The KA-BAR 1245 Full Size Black Tanto

What is the KA-BAR 1245 Tanto designed for?

The KA-BAR 1245 Full Size Black Tanto combines the legendary American combat knife architecture with a thick, Asian-influenced Tanto point. The resulting geometry creates a devastatingly rugged tactical fixed blade that excels at extreme penetration and piercing through ultra-tough materials. Featuring an extended 8.0-inch blade with a partially serrated combo edge, this model is built to aggressively tear through heavy synthetic rope, thick webbing, and seatbelts. The handle features the ultra-durable, slip-resistant black Kraton G® elastomer grip to ensure maximum control during high-impact strikes.

How does the KA-BAR 1245 perform in the field?

Drop-forged from proven 1095 Cro-Van high carbon steel, the 1245 delivers the extreme structural toughness required for heavy tactical deployment. Unlike the standard fighting knives, this 0.165-inch thick blade features a Hollow Grind, optimizing the edge geometry for razor-sharp slicing while retaining massive material strength behind the Tanto tip. A baked-on black epoxy powder coating provides a primary layer of defense against corrosion. The 56-58 HRC rating allows the serrations and straight edge to be easily restored using tapered diamond rods.

How do you maintain and carry the KA-BAR 1245?

Because the blade is crafted from 1095 Cro-Van steel, the exposed cutting edges require routine oiling to prevent rust in wet environments. Wipe the blade free of moisture after field use and apply a reliable corrosion inhibitor. The knife secures firmly into the included black hard plastic MOLLE-compatible sheath, providing versatile mounting options for plate carriers and tactical packs.

If you love the Tanto shape but prefer a clean, straight edge without serrations, we highly recommend looking at the modern KA-BAR 1266 Modified Tanto.

Please Note: While the knife is manufactured in the USA, the factory-supplied hard plastic sheath is proudly manufactured in Taiwan.

Technical Specifications

Specification Metric	Manufacturer Direct Data
SKU / Model Number	1245
Overall Length	12.813 inches
Blade Length	8.0 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	Tanto
Edge Type	Partially Serrated (Combo Edge)
Edge Angle	20 Degrees
Grind	Hollow
Rockwell Hardness	56-58 HRC
Tang Stamp	KA-BAR (Note: Factory rolling change removed “USA” mark)
Handle Construction	Black Kraton G®
Sheath Model Included	Hard Plastic MOLLE-Compatible (Black)
Total Weight	0.75 lb
Manufacturing Country	United States (USA)