Differences among USMC "fighting knives"

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fishbulb

Joined
Sep 18, 2001
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I've been thinking of getting a stout carbon steel fixed blade to toss in the trunk/tool box. This will be used for anything that I require it to do, including things which are not usually asked of a knife. The classic USMC fighting knife seems to be what I'm looking for, as they are sturdy and cheap. I was going to get a Becker Campanion but I like the simpler handle of the USMC.

I have seen similar models made by Camillus, Ontario, and Ka-Bar. The price differance is negligible, so is there any reason to choose a particular manufacturer over the others? Something like durability or edge holding which sets one apart? I would think that these three products can't be completely identical.

As far as I can tell, Ka-Bar has the most models and options available, Camillus is a paragon of customer service, and Ontario is the cheapest. But thats just my impression, I'd like to hear your opinion.
Which should I get?
 
The Mark 2, Fighting Utility Knife.

That is the real designation.

Camillus and the Military invented it.
K-Bar capitalized off of it.
Ontario is the perennial low bidder.


I go Camillus. Their heat-treating operation is legendary within the cutlery industry.
 
It is a "MilSpec" utility fighting knife. Military specs do not change from maker to maker. Each knife will be exactly the same. Some company may put a slightly different edge on, but all steel, temper, etc. will be identical. These knives were contracted through military bids. (as said above). Who makes them is who can give Uncle Sam the best deal. Currently Ontario knives. They are fine users though. Just pick any brand you like. Also look around at http://www.agrussell.com They have a huge selection of this style. Tghe new Becker CU7 looks great too, and priced close.
 
There are differences in heat treating and quality, despite the specs. Camillus versions coem with an anti-fungal coating on the handles, as far as I know. Also, If you look you'll see that the grind line is higher on a Camillus made one than a Ka-Bar one. I'd go with Camillus because of these two properties, plus Camillus' awesome people (WILL!) and my confidence in their heat treating abilities.
 
The military specs for this knife are a lowest common denominator. Ontario gets the contract for building down to the quality of the Milspec. Both Kabar and Camilus build premium versions that exceed the Milspec. They are both improved from the WWII versions. I would tend to go with Camilus.
 
Right -- if you search this forum you'll see reports of Ontario knives failing because the heat-treat didn't come out so good. If you get a good one it's fine; if you get a bad one it could even break in half on you. Of course you're more likely to get a good one, and if it does break in half they'll replace it -- but is that chance worth saving a few bucks? Camillus heat-treat is very consistent and the price is only slightly higher.
 
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