Ka-Bar TDI

So, how did it do with all of my regular tests? I have a plain edge original #1480 TDI. It cut through all of the usual string, twine, rope and fabric materials that I have on hand. The usual thrust test I do to see if I can push a knife through ¼ inch and then ½ inch plywood were difficult to perform. As I mentioned above, due to the angle of the blade, once the tip contacts the target, the knife wants to cut on that angle. On something as hard as wood, the result is that the knife tries to pull out of your hand as you thrust. For this reason, I was unsuccessful at punching it through my 1/4" plywood sheet. However, not one to be outdone by biomechanics, I used a hammer and made sure that the blade would stand up to being hammered through the wood. No issues. It took it in stride. Beat the hell out of the handle though.

The powder coated blade is non-reflective and provides a good level of corrosion resistance. This probably matters more where sweat is concerned than rain or other moisture (unless you work in a marine environment). Speaking of wet conditions though, the grips are nicely stippled so that when I got them wet I still had no issues with a secure grip.

A quick search on the net found these knives priced in the $30 range, with Brigade Quartermaster coming in with the lowest price I found at $28 and change. For that price, this is one heck of a good life insurance policy!