I read some of the comments and am a little surprised that people are forgetting, or don't know, that Horace Kephart was the original bushcrafter. He wrote the book on bushcrafting over 100 years ago. Everything that we use today for camping and bushcrafting can trace it's roots back to him. Because of Ethan Becker and KA-BAR we have the opportunity to buy a close reproduction of one of the first purpose built knives for camping and bushcrafting. Kephart was a loner but loved the area that he helped turn into the Great Smoky Mountians National Park. His knife was not designed to be pretty. It was designed for functionality. We all owe a bit of thanks to Horace Kephart for his outdoor skills and for writing it in a book we can all read.
@@QuantumMechanic_88 Your ancestors must not have amounted to shit then because we would have heard of them if they had accomplished anything legendary.
Sharp spines were brought about mainly for striking ferro rods and back in the day, ferro rods did not exist so a sharp spine was not necessary. I think Ethan Becker's goal was to create as close a copy as possible, even down to the walnut scales and it seems he did achieve his goal.
Agreed. I have no strong preference for sharp or not. Knife design is always evolving. Although a sharp spine can be used for other things like spoke shaving wood to fine finish, scraping animal hides without risking damage, or grinding fine tinder, a rounded spine is much more comfortable when spending considerable amounts of time doing the crafting part of bushcraft. Today we have nylon tents, fiberglass poles, titanium stakes, pack-able cook stoves, and folding saws. That's quite an advancement, considering Kephart would have been crafting suitable items for his shelter, food cooking, and tools. If you spend several hours crafting things like stakes, poles, tripods, pot hangers, bow saw frames, and tool handles, you quickly realize that a rounded well finished spine like on a Fiddleback Bushfinger is much less fatiguing than sharp spine knives. Anything I offer is all speculation, but I think the interesting questions are: "If ferrocerium rods were available to Kephart when he was alive, would his knife design specify a sharp spine?", or "If Kephart was here today and had all our modern equipment advancements, how would that effect his design?" Personally, I think the answer to both is found in a L.T. Wright Genesis with CPM3V, micarta scales, and a well finished rounded spine. Chose any grind you want. I like my scandi.
AGREED! In reading Kephart's books and his chapters on shelters and cabins and furnishings, it is likely that he used the spearpoint to start holes for carving joints and that he used a blade as a drawknife as well as for hunting and camp cooking chores. He needed the relieved spine for its comfort while shaving wood into dowels or planing slats and the like. In fire-starting, Kephart preferred to use matches. He admonishes readers that he refills his match safe every time he winds his watch.
After watching several reviews of this knife , it seems a lot of people are wanting a 90 spine , I believe that they are mistaken, if you carry a ferro rod you should carry a hacksaw blade striker it serves several purposes, The hacksaw blade striker can make an excellent spear point that grips game and it saws ferro rod particles nicely and it already has a hole in it right where you need it.. If you lost your striker you would also lose your ferro rod, there’s nothing wrong with using the blade of your knife, carefully done it works fine , but that being said it’s hard to beat a box of water proof matches ( my choice) Don’t ruin a good thing, that rounded spine is nice to the inside of you index finger when making detailed chest cuts, give it some thought...
I would agree on having a crowned spine. I'm not super inclined to sharpen an implement I intent to put force on with my fingers. I've cut my thumb on sharp spines. I've I need to scrape something. I use the spine of my folded silky saw and it works great.
The Kephart knife was designed and built at a time when only a general purpose knife was wanted and needed. Those are the type of knives which was used until recently when companies began pushing the survival/bushcraft knives which is sold today to many who don't need them and still use their knives for general purpose use.
Mine came in the mail today, a day earlier than expected, the fit and finish of the knife, sheath, and scales were perfect, the scales were the dark chocolate black walnut, the sheath was on par the the Condor sheaths and we all know those are top notch, although I did have to give a few swipes on the wet stone, I absolutely love it.
Well, the Condor Kephart does not totally suck. Smaller. The quality on mine was good. Sheath is good. Coating on the blade. Handle scales pinned. Not in the same league as the Kabar, but I paid $38 for it. Update. The big problem I had with mine was the edge grind was rough and the angles were uneven over the length of the blade. I corrected the problems but it took some time. I may get the BK 62 in the future.
But it's at least $70 less and you're happy with it and I heard Condor has a warranty on par with Esse...I have the bushlore and have no issues with mine as well.
As a traditionalist and field user I like mine very much, especially it's ergonomics and how it is a very nice production design that imo actually improves on the original Kephart design, (i.e.. the recessed screws instead of pins holding those nice walnut slabs in place.) I paid a little over $100.00 for a nib one about a year ago. I have paid way more for way less of knife before. Others may prefer other brands and designs? Good on them, variety is the spice of life. Everyone should always spend their own hard earned money on the products that they like. I most certainly do and always will. Pax
I like the idea of the removable scales. The fact that its carbon steel it is nice to be able to remove the scales to clean and oil to prevent rusting under the scales. Great review! I've had my BK62 for a couple of years and I think it's a great and practical bushcraft and camp knife. ATB Sam Adler from Vietnam
I completely disagree with a comment below. I appreciate the repeated points, tying it all together with an excellent conclusion at the end. I need to hear it a few times throughout. Thank you for the review Aaron. Please always continue to throw in the competitive options for the blades. I actually really love my JG5, and I am looking forward to taking it hiking and backpacking. (I have the 4HM too, you’re videos love my wallet)
This is probably one of the best Kephart replicas out there in the mass production space. I think when you start getting over $100 though, for a tool knife like for bushcraft and a hiking/camping companion, it's worth making do with a low cost beater and saving up the $200-$400 for a semi-custom hand made knife. I actually prefer the 4" blade and somewhat finer point on say, an LT Wright Genesis style. Also I generally like having scandi grind and a 90 degree spine on my bushcraft knives of course. This is really well made though and is true to the original Kephart design! Only thing I'd add if I was going to carry this, aside from a 90 degree spine is I think I'd put a drop loop on the sheath.
I bought one of these a year and a half ago. Paid around $130 for it. Much better than my Essee 4. Better ergonomics, holds an edge longer, even looks better. Neither work for striking a ferro rod due to rounded spines. My Benchmade Bushcrafter easily out performs the Essee and the Becker Kephart, but costs nearly twice as much. Still, I'm glad I bought the knife and really enjoy using it. I have noticed the fit and finish varies from knife to knife. My Becker Kephart is nearly perfect, but the first one I looked at had poorly milled handle scales and the finish on the blade was spotty.
Just want to say, great work GT. I'm just getting into a little day hiking and really enjoy watching channel and your honest reviews!! It's been a lot of help with trying to get the right gear for me. Keep up the good work!
No one on youtube seems to notice that the blade has a tapered tang from the handle to the butt (not just from the handle to the tip as mentioned in your video). This is HUGE! I don’t know of any factory made blades that are “distal” tapered. This is a massive perk usually only seen on high-end blades that are four times the price of the bk62.
@@majormasingil9961 it is a means of changing the balance of the blade in lieu of skeletonizing the tang. It is a more traditional and time intensive process.
👍 Good review. We must remember that Horace Kephart was a true old school woodsman. Which means his knife needed to perform a full range of knife tasks (fishing, hunting, food prep, and camp chores). This knife does all those well. Mr. Kephart also carried a small hatchet for chopping & splitting chores (as did Nessmuk). If you want a knife for mainly wood processing this may not be the best blade for you - it was never intended to be. If you want an affordable true Kephart this is a good choice. If you want a modern space age take on a Kephart there are other choices, but are they Kephart knives?
@@charlesmurphy7712 haha I’m reading Kephart’s book now (which is why I’m now researching the knife) and he literally mentions using this knife to cut and cook bacon!
@@kentroklus , I've read Mr Kepharts book ' Woodscraft and Camping. ' and I have also spent an inordinate amount of time studying this style knife .I chose to buy the Bark River Kephart CPM3V with black mycarta handels and red liners with an almost 6 inch blade. Yes I payed a premium price for my knife but before my purchase I contacted Bark River and talked to a sales representative about creating a Kephart knife with my personal modifications and specific needs of mine which I require from the knife . He was very helpful and accommodating in adding what I needed to my knife . I am of the opinion that Mr Horace Kephart was of the mind to use the very best of materials available to him at the time of his woodscrafting and exploring in the Great Smokie Mountains which led up to his support and hard work in making the area a National Park. In choosing the best options, materials, and knife maker , I feel I have honored this great adventurer and woodscrafting historian. My knife is fully everything I can and want from a lifetime friend and trusted tool. I hope you enjoyed his book and I hope you find helpful information which you may apply to today's world of woodcraft.
I own this knife. I have owned and read Kephart's classic Woodcraft and Camping 2 volume set. I have followed this design to the Tennesse custom knife maker, Glenn Brooks. Mr. Brooks used another of the knives Kephart commissioned to produce replicas for sale in the shop at Smokey Mountain National Park. Evidence from wear and resharpening on each of the two originals--Becker's and the museum at the park, shows Kephart used the 4.5-inch blade most of the time. Becker's original was kept in a drawer and seldom used. I have talked with Mr. Brooks, now eighty years old and still making fine custom knives. He will do a Kephart in a 4.5-inch blade, using modern (less rust-prone) steel and scales of your choice. I was really TEMPTED to go with his package. ON THIS REVIEW: it is one of the better ones about the Kephart design and the Ka-Bar make. The INFORMATION and the VIDEO IMAGES documenting how the package works are first-rate. I LEAST LIKE the sheath for its design: the leather and workmanship are very good...but the sheath does not follow the spear point structure of the blade. Kephart originally commissioned spearpoint sheathes for this knife.
The not sharp back of the knife is designed for more comfort when you do push cuts, which for most people is probably something they'll do more than lighting fires with a ferro rod.
Great review and it seems like a great blade. I would get one. I just wanted to point out that Bark River also makes a fantastic rendition of this iconic blade. I’m sure you know that already but I wasn’t positive. This model is most certainly less expensive than the BR model which is good for me as I can’t afford to buy BR all the time.
The 154 steel in the Blackbird is as brittle as glass. I had to send one back because it chipped several times while trying to cut a hemlock limb the size of a finger.
EBay has two sellers with the original Sk5 micarta version for $89 that's a very good deal for anyone's looking for a great knife. The SK 5 actually is very usable its now my only knife, it took a while but now I'm hooked..I used to hate full flat grinds and spear tips now it's my favorite. I don't use my Garberg or Strongarm its changed my whole opinion on function, its very weird but I love it. I also used to hate the flat scales but now its totally normal feeling and I have no issues using it.
Nice review Arron. Colclesser Bros made a 5” and 4” inch version of this knife. Kephart’s was the 4” version. The one Ethan got was the 5”. I purchased this knife as soon as I saw it, although I haven’t had a chance to use it yet. I’m hoping Ka-Bar will introduce the 4” version of this knife at some point. It would be nice to own a fairly accurate version of Kephart’s own knife just for the fun of working with a knife much lIke Kephart used daily.
I, too, would be really interested in a 4" version of this. You can see Ethan showing the original knife on YT vid "Blade Show 2017 with Ethan Becker's Original Kephart". In 2017 he hints at the knife which is being produced now.
I got the esee pr4 and had the same problem with the handles...so $100 knife became a $150 knife....good news I guess is I had grip tape on the handle so long the new scales fit snugly in the sheath. great little knife...now. wish I held off for this...the sk-5 would cost more for a sheath upgrade...thanks for the review
I only made it 2 minutes into your video and then I went and ordered one. I have been looking at this knife for a while compared to the one that Esee makes and I prefer this. Probably the first time in history Amazon actually had it cheaper than my local knife store so I ordered it. I have a Esee 6 but it's a bit too long and I wanted a shorter flat grind. Canada.
How would you compare this one with Ontario Bushcraft Field Knife? They look very similar (steel very different), though Ka-bar is twice as expensive. Ontario has so called 90° spine, but ugly sheath - I'd have a custom leather one made, which would jack up the price.
Question for you. I've watched many of your reviews of kabar becker knives. I like the prices versus most other brands. So if you had to chose one becker knife, for bushcrafting, survival, etc... as it would be the only knife you'll ever have again, which would you choose? I can't decide what to go with and I'm looking for an informed choice such as yours.
ka bar kephart saved my life once, was out hunting and my rifle jammed, this 500lb stag i was tracking got spooked and ran at me, barely dove out the way and got my shoulder torn open and dislocated my arm by its antler, on adrenaline i drew my kephart and pretty much tackled the stag and drove my knife into the stag, got it in the neck, i still cant lift my left arm higher than 45 degrees, but thats worth it just to be alive
For those who say this knife is “ugly,” Even Kephart stated in his book that “it is the ugliest knife I’ve seen, but it’s the best knife I’ve ever had.”
This lookis more like a design knife rather than bushkraft or survival knife since it needs much care after every single use. I would like to use it as butter knife in the morning. But even too expensive for that!🤔🙄
Not buchcraft. Evan Kephart and his contemporaries called it woodcraft. His book is called "Camping and WOODCRAFT". Not bushcraft, that's an Australian, African term. Wish people would get that right. I know, I know, freedom of speech. Just my peeve. Sorry
Great review, lots of good points made and loved the competitive options as well. I'll have to admit I thought you were going to cut yourself when you were talking at the end, remember that thing has an edge on it! Stay safe brother, see ya in the woods someday
Hi, I love my bk62, i love my bk2 and my bk16, I love my gen5 and I have the four knives 😁 US made knives are very good. Sorry for my english, i'm french speaking 😉
I saw another review of this knife that said it was convex on both sides, with thickest part in the middle. Take that with a grain of salt though, not an expert
The point is the tensile strength of these screws is more than 2000lbs each way more than brass pins, another point is they come off so you can change the scales or clean under them to remove corrosion if its gotten wet, however there is no need change them imo, the walnut is beautiful.
@@denofearthundertheeverlast5138 That's well and good, but what about brass pins and epoxy or steel pins and epoxy? I doubt if anyone uses just pins without some sort of adhesive these days- I never have when building a knife. Using epoxy also totally prevents any moisture from getting under the scales....and what possibly is going to incur those kind of shearing forces to your knife? I still think removable scales are some sort of fad. I guess being able to change them out is a good thing, but in the meantime you have the possibility of corrosion and bacteria and crud under your scales.
This is a tough knife but Kephart would have been carrying a hawk/ax because he was a woodsman. Not to be confused with almost anybody you might care to name today who are basically urban types liable to kill themselves with such a device no matter what they may claim or think about themselves.
Reading Kephart now and he carried both this knife (for finer camp chores) as well as a hatchet, which he also describes in detail. As I mentioned in another comment, he mentions using this knife for cutting and cooking bacon and stirring a pot, a few things that might be troublesome with a hatchet. But make no mistake: Kephart states in NO UNCERTAIN TERMS that every woodsman should carry a good and well selected hatchet.
Good review! I personally don’t like wood handles. Slippery don’t hold up in wet conditions. I like using Scandi grinds but hate sharpening them. Good classic knife.
I appreciate you and your channel. But, please take the following as constructive critique. You repeat yourself a lot! Please consider that it makes it challenging to watch. You do a great job of pointing out valid points, you just repeat those points over and over. Say it once and move on. Just an observation from someone who has been a fan for awhile.
Old school orators would say "I'm going to tell you what I'm going to tell you, then I'll tell you, then I'll tell you what I told you." Repetition is the king of learning.
Charles Collier Guess that would be fine if I was 12. Know a little about successful learning, as I hold a professional license and two graduate degrees. Few folks like a 5 min conversation shoved into 15 minutes. Overly long winded is just that.
i fucking hate people who think "oh, needs a 90 degree spine, needs this, needs that" no it bloody does not, it is a perfectly good bush craft knife without those things, people who rely on the knife to do every single task is a prepper not a bush crafter
I've already made my mind up...I'm getting one for Christmas, all my money is going on this for me....sorry mom and dad, sis and niece and nephew and cousins.
Because the English language is a hot mess. That's why I think it's the most interesting language out there. Here's a helpful video on the topic: th-cam.com/video/tBUzngDUOnk/w-d-xo.html
I’ve been in the outdoors industry for a long time, and I’ve never heard anyone pronounce it other than Kep-hart or sometimes Kep-art. I’m not saying you’re wrong about the pronunciation, but if you call him Key-fart in a guide camp you’ll get a bunch of confused looks.
like the Bark River MUCH better KB/Becker still uses steel / heat treats from the dark ages. This wouldnt be so bad for "budget" people if it cost what it is worth 25-35 bucks. Semper Fi Gunny
As much as I disagree with your view of steels and price points, that’s not really the issue here. It’s just that you’re missing the point of this knife. It’s made to be as close to the original as possible. Same/similar steel, handle material, soft sedge/overall blade, tapered tang, logo, handle shape and contour, balance point, etc. There are plenty of other modern, and expensive, takes on this design with new and, subjectively, better materials (like Bark River’s). But that’s not what Kabar and Ethan Becker are trying to do with this. Also, It’s certainly naive to expect such a low price for this knife.
@@Dynotop1a Then you never owned a good knife. With KB /Becker you pay for a name (brand) not quality. Wierd how "becker heads" will defend this overpriced garbage to the death. Cro Van is OLD tech steel from 1827. 1095 is junk.Costs nothing. I clearly stated "I like" No need to come here and troll badly because you cant afford good stuff. KB/becker is NO better than Mora..EXCEPT Mora charges what stuff is worth...10-15 bucks. This heap isnt even convex. No retort needed,kid (look that word up) Reply (if) you ever get a good knife or at least something not over priced for sub par quality. "I EDC" a real kephart th-cam.com/video/ceFBQ3WB9HQ/w-d-xo.html *Edit, I find it odd how budget guys get offended by those of us that like and use good stuff. Cro-van is nothing special.At all. Its crappy old rusty 1095. If this knife said Condor or Mora or kershaw it would be 25 bucks max. Semper Fi Gunny **He does NOT agree that 1095 is tech /steel from hundreds of years ago.This is dumb todays kids are learm about PM steels
@@PerceptionVsReality333 Even 50 is rough for 1095 with a junk handle...I would not say anything about 50 though. But yea, 100+ is insane. Just paying for a name that is not even good these days. Maybe this worked in 1980- 1995. With CPM 3V and all the various PM super steels,how does ANYONE get old viking/pirate,dark ages steel. No less at super high prices. Mora could make this knife for 35 bucks or less
The original is no longer in production. Ethan Becker bought one of only two known originals, liked it, and decided it needed to be put back into production. It’s called the Kephart because Kabar/Ethan Becker recognizes it as his design. The model number, BK62, is in reference to Horace Kephart’s birthday (1862). The shape of the logo on the side of the blade is an homage to the original’s Colclesser Brother’s. Colclesser being the company who originally produced this knife. The entire thing is made to recreate an old classic and give it a second chance in production. No I’ll intentions. Saying this is a copy with a negative connotation is equivalent to doing the same for any Bowie knife.
@@Dynotop1a yes yer right....except most Bowies aren't direct copies. Seems like Americans will make an excuse for Americans to break the rules that they want no one else to break. And chastise anyone else who does.
@Randy Yeager actually Ethan sought, and received, the approval from Libby Kephart Hargrave, the great granddaughter of Horace. He also mentioned he plans to have his original donated to the Kephart museum after he’s (long) gone. So maybe do a bit of googling before you disparage him? Plus, it’s a 100+ year old design, I’m pretty sure the patents for Kepharts designs are long gone...
This knife is a copy of a 100 year old design. Back then how a knife looked was not important. How it functioned is what mattered....they were just tools.
I think spear point blades have a cool look about them. I never understood why so many people think spear points are ugly. Yeah, it's not as pretty as a Bill Bagwell fighting bowie (the Cadillac of bowie knives) but it has a simple elegance about it.
I read some of the comments and am a little surprised that people are forgetting, or don't know, that Horace Kephart was the original bushcrafter. He wrote the book on bushcrafting over 100 years ago. Everything that we use today for camping and bushcrafting can trace it's roots back to him. Because of Ethan Becker and KA-BAR we have the opportunity to buy a close reproduction of one of the first purpose built knives for camping and bushcrafting. Kephart was a loner but loved the area that he helped turn into the Great Smoky Mountians National Park. His knife was not designed to be pretty. It was designed for functionality. We all owe a bit of thanks to Horace Kephart for his outdoor skills and for writing it in a book we can all read.
I thought the original bushcrafter was the white guy pretending to be an Indian in last of the Mohicans film.
My ancestors were around long before Kephart and explored and settled the west . They weren't "bushcrafters" . They were outdoorsmen and hunters .
ive seen people compare this knife to extrema ratio, which is bullshit, the kephart is purpose built, the extrema ratio knives are art pieces that cut
@@QuantumMechanic_88 I never heard of them
@@QuantumMechanic_88 Your ancestors must not have amounted to shit then because we would have heard of them if they had accomplished anything legendary.
Sharp spines were brought about mainly for striking ferro rods and back in the day, ferro rods did not exist so a sharp spine was not necessary. I think Ethan Becker's goal was to create as close a copy as possible, even down to the walnut scales and it seems he did achieve his goal.
Agreed. I have no strong preference for sharp or not. Knife design is always evolving. Although a sharp spine can be used for other things like spoke shaving wood to fine finish, scraping animal hides without risking damage, or grinding fine tinder, a rounded spine is much more comfortable when spending considerable amounts of time doing the crafting part of bushcraft. Today we have nylon tents, fiberglass poles, titanium stakes, pack-able cook stoves, and folding saws. That's quite an advancement, considering Kephart would have been crafting suitable items for his shelter, food cooking, and tools. If you spend several hours crafting things like stakes, poles, tripods, pot hangers, bow saw frames, and tool handles, you quickly realize that a rounded well finished spine like on a Fiddleback Bushfinger is much less fatiguing than sharp spine knives. Anything I offer is all speculation, but I think the interesting questions are: "If ferrocerium rods were available to Kephart when he was alive, would his knife design specify a sharp spine?", or "If Kephart was here today and had all our modern equipment advancements, how would that effect his design?" Personally, I think the answer to both is found in a L.T. Wright Genesis with CPM3V, micarta scales, and a well finished rounded spine. Chose any grind you want. I like my scandi.
Hmmm, it is sometimes useful for scraping if you want to save the edge. I use it that way, more often then ferro rods.
I don't own a ferro rod but use my sharp spine for scraping. How would you get the bark off a stick while saving your edge?
@@duybear4023 I always have more than one knife.
AGREED! In reading Kephart's books and his chapters on shelters and cabins and furnishings, it is likely that he used the spearpoint to start holes for carving joints and that he used a blade as a drawknife as well as for hunting and camp cooking chores. He needed the relieved spine for its comfort while shaving wood into dowels or planing slats and the like. In fire-starting, Kephart preferred to use matches. He admonishes readers that he refills his match safe every time he winds his watch.
It's the ultimate butter knife. This well be staying in my kitchen for life.
After watching several reviews of this knife , it seems a lot of people are wanting a 90 spine , I believe that they are mistaken, if you carry a ferro rod you should carry a hacksaw blade striker it serves several purposes,
The hacksaw blade striker can make an excellent spear point that grips game and it saws ferro rod particles nicely and it already has a hole in it right where you need it..
If you lost your striker you would also lose your ferro rod, there’s nothing wrong with using the blade of your knife, carefully done it works fine , but that being said it’s hard to beat a box of water proof matches ( my choice)
Don’t ruin a good thing, that rounded spine is nice to the inside of you index finger when making detailed chest cuts, give it some thought...
I would agree on having a crowned spine. I'm not super inclined to sharpen an implement I intent to put force on with my fingers. I've cut my thumb on sharp spines. I've I need to scrape something. I use the spine of my folded silky saw and it works great.
The Kephart knife was designed and built at a time when only a general purpose knife was wanted and needed. Those are the type of knives which was used until recently when companies began pushing the survival/bushcraft knives which is sold today to many who don't need them and still use their knives for general purpose use.
Mine came in the mail today, a day earlier than expected, the fit and finish of the knife, sheath, and scales were perfect, the scales were the dark chocolate black walnut, the sheath was on par the the Condor sheaths and we all know those are top notch, although I did have to give a few swipes on the wet stone, I absolutely love it.
Well, the Condor Kephart does not totally suck. Smaller. The quality on mine was good. Sheath is good. Coating on the blade. Handle scales pinned. Not in the same league as the Kabar, but I paid $38 for it. Update. The big problem I had with mine was the edge grind was rough and the angles were uneven over the length of the blade. I corrected the problems but it took some time. I may get the BK 62 in the future.
Personally the soft tempered 1075 has gotten on my nerves. This one holds an edge really well and hasn't had any chips or rolls
But it's at least $70 less and you're happy with it and I heard Condor has a warranty on par with Esse...I have the bushlore and have no issues with mine as well.
I have both both nice
condor have hit or miss heat treat, sometimes its perfect, but most of the time a butter knife is better
As a traditionalist and field user I like mine very much, especially it's ergonomics and how it is a very nice production design that imo actually improves on the original Kephart design, (i.e.. the recessed screws instead of pins holding those nice walnut slabs in place.)
I paid a little over $100.00 for a nib one about a year ago. I have paid way more for way less of knife before.
Others may prefer other brands and designs? Good on them, variety is the spice of life.
Everyone should always spend their own hard earned money on the products that they like.
I most certainly do and always will.
Pax
I totally agree with you Steve!
I like the idea of the removable scales. The fact that its carbon steel it is nice to be able to remove the scales to clean and oil to prevent rusting under the scales. Great review! I've had my BK62 for a couple of years and I think it's a great and practical bushcraft and camp knife.
ATB Sam Adler from Vietnam
So do I😉😉👍
Another nice thing about screws in handle, is if you have large hands.
You could add spacing to fit your hand.
However, if you do, get longer screws.
By far, one of my most favorite fixed blade knives.
I completely disagree with a comment below. I appreciate the repeated points, tying it all together with an excellent conclusion at the end. I need to hear it a few times throughout. Thank you for the review Aaron. Please always continue to throw in the competitive options for the blades. I actually really love my JG5, and I am looking forward to taking it hiking and backpacking. (I have the 4HM too, you’re videos love my wallet)
Horace Kephart also contributed a lot to creating the Smoky Mountain National Park.
This is probably one of the best Kephart replicas out there in the mass production space. I think when you start getting over $100 though, for a tool knife like for bushcraft and a hiking/camping companion, it's worth making do with a low cost beater and saving up the $200-$400 for a semi-custom hand made knife. I actually prefer the 4" blade and somewhat finer point on say, an LT Wright Genesis style. Also I generally like having scandi grind and a 90 degree spine on my bushcraft knives of course. This is really well made though and is true to the original Kephart design! Only thing I'd add if I was going to carry this, aside from a 90 degree spine is I think I'd put a drop loop on the sheath.
I bought one of these a year and a half ago. Paid around $130 for it. Much better than my Essee 4. Better ergonomics, holds an edge longer, even looks better. Neither work for striking a ferro rod due to rounded spines. My Benchmade Bushcrafter easily out performs the Essee and the Becker Kephart, but costs nearly twice as much. Still, I'm glad I bought the knife and really enjoy using it. I have noticed the fit and finish varies from knife to knife. My Becker Kephart is nearly perfect, but the first one I looked at had poorly milled handle scales and the finish on the blade was spotty.
Just want to say, great work GT. I'm just getting into a little day hiking and really enjoy watching channel and your honest reviews!! It's been a lot of help with trying to get the right gear for me. Keep up the good work!
jeremy gasiorowski super glad to hear that!
Original Kephart knives sold to the public were available with either 4" or 5" blades. Good to see Ka-Bar going with the longer version.
Hopefully this sells well enough they'll make both
I ve almost clicked that button and filled off an inch:(
No one on youtube seems to notice that the blade has a tapered tang from the handle to the butt (not just from the handle to the tip as mentioned in your video). This is HUGE! I don’t know of any factory made blades that are “distal” tapered. This is a massive perk usually only seen on high-end blades that are four times the price of the bk62.
Got to agree - super nice!
Yep. If reviewers would make light of those features their audience would understand the higher cost.
What advantage does the distal tapred tang provide?
@@majormasingil9961 it is a means of changing the balance of the blade in lieu of skeletonizing the tang. It is a more traditional and time intensive process.
casstrom safari mini (Alan Woods design) has a tapered tang towards the back of the handle.
👍 Good review. We must remember that Horace Kephart was a true old school woodsman. Which means his knife needed to perform a full range of knife tasks (fishing, hunting, food prep, and camp chores). This knife does all those well. Mr. Kephart also carried a small hatchet for chopping & splitting chores (as did Nessmuk). If you want a knife for mainly wood processing this may not be the best blade for you - it was never intended to be. If you want an affordable true Kephart this is a good choice. If you want a modern space age take on a Kephart there are other choices, but are they Kephart knives?
The ultimate test~ how does it spread peanut butter and jelly sandwiches?
Better to bring a butter knife for that one. 😆
Makes a perfect tomato 🍅 samich! And pretty much a good PBJ. Used it on slab bacon ,not bad there either.
@@charlesmurphy7712 haha I’m reading Kephart’s book now (which is why I’m now researching the knife) and he literally mentions using this knife to cut and cook bacon!
@@kentroklus , I've read Mr Kepharts book ' Woodscraft and Camping. ' and I have also spent an inordinate amount of time studying this style knife .I chose to buy the Bark River Kephart CPM3V with black mycarta handels and red liners with an almost 6 inch blade. Yes I payed a premium price for my knife but before my purchase I contacted Bark River and talked to a sales representative about creating a Kephart knife with my personal modifications and specific needs of mine which I require from the knife . He was very helpful and accommodating in adding what I needed to my knife . I am of the opinion that Mr Horace Kephart was of the mind to use the very best of materials available to him at the time of his woodscrafting and exploring in the Great Smokie Mountains which led up to his support and hard work in making the area a National Park.
In choosing the best options, materials, and knife maker , I feel I have honored this great adventurer and woodscrafting historian.
My knife is fully everything I can and want from a lifetime friend and trusted tool.
I hope you enjoyed his book and I hope you find helpful information which you may apply to today's world of woodcraft.
I own this knife. I have owned and read Kephart's classic Woodcraft and Camping 2 volume set. I have followed this design to the Tennesse custom knife maker, Glenn Brooks. Mr. Brooks used another of the knives Kephart commissioned to produce replicas for sale in the shop at Smokey Mountain National Park. Evidence from wear and resharpening on each of the two originals--Becker's and the museum at the park, shows Kephart used the 4.5-inch blade most of the time. Becker's original was kept in a drawer and seldom used. I have talked with Mr. Brooks, now eighty years old and still making fine custom knives. He will do a Kephart in a 4.5-inch blade, using modern (less rust-prone) steel and scales of your choice. I was really TEMPTED to go with his package. ON THIS REVIEW: it is one of the better ones about the Kephart design and the Ka-Bar make. The INFORMATION and the VIDEO IMAGES documenting how the package works are first-rate. I LEAST LIKE the sheath for its design: the leather and workmanship are very good...but the sheath does not follow the spear point structure of the blade. Kephart originally commissioned spearpoint sheathes for this knife.
The not sharp back of the knife is designed for more comfort when you do push cuts, which for most people is probably something they'll do more than lighting fires with a ferro rod.
Surprised no one has reviewed the LTWK Gen 5 Sabre. If you like the BK62, I think you'd love the Gen5
A while back SWA points got me the BK62 and BK-2 for little points. Great review Sir. My Malanika Puukko in MagnaCut on the other hand. One year wait.
Great review and it seems like a great blade. I would get one. I just wanted to point out that Bark River also makes a fantastic rendition of this iconic blade. I’m sure you know that already but I wasn’t positive. This model is most certainly less expensive than the BR model which is good for me as I can’t afford to buy BR all the time.
The 154 steel in the Blackbird is as brittle as glass. I had to send one back because it chipped several times while trying to cut a hemlock limb the size of a finger.
You must have gotten a lemon.....mine is excellent
Simple and beautfull designed bushcraft knife ! Great video !!
Very Cool Ka-Bar Becker BK62 knife !!!!!!!!!! Thanks for showing it, Aaron
EBay has two sellers with the original Sk5 micarta version for $89 that's a very good deal for anyone's looking for a great knife.
The SK 5 actually is very usable its now my only knife, it took a while but now I'm hooked..I used to hate full flat grinds and spear tips now it's my favorite. I don't use my Garberg or Strongarm its changed my whole opinion on function, its very weird but I love it.
I also used to hate the flat scales but now its totally normal feeling and I have no issues using it.
How does this slice for Bushcraft, skinning and feather sticking compared to the bk 19?
Sure is cool. Have you seen the new L.T. Wright Illuminous 5 ? Salivating over that.
John Grytbakk hell yeah I would spend my money on that knife for sure in 3v
Nice review Arron. Colclesser Bros made a 5” and 4” inch version of this knife. Kephart’s was the 4” version. The one Ethan got was the 5”. I purchased this knife as soon as I saw it, although I haven’t had a chance to use it yet. I’m hoping Ka-Bar will introduce the 4” version of this knife at some point. It would be nice to own a fairly accurate version of Kephart’s own knife just for the fun of working with a knife much lIke Kephart used daily.
I, too, would be really interested in a 4" version of this. You can see Ethan showing the original knife on YT vid "Blade Show 2017 with Ethan Becker's Original Kephart". In 2017 he hints at the knife which is being produced now.
Old Hickory has their own version of the Kephart knife now. Any plans to review it in the future?
I got the esee pr4 and had the same problem with the handles...so $100 knife became a $150 knife....good news I guess is I had grip tape on the handle so long the new scales fit snugly in the sheath. great little knife...now. wish I held off for this...the sk-5 would cost more for a sheath upgrade...thanks for the review
I wouldn't spend that much $$$ on a knife.
@@PerceptionVsReality333 that's ok
I love the knife, but why do most knife makers not offer a left-hand sheath?
It’s only 10% of the population so they must think it’s not with the investment
@@gideonstactical true.
Left handed people are back to front and shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near something with a sharp edge! Crayons are ambidextrous though 😜.
I only made it 2 minutes into your video and then I went and ordered one. I have been looking at this knife for a while compared to the one that Esee makes and I prefer this. Probably the first time in history Amazon actually had it cheaper than my local knife store so I ordered it. I have a Esee 6 but it's a bit too long and I wanted a shorter flat grind. Canada.
Had one of these on my wish list! Thanks for the review 👍!
I was hoping you would review this lol.... awesome...I need one !!
How would you compare this one with Ontario Bushcraft Field Knife? They look very similar (steel very different), though Ka-bar is twice as expensive. Ontario has so called 90° spine, but ugly sheath - I'd have a custom leather one made, which would jack up the price.
It’s a great kitchen prep knife skinny blade
Thanks for the review! It's a great looking knife!
Thanks Aaron! Been hoping you would check this knife out. Looks good. Still waiting to find out about that chest rig.
Chest rig looks like the 511 gear set rig. I got mine at a 511 store here in Denver.
Question for you. I've watched many of your reviews of kabar becker knives. I like the prices versus most other brands. So if you had to chose one becker knife, for bushcrafting, survival, etc... as it would be the only knife you'll ever have again, which would you choose? I can't decide what to go with and I'm looking for an informed choice such as yours.
I chose the becker kephart and have no regrets
I truly like this knife, but, it's not enough of a knife to pull me away from my BK-16 as my "go-to".
How come no prepper on TH-cam has ever tested a 5.11 CFK7 knife. You should do it, please!
th-cam.com/video/J6ojuTiIipY/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/v_eg8ZEOUME/w-d-xo.html
Interested in your opinion regarding the All Missions Rig
Check out the condor one i love mine
ka bar kephart saved my life once, was out hunting and my rifle jammed, this 500lb stag i was tracking got spooked and ran at me, barely dove out the way and got my shoulder torn open and dislocated my arm by its antler, on adrenaline i drew my kephart and pretty much tackled the stag and drove my knife into the stag, got it in the neck, i still cant lift my left arm higher than 45 degrees, but thats worth it just to be alive
😂
Next on Tales of Hunting With Dumbasses . . .
Original was double convex like a dagger
Bought the Ontario knife a while back and immediately returned it the handle was very uncomfortable. I knew right away I would not use the knife.
Dammit. I guess that’s another Amazon box I’ve got to intercept before my girlfriend sees it. Great review, man!
I wear extra large gloves Aaron is this going to be a little small for me ?
The original is still made here in Massachusetts by Dexter Russell
For those who say this knife is “ugly,”
Even Kephart stated in his book that “it is the ugliest knife I’ve seen, but it’s the best knife I’ve ever had.”
Wish it had a lanyard hole.
This lookis more like a design knife rather than bushkraft or survival knife since it needs much care after every single use. I would like to use it as butter knife in the morning. But even too expensive for that!🤔🙄
I think I will get one now maybe try some old school bushcraft. 🤔
Thank you awesome video
Aaron, very nice video! which it better between the BK62 or the Esee PR4? In general terms, if you had to stay one of us. Greetings from Argentina.
He said the BK62
Thanks for the share.
Not buchcraft. Evan Kephart and his contemporaries called it woodcraft. His book is called "Camping and WOODCRAFT". Not bushcraft, that's an Australian, African term. Wish people would get that right. I know, I know, freedom of speech. Just my peeve. Sorry
Beautiful design. Good review.
Great review, lots of good points made and loved the competitive options as well. I'll have to admit I thought you were going to cut yourself when you were talking at the end, remember that thing has an edge on it! Stay safe brother, see ya in the woods someday
Hi, I love my bk62, i love my bk2 and my bk16, I love my gen5 and I have the four knives 😁 US made knives are very good. Sorry for my english, i'm french speaking 😉
It’s an Ontario Blackbird, with a bit of bulge in the belly. Which isnt a bad thing.
or the ontario blackbird was copied off the kephart...as this design was around before the blackbird.
Randy Yeager - Sure was. As I said. Not a bad thing.
Have a Blackbird......prefer its steel over 1095 ....think I will get one anyway.
Does this knife come in 4 in. length?
Did the original have a full flat grind?
I saw another review of this knife that said it was convex on both sides, with thickest part in the middle. Take that with a grain of salt though, not an expert
Does anyone else think that removable handle scales are bogus? I don't see the point.
The point is the tensile strength of these screws is more than 2000lbs each way more than brass pins, another point is they come off so you can change the scales or clean under them to remove corrosion if its gotten wet, however there is no need change them imo, the walnut is beautiful.
@@denofearthundertheeverlast5138 That's well and good, but what about brass pins and epoxy or steel pins and epoxy? I doubt if anyone uses just pins without some sort of adhesive these days- I never have when building a knife. Using epoxy also totally prevents any moisture from getting under the scales....and what possibly is going to incur those kind of shearing forces to your knife? I still think removable scales are some sort of fad. I guess being able to change them out is a good thing, but in the meantime you have the possibility of corrosion and bacteria and crud under your scales.
Damn…I actually agree with both of you! 🤣
Very good review and demonstration.
Its 162 in 2024 :( its worth it. But imma want micarta and kydex
This is a tough knife but Kephart would have been carrying a hawk/ax because he was a woodsman. Not to be confused with almost anybody you might care to name today who are basically urban types liable to kill themselves with such a device no matter what they may claim or think about themselves.
Reading Kephart now and he carried both this knife (for finer camp chores) as well as a hatchet, which he also describes in detail. As I mentioned in another comment, he mentions using this knife for cutting and cooking bacon and stirring a pot, a few things that might be troublesome with a hatchet. But make no mistake: Kephart states in NO UNCERTAIN TERMS that every woodsman should carry a good and well selected hatchet.
Does anyone know what brand the chest rig is ? Thanks
I don’t think this knife warrants the price tag that it does. It’s not my first choice either.
I'll stick with my BK16 and AZWELKE sheath.
Good review! I personally don’t like wood handles. Slippery don’t hold up in wet conditions. I like using Scandi grinds but hate sharpening them. Good classic knife.
Like the kephart design hate the plastic insert and the dull spine
I appreciate you and your channel. But, please take the following as constructive critique. You repeat yourself a lot! Please consider that it makes it challenging to watch. You do a great job of pointing out valid points, you just repeat those points over and over. Say it once and move on. Just an observation from someone who has been a fan for awhile.
Old school orators would say "I'm going to tell you what I'm going to tell you, then I'll tell you, then I'll tell you what I told you."
Repetition is the king of learning.
Charles Collier
Guess that would be fine if I was 12.
Know a little about successful learning, as I hold a professional license and two graduate degrees. Few folks like a 5 min conversation shoved into 15 minutes. Overly long winded is just that.
@@lancevaughn5337 Repetition is king for adult learners too. Just to reiterate...lol
Charles Collier
On second thought, you might be right! Lol
How would it do as a
Murder weapon? Asking for a friend
Excellent question! I just ordered one. I'll keep ya posted.
i fucking hate people who think "oh, needs a 90 degree spine, needs this, needs that" no it bloody does not, it is a perfectly good bush craft knife without those things, people who rely on the knife to do every single task is a prepper not a bush crafter
Nice review, the handle looks amazing, KISS principle, NICE
beautiful knife but the screws butchered it for me plus the knife costs over 200 bucks now. Ridiculous
Good review Aaron. It certainly is a cool knife and would make a good skinner as well as for bush crafting.
Why is Tom the n every ad
I've already made my mind up...I'm getting one for Christmas, all my money is going on this for me....sorry mom and dad, sis and niece and nephew and cousins.
Hahaha! You’re giving them the gift of happiness. You’re happiness. They want you to be happy, right? 🤣👍🏼
Why does everyone call it KEP HART,
when ph makes F.
KEPHART. (KEE-FERT)
Because the English language is a hot mess. That's why I think it's the most interesting language out there. Here's a helpful video on the topic:
th-cam.com/video/tBUzngDUOnk/w-d-xo.html
I’ve been in the outdoors industry for a long time, and I’ve never heard anyone pronounce it other than Kep-hart or sometimes Kep-art. I’m not saying you’re wrong about the pronunciation, but if you call him Key-fart in a guide camp you’ll get a bunch of confused looks.
@@kentroklus xD
@@kentroklus yeh, I was confused cus I have a friend who's sirname is Kephart but they pronounce it 'Keefert' ?
Have a great day!
I just call it "The Kepper" and I always try to say it like the bad guy in Lethal Weapon 2.
You got a heck of a deal! It looks like an ideal knife for processing games (maybe not fish). Good review!
$130 for walnut? I’d bite for burgundy micarta.
like the Bark River MUCH better
KB/Becker still uses steel / heat treats from the dark ages.
This wouldnt be so bad for "budget" people if it cost what it is worth 25-35 bucks.
Semper Fi
Gunny
As much as I disagree with your view of steels and price points, that’s not really the issue here. It’s just that you’re missing the point of this knife.
It’s made to be as close to the original as possible. Same/similar steel, handle material, soft sedge/overall blade, tapered tang, logo, handle shape and contour, balance point, etc.
There are plenty of other modern, and expensive, takes on this design with new and, subjectively, better materials (like Bark River’s).
But that’s not what Kabar and Ethan Becker are trying to do with this. Also, It’s certainly naive to expect such a low price for this knife.
@@Dynotop1a Then you never owned a good knife.
With KB /Becker you pay for a name (brand) not quality.
Wierd how "becker heads" will defend this overpriced garbage to the death.
Cro Van is OLD tech steel from 1827.
1095 is junk.Costs nothing.
I clearly stated "I like"
No need to come here and troll badly because you cant afford good stuff.
KB/becker is NO better than Mora..EXCEPT Mora charges what stuff is worth...10-15 bucks.
This heap isnt even convex.
No retort needed,kid (look that word up)
Reply (if) you ever get a good knife or at least something not over priced for sub par quality.
"I EDC" a real kephart
th-cam.com/video/ceFBQ3WB9HQ/w-d-xo.html
*Edit, I find it odd how budget guys get offended by those of us that like and use good stuff.
Cro-van is nothing special.At all.
Its crappy old rusty 1095.
If this knife said Condor or Mora or kershaw it would be 25 bucks max.
Semper Fi
Gunny
**He does NOT agree that 1095 is tech /steel from hundreds of years ago.This is dumb todays kids are
learm about PM steels
@@BOOSTEDLASER
IMO this Ka-Bar BK62 should be at $50-$60 at most $75.
@@PerceptionVsReality333 Even 50 is rough for 1095 with a junk handle...I would not say anything about 50 though. But yea, 100+ is insane. Just paying for a name that is not even good these days. Maybe this worked in 1980- 1995. With CPM 3V and all the various PM super steels,how does ANYONE get old viking/pirate,dark ages steel. No less at super high prices. Mora could make this knife for 35 bucks or less
@@BOOSTEDLASER
Yeah it is overpriced for 1095CV.
What style of Blade is that?
Looks like a spearpoint.
Just wish the screws were stainless
Bark River Kephart and mini Kephart are the best clones on the market imo.
Look into Dogwood Custom Knives. Highly recommend.
Does anybody else think that the Kephart knife looks a lot like the Green River Knife?
I like the bk16 better. Wouldn’t waste my time here. I like the Eder 4 better so why even look at this?
That’s esee 4
Why not? I carry the Essee 4 or a Mora HD companion but it's still fun to look.
Less introduction on what you gonna do in the video would save the viewer some time.
Handel is skinny
Yeah yeah you and your dam large gloves
so stole the design from Kephart, then called it Kephart. So this one is fine for china to copy...or no?
The original is no longer in production. Ethan Becker bought one of only two known originals, liked it, and decided it needed to be put back into production. It’s called the Kephart because Kabar/Ethan Becker recognizes it as his design. The model number, BK62, is in reference to Horace Kephart’s birthday (1862). The shape of the logo on the side of the blade is an homage to the original’s Colclesser Brother’s. Colclesser being the company who originally produced this knife.
The entire thing is made to recreate an old classic and give it a second chance in production.
No I’ll intentions.
Saying this is a copy with a negative connotation is equivalent to doing the same for any Bowie knife.
@@Dynotop1a yes yer right....except most Bowies aren't direct copies. Seems like Americans will make an excuse for Americans to break the rules that they want no one else to break. And chastise anyone else who does.
I'm guessing kephart still has family alive, and I bet they weren't asked or even paid to use his design.
@Randy Yeager actually Ethan sought, and received, the approval from Libby Kephart Hargrave, the great granddaughter of Horace. He also mentioned he plans to have his original donated to the Kephart museum after he’s (long) gone. So maybe do a bit of googling before you disparage him?
Plus, it’s a 100+ year old design, I’m pretty sure the patents for Kepharts designs are long gone...
@@Aikiguy07 I'd like to see proof of that.
sk-5 blackbird rules
Fugly knife. Not saying its not well constructed or practical, just saying it's not aesthetically pleasing. Just my opinion of course.
This knife is a copy of a 100 year old design. Back then how a knife looked was not important. How it functioned is what mattered....they were just tools.
@@MattP-BandB No shit Sherlock. I watched the video professor. Thanks for that captian obvious. Have a nice day.
@@jdevilist No need to be a dick but then, you probably can't help it.
I think spear point blades have a cool look about them. I never understood why so many people think spear points are ugly. Yeah, it's not as pretty as a Bill Bagwell fighting bowie (the Cadillac of bowie knives) but it has a simple elegance about it.
@@BigDaddySwingingMeat Elegance??? Really???😂
No one said it yet? Ok I say: it's ugly!