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KA-BAR Knives: The Most Famous Military Knife in the World — Still Made in Olean, New York Since 1898

KA-BAR's story begins in 1898 in Tidioute, Pennsylvania, where a group of craftsmen established the Tidioute Cutlery Company. The company relocated to Olean, New York, in 1912 — the heart of what was then the most concentrated cutlery manufacturing region in America. The KA-BAR trademark was adopted in the 1920s, inspired by a fur trapper's barely-legible testimonial about using his knife to "k a bar" — kill a bear. The name stuck. In 1942, the United States Marine Corps adopted the KA-BAR Fighting/Utility Knife as standard issue — beginning an eight-decade relationship with the American military that continues today. Veterans carried their KA-BARs through Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Today, as a subsidiary of Cutco Corporation and based at 200 Homer Street in Olean, KA-BAR produces over 100 knives including the original USMC design alongside the Becker, Dozier, TDI, EK Commando, and Jarosz series. Knifeworks is an authorized KA-BAR dealer.


Ka-Bar

  • Authorized KA-BAR Dealer — Listed on ka-bar.com
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty — Every knife backed by KA-BAR's factory warranty
  • Made in Olean, New York — USA-made since 1898
  • Fast Shipping — In-stock orders ship same or next business day
  • Expert Support — Knife specialists at 888-225-9775

The Complete KA-BAR Buyer's Guide (2026)

KA-BAR Knives — Frequently Asked Questions

KA-BAR Knives Limited Lifetime Warranty

KA-BAR Knives, Inc. warrants every product to the original purchaser to be free from defects in material and craftsmanship under normal use and maintenance for the lifetime of the original purchaser.

✔ What's Covered

  • Defects in materials and craftsmanship
  • Manufacturing failures under normal use
  • Repair or replacement at KA-BAR's discretion
  • Substitution of comparable value if original unavailable

✖ What's NOT Covered

  • Normal wear and tear proportional to use
  • Neglect or failure to maintain
  • Damage from throwing the knife
  • Batoning, prying, or use as a screwdriver/chisel
  • Use as a can opener or digging tool
  • Any heavy work the knife was not designed for
  • Damage from improper sharpening or accidental impact
How to Submit a Warranty Claim Ship your knife at your own expense to:
KA-BAR Knives, Inc., ATTN: Returns, 200 Homer Street, Olean, NY 14760
Include a written description of the claimed defect(s). Cover the blade with the original sheath or a cardboard sheath before packing — never ship a bare blade. Allow 2–3 weeks for processing after KA-BAR receives your return. For questions: info@ka-bar.com or visit ka-bar.com/customer/warranty-claim.

Purchasing from an authorized dealer like Knifeworks ensures your warranty is valid from day one. Unauthorized resellers cannot guarantee warranty eligibility.

⚠ Warning: Counterfeit KA-BAR Knives Are Being Sold Online

KA-BAR's iconic status — especially the USMC Fighting/Utility Knife — makes them one of the most frequently counterfeited American knife brands on secondary marketplaces. Here's how to protect yourself:

Red Flags of a Counterfeit KA-BAR:

  • Sold by unauthorized third-party sellers on Amazon, eBay, or overseas platforms (AliExpress, DHgate)
  • Price significantly below current street value (genuine USMC 1217s retail at $75–$120)
  • Thin, flexible blade that doesn't match spec weight
  • Stamped rather than properly etched or engraved markings on blade
  • Handle pins that look pressed or riveted rather than properly assembled leather washers
  • Sheath that fits poorly or is made from non-leather material on "leather sheath" listings
  • Rough or uneven powder coat with drips, holidays, or thin spots
  • No country of origin markings or incorrect "Made in USA" claims

Buy with Confidence: Knifeworks is an officially authorized KA-BAR dealer. Every KA-BAR sold by Knifeworks is sourced directly through official channels, 100% genuine, and fully covered by KA-BAR's Limited Lifetime Warranty. If you're ever uncertain about a KA-BAR purchased elsewhere, contact KA-BAR directly at info@ka-bar.com.