What Knives Does the Military Use?
The military relies heavily on knives as part of their standard issue gear. Knives are not just for cutting and poking; they are also important for self-defense, clearing brush, and even cooking in the field. Not all knives are created equal, and the military often uses specialized knives designed with their specific needs in mind.
What Knives are Issued to Different Military Branches?
The military branches each have their own standard issue knife, which is designed with their specific needs and terrain in mind. Here are a few examples:
| Branch | Standard Issue Knife |
|---|---|
| Navy | **Bowie Knife**: The Ka-Bar USMC Ka-BRK Fixed Blade Knife is often issued to Navy SEALs, while the USNI’s Bowie Knife is designed specifically for the Navy Special Warfare Command. |
| Army | **KA-BAR US10121**: The KA-BAR US10121 Fixed Blade Knife is the official issued knife of the United States Army and is also popular among special forces groups such as the Green Berets. |
| Marines | **Ka-Bar USMC Ka-BRK**: Similar to the Navy, the Ka-Bar USMC Ka-BRK Fixed Blade Knife is often issued to United States Marine Corps personnel and special forces groups such as MARSOC. |
| Air Force | **CRKFT TFKP45A**: The CRKFT TFKP45A Fixed Blade Knife is often issued to Air Force Pararescue and Air National Guard personnel. |
Special Ops Knives
Special Ops teams, such as Green Berets, Navy SEALs, and Delta Force, often use specialized knives designed for their specific tasks and environments. These knives often have unique features, such as:
- High-carbon steel blades that can withstand extreme temperatures
- Ergonomic handles with improved grip and control
- Specialized designs, such as serrated or wavy blades, for cutting through specific materials (e.g., rope or branches)
- Collaborations with high-end knife manufacturers, such as CRKT (Oregon-based knife manufacturer, recognized for their high-end fixed blade knives) for customization and precision
Some Noteworthy Examples of Military Knives
- CRKT Knives: CRKT stands for Columbia River Knife Company and is a well-respected manufacturer of high-performance, high-quality knives that meet the demands of Military, Law Enforcement, Search & Rescue, and more. Their knives are forged, not stamped, out of high-carbon Stainless Steel, making them an iconic part of the Military knives category.
- Case Knives: Introduced during World War II and since then, Case is recognized for their high quality Fixed Blunt knife as seen on the USNavy SEALs issued during the Vietnam War Operation Eagle Claw Operation (1980).
- Ka-Bar Knife: Ka-Bar is now considered a legendary brand from USMC (United States Marine Corps) KaBar; it’s known that a KaBar knife once became a symbol of both fear and respect for prisoners captured during the Vietnam and Cold War era.
Why are Some Military Knives so Popular
Military knives have gained popularity among enthusiasts for several reasons:
Resilience: Hand-made, high-quality production means that these knives demonstrate unwavering strength.
Functionality: Designs of these knives cater specific user needs, ensuring easy deployment and effective cutting tools, whether for tactical utility, self-defense, combat situations, or outdoor/ outdoor activities.
Nostalgia: There are many stories of combat heroism and legendary service linked to these knives across several decades, creating their historic significance.
Speciality: Military knives not only serve as functional implements, but also serve symbolic role as a symbol representing elite forces, loyalty to each other, and strength and unity.
Manufacturers’ Reputation: Collaboration between high-end knife brands such as CRKT for quality, precision, innovation and military forces’ direct and indirect involvement, guarantees excellence in the final output.
