Kabar Mark 1 handle size

cz9r

cz9r

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Aug 15, 2010
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I'm thinking of getting a Mark 1 but am concerned about handle size. Have small hands (Ontario Rat 3, Benchmade Nimcub 2 fit well) and am concerned about fit. Checked out a Kabar short and its handle seemed a little thin. Also I like how I can put my thumb on the back of the Mark 1's blade for more cutting control. Overseas now and can't easily find one in a store. I already checked out all posts on the Mark 1, including pix comparing it side by side w the Short. Any help would be appreciated. <><
 
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So what exactly are you asking here? Are you asking if the handle size is too large on the MK1 because you have read that it is larger than the short F/U?

I've not held short F/U, but I picked up the MK1 last week. For me, the handle is actually a bit small. If the top guard was there I don't think I could hold it comfortably, as my palm is almost exactly the same width as the handle. And the palm swell is also not too large. In fact again, it might be a touch small, but that is just me.

If the small F/U seems a bit on the small side, then the MK1 should fit you just fine IMO.

I'd also like to note that the MK1 has a really funky balance to it. It is super handle heavy. Maybe its because I haven't had the chance to work much with it yet, but just playing with it out of the box, that is my impression.

Good luck man, and welcome to the forum :).
 
I also have small hands and the Mark 1 Works incredibly well for me. Havent tried a short 1217 before though so I cant make a proper comparison.
 
I wear a men's medium glove and love the Mark 1. The Short is too thin for me. A full-size F/U is also comfortable. I think you would like the Mark 1 fine.
 
Yal are awesome. Thanks for the feedback. :)
@ocnLogan thanks for letting me know about the handle-heaviness. Could you please let me know what you think of the balance after you use it? My Nimcub 2 balances out about a finger's width below the guard and I love how it slices right the freak through anything I take it to.
@brets-ftw and Marty thank you for the basis for comparison. If I decide to get it, a friend'll bring it over so I can't return it and don't wanna spend time re-selling. Want this to be 1 and done, at least in terms of filling the niche I have in mind: lightweight 5" bushcraft/tactical blade.
Again I appreciate it. <><
 
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I have the leather handled model of the Mark 1. I believe the dimensions to be the same as those of the Kraton model.

I have med to small hands. I find the handle to be quite comfortable. The knife is fully controllable and there are no hot spots in use.

Here are pics:
100_3165.jpg


100_3166.jpg
 
The balance point of my Kraton model is just about under the center of the middle finger when gripping it in the normal monkey fist grip, maybe a bit rear of that even.

I think you'll love the knife, but for me, as all of my other knives are neutral balance or forward balance to pick up the MK1 and feel it so handle heavy, was just a bit weird at first is all. I used it a bit today and it felt great while I used it.

Good luck :D.
 
I was surprised by how welcomed ppl have made me feel on this site, and how easy it's been to get answers to questions most ppl wouldn't know what I was talking about if I asked them.

@Frank - thanks for the pix! It's about the best feedback I think I'll be able to get short of actually getting a Mark 1 into my hands.

@ocnLogan - I just saw some other MKI posts mentioning the handle weight and it sounds like it's not a huge deal, same as what you said, but still nice to know. There are more posts on the MKI than I'd thought and I'm checking them out.

God bless you. <><
 
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Beckers are quite well thought of. Excellent choice.
 
That is the very blade that I am going to be purchasing as my main belt knife for myself when they are released. I got the Kraton MK1 and a condor bushlore to compare to it, and then gift away.

I think you'll be happy with it :).
 
heard release date is 4/1/12. you know if that's true? don't want FPR knife. thanks man
 
I know that is supposed to be the release date, that is true.

My guess is that you'll actually see them available towards the end of April, maybe the beginning of May.

Have fun waiting :( (we've been waiting for like 2 years now since they were "leaked" as prototypes, so they're really close now).
 
arrhhhh!!
well part of me wants to put 1 on back order, part is wondering if i should let a few months go by for any kinks to be worked out, similar to when a new gun's released. doesn't seem like anyone has any probs w the FPRs, tho i think 1 fella mentioned something about the grivory's fit and finish.
 
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