The KA-BAR 1257 Short Black KA-BAR Serrated

What is the KA-BAR 1257 Short Black designed for?

The KA-BAR 1257 Short Black KA-BAR is a perfectly scaled, 75% version of the legendary American combat knife, upgraded for extreme cutting environments. Featuring a nimble 5.25-inch blade, this model integrates a partially serrated combo edge specifically designed to aggressively tear through tough, fibrous materials like synthetic paracord and heavy nylon webbing. The traditional stacked leather grip has been replaced with an ultra-durable, slip-resistant Black Kraton G® elastomer handle. This ensures you maintain absolute control during high-velocity impacts in wet or muddy conditions, while the reduced 3/4-scale size makes it an exceptionally lightweight tactical field tool without the cumbersome bulk of a full-size combat knife.

How does the KA-BAR 1257 perform in the field?

Despite its smaller footprint, the 1257 compromises absolutely nothing on durability. Drop-forged from time-tested 1095 Cro-Van high carbon steel, it balances outstanding edge retention with extreme structural toughness. The 0.165-inch thick blade features a versatile flat grind with a 20-degree edge angle. A baked-on black epoxy powder coating provides a primary layer of defense against the elements. When the scalloped serrations require maintenance after heavy field use, the 56-58 HRC rating allows the combo edge to be easily restored using tapered diamond sharpening rods.

How do you maintain and carry the KA-BAR 1257?

This model utilizes a unique hybrid field setup. While the Kraton G® handle is completely immune to the elements, the exposed 1095 Cro-Van cutting edges require routine oiling to prevent rust in damp conditions. Furthermore, this knife secures firmly into the included 1256S black leather belt sheath. This classic scabbard requires occasional conditioning to prevent the natural leather from drying out during extended outdoor expeditions.

Alternate Options:

• If you want this exact 5.25-inch blade and Kraton/Leather setup, but prefer a clean, straight edge for traditional carving, see the KA-BAR 1256 Short Black Straight Edge.

• If you plan to deploy in marine or swamp environments and want to replace the leather scabbard with a fully waterproof hard plastic MOLLE sheath, see the KA-BAR 1259 Short Black Hard Sheath.

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

Technical Specifications