4/29/18 11:15 PM

OUTSIDE THE WIRE
RETIRED GREEN
BERET TU LAM
FOLLOWS THE
PATH OF BUSHIDO
AND FINDS SPECIAL
MEANING IN HIS
BLADE
T
he soul of the samurai
lives on. My introduction
to Tu Lam came through
a mutual friend of ours,
Curtis Iovito of Spartan Blades,
when he was working on a knife
for Tu—based on his design—a
couple of years ago. Curtis spoke
highly of Tu, having worked with
him in the special forces, and it
was obvious from our discussions
that Tu was the real deal.
I decided to take a look at Tu’s

online videos and other sources of
information, and I knew that he
would be perfect for this column.
Truly a silent professional, his
humility is only overshadowed by
his skill in both armed and unarmed
combat, which he continues to
perfect and teach regularly.
A retired U.S. Army Special Forces

Green Beret veteran, Tu has dedicated
his life to bushido. Through his
bushido practice he has created
Ronin Tactics, and along with other
special operations veterans, their
goal is to strive toward the next level
in weapons handling and tactics,
as well as developing equipment
for the modern tactical industry.
STORY BY TU LAM WITH JOSHUA SWANAGON Tu can also be seen as a judge,

alongside Bill Goldberg, on History
Channel’s new show, “Forged in Fire:
Knife or Death,” a six-episode series,
which first aired on Tuesday, April 17.
KI_1807_WIRE.indd 12 4/29/18 11:19 PM

I Active Duty
01 WHAT KNIFE DID
YOU CARRY ON
02 CAN YOU RECOUNT
A DANGEROUS
SITUATION IN WHICH YOU
SPECS
ACTIVE DUTY AND WHY? HAD TO USE THE KNIFE? MIL-TAC CE-2
I carried many different knives. I never used this particular blade in a Blade Material: 440C stainless steel
As a Special Forces Green Beret, lethal situation, but I did use it to hunt Blade Length: 5.50 inches
you work in a great deal of and survive in the jungles of Southeast Overall Length: 11.0 inches
diverse terrains with the host Asia and Africa. The MIL-TAC CE-2 Blade Thickness: 0.200 inch
nation’s commando force, and was the only blade I used universally Handle Material: Black and gray Micarta
it is common that Green Berets throughout different combat theaters. Weight: 7.7 ounces
carry the same weapons and The blade was streamlined enough Blade Style: Spear point utility
tools as the indigenous forces. to wear comfortably on my hip Blade Finish: Bead-blasted matte gray
line in the jungles, and the MOLLE Sheath: Nylon with Kydex insert
During my time in the special forces, sheath allowed it to attach easily MSRP: $179
I worked in numerous environments, to my CQB kit during urban raids.
from the triple canopy jungles
of Southeast Asia and South II Civilian Life RONIN SAKURA
America to the terrorist strongholds
of the Middle East and African
countries, and I found my blade
03 WHAT KNIFE DO YOU
CARRY NOW AND WHY?
My EDC blade now consists of the
BLADE
Blade Material: CPM S35VN
Blade Length: 3.5 inches
would vary as I moved between Ronin Sakura Blade—“sakura” Overall Length: 8.1875 inches
these operational environments. meaning “cherry blossom” Blade Thickness: 0.1875 inch
However, there was one blade I in Japanese—I designed in Weight: 4.8 ounces
continuously carried on me that I collaboration with my former Blade Finish: PVD tungsten DLC (flat black)
used for everything from survival to special forces teammates at Sheath: Kydex sheath with IWB loop, Blade-Tech
direct-action operations, which was Spartan Blades in North Carolina. Follow & attachment compatible
a blade that was given to me by my Search Made in USA
father after the attacks on 9/11. The symbolic meaning of the cherry Ronin Tactics Sakura Trainer Included: 6061 aluminum
blossom represents the samurai code RoninTactics.com (red anodized)
The blade was a MIL-TAC CE-2 blade of bushido and their understanding
and was a special operations series of life and death. As a knife fighter,
of blades designed by Pat Cascio. this fixed-ring blade was designed
This blade design reminds me of the from my understanding of close-
special-forces-issued Yarborough range combat, and its geometry
knife designed by William (Bill) and balance make the Sakura
Harsey Jr., but I carried my CE-2 extremely lethal at close range.
blade before they issued the Green
Berets the Yarborough knife. The blade’s double-edged tip allows it
to effectively trap, cut and penetrate
As a Green Beret, I needed a blade muscle and soft tissue areas without
that could be used for survival— binding the blade. The ring design
from building fires to creating enhances the user’s grip as the finger
shelter or hunting—and the CE-2’s locks into the blade, allowing it to truly
thickness of .200 inch and length become an extension of your hands.
of 5.5 inches allowed me to cut and The curved, tapering handle provides
hack at various elements I needed a slim and comfortable profile that
for survival, yet the design was contours to the natural lines of the
also universal as a fighting blade. user’s palm. The thumb ramp that runs
down the spine of the blade provides
My training in the art of blade improved traction when employed
fighting and my expertise in the in either a blade or saber position.
field helped me identify how well
planned and executed the stabbing The eyelets on the Sakura blade's
and cutting geometry on this blade Kydex sheath allow the blade to
was. I carried this blade for 17 years be carried either in a low vis or
and have used it operationally tactical configuration, and the
throughout the world. It has served system works with any Blade-
me well, and I highly recommend it. Tech clip-on attachment. KI
KI_1807_WIRE.indd 13 4/24/18 10:58 PM

PERSONAL DEFENSE
R
egardless of culture or
country, people bent on
attacking other people with
knives tend to attack in the
same basic ways. Understanding those
patterns defines the problem when it
comes to knife violence and should be
the crucial first step in developing or
validating any counter knife skills.
So, how do you survive a sewing machine
THE SPLIT-X
attack? It’s the most common attack
and consists of a low-line thrust to the
abdomen where the knife is thrust—
often with an upward arc—straight up
the centerline of the body into the
lower torso and is repeated in the
piston-like motion of the needle of a
HOW NOT TO GET STITCHED BY THE MOST COMMON
sewing machine. KNIFE ATTACK, THE SEWING MACHINE
STORY AND PHOTOS BY MICHAEL JANICH
If you are unable to avoid the assault, and
the attacker extends his non-weapon
hand—a common action—control it, if
possible. Then use it and quick pivoting area of your block and makes it very easy MBC Associate
Instructor Nicolas
footwork as a barrier against the weapon for the attacker to trap both your arms Daugeron stands with
hidden hands prepared
in the assailant’s other hand. by simply pushing down on your wrists. to strike.
However, if all else fails, you must When the attacker thrusts with the
be prepared to stop the knife thrust knife in his right hand, extend your left
decisively, control the attacker’s weapon arm low and slightly to your right so the
arm to prevent his subsequent thrusts, back of your forearm contacts the
and disable him quickly and efficiently. attacker’s forearm. Simultaneously
This logical process is the foundation of drive your right arm high so the back of
my system of Counter-Blade Concepts that forearm contacts the attacker’s
He extends his
(CBC) and its core techniques, the arm just above the elbow. At full exten- non-weapon hand and
draws the knife back.
Split-X and Compression Lock. sion, both your arms should be slightly
crossed with your fingers open and your
The Split-X thumbs pointing up. This locks the skel-
The Split-X is similar to the X-blocks seen etal structure of the arms and creates
in many traditional martial arts in that an extremely powerful block. As you
the extended arms cross in front of your do this, you will naturally hollow out,
body; however, your arms do not touch drawing your hips and stomach back to
each other at the wrists. Blocking with stay away from the point of the knife.
your wrists crossed reduces the surface Performed properly, the Split-X makes
KI_1807_DEFENSE.indd 14 4/24/18 11:02 PM

Launching his low-line full use of the structural strength of the
thrust, CBC founder
Michael Janich hollows extended arms and allows a smaller Typical Knife
out and stops the
knife arm with a
Split-X block.
person to defend against a significantly Attacks
larger, stronger attacker.
Thanks to the prevalence of security
After surviving the initial thrust, your cameras, cell phones and video
next priority should be to immediately websites like YouTube and Live Leak,
control the attacker’s arm to make sure we are all just a click away from
he can’t stab again. From the Split-X an ever-growing library of videos
He immediately hooks block position, simply turn your right of actual, real-deal knife attacks.
the knife arm above
the elbow with his hand from the thumb-up to the thumb- Although watching them requires
right hand to prevent a down position and use your fingers to
second thrust. a strong stomach and a good dose
hook behind the attacker’s elbow. This of morbid curiosity, the lessons
controls the elbow joint and limits his they teach are profound. Perhaps
mobility to his shoulder. If he does retract
the most important learning points
his arm, it also allows you to ride that
they offer are the characteristics of
energy to power your next move, such as
the typical knife attack. In general
a powerful right knee to the groin or any
terms, most knife attacks share the
other low-line target that is available.
following traits:
Then he pulls the arm
tightly to his chest while
simultaneously deliver- As you deliver your knee strike, simulta-
ing a powerful knee to They are initiated from close
the attacker’s groin. neously use your back muscles to pull
range.
both your elbows back toward your ribs,
effectively pulling the attacker’s arm into The weapon is not brandished
the center of your chest. Done properly, before the attack.
these combined motions will bend the The attacker uses his non-weapon
attacker forward and rotate his arm hand to grab, control or gauge
along its axis to lock the shoulder joint. distance.
It will also position his elbow, point up, The mechanics of the attack
Continuing his in the center of your chest and between involve gross motor skills,
momentum forward,
Janich steps down your hands. primarily forehand motions.
onto the attacker’s
ankle, rolling it to de-
stroy the joint and the Most knife attacks are right-
assailant’s mobility. To complete your control of his weapon
handed, just like most people.
arm, orient your open right hand so it
faces straight forward, thumb up, as if Attacks will involve repetitive
shaking hands. Open your left hand, fin- motions, not a single cut or thrust.
gers up and thumb close to your chest, as
if you are waving at your attacker. Then,
bring your hands together and clasp
Dropping into a low
them palm into palm to link the skeletal
squat, Janich uses the
powerful skeletal struc-
ture of the Compression
structure of your arms. Pull the arm tight Pre-Incident
Lock to break the
attacker’s elbow.
into your chest so his wrist is supported Indicators
in the crook of your left elbow, and your
right ulna (the bone on the pinky side of First and foremost, you should work
your forearm) applies firm downward hard to recognize the pre-incident
pressure on the back of his triceps, just indicators of a typical close-range
above the elbow, to lock the elbow joint. assault, including hidden hands
This lock—called a Compression Lock— (concealing a weapon), furtive
gives you decisive control over his arm glancing (looking around for
The technique is fin-
ished with the attacker and enables you, with only a quick bend witnesses) and grooming actions
dropping his knife.
of your knees, to break his elbow. (efforts to look casual in the
moments before an attack). If you
Lifesaving see these, change the dynamics of
Technique the situation by using movement,
On The Web The Split-X has literally saved the lives of
obstacles or whatever is available to
Martial Blade Concepts civilians and law enforcement officers. It
avoid being a target.
MartialBladeConcepts.com works and should have a place in every-
one’s personal-defense skill set. KI
KI_1807_DEFENSE.indd 15 4/24/18 11:02 PM

SECOND IN A SERIES
HISTORICAL
PASSION
DAVID BAKER REVEALS HIS GREATEST CHALLENGE ON
“FORGED IN FIRE” AND MUCH MORE
STORY BY JOSHUA SWANAGON
PHOTOS BY DAVID BAKER AND HISTORY
KI_1807_SCENE.indd 16 4/29/18 11:23 PM

B
ringing his own style,
David Baker adds a touch
of class to “Forged in Fire.”
My first introduction to
David was on the show “Deadliest
Warrior.” As a martial artist myself,
I was immediately drawn to this
show for its honest depiction of
the fighting styles and weapons
of some of history’s deadliest
warriors. But something that really
caught my eye were the excellent
and fully functional replicas of
some of the weapons, created by
David, that these warriors used.
I got to speak with David about his

latest endeavor, “Forged in Fire,” and
his love for the historical weapons
that he’s so good at reproducing.
Historical
Scholarship
KI: What started your interest in
historical weapons?
DB: I got my start in historical
weapons the way most of us do, from
watching swashbuckling movies as a
“I GOT MY START IN
kid. I never missed them if I could help HISTORICAL WEAPONS
it. I’d stay up late or even stay home
from school on occasion to watch
THE WAY MOST OF US
them. It was a bit of an obsession. DO, FROM WATCHING
KI: Are there any resources that you PHOTO CREDIT:
SWASHBUCKLING
recommend for anybody interested in
HISTORY
OPPOSITE PHOTO
CREDIT: HISTORY
MOVIES AS A KID.”
studying the history of edged weapons
(general study or in-depth weapon by
weapon specificity)? KI: What is your personal favorite industry as a prop maker, specializing
DB: As far as historical resources, there historical weapon? in historical weapons, for the past 20
are several hundred years of books on DB: My favorite weapons would have years, working on several historical
the subject, but there is no substitute to be rapiers. They are an amazing and weapons-based shows. The show
for handling original period examples combination of art and deadly intent. was looking for a weapons smith who
of the weapons you are interested did historical recreation, and I was
in. It is also good to handle as many KI: What attributes do you think are recommended by several of the other
as you can to understand the subtle important in a combat knife? people they had contacted about
differences. Many private collections DB: My weapons’ choice tends to stay doing the show.
as well as museums are willing to do with the classics, so in a combat knife
private handling or viewing sessions. I tend to like the dirk-type blades: KI: Was it a hard transition to go
heavy enough to slash; a good point from being mostly behind the scenes
KI: What is the coolest historical piece for the thrust; minimal guard and a of “Deadliest Warrior” (until season
you have had the opportunity good blade length. three) to being in front of the camera
to handle? in “Forged in Fire”?
DB: I think the coolest historical “Forged in Fire” DB: It wasn’t hard to step in front of
weapon I have had the chance to KI: How did you get involved with the camera again. I started my career
handle was a Scottish basket-hilt “Forged in Fire”? in the entertainment business as an
sword with the most incredibly light DB: “Forged in Fire” came to me actor. Back in the ’80s I did some TV,
and flexible blade. It changed the way through a few different channels. I’ve film and commercial work. It payed
I look at and build those weapons. been working in the entertainment the bills, so it wasn’t a big step.
KI_1807_SCENE.indd 17 4/29/18 11:24 PM

“MY FAVORITE WEAPONS WOULD HAVE TO BE
RAPIERS. THEY ARE AN AMAZING COMBINATION
OF ART AND DEADLY INTENT.”
KI: Which did you prefer, behind the Rapiers are David's weapons for the show, and all of course, I have a lot higher visibility
favorite historical
scenes or being an active member of weapons. These two them go through the same tests we now because of the show, and I look
are a couple of David's
the on-camera cast? personal creations. ask the smiths to put their weapons forward to getting back to making
DB: “Forged in Fire” gives me the through; although my weapons must what I want. As far as my personal
perfect opportunity to be active in go through them several times as we business goes ... well, at this point this
front of and behind the camera. I test the test and practice. is my personal business.
work with the challenge department
refining some of the tests as well KI: What is your best story/memory KI: Are there any changes, formatting
as building the historical weapons working on “Forged in Fire”? or otherwise, planned for “Forged
displayed on the show in the third DB: It’s hard to say what the best in Fire” that you are at liberty to
round reveal. story/memory from the show is. talk about?
There are so many from backstage DB: As far as changes coming up
KI: Are any of the reference weapons that I can’t talk about and so many on the show, all I can say is we will
actual historical pieces? stories of smiths rising to or above try to keep it fresh and challenging,
DB: I think there have only been five the challenges on the show. One of while being true to the craft of
weapons displayed on the show that the hardest things about the show is bladesmithing.
I didn’t make. I don’t think any were sending a smith home after you watch
“historical” pieces. him fight his way through a challenge. KI: Do you have any advice for “Forged
in Fire” contestants scheduled to
KI: What has been your greatest KI: How has your time on “Forged compete on the show?
challenge being a part of “Forged in Fire” enhanced your personal DB: My advice to anyone planning
in Fire”? business? on being on the show is watch it. The
DB: The biggest challenge on the DB: On the breaks from production I tools don’t change much. Train—
show has been staying ahead of usually do some traveling and work forging in our house is not like forging
production with making the weapons. on the weapons for the next season. at home. Between the clock, cameras,
Last year I made more than 40 So, for me this is a year-round job. Of heat, producers asking questions while
KI_1807_SCENE.indd 18 4/25/18 3:18 AM

you work, etc., if you are not ready, you KI: How much fun is it getting to play influenced or changed the way you
are going to melt down and auger in. with such elaborate testing grounds think about your own designs or
on a regular basis? processes?
Knife Testing DB: The testing is the most fun. Wish I DB: I don’t think my design process
KI: Are you involved in the creation of got to do more of it. has been changed by my work on the
any of the tests for the show? show, but my knowledge of different
DB: We have a creative team who Knife Making ways to build has. There have been
designs most of the tests. However, KI: How long have you been making plenty of times I have been watching
sometimes we have to modify a test to knives? a smith work and thought, "that
make it specific to the weapon. That’s DB: I am often asked that. Knife is never going to work," just to be
where I work with the team with my making is only a small part of what I proven wrong. Then I must give it a
example weapon to refine the test. We do. I consider myself a weapon smith try and see if I can get it to work.
don’t want tests that do nothing but with a focus on swords. Honestly, I had
destroy weapons, we want to see how been making swords for years before I KI: Do you have a personal favorite
they feel and perform. The second- started making knives. I’ve been at it style of knife that you like to make?
round tests are tested with one of J’s for about 25 years and doing it as my DB: My favorite knives to make
blades, so again, we are not asking the primary living for the past 20 or so. vary from year to year. I traveled
smiths to do something we haven’t to Scotland and after that it was
done. My experience doing this kind of KI: What sparked your interest in knife the dirk. Before that it was the
work on other shows helps. making? mountain man bowies and before
DB: While working with a group that that renaissance daggers. It keeps
KI: What goes into the planning and does western reenactments I was changing.
creation of the tests? asked to make a bowie knife, like Tell
DB: Some of the tests seem a bit Sacket’s, for someone in the group—a KI: What was the most difficult
extreme, but weapons in a combat 15-inch Bowie with a stag crown historical replica you have ever made?
situation come up against all types of David works on Big Blue handle. It was a monster. DB: The most difficult weapon to
on the set of "Forged
targets and all types of obstacles. in Fire." make for the show—and to make well
KI: Has your time on “Forged in Fire” and properly—I haven’t finished yet, so
KI_1807_SCENE.indd 19 4/25/18 3:18 AM

“THE THING I HOPE PEOPLE TAKE AWAY FROM THE SHOW
IS THE CREATIVITY AND DRIVE OF THE SMITHS.”
they won’t let me talk about it. Let’s KI: Is there anything else you would PHOTO CREDIT: incredible. It combines the four
HISTORY
just say I feel sorry for the smiths that like to say to your fans? elements and has been considered
draw that one. DB: The thing I hope people take sacred in countless cultures
away from the show is the creativity throughout history, to the point of
Wrapping Up and drive of the smiths. The show is having its own gods. I’m proud to be
KI: Do you do any apprenticeship about them. Without them we don’t part of a show that is helping to bring
programs? get to have a show. The armchair awareness of this craft to the public,
DB: As far as work goes, like many quarterbacks critique and criticize as well as inspiring others to create.
smiths, I am a bit of a loner. I don’t the smith that gets sent home,
teach or take apprentices—way too but they will never understand the Knives Illustrated would like to thank
cranky while working [laughs]. Not nature of this competition until they David for his time and candor, while
really. I tend to work on a strange step onto our floor. sharing his incredible craft with us. You
schedule, keep weird hours, and I am are truly a class act, David, and the
a serial non-joiner. We work in a medium that is so show benefits from your presence. KI
KI_1807_SCENE.indd 20 4/25/18 3:18 AM

KI-1807-Wilson Combat 4/12/18 10:35 AM Page 1
David Baker in
the Media
David Baker is no stranger to being
in front of the camera or making
weapons for use in film. Having
acted in soap operas such as
“Santa Barbara” and “The Young
and the Restless” to having parts
in movies such as “St. Elmo’s
Fire” and “Grease 2,” David finds
his longest list of credits goes to
making props and weapons for
film and television.
Other than “Forged in Fire,” David’s

work can be seen in shows such as
(source IMDB.com):
• “Tower of Joy: A Game of

Thrones Fan Film” (Short,
swordsmith)
• “Deadliest Warrior” (TV Series,
weapons master, 29 episodes)
• “Leverage” (TV Series,
specialty propmaker, 5
episodes)
• “Dude, What Would Happen”
(TV Series, catapult builder, 1
episode)
• “The Nine Lives of Chloe King”
(TV Series, specialty prop
builder, 1 episode)
• “NCIS: Los Angeles” (TV
Series, specialty propmaker, 1
episode)
• “Jonah Hex” (props,
uncredited)
• “Legion” (specialty prop
builder, uncredited)
• “Dragonball: Evolution”
(sword maker, as David
Baker, and weapon props,
uncredited)
• “Beowulf” (sword maker)
• “Battleground: The Art of War”
(TV Series, weapon props, 1
episode)
FOLLOW US ON
Contact Bringing you

David Baker
everything you
Facebook: Facebook.com/davebaker.
weaponsmaker want to know about
Instagram: @bakerblades Concealed Carry… facebook.com/
and more. ConcealedCarryMagazine
KI_1807_SCENE.indd 21 4/26/18 11:36 PM

KI_1807_COVER.indd 22 4/24/18 11:23 PM

THE SIG EMPEROR SCORPION AUTOMATIC
FOLDER COMMANDS RESPECT WITH A RAZOR
EDGE AND CHISELED LINES
STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOSHUA SWANAGON
KI_1807_COVER.indd 23 4/24/18 11:23 PM

1:1
ACTUAL
SIZE
S
IG Sauer and Hogue
Knives, need I say more?
“THE CPM154 STAINLESS STEEL BLADE WAS
I have been using SIG CRYOGENICALLY TREATED TO AN RC OF 57-59,
Sauer firearms for
years, my old duty pistol is a SIG
GIVING IT EXCELLENT EDGE RETENTION.”
P226RDAK with Hogue grips,
and I still love to shoot it to this First Impressions box. Because the blade is crafted from
day. When I saw that Hogue Knives To say that I am impressed with stainless steel, the SIG Emperor Scorpion
was making SIG-branded knives and this knife would be a bit of an is not going to be easy to sharpen, so
matching them up to the Emperor understatement. Featuring the two- most maintenance will likely need to be
Scorpion line of firearms—which have tone look, with matte black handle and done at home. However, the tradeoff is
attracted my interest for some time—I Flat Dark Earth (FDE) PVD blade and that it requires less maintenance because
went a little goofy over the whole thing. accents, the Emperor Scorpion really properly treated stainless steel retains an
matches its counterpart, the SIG Sauer edge really well.
The EX-A05 SIG Emperor Scorpion Emperor Scorpion 1911, perfectly.
Automatic Folder holds true to the The spine fin on the blade runs just over
SIG name and quality that many have The 3.5-inch blade has a FDE PVD 2.5 inches long, from the spear-point tip
come to expect from any SIG product coating that is very durable during heavy back toward the handle, and features a
throughout the years. And, wow, it looks use. The CPM154 stainless steel blade swedge that increases the tip strength
good too. was cryogenically treated to an RC of and assists with penetration power. The
Below: I was able to
cut up a mountain bike 57-59, giving it excellent edge retention, high flat grind aids in the hair-popping
tire with almost no
effort whatsoever. which came razor sharp right out of the edge that came on the Emperor Scorpion.
SPECS
Blade Material: CPM154 stainless steel
Closed Length: 4.625 inches
Overall Length: 8.125 inches
Blade Thickness: 0.15 inch
Blade Treatment: Cryogenically treated
Blade Hardness: RC 57-59
Blade Finish: Flat Dark Earth PVD
Weight: 4.6 ounces
Mechanism: Automatic button deployment
with manual safety
Handle Material (Frame): Matte black
6061-T6 anodized aluminum with solid black
G10 inserts
Pocket Clip: Stainless steel ambidextrous deep
pocket carry
MSRP: $269.95
KI_1807_COVER.indd 24 4/24/18 11:23 PM

The contours of the handle, along with get used to working around it.
the checkered G10 grip inserts, give it a
real SIG look and feel, while the FDE SIG Automatic Action
medallion and clip butt plate give it The SIG Emperor Scorpion is a push-
subtle highlights that make it button, side-opening automatic with
stand out in a crowd. There’s a slide lock for additional security. The
a sizeable lanyard hole that blade action after depressing the button
is easily large enough to fit a is very quick, and the blade comes out
paracord lanyard for retention or with a solid snap. Make sure you keep a
speedier retrieval from your pocket. good hold on the knife when actuating it.
Photo credit: Hogue Knives

Approximately 1.5 inches back on the The slide lock is good for keeping the
spine of the handle is a slight rise that blade from opening unexpectedly in
mirrors the spine fin on the blade, your pocket, but to be honest, I am not The SIG Sauer Emperor Scorpion
finishing the look and giving it a nice
flow. Everything on the handle has a
sure it is necessary for that function.
I tried pressing the button on a hard
1911 Adds Form to Function
very chiseled look, making it stand out; surface, and it wouldn’t go in far enough The Sig Sauer Emperor Scorpion 1911 is an amazing
although I would have rounded off the to launch the blade. I then tried pressing piece of machinery, defined by SIG Sauer as the “SIG
edges of the handle a bit and sacrificed it on my leg—carefully of course—and 1911 variant to rule them all.” The Emperor Scorpion is
a little of the aesthetics for comfort. The still no action. I found that the best available in six different models: P226, P229, P938 TB
index finger groove in the handle is nice way to depress the button far enough micro-compact, P238 micro-compact, and the 1911, which
and deep and is finished with scallops to launch the blade was to use the comes in two different frame sizes: fastback carry frame
taken out of the sides of the handle for thumb or any finger. The slide lock is and full size.
a secure purchase of the knife. most useful when the knife is open to
prevent it from folding on your hand by All of the Emperor Scorpion models feature a stainless
The 6061-T6 anodized aluminum an accidental finger press of the button steel frame with durable Flat Dark Earth PVD finish.
handle is extremely light but very solid. during use. Each one has dark Piranha-textured G10 grips and dark
It almost felt weird when I first picked controls but can be ordered with custom Hogue G10 grips
it up, and I was sure the balance was Through the Paces and mainspring housing. Forward cocking serrations and
going to be way off. Instead, I was very I tested the Emperor Scorpion on a lot SIGLITE night sights help round out the overall product.
surprised to find that the balance was of different mediums, from rope and
perfect, just a tiny bit forward of the heavy-duty cardboard to mountain bike
index finger groove. This balance point
makes the Emperor Scorpion very light
tires and tough nylon webbing, and it
performed flawlessly. “THE 6061-
and nimble in the hand. T6 ANODIZED
I recently went over to a friend’s house
The pocket clip is made of stainless who does bump and paint work in his
ALUMINUM HANDLE IS
steel and was quite tight when I first shop, and he had some really heavy- EXTREMELY LIGHT
got it, which made it a little difficult
to get over the lip of my pocket for
duty cardboard on hand, so I started
cutting some of it up for him. The
Below: The pocket
clip is form fit with the
knife, and each knife
BUT VERY SOLID.”
comes with an extra
placement and retrieval. But after I Emperor Scorpion glided right through that is fitted for the
obverse side.
gently pulled it away from the handle it. After quite a few cuts I was curious to
it has gotten much better. The clip see how much of a difference it made to
finishes right at the butt, which lets the the edge, and there was no
Emperor Scorpion ride nice and deep in perceivable change, I could
the pocket. But due to the clip angle, it still cut paper cleanly.
does stick out slightly, just enough to
aid retrieval. The clip is also reversible
but is designed specifically to match
up with this side of the knife, so Hogue
includes the pocket clip for the other
side in the box.
I should note that with the hard angles

and chiseled lines on the handle, the
butt has some sharp edges that can dig
into the hand when reaching into your
pocket for your keys or money, but you
KI_1807_COVER.indd 25 4/24/18 11:23 PM

Left: The spine of
the handle features
vent holes that keep
air moving and dust
flowing through. They
also aid in cleaning
when necessary.
Right: The slide lock is

directly behind the firing
button for quick and
easy access.
“THE BLADE ACTION AFTER DEPRESSING THE

Below: Cutting rope and
BUTTON IS VERY QUICK, AND THE BLADE COMES
various other tasks are
simple with the razor-
sharp edge.
OUT WITH A SOLID SNAP.”
Above: The part of the

spine that was left at
90° threw some very
good sparks from the
fire-steel.
KI_1807_COVER.indd 26 4/24/18 11:23 PM

The only thing I noticed during this test was that the rise on the spine of the handle Above: The Emperor
Scorpion sliced right
started creating a hot spot in my palm from digging into it while bearing down on the through this heavy-duty
military nylon webbing
knife. I was able to make some adjustments to my grip to counter it, but I wouldn’t with no resistance.
have been able to do heavy work like this for too long. Although it is hardly noticeable
during typical EDC chores.
I also got ahold of some old mountain bike tires from a local bike shop and proceeded
to cut one up. The sharp edge of the Emperor Scorpion glided right through with
no issues and remained razor-sharp, a testament to the stainless steel and proper Legal
cryogenic treating.
Considerations
Cutting rope and nylon webbing, along with other regular day-to-day tasks, was no Although many states have been
issue at all for the Emperor Scorpion. The only thing worth noting was that when I overturning legislation on the
Below: The SIG
medallion and clip ownership and carry of automatic
plate accentuate the
Emperor Scorpion. knives, you should check to make
sure that your state is among
them. Also, even if your state does
allow for the ownership and carry
of automatic knives, your county
or town may have its own ordi-
nances prohibiting it. Make sure to
check your local, county and state
laws regarding automatic knives
before carrying one.
KI_1807_COVER.indd 27 4/24/18 11:24 PM

Above: Even after
held it in the chest-lever grip, for cutting rope, the rise between cutting up a lot of this
heavy-duty cardboard,
the finger grooves on the handle bit into my palm because it the edge was still
extremely sharp
comes to a very aggressive point. But I very rarely use a folding and could slice
paper cleanly.
knife in this manner anyway. I only tested it so I could report
on it. I don’t recommend using a folding knife in this way, so it
should be a bit of a moot point.
Living up to the Names

From super clean lines and amazing aesthetics to very well-
The SIG Emperor
done automatic action, this is a finely crafted knife that Scorpion has striking
lines and is the
lives up to both the SIG Sauer and Hogue names. The perfect companion to
its namesake.
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KI_1807_COVER.indd 28 4/24/18 11:24 PM

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KI_1807_29.indd 29 4/23/18 3:16 AM

BU
WOR
WHITE RIVER KNIFE AND TOOL’S URSUS 45 USES

SUPERIOR STEEL TO DOMINATE THE FIELD
STORY BY JONATHAN KILBURN
PHOTOS BY JONATHAN KILBURN AND REUBEN BOLIEU
W
hen a family comes together, designs, it’s easy to see why the Ursus 45 is gaining
great things happen. White popularity. Designed to be a no-frills field knife, it
River Knife and Tool, in Coopersville, possesses the qualities and heft necessary to perform
Michigan, is the image of the in any camp activity or on any trail.
American Dream. They are a family-owned business
centered around hard work, quality craftsmanship
and customer satisfaction. John Cammenga, Sr. and The Ursus 45
his family strive to ensure top-quality work with their When the Ursus 45 first arrived on my doorstep, it was
own hands. clear it was designed to be a workhorse knife. It was
securely and beautifully presented with a certificate
Their Ursus 45 (“Ursus” is Latin for “bear”) was titled “White River Bushcraft.” The certificate laid out
originally a custom knife that was later brought into the crucial details of the knife in a straightforward
production, dealer loadout, in January of this year. and coherent manner. White River even mentions
With the success of some of the company’s other its 100% no-questions-asked guarantee on the
KI_1807_URSUS.indd 30 4/24/18 11:39 PM

BUSHCRAFT
ORKHORSE
KI_1807_URSUS.indd 31 4/24/18 11:39 PM

Above: A leg tie or
certificate, making it plain that it stands lanyard can be attached
through a hole in the
behind its product. White River even sheath. It appears to
echo the design of the
offers free sharpening if a user covers the knife, which has a hole
for a lanyard in the tang.
shipping cost.
I took the Ursus 45 into the American

Northeast during the tail end of winter. My
goal was simple: to replace the knife I was
comfortable using with the Ursus 45 for
all major tasks. I took my trusty blade off
of its belt and replaced it with the black Right: One of the
author's favorite parts
sheath containing the Ursus 45, and then of the knife is actually
the logo. The logo takes
I set off into the woods for several camp up little real estate on
the blade and supplies
visits during the upcoming weeks. only the most important
information: the
company name, steel
and country of origin.
In the Field
The sheath sat well on my hip and had
an easily accessible loop to hold the
included fire-steel. Before I even had a
chance to use the knife, the need for a fire
overshadowed everything else. With a
few taps against the spine, the small fire-
steel—with Micarta handle—seemed to be
of medium hardness, making it possible to
use multiple striking techniques. Anyone
would prefer having a lighter, but this Right: These optional
scales are made from
fire-steel performed exceptionally well. Richlite, a mixture
of paper and resin. It
I pulled out the Ursus 45 and positioned resembles wood
grain and is durable
the fire-steel on the 90° bevel about and sustainable.
KI_1807_URSUS.indd 32 4/24/18 11:40 PM

halfway up the blade spine. A few flicks What made this a great deal easier was
and I knew I was ready to go. While the where the spine was angled and ground. Up Optional Richlite
Ursus 45 generally comes with a matching toward the tip of the blade there is a sharp Scales
Micarta handle, I used one with beautiful 90° angle perfect for the fire-steel and
Richlite scales. tinder prep. However, the spine was rounded The Ursus 45 normally comes with
out slightly near the handle, creating an Micarta scales that match the fire-
Once I had kindling, I needed feather obvious and comfortable place to rest a
steel handle. The Richlite option
sticks, and all 4.5 inches of the high flat thumb for extra torque and control.
comes in a large variety of colors
grind blade were used to shave them.
and is good for the environment.
While this type of grind means a user Once my prep was completed, it only took
Richlite is a recycled paper materi-
needs to find the proper bevel angle, it a short burst of the fire-steel to light up
al infused with resin. While it has a
was beautiful across the entire length the tinder. I tried a few techniques with
wide range of potential applica-
of the blade. Once I found the angle, the combination of this particular fire-
I didn’t guess at or struggle with how steel and the Ursus 45.
tions, it appears to have found a
to position and hold the knife. It’s as if home in the knife industry.
the knife became predictable from that First, I drew off the edge of the knife spine
moment forward. Every draw of the down the fire-steel toward the tinder.
blade left beautiful curls in the poplar
and maple sticks.
Sparks went flying, and while they covered
a substantial amount of space, the
“THE MOST LAVISH PART
Left: Usually the
OF THIS KNIFE IS THE
handles of the Ursus 45
and fire-steel match.
The Richlite scales and
CPM S35VN STEEL.”
Micarta handle on my
test blade/fire-steel mix
SPECS
well with the look and
function of both pieces.
Blade Material: CPM S35VN

Below:White River
produces a few useful
designs in S35VN
Handle Material: Micarta or optional Richlite
steel. The Small Game,
Hunter and Ursus 45
Weight: 8.3 ounces
serve slightly different
purposes, but each
Sheath: Leather
overlaps in key areas that
a survivalist, bushcrafter
MSRP: $225
or hunter would use.
KI_1807_URSUS.indd 33 4/24/18 11:40 PM

Once the author found sparks were contained in a smaller area roofing poles, to which I would attach a
the best angle for the
The Edge Goes To … blade, making feather
sticks was simple. Soft
compared to a softer variant. tarp. I needed stakes and lots of them,
and hardwoods were not just for the tarp but also to brace the
used to make these
CPM S35VN is a unique metal in feather sticks. Next, I attempted to get a spark by placing roofing poles and prevent them from
the knife industry. Cost can make my foot on the knife and drawing the sliding out of place. I spent quite a bit of
it prohibitive, yet there are sig- fire-steel itself back with one hand. This time making the perfect stakes and latch
nificant benefits. The addition proved more difficult than I imagined. The notch ends from green poplar. This was
of niobium carbides (the “N” in sparks stayed where I wanted them, but when I truly got a feel for the knife.
“S35VN”) strengthens the blade the shower wasn’t as large as I’d hoped.
and makes it resistant to wear, The blade was easy to baton into the
which makes the blade less likely Finally, I did a finger-on-finger push on a poplar and held up well against the
small part of the fire-steel. The S35VN dug abuse. The deep, straight cuts were not a
to chip and dull. While not rec-
deep and let off a few strong and lasting problem, and cleaning the excess material
ommended, extreme situations
sparks. If I needed to choose a method out of the notch site was a breeze.
or use will probably not be an
from those I tested using the Ursus 45 and Because I had figured out where the edge
issue for the Ursus 45 with the
fire-steel, I would stick with the traditional angle was, while making feather sticks, it
S35VN steel. Having that extra
knife draw. But I found that both the knife was not only easy but fun.
strength when it really counts
and the fire-steel can handle a multitude
is one of the most appealing of unique striking styles. Although a 4.5-inch blade for small camp
aspects of the material. tasks might seem excessive to some, it
Since I was in my camp, I decided to work won’t be for others. The fit of the blade
on building it up for the upcoming spring with the perfectly contoured Richlite
season. I had been building a new camp handle means it reacts with every little
and had just finished putting up some move. Each cut sliced through without
KI_1807_URSUS.indd 34 4/24/18 11:40 PM

“… IT POSSESSES THE QUALITIES AND HEFT
NECESSARY TO PERFORM IN ANY CAMP ACTIVITY
OR ON ANY TRAIL.”
Above: The part of the binding the material. The handle design
spine that was left at
90° threw some very and material made it easy to maneuver
good sparks from the
fire-steel. in difficult grips—like a reverse or chest-
lever grip—without placing my thumb on
the blade.
Above left: After using
the fire-steel, the only
area on the Ursus 45
that shows some wear Perfect Camp
is the spine. Small
gouges and minimal
chipping result after
Workhorse
each use of the fire- The Ursus 45 really is the perfect camp
steel. The S35VN steel
is durable, and this wear workhorse, regardless of the tasks you’ll
would be much more
noticeable on most be executing. The handle is well suited
other steels.
for multiple hand sizes and even has a
lanyard hole where the tang extends
past the scales. The sheath, while sim-
ple, retains the knife perfectly and even
handles a proprietary fire-steel.
The most lavish part of this knife is

the CPM S35VN steel. The S35VN is
easier to sharpen than alternatives
and is more corrosion resistant than
comparable steels with the same 58-60
Left: Using the chest-
lever grip, I was able to HRC hardness. It is important to note
make stakes easily and
comfortably. that there is a significant price increase
KI_1807_URSUS.indd 35 4/24/18 11:40 PM

Above: The Ursus easily in knives made from this steel. Regardless,
batoned through a
2-inch round. after all of that time on the fire-steel, a quick
wipe made the blade look as good as new,
with the exception of the spine. The spine
easily shows signs of use and rightfully so.
I do prefer smaller knives for camp tasks,

and White River does have smaller knives
Left: The stakes made
using the Ursus 45 will that are similarly built to the Ursus 45.
be put to use to hold
the roofing poles and However, where smaller knives fail is in the
as a place to attach
the tarp to create number of tasks they can perform. You
the shelter.
won't see a 2-inch knife being batoned
through a 5-inch round, but you may
observe a 7-inch blade used for detailed
Contact carving. This is where the Ursus 45 comes

into play as the perfect hiking and general
White River Knife
and Tool duty knife. There are no frills, finger choils
(616) 997-0026 or divots for fire drills, meaning users who
WhiteRiverKnives.com prefer simplicity may flock to the Ursus
45. KI
KI_1807_URSUS.indd 36 4/24/18 11:40 PM

KI_1807_37 4/23/18 3:18 AM Page 37
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KI_1807_BOKER.indd 38 4/24/18 11:55 PM

THE BÖKER PLUS KWAIKEN AUTO
TAKES A HISTORICAL DESIGN AND
BRINGS IT INTO THE MODERN AGE
STORY AND PHOTOS BY TIM STETZER
A MODERN
CLASSIC knivesillustrated.com JULY/AUGUST 2018 • KNIVES ILLUSTRATED 39
KI_1807_BOKER.indd 39 4/24/18 11:55 PM

A
s more and more states Right: The Kwaiken
Automatic is nimble in
allow the free use and the hand and only 3.4
ounces, despite its fairly
carry of automatic knives, large size. At 8.5 inches
in overall length, the
we’re seeing a correlation Kwaiken is a full-sized
tactical folder.
in the number of autos available
from knife companies. It’s a natural
progression to take a popular model
design and adapt it to an auto format;
especially a model that’s already sleek
and fast to begin with, such as the Böker
Plus Kwaiken designed by Lucas Burnley.
The Kwaiken
Automatic
The Kwiaken Automatic is a full-sized tac-
tical folder with a 5-inch closed length. Its
6061-T6 aluminum handle fills the hand
without being bulky and is finished with
matte black anodizing for durability. The
pommel tapers to a point and is exposed
Right: The Kwaiken’s
from the bottom of your fist when you blade was centered
and the tip stayed
grip the closed knife, making it suitable well below the handle
plane when closed. The
as an impact weapon or in pressure-point handle is also open at
the bottom to keep dirt
applications. The handles are smooth, but from building up and for
not slick, and adorned only by a discreet easy cleaning.
serial number located on the face of the

right handle scale, near the pivot pin. My
test knife was stamped #13 of 300.
The Kwaiken uses a short, discreet,

low-profile carry clip set up for tip-up,
right-hand carry. It seats the knife fairly
deeply in the pocket, allowing only around
3/8 inch to stick out. It’s enough to grab
for an easy draw but not so much that the
knife is very noticeable.
The automatic’s 3.5-inch blade uses

the familiar Japanese style of the “THE 154CM BLADE HAS A HIGH FLAT GRIND WITH
Kwaiken flippers. The 154CM blade has A SECONDARY BEVEL AND A SATIN FINISH.”
a high flat grind with a secondary bevel
and a satin finish. The edge is a long,
Right: The Kwaiken
does not use a
manual safety, but
SPECS
rather, recesses the
firing button, so
that it can’t be
depressed accidently.
Blade Material: 154CM stainless steel

Closed Length: 5 inches
Blade Grind: Flat
Blade Finish: Stonewash
Handle Material: 6061-T6 aluminum, black
Locking Mechanism: Button
Weight: 3.4 ounces
Made in the USA by Pro-Tech Knives
MSRP: $229
KI_1807_BOKER.indd 40 4/24/18 11:55 PM

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knife magazine.
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KI_1807_41.indd 41 4/24/18 2:44 AM

A Quicker Kwaiken,
the Pro-Tech Knives
Difference
Lucas Burnley has been making
and designing knives since 2003
in his Albuquerque, New Mexico
shop. Lucas describes his style
as “post-tactical,” meaning
“blending clean, modern lines
with tactical origins.” The
Japanese-influenced piece has a
certain elegance to it that sets it
apart from myriad other tactical
folders on the market.
The original Kwaiken Flipper that

Burnley did with Böker proved
to be a popular seller based
on its eye-catching appeal and
well-considered ergonomics. It
was a balanced blend of art and
utility, and while fast in its own
right, it was a design that beck-
oned for an auto treatment.
Rather than start from scratch,

Burnely and the folks at Böker
decided to work with existing
auto knife manufacturer Pro-Tech
Knives to build the Kwaiken
Automatic. If you’re going to
team up with an auto maker, you Above: The author continuous arc that tapers to a fierce The only safety on the knife is the recessed
can’t go wrong with Pro-Tech. I tested the Kwaiken’s tip
by stabbing it into aged point. Stampings include the Böker position of the button and the amount
have a number of Pro-Tech autos wood and twisting and
snapping the blade out. Plus logo on the left blade flat and the of pressure needed to engage the firing
and have always been impressed The Kwaiken survived
with no ill effects. Pro-Tech and Burnley logos, as well as mechanism. The thought of an auto with
with the fit, finish and function the blade steel and a proud “Made in no safety might make some queasy, but
of its knives. They’re typically USA” on the right blade flat. frankly I’ve never used safeties on autos
sleek and simple affairs, and during the years I have used them. If a knife
their style fits solidly with The soul of any automatic knife is the needs a safety, then it generally ends up
Burnley’s theory of using clean, opening mechanism, and this is where being slower to operate than a manual
modern lines. With nearly 20 Pro-Tech really shines. I’ve used a good folder anyway. By the time you disengage
years of experience building and number of autos throughout the years and the safety, then mash the firing button, you
designing American-made autos, have always found Pro-Tech’s to be some could have just opened a manual folder.
Pro-Tech was more than up to the of the cleanest and easiest to use. Trust me, Pro-Tech has been doing this for
challenge of turning the Kwaiken a long time, and the company’s designers
into an auto. First, its firing button is well designed. know what they’re doing.
It's a simple round button recessed into
the handle. It sits low enough to avoid The 3.5-inch blade of the Kwaiken
accidental discharge but is still readily springs open with authority when
available to mash with your thumb for you depress the button, and there’s
quick one-handed opening. You can also a slight bit of recoil to the knife, so
activate the button with your left index make sure you have a firm grip on it
finger as well, if you’re a southpaw or just when you fire it. If you hand it to a
using the knife in the sinister hand. friend, be sure to warn them first. I
had a couple of people almost lose
KI_1807_BOKER.CX.indd 42 4/29/18 11:26 PM

Left: The Kwaiken
uses a 3.5-inch blade It’s sleek and flat and carries comfortably
of 154CM stainless
steel, and you can see in the pocket. I alternated carrying it in the
the definite Japanese
influence in its sweeping thigh pocket of my work trousers and the
blade shape.
right front pocket of my jeans. The 3/8
inch of pommel that protruded from the
pocket was just enough to make grabbing
it and pulling it free simple. The clip itself
is very secure but doesn’t grab too tightly
on dress slacks, BDU-type pants or jeans.
I did have some minor issues clipping it on
heavier reinforced pocket lips, although
I’ve had the same issue with other knives
and those particular pants as well.
The 154CM blade came with a decent

factory edge; not shaving sharp, but
plenty good for cutting boxes, cord,
packages, tape and things like that.
The long, continuous curve makes the
Kwaiken an efficient slicer. It also tapers
to an extremely fine point, which I found
penetrated heavy clothing quite well and
slid effortlessly into a roast ham. Don’t tell
the knife when they fired it without sprang back open on me because I didn’t my wife, please.
anticipating the recoil. have a solid grip on the handle. Practice
over carpet a couple of times, away from I had some concern as to the strength of
Lock-up is very solid with just the slightest your feet, and you’ll be fine. that fine tip, but after some field testing
bit of lateral play, which isn’t uncommon I stopped worrying about it. I stabbed
on many autos. To unlock the blade, Automatic EDC the Kwaiken repeatedly into a weathered
simply depress the firing button again and The Kwaiken Automatic works well for piece of plywood and twisted and
fold the blade closed. Closing the knife an EDC blade. Lacking either a kimono or snapped the blade out of the wood. I got
against the spring requires firm pressure, samurai armor, I carried the auto at work bored with this after a couple of dozen
and I’ll admit I did drop it once when it in my more mundane modern clothing. repetitions, and the knife was none the
worse for wear. The tip was obviously
Left: The Kwaiken uses stronger than I initially thought.
a short, skeletonized
pocket clip and sits
deeply in the pocket for
discreet carry but still
exposes enough
of the handle for a
steady draw.
The Kwaiken, Then

and Now
The original Japanese Kwaikens
were smaller knives first carried
by the wives of the samurai and
designed to be tucked into the
sleeve of a kimono. The handiness
wasn’t lost on the samurai though,
and they eventually added them
to their kits for utility use and
as last-ditch weapons. Lucas’s
Kwaiken takes that original concept
and blade style and melds it with
modern handles on his fixed and
folding models, constructing them
of thoroughly modern materials.
KI_1807_BOKER.indd 43 4/24/18 11:55 PM

“I ALSO HAD OCCASION TO CUT THROUGH WIDE Above: Although
not what the author
would consider
The Kwaiken isn’t really what I’d call
a woods knife, but I’m a consummate
SEATBELT-STYLE WEBBING, WHICH THE KWAIKEN a woods knife,
the Kwaiken did a whittler, so I gave it a try on some old
SLICED THROUGH NICELY …”
respectable job
of cutting and chunks of wood just to see how it would
carving wood.
do. I was actually quite pleasantly
Aside from the day-to-day cutting tasks from a heavy ripstop material with a surprised at how well it bit into the
like packages, tape, cord, etc., I also had reinforced edge and covered in years of weathered chunk of pallet I was using.
occasion to cut through wide seatbelt- grime. The Kwaiken slid through the body I was able to make deep V cuts and
style webbing, which the Kwaiken sliced of the tarp effortlessly, and the reinforced shallow shaves with ease. I didn’t try for
through nicely. I also cut up some nasty edge gave slight resistance, but it was a real feather stick, but I’m confident the
tarp that was frozen to a pile of wood I nothing a little muscle and the toothy Kwaiken could have kept up with most of
wanted to access. The tarp was made edge of the Kwaiken couldn’t handle. my field blades in this regard.
Left: The Kwaiken

Automatic is a I ended up using the Kwaiken on a variety
collaboration
between Lucas of cruddy, dirty material that can often be
Brunley, Böker
and Pro-Tech harsh on a blade’s edge. I found that the
automatic knives.
154CM held up extremely well. Examining
the blade with a magnifying glass failed
to show even the slightest deformation or
microchipping—which I honestly wouldn’t
have even held against the knife if I had—
considering the material I was cutting.
Winning
Collaboration
It’s hard to beat a collaboration between
Lucas Burnley and Pro-Tech, and with Böker
Contact there to facilitate and get the product to
market, you’ve got a triple win. A custom-
Böker USA Inc.
designed knife, built with top-quality materi-
(800) 835-6433
als and Pro-Tech’s automatic expertise, right
BokerUSA.com here in the United States, for just over $200—
you can’t go wrong with that. KI
KI_1807_BOKER.indd 44 4/24/18 11:55 PM

KI-1807-Hogue 4/16/18 8:12 AM Page 1
INTR ODUCING
EXCLUSIVELY MADE BY
HKKnives.com
E D G E D T O O L S F O R
KI-1805-Colonial Knife Company 2/23/18 9:03 AM Page 1
T KI-1805-Krudo
H E P Knives
R O1/19/18
F E 11:37
S AMS IPage
O1N A L
KI_1807_45.indd 45 4/24/18 2:57 AM

EDC
TRIFECTA
KI_1807_GRANGE.indd 46 4/25/18 12:03 AM

GRANGE PARK
KNIFE WORKS
OFFERS THREE
ALL-AROUND
UTILITY BLADES,
FROM FIELD
TO FOOD
STORY AND PHOTOS BY
BRIAN GRIFFIN
M
uch has changed since finger knife), yet the rounded pommel flatware at a local restaurant, I set it
cutting tools were first makes it comfortable to use. The aside and replaced it with the Rabbit’s
discovered. Stone blades contours and bead-blasted handle Foot, which made short work of a hardy
have been replaced with texture ensure secure purchase; even slice of country ham. Later that day, it
steel alloys (stainless in most cases), when it is slick with blood, tallow or was very useful for peeling a red delicious
and simple wooden handles have largely fish slime. The integral thumb ramp apple. A few days later it did a fine job
been replaced by complex composites also serves as a great contact point for of scaling the salmon fillets I picked up
that resist damage and deterioration. Yet applying pressure with the tip of the on the way home. The concave radius of
with all of the advancements, the things forefinger, which is helpful with precision the spine is somewhat reminiscent of a
being cut aren't much different. From the cutting and controlling the direction of small fillet knife and works really well for
start, and throughout their development, blade travel. Another advantage of this removing fish scales.
the primary uses of knives have been for profile is the slight cant of the blade. It is
Grange Park Betta
Below: Most of the
game and food prep, as well as eating. cutlery provided at a force multiplier when applying pressure
modern eateries is
plastic. The Rabbit’s on the tip for penetrating tough hides. The Grange Park Betta is a daily-carry
Foot makes a great
When it comes to everyday tasks and replacement for the knife from an unusual perspective. It’s
plastic knives provided
food prep, I have found that the Rabbit’s with many meals. When I was given a butter knife with my not meant so much for transport in a
Foot, Grange Park Betta and Peregrine
from Grange Park Knife Works are an
exemplary team that make easy work
of all of my culinary tasks, while also
handling light duty in other areas, for a
well-rounded EDC.
Rabbit’s Foot
The Rabbit’s Foot model, so named
because of its crooked shape, is Kyle
Milleno’s (owner of Grange Park Knife
Works) vision of a fish, fowl and small
game knife. Overall it is 6.5 inches
long and has a blade length of 2.75
inches. It was designed to be highly
portable for long days in the field.
This one in particular, having a blade
made of 0.040-inch thin AEB-L steel,
is exceptionally light. It's an iteration
meant for activities like ultra-light
hunting and kayak fishing.
The handle is 3.75 inches long (meaning

in larger hands it will be roughly a 3.5
KI_1807_GRANGE.indd 47 4/25/18 12:03 AM

Above: The Rabbit’s
Foot is a handy-sized
EDC. It offers excellent
“THE RABBIT'S FOOT MODEL, SO NAMED
control and made quick
and easy work of a
hardy breakfast of ham
BECAUSE OF ITS CROOKED SHAPE, IS KYLE
and eggs.
MILLENO’S … VISION OF A FISH, FOWL AND
SMALL GAME KNIFE.”
pocket or on a belt as it is for carry in a times I turn leftover chicken, onions
SPECS
briefcase or lunchbox. It looks like a mini and pickles into chunky chicken salad.
chef’s knife, with a total length of 6.75 Occasionally, I need a knife to cut up a
inches and a blade length of 3.25 inches. chop or steak leftover from the night
Rabbit’s Foot Specs It isn’t big enough for some full-sized before. For a foodie who enjoys prepping
Blade Material: AEB-L stainless steel kitchen chores, but it does excel at their own meals remotely, a mini chef’s
Blade Length: 2.75 inches cutting fresh veggies, block cheeses and knife, like the Betta, can be a great knife
various types of bulk meats. to have on hand.
Blade Thickness: 0.040 inch Contact My lunchbox is green aluminum with Even though its intended purpose is as a
Handle Material: Olive drab G10 Grange Park
Knifeworks a bamboo cutting board for a lid. lunchbox knife, I’ve found it also works
Handle Thickness: 0.50 inch
gpknifeworks@gmail. Sometimes I like to slice cheese, summer really well for a lot of small kitchen
Weight: 1.95 ounces com sausage and tomatoes to go with bread chores. It has been great for sectioning
MSRP: $135 Facebook: Grange Park or crackers as my main course, with celery and carrot sticks at snack time, and
Knifeworks some sort of fresh fruit as a side. Other it has been useful for slicing shallots and
KI_1807_GRANGE.indd 48 4/25/18 12:03 AM

Left: The Rabbit Foot’s
Cuisine-Centric
handle contours and
blade cant allow for
very good control of the
pressure and direction
of travel. Materials
With all of the salts and acids involved
in food and game preparation, steel
types and handle materials are two
of the areas where Milleno is taking
his work in the opposite direction
from a lot of the other smaller knife
companies in the industry.
Rather than shunning stainless steels

due to their difficulty to work by
hand, he is embracing the corrosion
resistance of the new alloys. In most
cases, he chooses synthetic handle
materials to go with them, though he
certainly isn't opposed to using nice
woods for handle scales occasionally.
The more corrosion resistant the

mincing garlic as well. The shape, size Peregrine steel is, the less chance there is of
and drop of the edge allow it to perform The Peregrine is definitely the more corrosion developing on the tang
well as a miniature herb knife also. traditional of the models I received. It and working its way under the
is meant to serve in the general utility handle scales over time. Milleno
I have watched my daughter using it role, doing everything from buttering a grew up near the Atlantic Ocean, so
while helping me prepare dinner, and it muffin on Monday morning and opening he understands the effects of rust.
seemed easier for her to manage than my packages at work Wednesday afternoon
He also grew up in a region steeped
in traditions of serious craftsman-
full-sized chef’s knives. It’s been a handy to slicing up a nice sirloin on Saturday
ship, and he wants to produce
tool for teaching her some of the finer night. Yet even with the more traditional
Below: For a serious heirloom-quality cutlery that will be
points of cooking, with less stress than styling of this model, Mellino couldn't foodie who loves to
prepare their own passed down to future generations.
my larger knives. For a father, less stress leave out the art all together. It has meals whenever
possible, the Betta is a
is always a good thing. enough curvy lines to catch one’s eye. great daily companion.
KI_1807_GRANGE.indd 49 4/25/18 12:04 AM

SPECS
Grange Park Betta Specs
Blade Material: AEB-L
Blade Thickness: 0.040 inch
Handle Material: Black and green G10
Handle Thickness: 0.73 inch
Weight: 1.95 ounces
MSRP: $135-175
SPECS
Peregrine Specs
Blade Material: AEB-L
Blade Length: 3 inches
Above: One of the great Up front, the handle has a first finger unobtrusive if carried in a pocket in an
Overall Length: 7.25 inches things about handmade
knives is the number of notch to ensure secure purchase during urban environment. It has a full 4-inch
Blade Thickness: 0.118 inch options available
for personalization. use, and in the rear, it has two small handle, which offers good ergonomics
Handle Material: Stabilized bocote wood over The same model can
be made of different scallops on the lower side of the pommel for a small knife, and good control as
black G10 and lime green pin stripes types of steel, steel
thickness, steel finish that give the handle nice aesthetic detail, well. The blade is big enough to perform
Handle Thickness: 0.75 inch and handle materials.
without making the lines too busy. common utility tasks, yet it isn’t so large
Weight: 2.6 ounces as to be unwieldy during fine jobs.
MSRP: $175 With an overall length of slightly more
than 7 inches, and sporting a 3-inch In testing, I’ve found it handled light-
drop-point blade, this is also the largest duty tasks very well; things like opening
of the samples I received. Mellino created packages, cutting string and scraping off
Below: The little
notches in the cracker it to serve as a workhorse. He wanted labels. Yet at the same time it is large
bags don't always a knife big enough to fill the needs of enough to be reasonably comfortable
work as well as
planned. When people who work outdoors in a physical performing jobs that require more force.
they just tear off,
rather than over, it environment—farmers and carpenters, Tasks like whittling and carving while
takes a knife to solve
the problem. for example—but small enough to be hiking, fishing or hunting, and even
Advantages Made
by Hand
There are definitely a few perks
that come with the experience of
purchasing a handmade knife versus
a knife that is mass produced on CNC
machinery. One of those perks for
some is the human factor. Those min-
ute imperfections that can appear in
the fit and finish of the knife speak to
its being finalized by a person, rather
than finished up by an automated
piece of equipment. These little blem-
ishes, as some people call them, make
the knife unique and separate it from
the crowd; even when the knives have
the same profile, handle materials
and steel finishes.
KI_1807_GRANGE.indd 50 4/25/18 12:04 AM

Above: Restaurants don't necessarily provide common camping chores like fire prep
“[THE PEREGRINE] HAS A FULL
good cutlery. They usually give us an option
that's marginally better than eating with are doable with the Peregrine. I have
our bare hands. We usually have to provide
used it for all of these chores, and it has
4-INCH HANDLE, WHICH OFFERS GOOD
something better for ourselves.
performed well in every one of them.

ERGONOMICS FOR A SMALL KNIFE, AND
GOOD CONTROL AS WELL.” Left: Living up to its namesake, the Peregrine
Cuisine-Focused
is a great size knife for a traveler. It comes in
handy during hikes, without taking up too
EDC
much space or weight in a pack. After a couple of weeks working with
his knife designs and looking at cutlery
through Kyle Mellino’s eyes, I’ve found
that I admire his perspective. I am an
avid outdoorsman and a devoted cutlery
fan, so I enjoy performing camping and
field craft activities. However, being a
family man with a busy work life, I only
get to do those kinds of things a couple
of times a month, at most. Food, on the
other hand, is a horse of a different color;
like everyone else, I like to eat at least a
couple of times a day.
I think Milleno is taking Grange Park Knife

Works in a good direction. With so much
of the EDC side of the cutlery market
devoted to purely utilitarian applications
in recent years, finding cuisine-focused
options is a breath of fresh air. KI
KI_1807_GRANGE.indd 51 4/25/18 12:04 AM

EVER PRESEN
NEVER PRON
KI_1807_BENCHMADE.indd 52 4/25/18 12:53 AM

ENT,
ONOUCED
THE BENCHMADE 535 BUGOUT IS THERE WHEN

YOU NEED IT, OBSCURED WHEN YOU DON’T
STORY AND PHOTOS BY TIM STETZER

“IT USES A 3.24-INCH, DROP-POINT BLADE
MADE FROM CPM-S30V STAINLESS STEEL
AND SPORTS A SATIN FINISH.”
T
here’s a place for heavy from CPM-S30V stainless steel and Above: The Bugout The Bugout uses a sturdy Grivory
can go anywhere you
folders that are built like sports a satin finish. The blade carries go, be it the beach or handle in royal blue. It has a subtle
the boulevard.
a tank, but frankly, these a set of blue anodized dual thumb but comfortable contour and is inset
days it isn’t in my pocket. studs that match the 535’s handle. with checkered panels on either side.
Below: The 535 Bugout
My test blade was in the plain-edge uses Benchmade’s Its open-frame design resists dirt and
popular and sturdy Axis
I think big folders are neat, but I never configuration, but a serrated version is lock, which is easily crud buildup, which also makes it easy
deployed by either
end up carrying them. I carry enough available as well. right- or left-handers. to clean. Lockup is via Benchmade’s
things as it is, both on and off duty, and a
heavy blade is the last thing I need. The
knives I tend to use are generally in the
3 to 3 ½-inch blade range, light weight
with flat profiles. That’s exactly where
the Benchmade 535 Bugout falls. When I
saw the Bugout announced, I knew I had
to have one, so I grabbed one as soon as
I could.
Bugout Specs
The 535 Bugout is a trim piece at 4.22
inches closed and only .090-inch thick.
Its weight is a feathery 1.85 ounces. It
uses a 3.24-inch drop-point blade made

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KI_1807_55.indd 73 4/24/18 3:08 AM

Left: The Bugout uses I rotated through three main carry
a 3.24-inch drop-point
blade made of CPM- positions when I used the knife. In
S30V stainless steel
with a high grind and plainclothes, I typically carried it clipped
scalpel-sharp edge
right from the factory. to the left rear pocket of my dress slacks.
In uniform, I clipped it to the billy pocket
on the thigh of my uniform trousers.
Finally, off duty I would typically clip it
to the right front pocket of my shorts or
jeans. I’m personally not a fan of tip-up
carry and would have liked to at least see
the option for a reversible clip, allowing
both tip-up or tip-down carry, but I know
I’m in the minority in this.
Extended Pocket
Time
When I receive a knife for review, I try
and get as much use out of it as possible
before writing up my findings. Typically,
this is somewhere in the one-to-three-
month range. With the Bugout, I’ve had
Left: The bright blue
handle of the Bugout the advantage of working with it for a
is made from rugged
Grivory. The color is a solid eight months.
nice break from tactical
black and stands out
well in the woods.
When the engineers at Benchmade
designed the Bugout, it was like they
were reading my mind for about 95%
of it. I think in that last 5% my mind
must have wandered to thoughts of beer
and internet cat videos or something.
Still they got pretty darn close. The size
is perfect for EDC use. The 3.24-inch
blade is a handy size for just about any
EDC tasks I do, and it’s legal in most
jurisdictions. Check your local laws to be
sure because there are definitely more
restrictive pockets here and there around
the country.
If I could only have one blade style—

and I shudder at the thought of that
happening—I have to say that I could
+ SPECS
popular and rugged Axis lock, which is do anything I needed to with a drop
set into a steel-reinforced portion of the point like the Bugout’s. It’s a well-styled
frame. Like all Axis models, the lock is blade with a high grind, a thin edge and
Blade Material: CPM-S30V stainless steel ambidextrous and easily manipulated. a swedge that helps take the blade to a
Blade Length: 3.24 inches Blade lockup is rock solid with no keen, sturdy point. While I’m not a steel
Overall Length: 7.46 inches vertical or lateral play exhibited. snob, I can’t complain at all about the
Closed Length: 4.22 inches CPM-S30V blade. It’s a proven steel, and
Blade Thickness: 0.090 inch The butt of the knife features a lanyard the Bugout came with—and held—a hair-
Handle Thickness: 0.42 inch hole big enough to take a piece of popping edge even after months of use.
Weight: 1.85 ounces paracord. The clip on the knife is
mounted at the very end of the handle I’ve used the Bugout to cut just about
Pocket Clip: Blackened stainless steel,
and allows for a deep pocket carry that’s everything throughout the past eight
reversible, tip up
both discreet and secure. Although I months, including myself. Although I
Lock Mechanism: Axis
really like the low-profile, deep-carry clip, didn’t do anything especially extreme,
MSRP: $135
I did find that it was too tight to clip over I did cut open boxes, punched holes
some thicker pocket edges. in cardboard, cut zip-ties, opened

Left: A matte black,
stainless-steel, low-
profile pocket clip When Your Knife
is provided with the
Bugout. It’s reversible
and designed for
Claims You
tip-up carry.
As most knife enthusiasts know,

occasionally, a knife will claim you
for its own. I have the honor of
having been claimed by the Bench-
made Bugout.
I caught myself good with it once

when I was distracted and pulled it
out to check it into a security locker
on my way into court. I managed to
pop the blade part of the way open,
and it just ever so slightly kissed the
knuckle of my left index finger. It was
one of those cuts that didn’t even
“I WAS NEVER AN ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKER, BUT hurt, but when I looked down I saw a
¾-inch line of blood well up. I spent
AM WEIGHT CONSCIOUS, AND THE BUGOUT’S 1.84 the day in court with a paper towel
OUNCES IS A PERFECT COMPROMISE OF WEIGHT wadded against it, applying direct
AND UTILITY FOR ME.” pressure to the cut. I probably should

have had it looked at and gotten
some Steri-Strips or even some
innumerable plastic packages, cut cordage of various types, and I cut up more than a stitches, but I didn’t. I have a fine
couple of sandwiches, apples and pears. There may have been some cheese and the scar on my knuckle as a result and
wax off of a couple bottles of wine and craft beer as well. something to remember the Bugout
Below: The Bugout’s by. The point is, the 535 is scalpel
contoured and textured
I have to say I really like the royal blue color that Bechmade used on the Bugout. It handles are comfortable sharp; so be careful!
to use and provide a
drew my eye immediately, and I found it to be a smart choice. I have an affinity for blue secure grip.

knives for a couple of reasons. First, they Right: The Axis lock
provided a secure lockup
don’t scream tactical. Blue seems less with zero blade play.
threatening than a tactical black blade

to many people, and that seemed to
hold true based upon my experiences
with the Bugout. I had it out in a variety
of settings, often in places that would
not be considered knife friendly, with no
negative comments or issues.
Second, aside from a kinder, friendlier

appearance, I like blue for use on an
outdoors blade. Anyone who’s read my
work throughout the years has seen me
extol the virtues of blue handles. While
orange is a popular color for outdoors
blades, you can run into situations in the
Right: The dual thumb
fall where even bright orange can blend in studs make the
Bugout easy to open.
with fallen leaves or foliage. There is very The author found the
blue anodized thumb
little in nature that’s bright blue—other studs to be a nice
aesthetic touch.
than poison dart frogs in Central and
South America—so the blue tends to really
stand out against the greens of spring and
summer, the browns and oranges of fall
and even the white of winter. Below: The Grivory
handles have inset
checkered panels on
either side to provide a
Benchmade bills the Bugout as both an secure grip.
EDC and an outdoors blade. Aside from
the blue handles, which I find work well
outdoors, the 3.24-inch drop point is a
Contact
Benchmade
handy size for hiking, backpacking or
(800) 800-7427
general woods bumming as well. I was Benchmade.com
never an ultralight backpacker, but am
weight conscious, and the Bugout’s 1.84
ounces is a perfect compromise of weight
and utility for me.
One Blade to Rule

Them All
I hate to say it, but I’m not monogamous
when it comes to EDC blades. I love to
dally with new designs and try different
styles. If push came to shove though, and
I was forced to pick one EDC life partner,
the 535 Bugout would be on my short
list. After carrying it for the better part
of a year, I still find myself grabbing it
before most other things when I walk out
the door every day. The combination of
size, weight and styling, coupled with a
very functional CPM-S30V drop-point
blade, make it a tough tool to beat for
my needs. At $135 MSRP the Bugout
isn’t cheap, but neither is it unreason-
able for a well-designed, solidly built,
American-made blade that you can carry
with you whenever you need it, without
noticing it’s there the rest the time. KI

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KI_1807_WINKLER.indd 60 4/25/18 1:10 AM

THE LIGHTWEIGHT, WELL-ENGINEERED
WINKLER WK F3 FOLDING KNIFE TAKES
FUNCTIONALITY TO THE STREETS
STORY BY CLINT THOMPSON
PHOTOS BY CLINT THOMPSON AND WINKLER KNIVES
W
ho says you can’t have your cake A Navy SEAL was in attendance at one of the
and eat it too? Daniel Winkler movie’s showings. He’d been tasked with researching
of Boone, North Carolina, has been the possibilities of a tomahawk or small axe to
interested in knife making since 1975. be incorporated into the SEAL equipment. He did
He made his first fixed blade to complement his 18th some investigating and discovered that Winkler had
century reenactor frontiersman equipment and has made the war tomahawk Studi used in the movie
been hooked on making knives from this period ever and requested that Winkler make a combat-usable
since. Later he expanded his craft to tomahawks and tomahawk or axe prototype. Even though the idea of
axes. In 1988, he became a full-time blade smith, and a combat tomahawk did not fly, the SEAL took the
four short years later, he got to construct a weapon prototype and incorporated it into his loadout.
for the Hollywood blockbuster “Last of the Mohicans.”
He created a war tomahawk for the movie that was During Desert Storm, this same SEAL was serving with
carried by actor Wesley Studi, who played Magua. the Army Special Forces. His fellow SF types fell in
love with the Winkler tomahawk prototype. Everyone
decided that they had to have one, and Winkler Knives
axes/tomahawks went viral. Today they are carried by
special operators around the world.
The Winkler WK F3 folder is the third folder made

by Winkler Knives and carries on that tradition
of hardcore cutlery known the world over by
silent professionals.
KI_1807_WINKLER.CX.indd 61 4/29/18 11:28 PM

First Impression Above: I easily stripped
the bark off this well-
seasoned limb. I think
When I received the sample of the WK this knife can go much
longer and work harder
F3, I examined it closely, and my first than I can. The bark just
peeled right off.
impression was that this knife is very
simply made. But after I deployed the
opening mechanism many times and
scrutinized the mechanics, I could see
this knife design had been invested with
considerable experience and engineering.
The ball-bearing pivot works great, and
the locking bar is strong and adjusted
perfectly, meaning it was hand-fitted to
Right: The blade of the
the knife. WK F3 is solidly locked
into position with the
liner-lock-type system.
The WK F3 is light weight at 3.9 ounces,
and the 3.5-inch drop-point blade is well-
designed for utility use. I like the way the
blade tapers to a very functional point.
Many folding knives designed for utility
combat use or serious urban duty can be
pleasing to the eye and warrior spirit, and
somewhat massive as well, but many
do not have the blade design that will
facilitate more utilitarian functions. The
Right: “Winkler Knives”
WK F3 does. is stamped on the spine
of the blade. This is
an adjustment from
stamping the maker or
Many of the WK F3’s components are manufacturer’s name
on the blade near
made of titanium—including the liners, the hilt.

pivot screw and pocket clip—to increase Right: When the WK
F3 is closed, it has a
strength and reduce weight. Carrying this knife length of 4.250 inches.
The usable part of the
is very easy, and because it is fairly light, it will handle is 3.250 inches
long. The handle is
not sag in the pockets of dress pants. well designed and
fits my medium-sized
hand well.
The WK F3 comes in three types of handles:

curly maple (my favorite), the tan Micarta
sample I received and black Micarta. Even
though I like the looks of the curly maple
best, because it exemplifies the warrior spirit,
the more durable Micarta handles will serve
those who actually carry and use this knife.
The Micarta handle of my sample fits my
medium-sized hand well. The gripping area
of the handle is 3.25 inches with a shallow
swell in the midsection of the 0.50-inch-
wide handle that I found comfortable.
Testing the WK F3
To see how the WK F3 could handle utility
use, I tested the internal workings, locking
mechanism and blade durability. The WK F3
has an 80CrV2 steel blade that’s coated with
black oxide no-glare finish. The 80CrV2 is
reported to be a very tough steel that can hold
KI-1805-Spartan Blades 2/27/18 9:50 AM Page 1
its edge. I found this to be true after cutting,
shredding, carving and using it to open a tin
can for dinner.
With the Winkler folder in my hand, I went

searching and found zombie cardboard lurking
“THE WK F3 HAS A
TITANIUM POCKET CLIP
THAT ALLOWS THE KNIFE
TO RIDE TIP-DOWN, LOW
IN YOUR POCKET.”
The tip-down pocket

clip is constructed
of titanium and can
be affixed to either
side for right- or left-
handed carry.

Right: The thumb
in my backyard. I grabbed it and started rise on the spine of
the WK F3 allows for
shredding off thin strips until my hands additional pressure
tired. Thinking quickly, I secured a dried during cutting tasks.
wooden stick, sharpening it to a blunt

point, for the purpose of dispatching my
slobbering foe. Then I pulled out some
550 cord from my bug-out bag and cut up
many links to see if the WK F3 blade was
affected. After the testing, there was no
loss of edge sharpness.
Nevertheless, I wanted to see how hard

it was to sharpen this bad boy. I put the
WK F3 to the stone, and after a while, I
could tell it was not extremely difficult
to touch up the edge. The 80CrV2 is the WK F3 you will have confidence in low in your pocket, which will attract less
easily maintainable. knowing your folding knife was designed attention when you’re at work. The pocket
by the man whose knives were carried on clip is reversible, so southpaws can have it
Urban Uses of the the Osama bin Laden raid. You know the their way as well.
WK F3 WK F3 will not fail you during a time of
Having the WK F3 folder in your pocket real stress and need. While working around the house or
gives you a sense of confidence as on my farm, I am forever in need of a
you go about your day. The feeling If you live in a metropolitan area where knife. Knives are tools, and different
comes from knowing you are carrying the local laws make it difficult—if not situations call for different tools. I like
a piece of Winkler history. The WK F3 impossible—to carry a firearm, and to carry a folder to keep from alarming
is designed as a utility tool and, if need carrying a fixed blade knife is out of the certain people in the public. I can go
be, a self-defense weapon. question, the highly engineered and from the farm to a restaurant without
superb quality of the WK F3 is for you. having to remove my folding knife.
Below: To judge
If you are prevented from carrying or sharpness after
cutting and shredding
possessing a firearm at work, a good cardboard and stripping The WK F3 has a titanium pocket clip Although no knife can be deployed in
bark, the WK F3 cut 550
pocketknife is your alternative. With paracord with ease. that allows this knife to ride tip-down, action as quickly as a fixed blade, the WK

Above: Carving this
dry hardwood stick
into a blunted point
“THE WK F3 IS LIGHT
was easy for the WK
F3 but harder for me.
Sharpening a greener
WEIGHT AT 3.9 OUNCES,
stick would have been
a breeze. AND THE 3.5-INCH
DROP-POINT BLADE IS
WELL-DESIGNED FOR
UTILITY USE.”
Meeting a Legend
I met Daniel Winkler at the 2017
Blade Show. I found him to be
a very courteous and attentive
person. I knew Winkler had been
making quality combat knifes
and tomahawks for more than
25 years. Even though the Blade
Show was busy, and his booth
was very popular with visitors,
he took time to visit and talk
about knives and his philosophy
Left: I like to test the
point and edge of a
about blades and other cutting
folder or fixed blade by devices. If you get the chance to
opening a heavy-duty
can of beans. Doing meet Winkler, I suggest you seize
this with any knife will the opportunity.
affect the edge, but
the WK F3 handled the
chore easily with very
minor dulling.

Above: Daniel Winkler
SPECS
F3 operates with a flipper action to get the blade out quickly. With a little practice, you will is famous with special
operators around the
be able to deploy the WK F3 blade about as quickly as an auto. world for his combat
fixed-blade knives and
tactical tomahawks, or
“axes,” as he calls them.
For urban office environments, a light but strong folding knife like the WK F3 will come in Pictured here with the Blade Material: 80CrV2
WK F3 is my well-used
handy. In times that demand real cutting pressure, the thumb rise at the back of the blade Winkler Wild Bill Axe. Blade Length: 3.25 inches
within the handle fills this need. Overall Length Closed: 4.25 inches
Overall Length Open: 7.375 inches
The Warrior’s Choice Blade Thickness: 0.156 inch
Winkler’s WK F3 is one amazingly light, functional and well-engineered folding knife. It is Blade Finish: Black oxide no-glare
not difficult to see why our nation’s top warriors and many of the world’s special operators Handles: Tan Micarta
carry and depend on Winkler’s knives and axes. They are made by a craftsman with a Weight: 3.9 ounces
mountain of credentials and experience. Other Features: Flipper action with liner
For those of you who demand the best from yourself and those around you, you will
Contact lock; ball-bearing pivot; thumb rise for positive
Winkler Knives grip; titanium liners, pivot screw and pocket clip
understand. Professional warriors, past and present, will understand about owning a piece
(828) 262-3691 reversible to left or right side
of history born out of service, duty and sacrifice. I highly recommend to you warriors—
WinklerKnives.com MSRP: $450
professional or homegrown—the Winkler WK F3 folding utility knife. KI

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KI_1807_67.indd 67 4/24/18 3:51 AM

THE GREG MOFFATT MG1 IS BUILT WITH
PURPOSE FROM THE GROUND UP
STORY AND PHOTOS BY KEVIN ESTELA
KI_1807_MOFFAT_V2.indd 68 4/25/18 1:23 AM

N
ecessity breeds change. While traveling in Idaho
during the summer of 2017, I had the opportunity
to meet up with a relatively new knife maker from
Coeur d’Alene, Greg Moffatt, the creator of the
tactical MG1.
Greg is a furniture maker and woodworker who wanted to

make certain chisels and tools when he discovered that he
was dissatisfied with what was available. He was so pleased
with the chisels he made that he decided to try his hand at
making traditional Japanese blades like the kiridashi, which
is essentially a chisel-ground blade cut at an angle with
minimal profiling. Eventually, these simple blades took on new
ergonomics and became the blades he is known for today.
Greg and I discussed his blades and how he finds pleasure in

making knives for the traditional outdoorsman interested in
hunting, fishing and camping—as well as knives for self-defense
that can fit into the larger tactical genre. During our discussion,
he told me about a newer design he was in the process of
tweaking called the MG1. After seeing some of his other designs,
I knew I had to try this one out.
Initial Impressions
The Greg Moffatt MG1 was designed to be a tactical knife from
the ground up. Depending on whom you speak to, the word
“tactical” can have many interpretations. To some, tactical
is akin to fighting and the knives used by operators kicking in
doors. To others, tactical means fieldcraft and the duties of
soldiering.
According to Greg, “I wanted a knife that I would choose if I

could only have one knife with me. It would be large enough to
handle bushcraft or defensive needs but not so big that it was
not concealable. It would also be stout enough that I didn’t have
to be careful with how I used it.”
The MG1 is one of those knives that feels like a tank in the hand.
It isn’t a lightweight blade with a tapered or skeletonized tang,
and its heft inspires confidence. The shape of the blade
is straightforward.
There are no crazy contours or grinds used in the MG1, as

there are in many of the knives sold today. Aside from the
jimping on the top of the tang near the ricasso, the steel itself
is unadorned with additional serrations, decorative holes or
frivolous features. The steel is not blackened, instead it is a
shade of green created by the Cerakote finish applied to it. The
only part of the blade not coated is the edge, understandably.
The MG1’s handle is made from sculpted and textured G10. In

the hand, the texture is aggressive enough to provide some
grip but not enough to cause hotspots after prolonged use. As
for the sheath, it is a basic Kydex pancake sheath with a couple
of fabric loops for attachment. The MG1 holds firmly in the
sheath, and the retention is sufficiently secure for horizontal
and inverted carry.

Left: The Cerakote finish
held up to exposure Testing
from different chemicals
and liquids. The only 1095 is one of those steels that can take a
discoloration was on the
edge, and it sharpened beating. Some of the most proven blades
out easily.
have been made from this extremely
reliable steel. Pair that with the way the
MG1 feels in the hand, and it seems like the
perfect knife to subject to rigorous testing
in the woods and in a controlled urban
environment. For the purpose of this knife
review, I decided to take a break from the
normal environment in which I use my
blades and pursue tests that mirror the
hard applications someone could subject a
knife to in an adverse urban environment.
One of the most basic tests, yet one

that is normally an afterthought, is
how well a blade stands up to external
conditions. Perhaps the lack of interest
in this test comes from simply leaving a
blade covered and not using it, or maybe
it is because damage to a blade from the
environment can be difficult to buff out.
Whatever the reason, I decided to cover
Below: The MG1 was the MG1 with various liquids, including
comfortable to use
while wearing gloves, fresh water, a solution made from the
and the combination
of gloves and textured road salt on my vehicle, and then some
G10 proved very secure
for tool retention harsher stuff, including gasoline, motor
while cutting through
tough materials. oil and denatured alcohol. The only spot

Left: The pommel on the blade that showed any sign of rust
features a generous
lanyard hole and was the exposed edge, and that rust from
glass-breaker/skull-
crusher point. salt spray easily sharpened off.
I personally don’t like to use knives as light

prying instruments, but I understand it can
potentially be unavoidable. It should be
mentioned however, that if you ever need
to use your knife as a prying instrument,
exercise great care because it can be
dangerous.
I took the MG1 pretty hard to a few

wooden pallets during testing, and I
knew that at some point I would need to
sharpen it; this came a little quicker than
I wanted. The MG1 edge rode along a nail,
and to my dismay, about three-quarters
of it dulled very quickly. Thankfully, the
Left: Jimping on the
back of the spine MG1 is made from 1095 steel, like many of
creates better purchase
with a saber grip. the field knives I carried as a pre-teen and
teenager. Sharpening it was a breeze, and
it took a keen edge, much like my pilot’s
survival knife and Kabar from years ago.
I used a diamond hone and a circular

motion, and the edge was quickly back
to working sharp. The beauty of 1095 is
partly due to how easy it is to sharpen. In
the past, I’ve used everything from river
stones to wet/dry sandpaper. According
to Greg, “I like the ease of sharpening
that 1095 offers, but I mitigate its lack
of stainless properties with Cerakote, so
it doesn’t require the extra care of high-
carbon steel.”
As for those wooden pallets, they

were easy to pry apart when I stopped
Left: During testing, the
author subjected the worrying about snapping the blade.
MG1 to puncture tests
on various mediums, With its thickness and high carbon steel
including particle
boards. The tip was construction, it is not much of a worry
pounded in with a scrap
piece of 2x4. at all.
SPECS
Blade Material: 1095 high carbon
Blade Length: 4 inches
Thickness: 0.1875 inch
Handle Material: Sculpted G10
Coating: OD green Cerakote finish
Weight: 7.4 ounces
MSRP: $240

During the testing phase of the knife,
instead of using it primarily on wood, I
searched my garage and found as much
wire as I could, as well as various pieces
of particle board and metal containers.
These metal containers and wires ranged
in thickness and gauge, and if the MG1
couldn’t cut through them, I was able to
chop through or puncture them.
In places where the edge made the

most contact with the metal, the MG1
showed some minor wear, primarily to the
Cerakote. When using the MG1 as a can
opener, the most wear was found toward
the tip, and this was primarily a dulling in
the color of the Cerakote rather than its
complete removal. To test the strength
of the tip, I routinely punctured different
composite and laminated wood materials
Greg Moffatt’s Tactical Lineup with the knife, ripping large chunks out of
them. There was no damage or distortion
Greg Moffatt’s tactical knives were created with input from Dean Sherman of to the tip.
Direction of Force. Many of his knives are purpose-built, including the Scuto that
Moffatt made for Sherman as a custom order. After delivering that blade, the two About the only issue I encountered with
men teamed up to create the following blade designs: Unnamed Bastard, Scuto, Below: While generally the MG1 was drawing the blade in reverse
not advised, the author
Thick Bastard and CVI. tested the light prying grip. Since the widest part of the handle
capability of the MG1 on
wooden pallets. contour is closest to the ricasso, my hand

Above: The 1095 partly slipped off before achieving a
steel blade was easily
sharpened using a full grip. By wrapping some paracord a
diamond hone and
light pressure. few times through the lanyard hole and
building up a shelf of sorts, I corrected the
problem. When wearing gloves, the MG1
was also much more secure in hand than it
was against bare skin.
“THE BEAUTY OF 1095

IS PARTLY DUE TO
HOW EASY IT IS TO
SHARPEN.”
All Around Utility
Greg Moffatt wanted to make a great all-
purpose blade, and he’s done so. This knife
Left: The author used will serve anyone in uniform well and is a
the MG1 to open cans
and cut other metal good knife for all-around use in camp, as
objects during testing.
The most wear was to a truck knife, bug-out bag blade or heavy-
the blade coating, but
it was minor. duty utilitarian cutting tool. The thickness
of the blade and the edge geometry do
Contact not make the MG1 a precision skinner like

Greg’s other designs, but then again, it
Greg Moffatt Knives
was never meant to be. If you want a knife
(208) 964-6778
GregMoffattKnives.com you can use, use hard and resharpen with
relative ease, this is the knife for you. KI

LOOKING SHARP
DRESSING
UP THE TOWN
THESE CUSTOM
KNIVES DO THEIR
PART TO REFINE
THE URBAN
LANDSCAPE
STORY BY KNIVES
ILLUSTRATED STAFF
PHOTOS BY SHARPBYCOOP
O
ther than city centers,
most urban environments
lack pleasing aesthetics,
but that doesn’t mean you
can’t do your part to dress them up.
Living or working in an urban environ-

ment can feel lackluster at times, but
there are ways to find enjoyment in the
dull brick-and-mortar world. By putting
one of these custom folders in your
pocket you will be carrying a true piece
of beauty, giving you reason to pause
and appreciate your very own art show
with every use. KI
+ SPECS
JOHNNY STOUT
Model: The Vaquero
Blade Material: Dragon Breath Damascus
Bolster Material: Gold inlayed, engraved by
Brian Bump
Handle Material: Mammoth ivory
Frame: Titanium
Website: StoutKnives.com
KI_1807_CUSTOM.indd 74 4/25/18 1:31 AM

+ SPECS
BRUCE BINGENHEIMER
Model: Folder
Blade Material: Feather Damascus
Overall Length: 8 inches
Bolster Material: Feather Damascus
Handle Material: Mammoth ivory
Instagram: @BingsKnives
KI_1807_CUSTOM.indd 75 4/25/18 1:31 AM

+ SPECS
D ROCKET SQUARED
COLLABORATION
Model: Dress Locking Folder
Blade Material: CS-XHP
Handle Material: Titanium
Frame: Titanium
Website: DRocketDesign.com
KI_1807_CUSTOM.indd 76 4/25/18 1:31 AM

+ SPECS
JOHN DOYLE
Model: Dress Locking Folder
Blade Material: W2
Bolster Material: Checkered blackwood
Handle Material: Blackwood with koa inlays
Frame: Titanium
Instagram: @JDoyleKnives
KI_1807_CUSTOM.indd 77 4/25/18 1:32 AM

+ SPECS
BUCKNER KNIVES
Model: Flipper Folder
Blade Material: CPM 154
Overall Length: 8 inches
Bolster Material: Super conductor
Handle Material: Double dyed box elder
Frame: Titanium
Website: BucknerKnives.com
KI_1807_CUSTOM.indd 78 4/25/18 1:32 AM

KI-1807-Lansky 4/4/18 11:20 AM Page 1
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KI_1807_79.indd 79 4/24/18 3:56 AM

EDGE OF SURVIVAL
THE URBAN EDGE

A KNIFE CAN BE A VITAL PART OF YOUR BUGOUT PLAN
STORY AND PHOTOS BY EJ SNYDER
P
eople often ask me what time before they come to your door, myself if I get tied up. I keep them in
they should do if they live which is why I am a firm believer that spots where they won’t easily be found.
in a built-up urban center or the sooner you leave, the better, and Take caution if you have children;
major city and the SHTF. when you do, your knives will play a be responsible and keep dangerous
big part in getting you to the edge of weapons out of reach.
I’m usually pretty straightforward: At the city.
some point, you need to get out of Obviously, if you are holding up in place
Dodge. How and when that happens is Get out of Dodge for a while, you’ll want a good knife
based on the survival or exit plan that When you reach the city limits, you will to open cases of stored food, handle
you’ve hopefully practiced, even doing feel a sense of relief, but that doesn’t general survival tasks, regular chores
a few dry runs. You might have enough mean the road ahead will be much and even butter your biscuits.
supplies and a plan to wait it out, easier. Nevertheless, leaving is the right
but things can get out of control very decision, because the chaos that will Next, it’s important to consider who or
quickly once the local stores have all befall a city when SHTF will be very what you might encounter along the
been looted, which typically happens dangerous for you and your loved ones. route out of town. A good knife is useful
right away. for self-defense, especially if you are
Your first goal in order to reach the trying to move stealthily. I like to carry
There will be a lot of bad characters city’s edge starts at your residence. I several knives hidden about my person,
out and about looking for easy victims.
Desperate citizens and folks pushed
Web Time am a firm believer in self-defense, and
knives are a part of that plan. I keep
like inside my boot or hidden on my
belt, so that I always have a backup.
Check out the
to the edge can be scared enough to author’s official site at knives, mostly folders, duct-taped all
do things they normally wouldn’t do EJSnyder.com over my house just in case I need them A good Leatherman tool or Swiss Army
in order to survive. It’s only a matter of to defend against an intruder or free knife is also useful in case you need to
KI_1807_EJ.indd 80 4/25/18 1:49 AM

break into a store for supplies or safety, for
obtaining transportation or for maintaining
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KI_1807_EJ.indd 81 4/26/18 11:51 PM

RISING TALENT
DESIRE TURNS
TO REALITY
EDWARD RATANUN REVISITS AN OLD AMBITION
STORY BY JOSHUA SWANAGON | PHOTOS BY EDWARD RATANUN
I DIG
t was the clean lines and striking
handles that caught my eye.
04 The Materials 06 Ordering
Always looking to make knives that have Even though his work is currently all
Although purposeful blade
serious curb appeal, Edward likes using custom jobs, you can still expect to
profiles and beautiful Damascus
1095HC and CPM 154, with his favorite receive your knife with a quick turnaround
steels get my attention when
being 1095HC for its ability to take a of three to four weeks. Although once
perusing knives, nicely shaped
two-tone handles will almost always A LITTLE DEEPER beautiful hamon. His scale material of he gets his production operation up
choice follows the same reasoning, and and running you should be able to get
make me stop and take a second look. Instagram
@ed_jits he opts for the striking looks of really your hands on an Edward R knife much
It was at that time that I decided to
curly koa, burl/resin hybrid materials and quicker. But it should be noted that a
select Edward R Knives to cover in this Website
issue. With well thought out blade EdwardRKnives.com Blood Money from Workerman. three-to-four-week turnaround for a
profiles and well executed handles, custom knife can only last so long. You
he just felt like the right choice. 05 Custom Work might want to get in touch with him
GETTING Currently all of Edward’s work is custom

and is by customer request, however
before his schedule fills up. KI
01 The Fast Track

Starting out in leather work, Edward got PERSONAL he is currently working on a couple of
production models for the impulse buyer.
his start in knife making around a year City: Orlando, FL
and a half ago when a friend received
Education
a new knife from Chaves Knives and Background: Associates
commented that Edward should start Degree/General Course
Study
working with steel. This comment
Family: Not married, no
reminded Edward that he had been children
interested in knife making since high Years Making Knives:
school, so he thought his friend might be 1.5 years
on to something.
02 The Challenges
Edward finds that his biggest struggle
is acquiring the equipment necessary to
make his job easier. He also still struggles
with accurately estimating the time it
will take during each step of the knife-
making process, which can cause issues
with scheduling.
03 Inspired
When asked about his inspirations,
Edward rattled off a list of impressive
knife-making talent, such as Donny
Nguyen, Mareko Maumasi, Nick Wheeler,
Greg Cimms and Rad Knives. But he
gave special mention to Mike from Ekim
Knives and his “How to make a chef’s
knife” video.
KI_1807_RISING.indd 82 4/26/18 11:55 PM

KI_1807_C3 4/24/18 4:05 AM Page C3
KI_1807_C4 4/24/18 4:07 AM Page C4
QUALITY SINCE 1919
NEVER COMPROMISE
F402 FULL TANG FIXED BLADE
9Cr18Mov STAINLESS
STEEL
TITANIUM NITRIDE
COATED BLADE
BALLISTIC NYLON SHEATH
W/ HARD MOLDED INSERT
L I F E T I M E WA R R A N T Y
C OA ST P O R T L A N D . C O M

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