Ka-Bar: Short Heavy Bowie vs Becker BK7

E

elcoyotelocoatx

Joined
Jul 12, 2010
Messages
8
Hi all, I've been looking at a lot of knives in the under $100 range, for use as a camp/bushwhacking knife for when my Gerber multitool is too small for the job and when I don't want to bring my machete. Basically a knife I can use to process firewood, build a shelter, rassle a bear, etc.

I've narrowed my choices to either the Ka-Bar Short Heavy Bowie or the Ka-Bar Becker BK7, both of which go for around $65 (incl. shipping). The Becker seems like the better deal (especially the large tang and removable handles) but I prefer the Bowie's handle comfort and better sheath, so I thought I might get your input on the pros/cons of these knives.

Thanks!

Ka-Bar Short Heavy Bowie
Weight: 0.8 lb.
Blade length: 7 3/8"
Grind: Flat
Edge Angle: 20 Degrees
Steel: 1095 Carbon Steel
Handle Material: Kraton G

Ka-Bar Becker BK7
Includes Additional knife: 2 1/8" blade, 5 1/8" overall
Weight: 0.85 lb.
Blade length 7"
Grind: Flat
Edge Angle: 20 Degrees
Steel: 1095 cro-van
Handle Material: Grivory


41NVPZDQS5L._SL500_AA300_.jpg
31qXT-nVUrL._SL500_AA300_.jpg
 
Last edited:
I have the short heavy bowie and it does well for chopping and batonning.Also the heavy bowie is 1/4 thick,im not sure but i think the becker is thinner and i prefer the handle on the heavy bowie.
 
I have the long version and I have beaten the living daylights out of it and it's still refusing to fail...awesome knife for the price!

To be honest, I don't think there are much difference between the two, they are both really, really good knives.
 
I have owned a BK-7 for several years (the old Camillus version) and like it very much. I considered buying the new micarta handles for it, but at $40.00, I think I can live with the originals.

My only concern with the the K-Bar would be the Kraton handles. My understanding is they can loosen up under hard use. I don't care much for the sheath either.

You might also look at the Condor Hudson Bay...it's new and I like mine,- but it's heavy and I haven't had a chance yet to go a-chopping.
 
If it was me, hands down I'd be buying the BK7. It has awesome handle ergonomics, much better sheath IMO, and it's made in the USA.
Plus having removable handle's on carbon steel is a good ideal, also IMO.

Personally I think the BK7 is the superior knife.
 
keyfit just made me think of something: If I were to break the handle on the BK7, it would be an easy replacement. The Bowie, on the other hand...

The Becker it is. Thanks guys!

BTW, looks like the Becker is .188" vs the Bowie's .250". Slightly thinner, but a decent tradeoff considering I don't have to worry about the Becker's tang or handle.
 
Last edited:
Another vote for the Becker here. My son has the larger version of that bowie and it's a fine knife but I like my BK2 (I know - a bit apples / oranges) better. I don't think you can go wrong with either but put me down for Becker.
 
Here's my two cents...

The bk-7/9 sheath isn't that great. Your knife will constantly rattle.

The heavy bowie sheath is a bit on the cheaply made side, but holds the knife secure.

Kraton can loosen up...but Givory is uncomfortable and slippery for prolonged use. If you're planning on ever chopping Kraton will be more comfortable and less slipery.

The steels used are very comparable.
 
I've held both and the only thing I don't like about the bowie is that it's made in Taiwan. I'd still go with it though, some batoning and zipstrip will remove the markings.
 
Go with the becker. I've had both, and the becker is the better blade. Period.
 
ls1 said:
Here's my two cents...

The bk-7/9 sheath isn't that great. Your knife will constantly rattle.

The heavy bowie sheath is a bit on the cheaply made side, but holds the knife secure.

Kraton can loosen up...but Givory is uncomfortable and slippery for prolonged use. If you're planning on ever chopping Kraton will be more comfortable and less slipery.

The steels used are very comparable.
Click to expand...

Both my BK 7 and BK9 sheath's hold the knife TIGHT with ZERO rattle.
You must have got some reject's or something.:confused:

Still the BK7 all the way.

Becker knives are built in the USA for hard use! :thumbup:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top