Ka-Bar’s Latest Affordable Knife Is a Robust, Ergonomic Oddity from a Legendary Designer

Award-winning bladesmith Les George teams up with the iconic tactical brand once again for another impressive release.

Close-up of a silver metal tool handle with "KA-BAR" engraved, resting on rusty metal branches.

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Les George is one of the most lauded, prolific knifemakers alive today. So, it should come as no surprise that he might work alongside a highly respected, time-tested brand like Ka-Bar.

In fact, they’ve already worked together recently on a trio of fixed blades (with exceptionally cool handle treatments.) Now, they’ve come together once more.

This time, however, the partnership has yielded something a bit more unconventional. The Ka-Bar George Roscoe is equal parts quirky, compact and formidable.

Compact silver KA-BAR knife with a finger hole and textured grip on a rusted metal surface. — This quirky knife is made from a single solid piece of 425 high-carbon stainless steel.

Tiny titan

Even when it comes to bladed tools, there’s not a lot of crossover between everyday carry and fixed blades. That said, sometimes, a knife emerges that blurs the lines. The George Roscoe is one such offering.

The blade is a mere 1.8 inches long, and the total length (although difficult to gauge due to the knife’s curvature) is only slightly over double that. Due to its compact size, this knife is easily pocketable, making it ideal for EDC usage.

Two small metal knives with finger holes and short blades, one labeled "KA-BAR" and the other "George," on a beige background. — The finger hold grip adds plenty of security and the sheepsfoot blade is perfect for all manner of cutting tasks.

That said, you can’t simply toss an unsecured fixed blade into your pocket, right? No worries — this knife comes with its own stout, custom Celcon sheath, which will protect your pockets (and extremities) during transit.

The good news is, even in its sheath, the whole package is still slim and compact enough for some pockets. Of course, you can also attach it to your belt or a pack if you’d rather.

Black plastic sheath with a silver metal KA-BAR ring knife handle inserted. — The Roscoe comes with its own Celcon sheath for easier carry.

Put a ring on it

Often, smaller knives come with caveats: they’re not always ergonomic or they lack security or they’re not capable of making tougher cuts. Thanks to the clever design of the George Roscoe, those concessions aren’t an issue here.

For starters, the knife is crafted from a single, sturdy, unbroken piece of 425HC stainless steel — a robust, easy-to-care-for material often used in outdoor-ready knives. That also makes it structurally sound, as there are no hinge points or other structural weaknesses.

Due to its compact size, this knife is easily pocketable, making it ideal for EDC usage.

However, the design also goes a long way toward making this knife punch above its weight. The curved ergonomic handle, for instance, pairs with that large hole between the grip and the blade — a finger hole. This helps the user maintain security, preventing potential slips.

It also allows users to exert more pressure on the blade without risk, especially when paired with the jimping on the back of the blade. As such, this knife is capable of both simple everyday cuts and tougher work alike.

Small silver KA-BAR knife with a curved handle and a wide blade resting on a rusty metal mesh surface. — Although it looks like it, this knife isn’t made from a repurposed old spanner.

Available now

The Ka-Bar George Roscoe is up for sale on the brand’s site for $67 apiece, including its sheath.

Small metal knife with a curved handle featuring a finger hole and "KA-BAR" engraved on it.

Ka-Bar George Roscoe

$68 at Ka-Bar

About the Author: Sean Tirman is an associate editor at Gear Patrol who specializes in EDC, cannabis and outdoor gear.

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