Unleash Unrivaled Performance: The Ka-Bar 1256 Fighting/Utility Knife

For those who demand unwavering reliability and exceptional performance from their cutting tools, the Ka-Bar 1256 Fighting/Utility knife stands as a testament to enduring American craftsmanship. This isn't just a knife; it's a meticulously engineered instrument designed for the rigors of the outdoors, critical utility tasks, and situations where failure is not an option. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, a dedicated hunter, a prepared survivalist, or simply someone who appreciates robust, dependable gear, the Ka-Bar 1256 is crafted to exceed expectations.

Many ask, "What is the ideal fixed blade knife for diverse challenges?" or "How can I ensure my cutting tool performs reliably in any condition?" The answer often lies in the legacy and proven design of a Ka-Bar, and the 1256 model specifically addresses these needs with a thoughtful balance of size, material, and ergonomics. It’s a versatile companion for camping, hiking, bushcraft, general utility, or as a crucial component of any emergency kit.

The Heart of Durability: 1095 Cro-Van Blade Steel

At the core of the Ka-Bar 1256's exceptional capability is its blade, meticulously crafted from 1095 Cro-Van steel. This isn't just any steel; it's a high-carbon alloy specifically formulated for outstanding toughness and the ability to hold a sharp edge, even after rigorous use.

• Superior Toughness: 1095 Cro-Van is renowned for its resilience, making the blade resistant to chipping and breaking under stress, a critical attribute for a utility or fighting knife. This means you can rely on it for demanding tasks like batoning wood for fire or prying, without fear of catastrophic failure.
• Excellent Edge Retention: The composition, including vanadium and chromium, enhances the steel's ability to maintain a keen edge through repeated cutting and slicing operations. This minimizes the need for frequent resharpening in the field, allowing you to focus on the task at hand.
• Ease of Sharpening: Despite its hardness (rated at 56-58 HRC), 1095 Cro-Van is relatively easy to sharpen, allowing users to restore a razor-sharp edge with standard sharpening tools, even while out in the wilderness. This ensures the knife remains a functional and effective tool throughout its lifespan.
• Corrosion Resistance (with care): While carbon steel requires more attention to prevent rust compared to stainless steel, its performance advantages in toughness and edge stability are often preferred by serious users. A simple wipe-down and occasional oiling are sufficient to maintain the blade's integrity and appearance, ensuring it lasts for generations.

The blade features a non-reflective black coating, which not only adds a layer of corrosion resistance but also reduces glare, a practical advantage in tactical or hunting scenarios. Its flat grind contributes to a strong, yet sharp, edge geometry ideal for both slicing and robust cutting.

The Power of Grip: Ergonomic Kraton G Handle

A knife is only as effective as its handle allows it to be, and the Ka-Bar 1256 excels in this regard with its black Kraton G handle. Kraton G is a thermoplastic elastomer known for its exceptional properties:

• Unrivaled Grip: Regardless of whether your hands are wet, cold, or gloved, Kraton G provides a secure, non-slip grip. Its unique texture and inherent "stickiness" ensure positive control, significantly reducing the risk of slippage, which is paramount for safety and precision.
• Shock Absorption: The material's inherent elasticity helps absorb shock and vibration during heavy-duty tasks like chopping, reducing hand fatigue and discomfort, even during prolonged use.
• Durability and Resilience: Kraton G is highly resistant to extreme temperatures, chemicals, and the effects of harsh weather, ensuring the handle will not crack, warp, or degrade over time, unlike some natural materials.
• Comfort Profile: The ergonomic design of the handle, mirroring the classic Ka-Bar profile, fits naturally in the hand, promoting comfortable and confident handling for various grip styles.

This combination of grip security and material durability makes the Kraton G handle an ideal choice for a knife intended for demanding real-world applications.

Design for Purpose: Clip Point Plain Edge Blade

The 5.25-inch blade of the Ka-Bar 1256 features a classic clip point profile with a plain edge, a configuration chosen for its versatility and effectiveness across a wide range of tasks:

• Clip Point Versatility: The clip point design features a "clipped" or concave curve on the blade's spine near the tip, creating a finer, more acute point. This sharp tip is excellent for piercing tasks, detailed work, and provides enhanced control for precise cuts. It also contributes to a lighter blade, improving balance and maneuverability.
• Plain Edge Efficiency: A plain edge is highly favored for its clean cutting ability. It excels at push cuts, slicing, and any task requiring a smooth, uninterrupted cut. It's also generally easier to sharpen and maintain in the field compared to serrated edges, offering superior control and precision for delicate work or preparing food.
• Optimized Blade Length: At 5.25 inches, the blade strikes a perfect balance. It's long enough to handle significant cutting and utility tasks like preparing kindling, making feather sticks, or skinning, yet compact enough for comfortable carry and precise manipulation. This makes it a more practical "civilian version" compared to larger military models, without sacrificing robust capability.

Unpacking the Ka-Bar 1256 Experience: A Closer Look

When considering a tool as essential as a fixed blade knife, understanding its full specifications is key. The Ka-Bar 1256 is designed to be a reliable partner in diverse environments, from the deep woods to the workshop.

• Overall Length (OAL): 9.25 inches: This total length provides ample leverage for various cutting techniques while remaining manageable for carry and deployment.
• Blade Length: 5.25 inches: The length of the cutting edge is perfectly proportioned for both utility and defensive applications, offering a substantial reach without being cumbersome.
• Blade Thickness: 0.16 inches: This robust thickness ensures the blade's rigidity and strength, capable of withstanding lateral stress during prying or heavy chopping. It's a testament to the knife's structural integrity.
• Blade Description: Black: The black coating not only adds a tactical aesthetic but also provides an extra layer of protection against corrosion and reduces reflectivity, important for concealment or reducing glint in sunlight.
• Blade Grind: Flat: A flat grind means the blade tapers from the spine to the edge in a straight line, offering a strong, durable edge ideal for a wide range of cutting tasks, from slicing to chopping.
• Handle Description: Black Kraton G: The black Kraton G handle complements the blade, offering a cohesive and utilitarian appearance while providing superior grip and comfort.
• Weight: 6.40 ounces: This lightweight design makes the Ka-Bar 1256 comfortable for extended carry without weighing down your gear, yet it retains enough heft for effective chopping and controlled use.
• Width: 0.91 inches: The slim profile of the knife, particularly its handle, allows for comfortable carry and a secure grip for a variety of hand sizes.

The Mark of Quality: Made in the USA

The tang of the Ka-Bar 1256 is proudly stamped "USA," signifying its origin and adherence to high manufacturing standards. Ka-Bar Knives, Inc. has a storied history of producing exceptional tools for military personnel and civilians alike, and this "Made in the USA" designation is a powerful signal of:

• Uncompromising Quality Control: Products manufactured in the USA often adhere to stringent quality standards, ensuring each knife meets the brand's legendary reputation for durability and performance.
• Skilled Craftsmanship: Leveraging generations of knifemaking expertise, American artisans contribute to the precision and reliability of every Ka-Bar knife.
• Heritage and Trust: Investing in a "Made in the USA" Ka-Bar means acquiring a piece of American history, a tool trusted by those who serve and those who venture into the wild.

Always Prepared: The Included Leather Sheath

No fixed blade knife is complete without a reliable sheath, and the Ka-Bar 1256 comes equipped with a high-quality leather sheath.

• Secure Retention: The sheath is designed to securely hold the knife, preventing accidental loss during movement or activity.
• Durable Material: Leather is a classic, robust material that offers excellent protection for the blade while being resistant to wear and tear. It also forms to the knife over time, providing a custom fit.
• Convenient Carry: The sheath typically features a belt loop, allowing for comfortable and accessible carry on a belt or pack, ensuring the knife is always within reach when needed.

The inclusion of a well-made leather sheath underscores the Ka-Bar 1256's readiness for immediate deployment and long-term utility.

Who is the Ka-Bar 1256 For? Real-World Applications

The Ka-Bar 1256 is more than just a piece of metal and plastic; it's a solution for a myriad of practical needs.

• The Outdoor Adventurer: For campers, hikers, and bushcraft enthusiasts, this knife is an invaluable tool. It excels at tasks like preparing tinder and kindling, batoning small logs, cutting cordage, food preparation, and even basic shelter construction. "What fixed blade is recommended for a multi-day backpacking trip?" – the Ka-Bar 1256's balanced size and robust construction make it an excellent candidate.
• The Prepared Individual: In emergency or survival scenarios, a reliable knife is paramount. The 1256's durable 1095 Cro-Van blade and ergonomic Kraton G handle provide the confidence needed for critical tasks such as self-defense, fire starting (e.g., striking a ferro rod), and creating impromptu tools.
• The Hunting and Fishing Enthusiast: From processing game to preparing bait, the plain edge and sharp clip point make the 1256 an effective tool for field dressing and other outdoor activities.
• Everyday Utility and General Work: Beyond the wild, this knife is a capable companion for general utility around the home, farm, or workshop. Its strength and edge retention mean it can handle everything from cutting stubborn materials to opening packages with ease.
• Collectors and Enthusiasts of American Craftsmanship: As a smaller, civilian-focused iteration of the iconic Ka-Bar Fighting/Utility knife, the 1256 holds a special place for collectors. Its "Made in the USA" provenance and connection to a legendary lineage make it a highly desirable piece.

Investing in a Legacy: Where to Purchase Your Ka-Bar 1256

When considering the purchase of a high-quality, dependable tool like the Ka-Bar 1256 Fighting/Utility knife, it is essential to acquire it from a trusted and reputable source. For genuine Ka-Bar products and an exceptional shopping experience, consider DEGuns.com. As a premier provider of firearms and outdoor gear, DEGuns offers a wide selection of authentic Ka-Bar knives, including the renowned 1256 model. Their commitment to customer service, expert product knowledge, and secure purchasing process ensures you receive a legitimate, factory-new product ready for immediate use. Choosing DEGuns means investing in the quality of your gear with the confidence of reliable support.

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Ka-Bar 1256 Product Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Ka-Bar
Model	Fighting/Utility 1256
Overall Length	9.25 inches
Blade Material	1095 Cro-Van
Edge Type	Plain
Style	Fixed Blade
Blade Thickness	0.16 inches
Blade Description	Black
Blade Grind	Flat
Handle Material	Kraton G
Blade Length	5.25 inches
Blade Type	Clip Point
Handle Color	Black
Includes	Leather Sheath
Blade Hardness	56-58 HRC
Weight	6.40 ounces
SKU	13911
UPC	617717212567
MPN	1256