Archive for November, 2009
What is a KA-Bar Knife?
If you’re in the market for a new knife, it is understandably overwhelming. There are so many different kinds and styles that it can be difficult choosing which blade is right for you. Some of the blades commonly known to knife aficionados are KA-Bar fighting knives. But what exactly sets a KA-BAR apart from the rest?
First, a KA-Bar is a type of Bowie knife. (And a Bowie knife is distinguished by a large, sheath blade that is manufactured with a clip point.) Generally speaking, KA-Bars are about one foot in length with a seven inch blade, and it was the preferred tool of United States Marine Corps and Navy during World War II. The materials from which it is primarily made include 1095 carbon steel with a non-slip, rubber substitute handle.
While the knife was originally instated for military use, it remained popular with individuals long after the war. In particular, they are still used extensively by experienced woodsmen, hikers, hunters, and fishers.
Becoming a Man
Nearly every culture has some sort of tradition for ushering their boys into manhood. For Native Americans this ritual often takes place in the form of a vision quest, while the Jewish people recognize the Bar Mitzvah. No matter what your cultural heritage, it is universally agreed that the initiation into manhood is a big step.
Although there is no steadfast methodology recognized in the US, there are some typical rites. For me, my leap into manhood was commemorated with a Christmas present from the traditional line of Victorinox Swiss Army knives. It seems like a boy’s first pocket knife is widely recognized as the welcome gift to adulthood in America.
Multi-Tool Multi-Tasked
Swiss Army Tool
“Multi-tool” is name given to a variety of products that are: portable, many functioned, all-in-one, hand tools that are versatile and combine several individual tools in a single grip. The Victorinox Swiss Card is in essence a multi-tool.
Multi-tools have been around for centuries. The Romans had a multi-tool that was probably used for eating. It had a pick, fork, spatula, knife and a spike.
You will find a plethora of styles and makers of the multi-tool, from the simplest Swiss Army Classic (knife, file/screw driver, tooth pick, tweezers) to the Swiss Champ that has 80 functions. Some versions are specific to sports, golf, hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities. Victorinox have also added a flash drive to their multi-tool knives.
They were created to be small enough to be carried in the pocket/purse or in a pouch attached to the belt.
The type that has become synonymous for multi-tool is the Leatherman. It usually contains a pair of folding pliers with wire cutters and also has an assortment of other folding tools such as knives and screw drivers.
No matter the make or type of multi-tool you have, they are not intended for prolonged use. The grips are not very ergonomic and tend to tire the hand if used for long tedious work.