First Impressions of KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife
The KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife is a modern take on a classic design, blending the robust reliability of KA-BAR with the legacy of the Ek Commando knives. This isn’t just another knife; it’s a tool steeped in history, updated with modern materials for enhanced performance.
I was on the hunt for a versatile fixed blade, something that could handle both camp chores and offer a reliable option for personal defense during backcountry excursions. I needed a knife that was compact enough to carry comfortably, yet substantial enough to tackle demanding tasks.
Unboxing the KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife, my initial impression was one of solid build quality and well-thought-out design. The Ultramid handle felt secure and comfortable in my hand, while the blade had a menacingly sharp edge right out of the box. The included Celcon sheath appeared to be durable and offered versatile carry options, making it instantly appealing.
I considered the KA-BAR USMC Fighting Knife and the SOG SEAL Pup Elite, but the EK Commando’s shorter blade and more discreet profile ultimately won me over. It seemed to strike a better balance between size, weight, and functionality for my specific needs.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism; I was eager to put this knife through its paces and see if it lived up to the legendary reputation of both KA-BAR and Ek knives. It looked like a serious tool, and I was ready to treat it like one.
Real-World Testing: Putting KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife during a weekend camping trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was damp, with intermittent rain and temperatures hovering around 40 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a good test of the knife’s grip and corrosion resistance.
The knife excelled at preparing kindling, making feather sticks, and processing small game. Even with wet hands, the Ultramid handle offered a secure grip, and the clip point blade proved to be very controllable.
The only minor issue was the sheath retaining strap, which required a bit of fiddling to secure the knife with gloved hands; this was a minor inconvenience that I quickly adapted to. Overall, I was impressed by the knife’s performance and felt confident in its capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. I’ve used it for everything from processing firewood to preparing food, and it has consistently performed well.
The 1095 Cro-Van steel has held its edge remarkably well, requiring only occasional stropping to maintain its sharpness. There are a few minor scratches on the powder-coated blade, but this is to be expected with regular use, and the coating is still intact, offering excellent corrosion resistance.
Cleaning and maintaining the KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and a light coating of oil on the blade is all it takes. Compared to some of my previous knives, this one requires minimal maintenance to keep it in top condition. It outperforms any other knife in this size class, due to its full tang construction and high quality steel.
Breaking Down the Features of KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife
Specifications
Blade Length: 5.062 inches, offering a good balance between maneuverability and cutting power. This is ideal for both detail work and heavier tasks.
Overall Length: 9.25 inches, making it a compact and easy-to-carry fixed blade. It is the perfect size for belt carry or attachment to a pack.
Blade Shape: Clip Point, providing excellent piercing ability and a versatile cutting edge. The clip point allows for fine work and detailed slicing.
Blade Material: 1095 Cro-Van, known for its toughness, edge retention, and ease of sharpening. The 1095 Cro-Van steel offers a good balance between hardness and ductility.
Serrated: Plain edge, allowing for clean and efficient cuts. A plain edge is easier to sharpen and maintain than a serrated edge.
Knife Application: Fixed Blade, ensuring maximum strength and reliability. Fixed blade knives are inherently stronger than folding knives.
Handle Material: Ultramid, a durable and weather-resistant polymer that provides a secure grip. The Ultramid handle offers excellent resistance to impact, abrasion, and chemicals.
Blade Finish: Powder Coated, providing added protection against corrosion and wear. The powder coating helps to reduce glare and makes the knife more discreet.
Handle Color: Black, offering a tactical and discreet appearance. Black handles are less likely to show dirt and grime.
Blade Grind: Flat, offering a good balance between strength and cutting performance. A flat grind provides a strong blade that can handle a variety of tasks.
Blade Thickness: 0.165 inches, providing excellent strength and durability. The blade thickness contributes to the knife’s overall robustness.
Sheath Material: Celcon, a durable and lightweight polymer that offers excellent protection and Molle compatibility. Celcon sheaths are resistant to impact, abrasion, and moisture.
Weight: 0.65 lb, making it relatively lightweight for a fixed blade knife of this size. The weight is well-balanced, making the knife comfortable to carry and use.
Performance & Functionality
The KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife performs exceptionally well in a variety of tasks. It excels at cutting, slicing, piercing, and general utility work, making it a versatile tool for outdoor and tactical applications.
Its strengths lie in its robust construction, comfortable grip, and well-designed blade. The knife’s only real weakness is that the sheath can be a bit difficult to use with gloved hands, but this is a minor issue that can be easily overcome with practice.
The KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife meets and often exceeds expectations, delivering reliable performance and solid durability. It is a knife that you can depend on in demanding situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife boasts a well-balanced design that prioritizes both functionality and ergonomics. The materials used are of high quality, and the knife feels solid and substantial in hand, without being overly heavy.
The Ultramid handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions. There is minimal learning curve to use this knife, as its design is intuitive and straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife is built to last, thanks to its robust construction and high-quality materials. With proper care and maintenance, this knife should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife is relatively easy; simply keep the blade clean and lightly oiled, and occasionally sharpen it to maintain its edge. The handle can be cleaned with soap and water, and the sheath can be wiped down as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife comes with a durable Celcon sheath that is Molle compatible. While there aren’t many specific accessories designed solely for this particular model, its versatile design allows for compatibility with various generic knife accessories, such as sharpening stones, paracord lanyards, and aftermarket belt clips for the sheath.
Given the standard dimensions of the handle, some users might find that aftermarket grips designed for similar KA-BAR knives could be adapted, but this would require careful consideration and potential modification. It’s important to note that modifications may void any warranty.
Pros and Cons of KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife
Pros
- Robust and durable construction for demanding tasks.
- Comfortable and secure Ultramid handle for extended use.
- Versatile clip point blade for a variety of cutting applications.
- Excellent edge retention thanks to the 1095 Cro-Van steel.
- Molle-compatible Celcon sheath for versatile carry options.
Cons
- The Celcon sheath can be difficult to use with gloved hands.
- Powder coating on the blade can scratch with heavy use.
Who Should Buy KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife?
The KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife is perfect for outdoorsmen, survivalists, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable fixed blade knife. It’s also a great choice for military personnel and law enforcement officers who require a compact and versatile tool for tactical applications.
This knife is not ideal for those who prioritize lightweight gear above all else, as it is relatively heavy compared to some other fixed blade knives. It is also not the best choice for those who require a large, heavy-duty knife for chopping wood or other demanding tasks.
A must-have accessory for the KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife is a quality sharpening stone or honing steel to maintain its edge. Paracord can also be used to create a custom lanyard for added security and convenience.
Conclusion on KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife
The KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife is a well-designed and durable tool that offers excellent performance in a variety of applications. Its robust construction, comfortable grip, and versatile blade make it a reliable choice for anyone who needs a dependable fixed blade knife.
At a price of $143.99, the KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife offers good value for the money, given its quality construction and performance. It’s an investment in a tool that will last for years to come.
I would definitely recommend the KA-BAR Knives EK Cammando Short Clip Point Fixed Blade Knife to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile fixed blade knife. If you need a knife that can handle demanding tasks and provide years of reliable service, this is an excellent choice. Add this dependable blade to your gear collection today!