New Al Mar SERE Operator

[smrtžidom]

Hello,
does anyone here has the new Al Mar SERE Operator? What is it like? Is it worth the price? I have always loved the look of Al Mar knives. Al Mar SERE Operator looks like just the right fixed blade carry knife and I wanted to get many years ago...but when previous version came out it was somewhat disapointing specimen, definetely not made in the "spirit" of legendary Al Mar knives...however this new version looks like a real Al Mar and I would be thankful for some first hand information. Thanks-

 

[Planetcat]

I just got a new VG-10 version (SRO-V) after looking at the S30V version. The VG-10 version is very nice. A bit heavy, but has really nice bead blasted micarta slabs which are ground perfectly to meet the contours of the tang. The blade is so incredibly sharp, I can't even describe it in words. I've cut myself twice with the knife in the first 24 hours. My father was a butcher, so I know sharp knives, but this one is by far the sharpest I've ever encountered. I'm very impressed with the VG-10 steel, but haven't used it in the field yet. The blade steel is very shiny, so it might not appeal to the "covert" types. The nylon sheath that comes with it fits the knife perfectly, has a small front pouch in front for multi-tool, folder, or pistol magazine. The sheath has a hard plastic insert for the blade with seems to be lined with some type of soft material so the blade doesn't get scratched. I did not like the previous model prylon sheath, but I prefer nylon or leather anyways. The knife is pricey, but I don't think anyone would be disappointed in it once they received it. Al Mar's customer service is fantastic, too. I'll be taking this knife on hunting trips for the next few months and will post a field review once I get some more experience with it, especially around edge retention and maneuverability while processing wild game.

 

[smrtžidom]

Thank you for your information. I look forward you posting your review. Btw steel is supposed to be more or less shiny...I have intense dislike for all kinds of bead blasted and coated blades especially on stainless steel which doesn't make sense at alll...coated (unless for rust prevention) dull looking blades have nothing to do with covert type of things, it just cost reducing lame excuse to continue selling the product at the same prices point as it were satin polished...