Recon Tanto vs. KA-BAR Tanto

N

Not_A_Llama

Joined
Jan 7, 2003
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3
Hey all; first real post here.

I'm in the market for a large tanto, and am looking at the Cold Steel Tanto and the KA-BAR 1245 Tanto.

I prefer the aesthetics of the KABAR, but I'd like feedback regarding the blade quality and durability of the knives, since those are overriding concerns. I can get both of these for around $50.. is there is a better choice for <$100?

Thanks in advance.
 
I have a factory second recon tanto and it's a great blade. I would think that the KABAR would be every bit as good, with the added benefit of a more durable handle.
 
I'd have to say that both are in the same ballpark, and a close call.
However, I'd say that the CS Recon Tanto would have to win because of the superior steel. The "Carbon V" steel is some of my favorite, yeah it rusts, but all good steels do.

The downside of the CS is the handle, it will eat your hand up if you use it for an "all day" kinda project.

Again, I dont own any of the Ka-Bar stuff, so I am biased. If you have a differing opinion I would like to hear it. :)
 
I have both, and have to say that the Recon Tanto is a better knife, hands down. The steel keeps an edge much longer, and the knife is also a whole lot stronger.

You could also look at the Becker CU/7, which is an excellent knife, I'd put it in the middle of the other two.
 
The CS Recon Tanto is one BAD ASSED chunk o' steel. It is very thick and tough and will take a razor sharp edge. It's like a big razor with a thick spine and a tanto point! That Carbon V is good stuff.

It's probably my favorite factory "beater" tanto. Get one and beat the crap out of it!
 
CS recon tanto.

overall far more quick in the hand and compact carry.

ka-bar is good. the CS is better.

GW
KU
 
I don't have a Ka-Bar Tanto, justa regular one. I do own a CS Recon Tanto. I love it.

What's funny is that I'm a knife nut in a state/town that wouldn't let me cary one, and I rarely have the opportunity (camping/hiking) do do "real" things with the knives I love so much. Which means a generally... LAZY... person like me has to go out and make up work in his back yard to have an excuse to use his knives!

I've used both my CS Recon and Ka-Bar to cut branches, clear bushes, and other such foolisheness in my back yard, but in my hand the CS wins hands down. The blade goemetry worked better for me, and with all due respect to Samurai Dave- It didn't "chew up my hand" at all. Granted I was hardly using it "all day," but it was very comfortable to ME.

My vote is the CS Tanto hands down.

Peace,
Bill
 
Let me toss-out another great choice for a tanto knife; The Buck Nighthawk...(If it's still in production in the tanto version.).
 
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