Top 10 Bowie Knife Brands You Need to Know About

1. Buck Knives

Founded in 1902, Buck Knives has earned a reputable name in American knife production. Known for its iconic 110 Folding Hunter, Buck knives are synonymous with durability and reliability. The company offers a variety of Bowie knives, particularly the Buck 120 General, which features a 7.5-inch blade made from high-quality stainless steel. The solid brass guard and durable handle ensure a secure grip. Buck Knives is committed to providing a lifetime guarantee on its products, making it a preferred choice for both hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

2. Ka-Bar

Famed for its military knives, Ka-Bar produces some of the most recognized Bowie knives. The Ka-Bar Bowie Knife is renowned for its strong, functional design, featuring a 9-inch carbon steel blade. This knife is favored by military personnel and outdoor adventurers alike. Ka-Bar knives undergo rigorous testing to ensure performance under the toughest conditions. Their ergonomic handles enhance grip, allowing for extended periods of use without discomfort. Ka-Bar’s legacy of craftsmanship and dedication to quality makes them a prime choice for Bowie knife lovers.

3. Cold Steel

Cold Steel is a brand that emphasizes extreme performance and innovative designs. Their approach to the Bowie knife category includes models like the Cold Steel 1917 Bowie, recognized for its authentic historical design. This knife boasts a 9-inch blade made of high carbon steel, providing excellent toughness and edge retention. Cold Steel’s commitment to rigorous testing ensures that their blades can withstand heavy use. With features like ergonomic handles and substantial weight, their Bowie knives offer a formidable balance of aesthetics and functionality.

4. SOG Knives

SOG Specialty Knives & Tools, founded in 1986, produces high-performance knives, including impressive Bowie models. The SOG Seal Team Elite Bowie knife features a 7.5-inch blade crafted from AUS-8 stainless steel, striking a balance between hardness and corrosion resistance. This knife is favored by military personnel and outdoor adventurers due to its rugged construction and solid stainless steel handle. SOG’s attention to detail and tactical designs make it a favorite among those seeking a reliable Bowie knife for survival and combat situations.

5. Gerber Gear

Gerber is an established leader in outdoor and tactical gear, with a diverse range of quality Bowie knives. The Gerber StrongArm, while not a traditional Bowie, is a military-style knife with a 4.8-inch blade, making it versatile for various applications. However, Gerber’s traditional Bowie options, such as the Gator Fixed Blade Knife, showcase a rugged design and durable materials. The ergonomic handle provides an excellent grip, and the stainless steel blade ensures longevity. Gerber’s focus on creating durable, user-friendly knives resonates well with campers and survivalists.

6. KA-BAR Becker

A subsidiary of KA-BAR, Becker Knives specializes in high-quality outdoor and tactical knives, including formidable Bowie designs. The Becker BK7 is a widely popular choice among bushcrafters, featuring a 7-inch blade made from high-carbon steel. Known for its practical design, the knife also includes a textured Grivory handle for enhanced grip. The Becker brand emphasizes a no-frills approach to knife-making, focusing solely on delivering performance and reliability in demanding conditions.

7. Puma Knives

Puma Knives, a German company known for its craftsmanship, offers a line of expertly made Bowie knives. The Puma SGB Bowie features a classic design with a 7-inch blade crafted from high-quality stainless steel. This knife is perfect for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate finely crafted blades. The attention to detail in Puma’s knives reflects decades of experience, making them an alluring choice for those who seek both beauty and functionality in their Bowie knife.

8. ESEE Knives

ESEE specializes in survival and military-grade knives, with a strong emphasis on utility and durability. Their ESEE-6 Bowie is perfect for both survival scenarios and everyday carry, featuring a 6.5-inch 1095 high-carbon steel blade that is both tough and easy to sharpen. ESEE’s knives are known for their rugged construction and lifetime warranty, appealing to survivalists who appreciate reliability. The micarta scales provide a secure grip, making it an excellent choice for outdoor aficionados.

9. Ontario Knife Company

Founded in 1889, Ontario Knife Company (OKC) excels in producing reliable knives, including the iconic OKC Bowie knife. The OKC 499 Air Force Survival Knife features a 5-inch blade, perfect for tactical use while still maintaining the classic Bowie silhouette. The knife’s durable carbon steel blade is paired with a rubberized handle for a secure grip, making it ideal for survival scenarios. With over a century of experience, OKC’s knives are trustworthy go-to tools for military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

10. Benchmade

Benchmade is a pioneer in the knife industry, praised for its precision and innovative designs. Their Benchmade 162 Bushcrafter is not a traditional Bowie but resembles the classic silhouette, providing exceptional performance for outdoor tasks. With a 4.43-inch blade made from high-quality stainless steel, this knife is not only practical but built for durability. The textured G10 handle ensures a firm grip, making it user-friendly for extended outdoor activities. Benchmade’s commitment to quality and performance stands out, making it a must-know brand for Bowie knife collectors.

Comparison Chart

Understanding the various top Bowie knife brands provides insight into the diverse quality, craftsmanship, and functionality available in the knife market. Each brand brings its unique strengths, catering to different user needs, whether for hunting, survival, or collection. Investing in a Bowie knife from any of these recognized brands ensures you get a reliable and high-performing tool that meets your standards.