The KA-BAR 1317 Dog’s Head Utility Knife
What is the KA-BAR 1317 Dog’s Head designed for?
The KA-BAR 1317 Dog’s Head Utility Knife is a close relative of the legendary USMC Fighting Knife, engineered specifically as a civilian alternative for bushcraft, camping, and big-game hunting. It delivers the exact same battle-tested performance as KA-BAR’s military lineup but introduces several outdoor-focused design tweaks. The traditional curved handguard has been straightened for better control during fine woodworking, and the carbon steel pommel features an integrated lanyard hole for added security when chopping near water or heavy brush. Stamped with the vintage “Dog’s Head Pirate” logo, this traditional fixed blade is a highly collectible yet fully functional field tool designed for the modern outdoorsman.
How does the KA-BAR 1317 perform in the field?
Built to withstand severe abuse without failing, the 1317 is precision drop-forged from KA-BAR’s proven 1095 Cro-Van high carbon steel. The 0.165-inch thick blade utilizes a versatile flat grind and a 20-degree edge angle to maintain a razor-sharp slicing geometry through tough materials like thick rope, heavy rubber, and dense game hides. A baked-on non-reflective black powder coating provides a primary layer of defense against corrosion in damp environments, while the 56-58 HRC rating allows the clean 7-inch straight edge to be easily restored in the backcountry using standard edge maintenance tools.
How do you maintain and carry the KA-BAR 1317?
Traditional field gear requires traditional care. The exposed 1095 Cro-Van cutting edge requires routine oiling to prevent rust in wet environments, and the classic stacked leather handle benefits from occasional conditioning to prevent drying during extended outdoor expeditions. To safely secure the 7-inch blade, the knife comes paired with the specialized 1317S Brown Leather Sheath. This premium scabbard is proudly embossed with the matching vintage Dog’s Head Pirate logo, providing a secure, friction-fit carry on your belt or backpack.
Alternate Options:
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If you want this exact 7-inch 1095 Cro-Van profile but prefer the traditional military heritage of the United States Marine Corps tang stamp, see the KA-BAR 1217 USMC Fighting/Utility Knife.
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If you want a civilian-focused utility knife but prefer a completely blank blade for custom engraving, see the KA-BAR 1320 Single Mark Utility.
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 | 1317 |
| Overall Length | 12.0 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 Powder Coating |
| Blade Profile Style | Clip Point |
| Edge Type | Straight Edge |
| Edge Angle | 20 Degrees |
| Grind | Flat |
| Rockwell Hardness | 56-58 HRC |
| Tang Stamp | KA-BAR/Dog’s Head Pirate |
| Handle Construction | Stacked Leather Washers |
| Guard & Butt Cap | 12GA Commercial Grade Carbon Steel (with lanyard hole) |
| Sheath Model Included | 1317S Brown Leather (Dog’s Head Embossed) |
| Total Weight | 0.7 lb |
| Manufacturing Country | United States (USA) |