KA-BAR is a legendary American knife manufacturer with over a century of history. The brand is known as a supplier of weapons to the US Army and a manufacturer of knives for a wide range of applications. The origin of the name KA-BAR is connected to a legend. In 1897, a group of Sheffield immigrants founded the Tidioute Cutlery Company, which later became Union Cutlery Co. In 1923, the company received a letter of thanks from a hunter, thanking the company for a high-quality knife that saved his life. The hunter was attacked by a bear when his gun malfunctioned. He eventually killed the bear with a knife purchased from Union Cutlery Co. However, his thank-you note was so illegible that it was impossible to decipher anything other than "KA" and "BAR" (for "killed a bear"). Thus, the new brand name was born:
KA-BAR gained worldwide fame during World War II. In 1942, the company developed the USMC Mark II (Fighting/Utility Knife), which was adopted by the US Army. The knife had a blade approximately 18 cm long and a leather handle. Its reliability and versatility made it popular among the military, serving in numerous military operations from World War II to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Today, KA-BAR offers a wide range of tactical and military knives. The product line has also expanded to include folding knives and branded accessories. KA-BAR most often uses 1095 Cro-Van and D2 carbon steel for its knives. Popular KA-BAR models include the USMC Fighting Knife and the Becker BK series, designed for outdoor activities.
