New Boker V-42 Stiletto

R

rule556

Joined
Sep 19, 2014
Messages
12
Hi guys,

Just picked up Boker V-42 stiletto replica. I'm a WWII rifle collector, and have always wanted one of these, but couldn't afford a vintage one, or a 90's Case for that matter. Finally decided to try out the Boker, and it's an impressive knife. Build quality is very good. It differs a bit in blade design from the original, but frankly, I believe repros of valuable collectables should be fairly obvious... I like the phosphate finish, but a real blue would have been nice. The edge is very fine, but isn't razor sharp. A little work with a ceramic will fix that quickly, though since its destiny is a show piece for most folks, I can see why they wouldn't put an extremely sharp edge on it from the factory. The point is perfect.

I was surprised at how small the handle is. I have large hands, and it feels like a petite knife. Strange considering its overall size isn't much smaller than my K-Bar.

The sheath is very nicely made, and seems quite accurate when compared to pictures of originals.

Any way... I'm quite happy with it.

Cheers,
Chris

IMG_1246.JPG


IMG_1247.JPG


IMG_1245.JPG
 
I have a collection of just about everything I could find written about the "Devil's Brigade"! I got to handle an original V42 & an original sheath yrs.ago.I think an original in great condition goes for about $2 grand.
Jim
 
Given the design intent behind the knife I wonder if the small profile of the handle is for making it easier to conceal when needed.
 
jujigatame said:
Given the design intent behind the knife I wonder if the small profile of the handle is for making it easier to conceal when needed.
Click to expand...

It's possible. Without comparing it to an original, it's hard to say if it's an accurate representation. Maybe the designer just had small hands. ;)
 
rule556 said:
Any recommendations for a more useable sheath?
Click to expand...

You could try the custom route,

Neat sheath, but it was designed so the knife would hang low and be accessible for a soldier wearing a jacket & web gear.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Please folks, let's limit recommendations in posts to Tradesmen with BF Tradesman memberships. Recommend whoever you like via email.
 
rule556 said:
It's possible. Without comparing it to an original, it's hard to say if it's an accurate representation. Maybe the designer just had small hands. ;)
Click to expand...
I've had both in-hand simultaneously; aside from the grip on the original having been reduced in diameter as the gimping wore off, they were pretty much the same. The Boker copy was obtained at the request of the owner of the original. He had served with the 1st SSF, and wanted "a knife like his Force knife" as a gift for his youngest grandson on the completion of Basic. He liked the knife, the kid liked the knife*, everyone was happy.

The 1st SSF was conceived as part of Operation Plough. The original sheath was designed so it could be hung from the belt worn under a parka; the length allowed the knife to be reached without pawing around through the parka. The veterans I've spoken with (including the one I got to know fairly well) wrapped the hanger around the belt so the knife hung at a more-conventional level. The sheaths really weren't practical, and when they wore out seem to have been replaced with whatever was handy. My friend's knife was contained in what appeared to be a modified bayonet sheath.

*after he did like his grandpa had done, and ground the point of the pommel off on the nearest exposed concrete
 
coffeecup said:
I've had both in-hand simultaneously; aside from the grip on the original having been reduced in diameter as the gimping wore off, they were pretty much the same. The Boker copy was obtained at the request of the owner of the original. He had served with the 1st SSF, and wanted "a knife like his Force knife" as a gift for his youngest grandson on the completion of Basic. He liked the knife, the kid liked the knife*, everyone was happy.

The 1st SSF was conceived as part of Operation Plough. The original sheath was designed so it could be hung from the belt worn under a parka; the length allowed the knife to be reached without pawing around through the parka. The veterans I've spoken with (including the one I got to know fairly well) wrapped the hanger around the belt so the knife hung at a more-conventional level. The sheaths really weren't practical, and when they wore out seem to have been replaced with whatever was handy. My friend's knife was contained in what appeared to be a modified bayonet sheath.

*after he did like his grandpa had done, and ground the point of the pommel off on the nearest exposed concrete
Click to expand...

Thanks! That's a great story!
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top