Gerber Yari II Knife

Submitted by Eric Daniel

For the longest time I’ve been wanting to try out a “tanto” style knife but I never got around to it.  Given the chisel-like point, I figured that they would be good for prying as well as brute force penetrating things like sheet metal, wood and masonry.  The Cold Steel entry rekindled that interest, but I didn’t want a knife that big; I already had a big tool, what I was looking for was something small, yet strong, that I could use for probing and digging.

Providence smiled on me in the form of the Gerber Yari II.  The Yari II, with a blade length of 4.25”, is small enough to get into confined spaces easily, yet has enough mass behind it that it “punches” well.  Made from CPM S30V stainless steel, the Yari II is tough as hell.  I’m not a metallurgist but the literature on S30V says it’s tougher, more corrosion resistant, and more wear resistant than either 440C or 154HC steel, yet easier to work with than S60V/S90V steel; in practical terms I have experienced no issue whatsoever with using the knife in both freshwater and saltwater environments (the knife performed well hacking up salmon heads for crab pots on a concrete bench) and cleaned up nicely, with no hint of corrosion.  To test the point and flexibility of the knife I used it to extract nails from a section of my back yard fence (it’d been blown down in a storm and I was wanting to carve up the planks for use as kindling.)  The knife held up well under the process with no obvious chipping or cracking of the edge, and the point was more than equal to the task of prying out the nails (yes yes a hammer would have been a more appropriate tool, but I was experimenting.)

In addition to being impressed with the quality of the knife’s construction, I was also quite impressed with the quality and construction of the sheath as well as the "attachment” options that come with the knife.  In addition to the now standard MOLLE attachment straps, the sheath also comes with a belt loop, as well as a screw-in clip for attaching the knife to a molded plastic drop leg pistol holster such as the Safariland Model 6004.  While the knife is held securely in the sheath by a pair of “grippers” molded into the sheath (which is how I currently have it configured) an optional thumb release strap is included with the knife for additional retention piece of mind.

All in all, the only real complaints I have about the knife are the tang and the grip, and those certainly weren't dealbreakers.  The grip, constructed of machined aluminum, is grooved for increased grip in most conditions, and I found that it was easy to hold onto wet or dry, with gloves on or off, and being metal it is non-porous and so won’t absorb any contaminants, but it does get slick when greasy (remember the fish heads??)  While I don’t anticipate getting attacked by a prime rib in my foreseeable military future, the metal grip was at a decided disadvantage when oily (in this situation the knife seemed to grip best while wearing gloves and the ridges molded into the exposed dorsal and ventral surfaces of the tang were a big help in gripping the knife.)  On the issue of the tang, I only wish it had been squared off rather than pointed.  While the pointed tang allows for a lanyard, a squared off tang would have improved (in my opinion) the knife’s utility as a bashing instrument (the tang hole could have just as easily been drilled through the metal grip a bit further forward.

Get the Yari II here.

Comments

[Dave]

Machined aluminum handle? Sounds like a bad idea in cold weather. Not sure I'd want to leave it in the sun, either.

[Eric Daniel]

Dave,

You raise an interesting point. At one point I contemplated wrapping the handle in 550 cord for a real non-slip grip, but the cord didn't wrap very well, not to mention it would be easily contaminated and need replacing. I also contemplated using stock white athletic tape, or some type of sitcky backed tape like you might use on a tennis racket, but opted out of that for the same contamination reasons. What I can do is see how hot the knife gets this summer when I'm out and about in the field.

[Zack]

I've been carrying an older SOG series (X-42) for a few years now and have nothing but good to say about it.
It has a simple textured Zytel handle and a BG42 (ball bearing steel) Tanto blade with serrations.
The other interesting feature was their discontinued Autoclip that allows you to increase the tension of the pocket/belt clip to keep it in place. The blade holds an edge extremely well and has proven itself extremely useful for utility/camping/climbing purposes.

[SGT K]

...I've carried my KBAR since the War of 1812 and there is no better knife. All other knives are not worthy of the name knife.

When James W. KBAR invented the Knife, it was a KBAR.

---Sorry, I just thought I would get that out of the way...

[Steve]

With knives, you go into war with lightest possibly weapons possible. Knives been around a lot longer than bullets! Just ask an SF member!

[SGT. Ronald D. Hearn]

You are right, the K-Bar Is great and takes a beating, I have carried a buck 119 since 1982 and it still has a great edge but have opted for a smaller, more space practical knife the CRKT-M16-14LE or SRT High Risk Enviroment A Locking Blade Folding Tanto, It Is Sheathable And Works Well I would Like To Try Your Knife As Properly Sheathing It MAkes The Sun Problem Negliable At Best, Looks Like A Great Carry/Duty Knife!

[Dan Ditto]

I was at academy shopping for a knife and I had a Gerber in the Army in 1983, so it was a brand I checked out again. Unfortuneatly, the Gerbers all camre from Communist China, so I bought a BUCK. We don't need to teach ur enemies how to make anything well.

[Me]

Eric ... you're a moron ... Duane Dieter makes a great knife. Sticky white tape is dumb. White is one of the least tactical colors. Use black skateboard tape. This is a BS attempt from Gerber to market a knife.

There are several flaws with this knife, especially if you're claiming this is a combat knife.

Gerber, you should adjust fire and make sure when you're putting product to market you talk to some tacit users. I can't stand when corporations market items and they haven't done the research that is necessary to bring forth a quality product. Our troops deserve better, market this to idiots, not to our troops.

This, I believe, is a ploy from gerber to promote word-of-mouth advertising. Wrong answer!

[Me]

Eric ... you're a moron ... Duane Dieter makes a great knife. Sticky white tape is dumb. White is one of the least tactical colors. Use black skateboard tape. This is a BS attempt from Gerber to market a knife.

There are several flaws with this knife, especially if you're claiming this is a combat knife.

Gerber, you should adjust fire and make sure when you're putting product to market you talk to some tacit users. I can't stand when corporations market items and they haven't done the research that is necessary to bring forth a quality product. Our troops deserve better, market this to idiots, not to our troops.

This, I believe, is a ploy from gerber to promote word-of-mouth advertising. Wrong answer!

[Anthony Jenson]

It looks like a good knife. But when I was in the Army, I loved the Mark 1 by Gerber.

[SFBuck]

I have carried my K-bar sence Granada in 83. And I love it. Good edge. Nice size. I would not tread it.

[John]

I used a Gerber Applegate Combat Folder in Iraq for 2 years and the alum handle was not a heat source issue but the stainless blade is not my choice next time. I have found carbon steel is tough and maintained will not foster rusting but is able to be sharpened more easily than stainless.

[Mac]

AS an old UDT Frog I have carried and used my old K-bar since the Korean Konflict in 1950--- It has a place of honor on my "Wall of Shame."

[J CHANEY]

WELL IT SEEMS LIKE EVERYONE IS MISSING THE POINT THAT WE ARE FARMING OUT FOREIGNS AND THAT IS NOT LIKELY TO CHANGE.
GERGER MAKES THE BEST STEEL THERE IS AND THERE IS NOT DISPUTING THAT SO FOR HUNTING, UTILITY, COMBAT OR ANYTHING ELSE IS SHOULD BE GERBER.
WISH I'D HAD ONE IN VIET NAM. END OF CONVERSATION!!!

[marlon eversole]

gerber makes a damn good knife. i used to carry a schrade lock blade, a case xx {in my pocket} , even have an ancient thornton pocketknife. gerber impressed me with the quality and workmanship of their knives. hats off to you gerber, keep up the good work.

[Michael Jones]

K-BAR is made my Cutco Knives in Olean, NY. Great Knife!

[bob bond]

my personnel favorite is the m8a1 nothing too big nothing too small it does them all!! so also does the .223

[Master Chief Lordsson]

Having been on a variety of tours through many different countries, I can tell you that Gerber makes good knives. I have used many different types, but found my favorite to be a Cold Steel Kobun. I would also like to recommend an M8. KBAR makes good knives as well which are combat tested better than any other manufacturer.

The Kobun by Cold Steel really fits most of my needs for a Combat/Utility knife. There is really only one thing wrong with it and that's the finish which is a bright, polished steel finish. As with any combat knife though, I would powder coat it after sharpening and before taking it with me anywhere. This tends to eliminate any rush, contamination, scratching, etc., and also takes care of any light reflection. Otherwise, this is a very light, very easy to handle blade with excellent killing properties. It has held up to some serious shit through the years and I have yet to replace it. Many call me a minimalist when it comes to knives because I prefer knife with no features other than a good blade and a great grip. I also prefer a Tanto. This may not be your type of knife, but for the work I've done, and continue to do, there has yet to be a good replacement.

As for my experience, you may cite the following:

US Navy 24 Years
My teacher was Dick Marcinko.

[aaron]

nice knife how much $

[Lemont]

How much is it and is it available for purchase in stores or at Army surplus stores?

[robert]

ive carried a gerber gator for over 12 years now and its never let me down and it was made in Portland, Or. USA !!

[Dan Halliday]

The GERBER I bought almost 40 years ago was made in Portland
Ore.USA. It's a dual blade and very well balanced.I carried it on my left hip,tied down to my left thigh.I carried it through my full tour in Nam.It was like a security blanket to me.I have it lying right here.In all the knives I've bought over the yrs.It out does the buck knife at least in my opinion and any others that I have invested in.

[Murph]

I believe many of you have missed the point of this article.

I truly like the design of this overall piece. The lines remind me very much of a knife I designed prior to my deployment (OIF II) in '04. Unfortunately, when I spoke to the knifesmith which I had chosen to make the blade for me, he informed me that he felt as though it was not a practical blade design for my intended use (I chose to trust his judgement, afterall he is the Master Knifesmith).

The major flaw with this piece could very easily be corrected. Gerber could have opted for a less expensive and much more practical handle material. G-10 or micarta would have been a perfect choice of handle material. Both materials are very light weight, have great textures which would allow better grip and retention, both materials are very easily cleaned when exposed to hazardous material (ie. blood, fuels, etc), both materials are also extremely durable and would most likely outlast practically any other handle material on the market today.

As for the pointed pommel.... In the tactiacl knife world, this is referred to as a "skull crushing pommel". This small attribute allows the user more options in striking in confined close quarters combat. This is obviously not your grandad's K-Bar that you used the hammer type pommel to pound in tent stakes at scout camp. It was designed as a "tactical weapon/utility tool" (Please note that "tactical weapon" is listed first guys. Items are most often listed in order of importance)

Please understand that I have not had the opportunity to physically study this piece therefore have obviously not tested it. My opinions are simply that of a knife nut who feels he has a fairly good grasp of the concept of knife designs and working knowledge of what a tactical knife should be.

As for the comments in reference to the fact that the piece is not made in the U.S., let's face it.....the bulk of the soldiers who would choose to purchase this piece are junior enlisted soldiers. If this piece was made in the U.S., it would most likely cost twice the current retail price (whatever that price may happen to be). Most young soldiers haven't the liberty of being able to spend the extra money.

[Walter H. Pinson Jr.]

For all the comments posted ! Let all of us who have gone thru the rights of passage of the proper way to use a knife and taught by the military the combat effectiveness of a knife used in killing your enemy,Follow your training guides and keep in mind what your instructor taught you.Good common sense will prevail always. A good knife is combat effective an is only as good as the user.I have used them all in some form to kill as taught by the military.The best one i ever had was a long shard of glass wrapped with OD green tape on one end and it save not only me but countless others. So moot it be! I am OFF! 7thSF

[John Lawrence]

Every Soldier should be issued a good knife. Then, before he deploys, he or she should buy a few extra. Yes, a few. Hide one on each leg and each arm.

[Mike Sheridan]

I am a modest knife collector, and i have got to say my favorite of all time is my Benchmade Presidio fixed blade 155SBK

http://www.benchmade.com/products/product_detail.aspx?model=155

It too, has aluminum scales for a handle, but the way they are shaped provides awsome grip, and it is long enough for penetration to vital organs if need be. The tip is probably not as strong as something like the gerber ilustrated, but it it thick and broad enough to be much stronger than something like a SOG Tech Bowie, wich is a fine piece as well, just more refined and well... sexier. I would put it up against any KBAR, any day. Not to detract from what that knife is... a legand... but 1095 HC steel has seen it's day. Properly treated the new S30V, 154 CM, and 34 ATS??? (not sure on that last one) are tougher, harder and more corosion resistant. Just some food for thought.... Mike

[J]

Walter H. Pinson Jr., you really are a pompous ass! You are not the only person in this world who has ever killed another person. Not to say that all of those we have killed can be considered people. There are a lot of young soldiers who may not be as knife-savvy as you, but would greatly benefit from your "expertise." So sorry that not everybody can be as knowledgeable about knives as you, but that does not make you any better than they are. And as far as your precious shard of glass story...I will just say that as an OH-58D pilot, I know firsthand that even SF personnel need to be "saved" from time to time. Don't get me wrong, you non-conventional forces types are by far my favorite to work with (and I believe the same goes for the rest of the Kiowa Warrior community).
I apologize for being so front with you, but perhaps you could get over yourself for just long enough to help out some of the younger soldiers who are less educated in this area. After all, isn't that one of the things that the Green Berets are about?

[Al Kaminsky]

Dan Dennehy is my knifemaker. A three war veteran of the U.S. Navy he learned the fine points of knife making from old time makers. He is a founding member of the Knifemakers Guild. You can't go wrong with a Dan-D knife.

AFK

[Simplecop]

One thing I didn't see mentioned in here is that Gerber isn't really Gerber anymore. Several years ago Ol' Man Gerber sold the company...and name to Fiskar Shears. I am from Oregon (still live there) and have owned several Gerbers in my life. One thing I can tell you is that the old Gerbers were and are MUCH better than the newer ones. When the company was sold the quality went down.

[bob schellhorn]

i read many articles that tell of knives of army sf i was handed a well warn randall a hand me down when i was assigned to my group 5th sf idon't remember any other knife being issued other than a k bar the trainee of cycle at recondo school in nha trang was presented a gerber mark ii( that was the toughest 3 weeks of my life)the reeves knife made for 1st group sf is my choice,but abit pricey

[Barry]

Anyone have a NSN for it?

[Gysgt Devlin USMC RET]

This Gerber Yari II is a good looking knife, I'll bet my grandaughter would like it to use in her garden. I also have always carried my issue K-bar. (I carry a Benchmade lock blade in my boot) You get to depend on your knife as a back up and it hasn't failed me yet. Oh, J. Chaney, Vietnam is all one word...

[Cpl OMalley]

For those of you who dont mind spending some coin on a knife, Strider is an excellant choice. They are quite pricey but you get what you pay for.

[Fred St Clair]

The K-Bar is the best knife in the world. I was issued one in the Korean war 1952 and was never ask to turn it in so I have carried it for more than 55 years.
LtCol USMC (ret)

[Ridge]

As goofy as it sounds, me being in te Army and all, I always like to carry a diving knife. They are light and lock nicely into the sheath.

[jimoh toheeb]

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[Greg Sleater]

well i haven't use this knife but i've used many gerbers and kbar if you want the ultimate test leave me a address of where i can purchase this knife at and a price and i'll use and abuse it to its fullest extent

[SSG T. MacLaughlin]

I would like to start by saying that the person who calls himself ME if you don't have thye guts to give your name than don't expect to be taken seriously. I have used several knives during my military career and carried a K-Bar to Iraq last year and can't find any fault in it. Gerber also makes a good knife and if I saw the Yari II first I would have bought it.

[MSG Jeff Sanchez]

Are you giving knifes to Soldiers who are intrested in using them? or how much can a Soldier perchus the knife for?

[socrates]

Killed someone with a shard of glass?? Methinks someone is full of shyte. If any part of that dude has been in a combat zone it would only be his finger tip - on the surface of a national geographic atlas. My guess is he is some sweaty poge who has watched too many movies and read too many SOG stories.

My KBAR saved me some hardship by stopping a spent round that richocheted from somewhere - I have no idea - I was busy sweating, running, and fearing for my life. I don't think I would have died if my KBAR hadn't been on my gear at the right angle at the right place - sitting in its sheath - but it would have hurt like hell.

Odds of anyone using a knife in modern combat are less than you winning the lottery - twice in a row. Get real. Pick a knife you can chop branches with, dig with, open rations with, because that's what you will use it for.

[109FA]

I WONT TRADE MY K-BAR FOR THE WORLD BUT GENTS ALWAYS REMEMBER WHO THE KING OF BATTLE IS

[Johnny]

Check out this knife

www.36thid.com

[chris]

Looks like Gerber is trying to steal some market share from troops who would like to get an Emerson folder or a Benchmade Nimravus fixed blade, but are on a budget. They went in the right direction with the blade, S30V is very serious steel. But I have to agree with some comments that the handle needs improvement.

[JB]

There's some interesting reviews. Everyone seems to think that the knife is all about combat. Combat effetiveness is important for all of our equipment, but come on fellas, if it comes down to your knife it's because your M4 is out, as is your M9, the .50 is down, and your shotgun is out. You would have at this point had the misfortune of living through the blasts from your frags that you were dropping over the edge of the GMV and your JTAC is screaming for a medic still. A knife is a knife. Some are crap, some are tough. I have found (as a mechanic) that it doesn't really matter. Some guy on here was talking about driving the knife through sheet metal.....WHAT THE CRAP FOR??? I mean, hey, are we fighting the same war or has the world of terminator come upon us already?? Now, the aluminum handle and heat thing I can understand. This is a very valid point, however if you understand the nature of aluminum, it doesn't hold heat long. Think about the turkey your wife baked covered with aluminum foil, she pulls it out, and seconds later that foil can be removed with her bare hands. Obviously, it's not that fast with a knife handle, but you get the point. Also, I don't know about everyone here, but I know that us in the army pretty much wear gloves for everything anyway. Whether we're shooting, working on a truck, or whatever.
Oh, and the whole thing about communist countries making our knives...that's the most ignorant thing I've ever heard. Ifyou really want to make a stink about it, then take 90% of the electronics out of your house and chuck em. Come on soldier, cut sling load and drive on because we don't want to support communist countries, right?
Here's that fact about this knife; It's tough and affordable. It can do pretty much anything you should expect a knife to be able to do. If your looking to spend under $200 on a knife for carry in the field, then don't expect it to be a secret weapon that cuts through russian tank armor without losing it's edge.
Personally, i carry the benchmade that was issued to me,and I just have a loyalty to benchmade. it's the only knife I want to spend money on, but that's personal preference. I'm in no way saying that other knife brands don't measure up.
Oh, and Dick Marcinko? Gimme a break. Always somebody name dropping.....

[JB]

Oh ya, that 7th group moron..... That figures. You only hear stupid crap like that come from 7th SFG....or do you? Are you even really 7th? Are you just trying to make people think you're a green beret?

[Kevyn]

Anyone here ever work with a Newt Livesay knife? Good? Bad? Indiifferent?

[Tom]

I have always like Gerbers and I have a Gerber Sheridan on my drop leg platform with a custom sheath. I love it. It will slice through pretty much anything...if/when I lose it, I won't be out that much $. I am good with that.

[Charlie]

If you are looking specifically for a Tanto style knife, the First Strike by Columbia River Knife and Tool (CRKT) is twice the knife for half the price.

[JOSEPH MAROTTA]

I used a AIRFORCE SURVIVAL KNIFE and a COLD STEEL SURVIVAL RESCUE KNIFE/SRK.Both were Excellent tools.My Dad used an KABAR FIGHTING KNIFE in the MARINES during NAM.I would recomend any of these knives for the standard soldier with standard soldiers wages.Why pay more for a custom knife?

[earl joy]

We need national stock numbers NSNs to order knives through this supply system for any of your equipment, please send NSNs for any items.

[Rick]

Please visit http://all-in-general.com/index.php?manufacturers_id=64 for an excellent selection of Gerber Knives.

[Clint]

I remember back in the day when I had to use a hotdog with twine wrapped around it (for grip) when I was beating the cockroachs out of the galley onboard a aircraft carrier. After I was done I kept the roaches (for the crunch in the cobbler). Our soft serve machine could give a man a MEAN ice cream headache.

Rip Torn was my teacher

[usn065]

The knife does have some interesting qualities and might be worth a closer look. but I for one seem to remember being told for my MO that a good folder would be about all I would really need. I chose a gerber because that is what I knew and I couldn't afford a kershaw at the time. yes gerber quality has gone down hill a bit since then but when companies change hands, so does the ways of doing things. I know a bit of banter back and forth between you army SFG's was normal, but accusing someone of being a jodi in disguise is going abit far don't you think? I was a corpsman and am proud of my service. I am proud of all who have and do still serve, and as a wise gunny once told me, we all pay for our sins in one way or another, so let the man worry about it alone.
As for knives, I never buy one without feeling it in my hands first. if it doesn't feel right I won't buy it. one exception was a knife put out by the SOA. since it went to supporting families of SF members.. I couldn't say no. like I said. pick a knife with your hands and your common sense. you thanks yourself later.

[Kat]

Y'all are cracking me up, bunch of little boys waging a pissing war. Thanx, I thoroughly enjoyed it! :)

[Bryan]

As a driver overseas in Iraq last year, I went knife crazy thinking that I would have to have a "Big Ole" Knife and it would have to be sharp, heavy, and 8" long. Man, was I wrong. I finished up with just a 3" bladed folding knife. Different strokes for different folks. And before anyone says anything about 88M, I was infantry for 11 years and never really needed a large knife.

[mike smith usmc]

I would never give up my k-bar, However the tanto style gives me a hard on!!!

[sike]

do you have a hard-wireblade cutter in your stock shop?if yes ,i need more infomation on them.

[TJ]

I have to agree with Master Chief Lordsson: Cold Steel is the best knife you can buy. If you don't want the shiney polished Cobun buy a flat-black SRK or Recon Tanto. Either is a great knife!

[sike]

this tool is just like a scissors with a spring in between the two handles.the length is about eight to ten inches long.

[TJ]

109FA,
Would the King of Battle be Ma Deuce? Or would that be Navy 16-inch guns? I certainly can't see any knife as King. Maybe Fat Man and Little Boy?
TJ

[Cliff]

I believe any knife with a blade thats up for a good sharpening, is good enough for the field...i prefer a knife thats crafted, and/or made in the states, but thats just coming from a cat thats from the USA...you can talk tanto, and all that bushwah all you want...but down to the blood and guts of it all, you need a knife thats easily accesible...i dont care what it is...cold steel, gerber, ka bar, what have you not, i like how all these cats here talk the politics of a blade...its quite cute, anyone whos really needed a knife while in "the field" will realise it doesn matter what you got, who makes it, but the fact that you have a good ole sharpened blade to cut, and/or defend ones self. if you have enough time to dictate what blade by what brand you need, then by all means, use it, but if your really in the s**i, then buy/acquire a knife you need to get the job done.
Amen
SPC, C,

[Merkel Walters]

Wonder what Jim Bowie whould have to say here? His knifemaker was a blacksmith named Black, I think.

[Sirinconel]

Wow, alot of points of view generated over a new blade...
personaly. For a mass produced knife company, I would suggest that Gerber has done a good job. I used a Gerber fixed blade during the first gulf war And they did their job just fine. As most serious knife users know. The best are usually made by private companies. Angel Swords out of Texas to mention one. But also as one mentioned earlier. A good blade and a good handle are all that is really needed. Everything else is vanity.
But then I am looking at it from a strictly combat use point of view. So I humbly apologize if I stomple any mentle toes. I would suggest that the Yari II would make an excellent back up or "last ditch" fighting knife. Provided the user has the prerequiset skills to use it as such. Beyond that its a fine utility knive.

[David Egg]

Whei i was in Nam we used the traditional Ka-bar Fighting Knife, i have and still use that same knife although i have moved up to the 2nd Generation D2 Ka-Bar Extreme Fighting knives as well. I also use one of my favorites which is the Ka-Bar WartHog which has the 1095 Cro-van blade and Kraton G handle and willnot slip out of your hand no matter how wet , oilly or dirty you are.. the warthog is almost 1/4inch thich abd is great for chopping digging and about anythign yo uwant in th efoiel. i have used it to open cans chop wood, cut wire and also used to to kill a eastern Diamondback rattler that was about 15 inches from my face while i was sleeping in the mountains of North Carolina last year so yes i woukld say it is about as heavy duty as any knife out there. als comes with a locking sheath made of polymer plastic that will not break or crack.. i have use dmany gerbers as well and am not an affecianado on too many knives but i have used gerbers from th e60s that were made much better than todays gerbers and although the Ka-Bar is by far one of th ebetter fighting knives i will say that there ar emany others out there that meet the need and will not let you down. why not all of us agree that we are all different and we all have our own opinions thats never going to change. i for oe will never go without my kabar as it saved my ass too many times to sway away from it.. i also like th eshorty ka-bar fighting knifes as well. same knife just a tad bit shorter.. i wanted to put my imput in since there ar ea few asswipes here that think they know what saves lives better than we our selves know.. keep your opinions about being better to yourself . i wont mention the name of the jerkoff that has made several of his own know it all statements but lests just say there always goign to be a tird in every group.. nice hearing from allyou guys.. i was stationed with the third marine division in the Nam back on 1970. life doesnt change much no matter how you think.. its a lesson learned.. God bless. Master Gunns...dave ...incidentally the price of the GERBER YARI IIis about $130.00 and around $110.00 and lesser on ebay.. i just bought one..

[David Egg]

Whei i was in Nam we used the traditional Ka-bar Fighting Knife, i have and still use that same knife although i have moved up to the 2nd Generation D2 Ka-Bar Extreme Fighting knives as well. I also use one of my favorites which is the Ka-Bar WartHog which has the 1095 Cro-van blade and Kraton G handle and will not slip out of your hand no matter how wet, oily or dirty you are.. the warthog is almost 1/4inch thick and is great for chopping digging and about anythign you want in the field. i have used it to open cans chop wood, cut wire and also used to to kill a eastern Diamondback rattler that was about 15 inches from my face while i was sleeping in the mountains of North Carolina last year so yes i would say it is about as heavy duty as any knife out there. also comes with a locking sheath made of polymer plastic that will not break or crack.. i have used many gerbers as well and am not an affecianado on too many knives but i have used gerbers from the 60s that were made much better than todays gerbers and although the Ka-Bar is by far one of the better more reliable fighting knives i will say that there are many others out there that meet the need and will not let you down. why not all of us agree that we are all different and we all have our own opinions & thats never going to change. i for one will never go without my ka-bar as it saved my ass too many times to sway away from it.. i also like the shorty ka-bar fighting knifes as well. same knife, just a tad bit shorter.. i wanted to put my input in since there are a few asswipes here that think they know what saves lives better than we ourselves know.. keep your opinions about being better to yourself. i wont mention the name of the jerkoff that has made several of his own know-it all statements but lets just say there always going to be a tird in every group.. nice hearing from all you vets out there.. i was stationed with the third marine division in the Nam back on 1970. life doesn't change much no matter how you think.. its a lesson learned.. God bless. Master Gunns...dave ...incidentally the price of the GERBER YARI II is about $130.00 and around $110.00 and less on ebay.. i just bought one..great knife ..will try it out this weekend while i go hiking.

[CHLuke]

O K. great discussion on the knife. The K-Bar is perfect, Gerbers are good and Cold Steels are indestructible. It all comes down to the man on the end of the knife. Get good and practice the trade. Semper Fi.

[DENNIS RODRIGUEZ]

i am a security guard,where can i buy it?

[tim conrad]

that is one sweet knife. how much does it cost?

[Pete Tenney]

Interesting comments on a subject I do know a bit about. I've carried a folder of one sort or another for over 60 years. Currently, my preferred carry is a "Hawg", designed by a friend, Mike Franklin. It's a tanto design with a VERY aggressive spear point on a 3 1/4" blade of non-reflective 1/8" 440Ctainless. The cutting blade is only 1 1/4", with the rest of the blade given over to a 1 3/4" REALLY heavy duty saw blade for ripping. The handle is titanium with some sort of micarta scales and is a natural fit in my hand in Baja when I'm messing around in fish slime and salt water and in Montana when it's 30 below. It's a liner lock with extremely easy and QUICK one hand opening and closing. It has a really substantial pocket clip and may easily be taken apart with the proper screwdrivers. I highly recommend it.

I've carried it now for over two years and have used it in every conceivable fashion including as a probe, a spade and for bashing. It doesn't have a scratch on it! ...The darn thing just works...

For a pure combat knife, though, BY FASR the best knives I've ever used (and abused) are those made by Pro-Tech, a small family-owned California company. I've owned, Gerbers, SOGs. Cold Steels...many custom using knives, but for law enforcement, for the military and for personal protection, in my mind NOTHING comes close to the many different knives in the Pro-Tech line. Google 'em up without the dash...you won't be disappointed.

[Ray Comfort]

AT $132, THIS THING SHOULD MAKE COFFEE FOR ME AS WELL. JUST ANOTHER WAY TO RIP OFF SOLDIERS.

[Dave]

Looks a little small for a "combat" knife. I would say you would want a 6" blade for that. As a utility knife it looks O.K.
Personally I like the K Bar and I really like leather washer grip on a knife. In my opinion even a regular Buck beats this piece out.
Dave

[Lovering, J]

$130 is a little much. For those interested in this knife: http://www.knivesplus.com/gerberknifegb-1143.html

KA-Bar is a great knife and is more affordable than the knife featured.

The ASAF 5" Survival by Ontario is also a good choice. About 1.5 lbs though.

I do like the Cold Steel SRK. It is around $80 and weighs about 8oz. That would lighten the gear a little.

As for Gerber, I take the Ripstop I to work. So far it is the only folder that has not broken on me. I am interested in learning more about CKRT though.

[victor]

I AM READY TO JOIN THE USA AMRY,THE MATTER WHAT STREE I AM READY

[bob schellhorn]

the dialogue in this forum sounds like half are waing a warning order for a mission or are just wanna-bees.both are ok with me,but the need for a knife that works as an entrenching tool is nuts.choose a knife for what it's worth you get what you pay for...after my randall was stolen from while in field hospital in phu bi my sister sent me a buck general mdl.120 which i carry today out here while hunting just to carry it. gerber shmerber pick a good knife and learn how to sharpen and remember it's a knife and you can't expect to fire 40mm's!! out here

[W.Allen]

Be carefull out their --you could cou yourself with a sharp knike!!! USA (Ret)

[Bren]

Y'know Mr. 'mike smith usmc'

They have a tanto Ka-BAR now. I picked one up, but I'll never use it till I'm outta the military -- the good ol' 3in rule being in effect at my duty station... :(

I also have an [apparently older model] Gerber with tanto blade (I forget the name, but it's a 3.175in locking blade) and I will be purchasing this Yari II as a smaller utility fixed blade, my Ka-BAR being an 8-incher. :D

[danny vandaniker]

let me know the price .i want to see if it is as good as it looks .

[Elouisa]

this is an awesome piece,it's figure and it's form is so incredible...

[Elouisa]

this is an awesome piece,it's figure and it's form is so incredible...

[tyrone]

can i get one free.

[Badger]

I would like to know the cost and place where i casn purchase this knife. I like a sturdy but duriable knife. And the K-bar is an excellent knife.

[sgt parsons]

the crkt i seen a lot of soilder buy it in iraq it looked cool was a little pricy for my blood and i sharpened everyone that was in my unit they seemed to me to be case hardened the edg angle was only on one side a few had me modafie that for them constrution was strong griped well and had both choices of standered point or tanto style and had a serated edg on the last part of the blade witch came in handy to remove vests on a couple wounded soilder where a smooth lade just sliped off the webing on a scale from 1 to 10 id give it a 7.ive made knives for over 20years and caried 2 of my own in iraq along w/ the KABAR ive caried the KABAR since 84

[Muk]

I have used a gerber river knife for 12 years,(i don't wear jewelry so my wife gave it to me in lieu of a wedding ring)the river knife has a sheath that allows the knife to clip in and remain secure yet allows easy acess, how does this knife stand in that respect?

[Richard Rodriguez]

How do I get one?

[K. Orengali]

Owned at least half a dozen Gerbers all made right here in the Pacific Northwest, but to tell you all the truth I sport my Benchmade autostryker tanto with a paracord loop these days. (Issue item-you'll have a problem getting one if you're Joe Civilian) Gerber for a while had a tougher steel that held a wonderful edge but I haven't seen another one in years. Also been issued SOG tanto (very similar to the advertised blade here) 2 Leatherman multi tools (SuperTool 200 and Wave) 2 Gerber MultiTools, 2 SOG MultiTools, K Bar (still in the box saving it...), Navy Diver's knife, Cold Steel's Recon Tanto, SRK, the new aircrew member's ASEK ... You know what? They're all good blades. The complaints are few and I used many of them daily for months on end. When you find something you like, you'll know. Keep em lightly oiled and sharp, don't use them to do the work of another tool and you'll be happy enough.

Get Don Paul's three great books including "Everybody's Knife Bible". Best simple books ever. Learned a lot and he's been there, done that.

[PG]

I've got a numbered Yarborough, a large Sebenza with micarta inlays, a couple of Randalls, two SARs and even did a venous cutdown with a Benchmade AFCK but I've always had a Spiderco.

[Samuel Gardner]

i dont yet have the new gerber, but from what i've seen on this site, im going to get one tomorrow for sure. i love gerber's and i have been useing the same one for the past 2 years and its still as sharp as the day i got it. gerber is one bad knife.

[huebert]

looks like a good knife. I'd do out with the bell-crow strap. it tends too make too much noise; "silence is golden". oh and the metal-handles on 99.9% of knife never generate enough heat for it to burn your hand thats why they have a tephlon coating. and the seals are issued a knife by gerber and its done its job well.

[EJ Hart]

The KBar is a good field knife. I used one in Korea and Viet Nam. The best all around knife I have used was a Randell. Much better then glass, Semper Fi.
EJ Hart

[mazi mokri]

my brothers name is yari. he was killed in iraq in december 06. i wish i could have bought him this knife.

[Matt]

Good discussion. I like knives, have used them since I was small. The best knives are personal how they feel and fit your hand are most important, second is how well you can maintain the edge.

I like and use the Cold Steel SRK for a general purpose knife. Literally have worn out the blade on a Buck-Lite, a very good inexpensiver folder. The BL took and kept an edge very well but daily use wore it away. Look at CRKT as a good option. Lots of good knives and good steels, prices are reasonable. Favorite knife that I still carry is the AG Russle Sting IA. Rode in my pocket or tucked in my BDU belt for about 15 years. Good steel, stayed sharp, always there and ready.

[ROBERT]

YEAH BUT DOES IT KEEP AN EDGE LIKE THE ONE OND ONLY COLD STEEL TONTO ANY STYLE ? COLD STEEL DELIVERS THE MAXIMUM YIELD FOR A DECENT PRICE BY FAR THE BUST EDGE OUT THERE FOR THE MONEY
I WORKED HURRICAINE KATRINA FOR THE ARMY CORPS AS A TAEM LEADER ......AND THE COLD STEEL TONTO WAS PHONAMANAL

[Al]

How can I purchase a Yari II knife?
What is the cost?
Al

[john davis]

I usually just read this stuff without comment. However, this time I found the comments by this Pinson guy amusing to the point that I actually laughed out loud. A shard of glass? to kill an enemy? in real combat? Yeah, right. Anyway, I've used knives many times in my twenty plus years of military service in various combat situations. Everyone has a personal preference and favorite. I like whatever gets the job done.

[Cody Fowler]

How can i purchase the knife, and how much does it cost?

[Hollywood1972]

I haven't seen any mention of Kershaw knives in this string. It's been my personal favorite for the last 10-11 years. I find the assisted opening to be better than having to use the the old "flick" method of opening. The blade has held true and sharp to this day. Ken Onion, drop point, half serrated. I never had to do any "killin" with it, but it has served me well in the CSAR/SpecWar environment.

[bp]

Randall Knives
http://www.bp-outdoors.com/

[Charles Beatty]

Enjoyed comments, but, nobody mentions your shovel! Once you get stateside, and I hope you do;Remember the 21 foot rule;and you won't get shot;if you are having a bad day here! When made in Portland, I did like Gerber. I am shocked to hear they are made, in China!

[ThunderWolf6]

The Knife I will Carry always into Battles anywhere in the World IS MY BOWIE KNIFE Strong wont break slice a mans head off with it easy to sharpen Theres nothing more too say that you have a excellcent WEAPON!!!!

[mike]

Gerber are now made in china? Oh. Yet they make good as well as shoddy... check out the chang Yang motorcycles, for example - You take pot luck if you order one of them, they tell me... And, don't let's forget they can be pretty clever, too they shot out a satelite recently, didn't they?
This reminds me of the attitude the Japs fostered before the war, they got us to thinking they couldn't make anything but tat, then showed us what Mitsubishi, etc. could do with the Prince of Wales, Pearl Harbour, et al.
The way I've got it figured, You New Worlders have it made. We were not only issued with pathetic stuff in the British Army, in the pre-70's, but were not permitted to supplement it with our own. Now the guys are really being screwed by our enemy (the national leaders)and have to beg(buy, borrow, etc) stuff from the US forces!
I guess, at the end of the day, you use what serves best at the time, glass (if you are a prisoner), fashioned bit of something, or some really great and carefully thought out stuff, well tested and proven. But It all depends on who uses it, how skilled they are, how high the adrennalin is running and finally how lucky they are at the time. Like the gentleman with the diamond backed rattler. Only HE knows whether he could have shut his eyes and played possum or whether he could strike faster than the damn snake. Only the glass user knows whether it was all there was, or if it was neccessary, vital, and just how to hold it to stop it snapping off and severing his wrist artery. I'm just very glad they lived to tell the tale, and stranger things have happenned out there - remember that!
Thanks for the crack, folks, it was great - and I'll sure remember the names of the various knives recommended!

[SFC J]

If got about 10 maybe 15 knives in a duffle bag right now. Mostly crap cant hold edge or sucks when wearing gloves etc.., pure and simple. From SOG Tigershark, some Swed knife, spring loaded knife (shrug) to 3 leathermans, spyderco, you name it.. most of them blow balls. When I need a knife to throw on/ in my ruck I go back to the KBAR. Cheap, sharpens easy, sharpens fast, holds a good edge, and best off all it feels like a knife in your hands. Yeah you feel the power, you know it can do damage. Had that KBAR for about 17 years now... 2 to go boys and im out. KBAR, Coldsteel(SRK, really good also), SOG(Tom Cat~great folder) in that order. But honestly buy something cheap that works, if someone lifts it from ya you wont sweat it, if it breaks you wont sweat it. Cause the only thing Ive seen issued knife wise is a gerber/ leatherman. AKA MRE opener. Want to Supersize your order? buy a hatchet instead of a $300.00 John Rambo special that will get lifted 3 days into country.

[Anthony Sullivan]

I want to buy one of your knifes.

[MACVSOG]

Aviation Combat Unit

This comments is for somebody call himself (ME)

You're correct our troops deserve better equipment.

But also you must keep respect for others in this forum. People like you that disrespect others are not welcome here.

Think first!!!

[john dalton]

how do i buy one? how do i go about it?

[John J. Motil]

Take a look at this item! It can ordered in ACU Green or Coyote Brown! They also have some FIN and Dozier designs that might interest you!