Made in America! 

Attention Kabar collectors!

Kabar is one of the most recognizable names in the knife world. While the name might immediately take you into the European trenches or Pacific Islands of WW2, there is also a rich, post war history with this brand. The name "KA-BAR" first appeared on knives made by Union Cutlery in 1924, mostly on their line of hunting knives. The origin of the name is a legend of its own, and still a bit of a mystery. In a joint effort with the USMC, the new combat knife was designed specifically for WWII. Many of these new knives produced for the troops by Union Cutlery carried the KA-BAR stamp. And although there were several other MK II knife manufacturers throughout the war, the troops began referring to all of these knives as Kabars. Following the war and the huge success of the KA-BAR brand, Union Cutlery decided to change its name to KA-BAR in 1952. They went on to continue producing a full line of traditional folding pocket knives, hunting knives and their iconic combat knives. 

As is tradition with American knife makers, changing tang stamps appeared to be a higher priority than keeping accurate records. This can sometimes make dating an individual knife a challenging task. Thanks to the community of avid knife collectors and enthusiasts out there (here), the information is available with some research. It seems agreed upon that the tang stamp was changed around 1953-1955, when the hyphen was dropped and the font was switched to an italicized style in lowercase letters. This stamp carried on until it was changed again in 1966. Model numbers first appeared on the tangs in the late 60's to early 70's. 

Knife 1

This stockman has yellow synthetic scales and sports the highly sought after Dog Head shield. It has stainless steel blades, all with factory edges. The tang stamp dates this knife around late 60's to early 70's. The knife measures in at 3 7/8" closed. The main clip point blade is 3". There is some light discoloration on the cutting edge, and a light patina forming on the part of the knife which is exposed when closed (near spine, see pics) All blades have great snap, with no wobble or play. Appears to have never been used or sharpened. Overall, this knife is in great condition! 

Knife 2

This is a smaller Birds Eye stockman, 1092, measuring in at 3.25" closed with a 2.5" stainless steel clip blade. The nickname "Birds Eye" comes from it's large pins or rivets. This stockman also sports the synthetic yellow scales. The tang stamp places this knife in the 1970's, after Kabar began adding the model number. There is a small mark on the back of the spey blade. (See pics) All blades have great snap, with no wobble or play. Appears to have never been used or sharpened.

Knife 3

This is a beautiful slimline trapper with synthetic yellow scales. It measures in at 4 1/8" closed with a 3 3/8" stainless steel clip blade. There is some light patina forming near the tip of the blade. The tang stamp places this knife around 1955-1966. It has great snap, with no wobble or play. Appears to have never been used or sharpened.

This is a fantastic trio of knives! Some light scuffs and age marks.

*The buyer is solely responsible for abiding by local and state laws. DO NOT purchase this knife if it is restricted, banned or otherwise controlled in the location it is being shipped or stored. Refer to description for blade length, style, opening mechanism etc.

**Note: I am new to knife collecting and selling. All descriptions are to the best of my knowledge and in an attempt to be as honest and forthright as possible in regards to knife condition. I have conducted hours upon hours of research on each individual knife that comes into my possession in an attempt to set a fair price. PLEASE feel free to contact me for more information on this or any other item in my store.

Semper Fi 

For Sale By: Dr. Shank-N-Stein

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