The KA-BAR 1220 U.S. Army Straight Edge

What is the KA-BAR 1220 U.S. Army Straight Edge designed for?

The KA-BAR 1220 U.S. Army Straight Edge is the traditional, battle-proven combat and utility fixed blade tailored specifically for soldiers and veterans of the United States Army. Featuring the iconic 7.0-inch straight edge blade, this model excels not just as a tactical tool, but as an incredibly versatile wilderness bushcraft knife capable of fine carving, field dressing, and heavy camp construction. The historic oval-shaped stacked leather handle is heavily compressed to provide a comfortable grip that naturally molds to the unique shape of the user’s hand over time.

How does the KA-BAR 1220 perform in the field?

Forged from time-tested 1095 Cro-Van high carbon steel, the 1220 balances outstanding edge retention with the extreme structural toughness required for batoning and chopping. The 0.165-inch thick blade features a flat grind with a 20-degree edge angle, creating a geometry optimized for both aggressive material removal and precision slicing. A baked-on black epoxy powder coating provides the primary defense against the elements, while the 56-58 HRC rating allows the clean cutting edge to be quickly restored in the bush using standard edge maintenance tools.

How do you maintain and carry the KA-BAR 1220?

Traditional field gear requires traditional care. The exposed 1095 Cro-Van cutting edge needs regular oiling to prevent rust, and the stacked leather handle benefits from occasional conditioning to prevent drying or cracking during extended outdoor expeditions. The knife secures firmly into the classic 1220S brown leather belt sheath, proudly embossed with the U.S. Army logo.

Alternate Options:

• If you want to maintain the exact U.S. Army leather aesthetic but need a partially serrated edge to cut through heavy rope or nylon webbing, see the KA-BAR 1219 U.S. Army Serrated Edge.

• If you plan to operate primarily in swamps or marine environments where leather can degrade, we highly recommend upgrading to the modern KA-BAR 1211 Full Size Black, which utilizes a fully weatherproof Kraton G® handle.

Proudly manufactured in Olean, New York, USA by KA-BAR Knives. (Note: Factory-supplied leather sheaths are sourced from Mexico).

Technical Specifications

Specification Metric	Manufacturer Direct Data
SKU / Model Number	1220
Overall Length	11.875 inches
Blade Length	7.0 inches
Blade Thickness	0.165 inches
Blade Width	1.188 inches
Blade Steel Material	1095 Cro-Van High Carbon Steel
Blade Coating / Finish	Black Epoxy Powder Coating
Blade Profile Style	Clip Point
Edge Type	Straight Edge
Edge Angle	20 Degrees
Rockwell Hardness	56-58 HRC
Tang Stamp	US ARMY
Handle Construction	Stacked Leather Washers
Sheath Model Included	1220S Brown Leather (U.S. Army Embossed)
Total Weight	0.7 lb
Manufacturing Country	United States (USA)