CS UWK or KA-BAR USMC?

sqoon

sqoon

Joined
Jan 1, 2010
Messages
1,157
Hello. I'm new to the forums, but have been lurking for quite some time. I figure I would just dive right in with a question on something that has been bothering me for the past couple of days:

I recently bought a new Cold Steel UWK in Carbon V (black blade) for a really good price. From what I've been seeing on eBay, I could probably sell the thing for anywhere between $50 and $80 considering it is a discontinued model, and this one in particular hasn't been made in a while since Camillus closed and CS had to switch steels. I've always liked the look of the knife, but lately I'm trying to keep my collection down to only the bare essentials. What I currently lack is a good KA-BAR USMC. What are all your thoughts on selling the UWK for a KA-BAR which seems to me to be a bit more functional? Wider blade, bigger handle, longer, etc.

Essentially, if you could only have one, would you take the Cold Steel or the KA-BAR? If you pick the KA-BAR, I'm also curious to hear your thoughts on the leather handle vs. Kraton. Naturally Kraton is going to be more resistant, but you just can't beat that classic leather look. Also, is the KA-BAR glass-filled nylon sheath worth it? I reckon if I am looking to replace the UWK with its secure-ex sheath, it makes sense to go for it.

Thanks for the feedback!
 
I'd take Ka-Bar. I have USMC 1095 CroVan with Leather handles. In 12 years Leather handles has never failed and I like feeling of leather over most rubber substances or artificial handles. Heck leather in my Ka-Bar's handle has with stand better than blade coating or my sheath.

I got leather sheath and it sucks. I've been thinking to get new sheath for my Ka-bar but I patched up leather with epoxy and duct tape. Definately get nylon sheath or other than basic leather sheath that comes up with Ka-Bar knives.
 
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With yours being the high carbon one it is close one but I would give the edge to K-bar because like you say, the profile is tougher and it is heavier in hand. An SRK or even a Recon Scout might suit you better in the toughness department for the fact they are much thicker stock, but for overall utility a USMC is hard to beat.

If you really like the UWK look, a SOG Tech bowie is the blade to have in that pattern with a kraton handle and synthetic sheath.
 
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