From Russia with Love: Kizlyar Supreme KK0164

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Jan 5, 2011
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Whilst doing a little internet window shopping today, I came across this slip-joint folder made by Kizlyar Knives. It's something different, something new, and I am intrigued: a slippie with genuine white bone covers (3.9" closed) and a ti coated AUS-8 blade (3.2") for under $40. Here's a photo I borrowed from the internet:

KK0164-1-500x500.jpg


Anyone have one of these already? Opinions? Thoughts? I might just have to pick one up and report back to the group. Strictly for scientific purposes, of course... :rolleyes::D:thumbup:

-Brett
 
AUS-8, smooth ivory bone, less than $40.00, what could be bad about that? I am going to assume the knife is manufactured either in Japan or Taiwan; which is a good thing, yes?
 
AUS-8, smooth ivory bone, less than $40.00, what could be bad about that? I am going to assume the knife is manufactured either in Japan or Taiwan; which is a good thing, yes?

Not too sure, Al. The websites I visited suggest that it is made in Russia but nothing definitive... I suspect you could be right, though.

-Brett
 
Yes, I see that too, but it could also mean the knife parts were manufactured elsewhere and simply assembled in Russia. Oh, and no discussion about Kizlyar Knives would be complete without Russia's supreme leader sporting one of the company's hunting knives, the Kuniza Knife....



:D
 
Well, I just ordered up a pair o' them from my local online pharmacist. Again, for science and to add to the collective wisdom of the group! :) I'll be sure to report back once they arrive...

-Brett
 
Well, I just ordered up a pair o' them from my local online pharmacist. Again, for science and to add to the collective wisdom of the group! :) I'll be sure to report back once they arrive...

-Brett

Good man, Brett. Taking one for the team!
 
Handled them at BLADE last year. Decent knife for the money. Action was not too smooth, bordering on gritty. Could be a simple fix by cleaning it up. Pull was around a 5.
 
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Not too sure, Al. The websites I visited suggest that it is made in Russia but nothing definitive... I suspect you could be right, though.

-Brett

AUS-8, smooth ivory bone, less than $40.00, what could be bad about that? I am going to assume the knife is manufactured either in Japan or Taiwan; which is a good thing, yes?

My bet is on "made in Russia". It is a low cost knife. There is no cost benefit to Russia importing parts from Taiwan. Russian wages are not higher than those in Taiwan, or even China.

Brett, do let us know how they turn out.
 
A pair of Kizlyar Supreme KK0164 "Gent" knives were delivered this afternoon, and I have to say... I'm impressed. :thumbup:

The Good:
-The blade sits well-centered between the scales when closed.
-Good, solid construction and build quality.
-No wiggle when the blade is open.
-Comfortable in hand.
-Even grinds and secondary bevels (comes shaving sharp.)
-Nice walk & talk (silky smooth, about a 5 pull, easily pinched open.)
-Half-stop included!
-Lifetime manufacturer's warranty.
-Comes in a nifty neat box.
-Torx bit screws on the scales? I think custom covers would be a snap to install.
-Price. Under $40? Wow!

The Bad:
-The bone covers seem second rate to me. Well polished but show minor blems and such. Not a huge deal but could certainly be better.

The Picky:
-Very minor gaps--very minor; I've had some very excellent knives from GEC and Queen that have had worse.
-Although the blades are well centered, they have a bit of a lazy drift when closed but the blades never hit the scales.
-Backspring is a bit proud at the half-stop.
-Scales are not quite flush with the frame.

So there ya have it. In my opinion, the Kizlyar Supreme "Gent" is an excellent buy overall. I'd certainly recommend picking one up if you're in the market for something a little different!

*ETA: Oh, and from all markings on the knife and packaging, there's nothing that would indicate that the knives are made anywhere else but Russia... :)

ks01_zps94ee5769.jpg


kscomp01_zps91f4cf7d.jpg

Size comparison (top to bottom): Scagel Fruitport, Kizlyar Gent, GEC #15 Radio, Case Small Texas Jack CV

-Brett
 
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Looks good and something different.

The Kizlyar belt-knives I have a very well finished with sturdy Walnut handles from the Caucasas where the knives are made. They are horribly sharp too:D:thumbup:

Brett, could you VM or e-mail me with details where you got it? My fixed came from Germany.

Thanks, Will
 
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