Ka-Bar Becker Kephart knife

[Marshwheeling]

A couple of years ago, knife designer Ethan Becker acquired an original Horace Kephart designed knife, one of two known to exist, and the only one in private hands. The Kephart knife is a truly iconic design, not quite on the order of the Bowie, perhaps, but with the difference that we know what one actually looks like, thanks to Kephart’s detailed description of his ideal camp knife, and to the few remaining examples.

There is nothing “tactical” about a Kephart knife. It is simple, versatile and unassuming. Lots of makers have created upgraded versions, with micarta handles and high-performance steels, but the basic Kephart has a wooden handle and a carbon steel blade. The knife that Becker designed for Ka-Bar follows this formula, and hews closely to the original.

There has been a lot of buzz about this knife; its release in early December was much awaited. I have a mild interest in the Kephart. I have one made by Condor, a common, inexpensive entree to the design, and another plain blade awaiting a new handle. I do not ordinarily spend over a hundred bucks on a knife, but when I had a small windfall earlier this month, I yielded to the impulse.

It is shown here with its sheath, and with the Condor, for comparison.

 

[JJEH]

The only Becker/KA-BAR knife I have is the Short Becker Drop Point. It's a solid, well balanced knife so I think you can't go wrong with buying one. Money well spent I'd say...