SOG Government recon

D

DARKKNIFE

Joined
Nov 25, 2002
Messages
31
This is supposed to be a carbon steel(sk5) version of the 440A Gov't model. I have found several sites that sell this knife, including in the BF exchange, but have recieved conflicting info about it. Can anybody help me? Is the blade blued or polished? How long was it made? Plus any info on how good it is would be helpfull too. Thank you.
 
Good luck in finding out about the SK5 steel. I have been doing some research on it myself as I have been interested in the SOG Bowie, which comes in SK5 and AUS8. No one seems to know much about SK5 since it is only used by SOG and Cold Steel for a few of their knives. I have seen it compared variously to O1, W1, and 1084.

Most likely, though, the knife is a good one. SOG has a good reputation for the quality of their knives. SOG heat treatments are said to be first rate, for example. The only complaint one sees about SOG is that they don't offer enough models in the higher grade stainless steels.
 
Hi Darkknife,

There have been three models of the Government over the years. They are identical in grind, size, handle material...every respect except the blade steel and blade coating/finish. Here are the three versions of the Government:
  • SOG Government: This AUS6 (440A) bladed version had a satin finish and was the main Government model from its inception (started late 1980s est.) up till about last year. Status: Discontinued.
  • Recon Government: This SK-5 (high carbon tooling steel) version featured bluing on all steel surfaces and was sold in small quantities in the early to mid 1990's. Status: Discontinued.
  • Government Agent: This AUS6 (440A) version is coated with SOG's gray powder coating that is found on many other knives (such as the SEAL Knife series) and was brought into the product line about two years ago. Status: In production.
I think it is highly unlikely that any retail store would be selling/advertising the Recon Government as a new/current model. If they are, it is most likely a error of some kind. You can find these knives on knife selling/trading forums and on sites like Ebay.

Regarding how good it is...Outstanding. The Government is one of the most "balanced" knives out there. Maybe a tad thin for its length, but if you're not abusing it greatly, it should be fine. This knife with SK-5 carbon steel take an already nice knife and makes it great! You can't go wrong with it.
 
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