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KA-BAR Large Heavy Bowie Knife

rated 4.5 of 5 stars

I love backpacking and take great pride in all of my gear. I bought this knife to for two purposes, 1) Processing Firewood and 2) Bushwhacking.

When I purchased the Ka-Bar Large Heavy Bowie survival knife a few months ago for $50 dollars I was expecting a mediocre knife that would disappoint me after a few cross country treks. In fact I was confident I would exploit its weaknesses within the first few times I used it.

I couldn't have picked a tougher knife to test. The Ka-Bar Large Heavy Bowie Knife has been abused to the point where I have finally given up trying to test its limits. It cuts wood like a chain saw, the forest trembles in fear when I unsheathe the massive blade, and thick brush gets trimmed when I come through, all thanks to this knife.

It is awful to say it but I have put it through brutal tests, at points purposely TRYING to break this knife; it has stood up to all conditions from chopping wood in 10 degree weather to splitting fine kinling. And after a 5-day backpacking trip and making fires every night it holds its edge well enough.

The only drawback is the weight of the knife is on the heavier side. I give it 4 stars for overall use, I LOVE this blade. And 5 stars for firepower, if you're willing to take the extra 6 ounces over your regular survival blade your more expensive survival blades will thank you. It is worth a shot at only $50 dollars.

Price Paid: $50

A very tough, capable knife. It makes short work of firewood, even after accidentally getting whacked on a rock by an idiot (me) who should have known better. It kept its edge well, in spite of getting a couple of nicks in the blade. 

After sharpening, it's back to good-as-new condition, and ready to go once again. It's easy to sharpen, and makes a valuable camping tool. 

At half the price of a Cold Steel Trailmaster, and a third the price of Fallkniven A2, it's unbeatable for its combination of price/weight/performance.

Price Paid: $65

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Price Reviewers Paid: $50.00-$65.00
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