Spartan Blades Harsey Nessmuk Black SBSL005 outdoor knife, Bill Harsey design

The Spartan Blades Harsey Nessmuk, made in collaboration with KA-BAR Knives, embodies the legacy of George Washington Sears, who popularised canoeing and camping and championed wilderness conservation. The design was inspired by his preferences for knives, which in turn are based on his outdoor expertise.

The first thing you notice is the wavy blade and the fact that the knife is broader at the tip. This classic shape is what we call a Nessmuk-style blade. This type of knife is mostly used to gut game and prepare food. The Spartan-Harsey Nessmuk is Bill Harsey’s modern interpretation of the classic Nessmuk knife.

For this knife, Spartan Blades used heavy-duty materials. A blade made from rock-solid 1095CroVan carbon steel, for instance. This a tough type of steel that is easy to sharpen. As such you can even easily maintain your knife in the field. Because of the thickness of the blade and the tough qualities of this steel this knife can definitely handle its own. You do, however, need to be careful with moisture. 1095 is not stainless. This is counterbalanced by how easy it is to sharpen and the toughness of the steel.

The handle is made of injection-moulded plastic on a full-tang construction. The handle has excellent ergonomics and a subtle pattern that provides plenty of grip. The end of the handle tapers slightly wider to make sure it won’t slip from your hand during use.

This knife comes with a plastic sheath. For additional security it is enhanced with a locking mechanism. You unlock it by pressing it with your thumb. Safe, and very practical. A nylon belt loop with Velcro closure is attached to the sheath.

Pineland Cutlery Silver Line: Spartan Blades and KA-BAR

This knife falls under the banner of Pineland Cutlery, in the Silver collection. A cooperation between Spartan Blades and KA-BAR. The design for this model comes from Spartan Blades, the production was carried out by KA-BAR. As such this knife is slightly more affordable than the knives Spartan produces, but you do end up with American quality and a Spartan design.

Silver collection: Professional Grade

This knife is a part of the Silver collection, or the Professional Grade. Made for die-hards and professionals who prefer American quality for an amazing price. Knives that are made to be pushed to the limit.