KA-BAR USMC Short Combat Knife, A Military Legend

KA-BAR USMC Short Combat Knife, A Military Legend

Uncompromising Quality and Design

Every element of this knife is the result of decades of experience, designed for maximum reliability in the most demanding conditions.

The Blade

The heart of the knife is a 170 mm (6.7 in.) blade in the iconic "clip-point" shape, which is ideal for both cutting and piercing. It is crafted from 1095 high-carbon steel, renowned for its toughness and ease of sharpening in the field. The blade is hardened to approx. 57 HRC, providing an optimal balance between edge retention and durability. A protective black coating helps prevent corrosion and eliminates unwanted reflections.

The Handle and Sheath

The classic handle is made from pressed washers of genuine leather. This material provides a secure, warm, and comfortable grip that doesn't slip, even when wet. A robust steel guard protects the hand from sliding onto the blade, and the heavy-duty steel pommel at the end of the handle can serve as an emergency hammer. The knife is supplied with a high-quality brown leather sheath, stamped with the USMC emblem and the KA-BAR logo.

A Versatile Tool for Every Adventure

Thanks to its robust construction and more compact dimensions, the KA-BAR USMC Short is an excellent companion for a wide range of activities:

• Outdoor and Survival: The perfect knife for camping, hiking, and bushcraft. It's tough enough for batoning wood, preparing food, and building a shelter.
• Military and Tactical Use: Even today, its design remains relevant and popular with many service members and tactical enthusiasts worldwide.
• A Collector's Piece: A must-have for any collector of military history and iconic knives. This knife is a true piece of American history.

A Glimpse into History: The Birth of a Legend

The story of this knife began during World War II when the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) sought a replacement for the outdated trench knives of World War I. They needed a universal knife that would serve as both an effective combat weapon and a reliable survival tool in the field. In 1942, a design from the Union Cutlery Co. was adopted, which would later become famous under the name KA-BAR. The knife, officially designated the "USMC Mark 2 Combat Knife," became the inseparable companion of the Marines in the Pacific and European theaters, serving them in everything from close-quarters combat to opening C-ration cans.

Interesting Fact: What Does 'KA-BAR' Mean?

The name KA-BAR itself came about almost by chance. According to legend, the company once received a testimonial from a fur trapper whose rifle had jammed, forcing him to use the company's knife to defend himself against a wounded bear. In the poorly legible letter, the company could only decipher the letter combination "k a b a r," which was meant to stand for "kill a bear." The company liked the story and the catchy name, registering it as a trademark in 1923. When their combat knife for the USMC became the most famous in the world, the KA-BAR name became synonymous with this iconic design.

Caring for Your Legend

To ensure this knife serves you for generations, it is important to remember the properties of its blade.

• 1095 steel is NOT STAINLESS. This means it has excellent mechanical properties but is prone to rust if neglected.
• - After each use, especially in a humid environment, clean and dry the blade.
• Regularly apply a thin coat of oil (e.g., mineral oil, gun oil, or Ballistol). The black coating protects the blade, but the cutting edge itself is still exposed.
• - Keep the leather handle and sheath dry and occasionally treat them with a leather conditioner.
• Always handle the knife with care; it is extremely sharp. When not in use, keep it safely in its sheath.

Technical Specifications

• Blade Material: 1095 High-Carbon Steel
• Blade Hardness: approx. 57 HRC
• Handle Material: Stacked Leather
• Overall Length: 300 mm / 11.8 in.
• Blade Length: 170 mm / 6.7 in.
• Sheath: Genuine Leather, Brown