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KA-BAR 1280 Combat Kukri (SKU 1280) | Made in USA

$99.89

Only 2 left in stock

The KA-BAR 1280 Combat Kukri is an 80% scale USA-made chopper built for tactical utility. Featuring a devastating 8.5-inch 1095 Cro-Van curved blade, a shock-absorbing Kraton G® handle, and a MOLLE-compatible polyester sheath, it bridges the gap between a machete and a combat knife.

The KA-BAR 1280 Combat Kukri

What is the KA-BAR 1280 Combat Kukri designed for?

The KA-BAR 1280 Combat Kukri is engineered as a highly maneuverable, 80% scale version of the massive KA-BAR Kukri Machete. By condensing the devastating inward-curved blade profile into an 8.5-inch length, this hybrid tool bridges the gap between a heavy brush clearer and a tactical fixed blade. It performs flawlessly when clearing small tree limbs or establishing a backcountry camp, yet at just 0.9 pounds, its smaller footprint makes it an appropriately sized tool for standard combat carry. To absorb heavy shock during aggressive strikes, the iconic oval-shaped handle is constructed from ultra-durable, slip-resistant Black Kraton G® elastomer.

How does the KA-BAR 1280 perform in the field?

Unlike traditional imported machetes, the 1280 is a premium USA-made combat tool. It is drop-forged from KA-BAR’s legendary 1095 Cro-Van high carbon steel, perfectly balancing edge retention with extreme structural toughness. The 0.165-inch thick blade features a precision flat grind that extends deep into the extra-wide 2.625-inch belly, ensuring maximum chopping momentum without sacrificing slicing geometry. A baked-on black epoxy powder coating provides a primary layer of defense against the elements, and the 56-58 HRC rating allows the inward-curved straight edge to be easily restored in the bush using standard edge maintenance tools.

How do you maintain and carry the KA-BAR 1280?

This heavy-duty chopper requires a rugged carry system. While the Kraton G® handle is immune to the elements, the exposed 1095 Cro-Van steel requires routine oiling to prevent rust in damp environments. To secure the 8.5-inch blade, the knife comes paired with the specialized 1280S Black Heavy-Duty Polyester sheath. This versatile scabbard features internal plastic reinforcement for safety, auxiliary accessory pockets, and multiple lashing points for versatile, MOLLE-compatible mounting on plate carriers or tactical packs.

Alternate Options:

  • If you want this exact inward-curved chopping profile but need the maximum reach of a full-size blade, see the KA-BAR 1249 Kukri Machete.

  • If you want a heavy tactical chopper but prefer a forward-weighted straight blade over the curved Kukri design, see the KA-BAR 1278 Heavy-Duty Warthog.

Proudly manufactured in Olean, New York, USA by KA-BAR Knives. (Note: Factory-supplied polyester sheaths are imported).

Technical Specifications

Specification Metric Manufacturer Direct Data
SKU / Model Number 1280
Overall Length 13.375 inches
Blade Length 8.5 inches
Blade Thickness 0.165 inches
Blade Width 2.625 inches
Blade Steel Material 1095 Cro-Van High Carbon Steel
Blade Coating / Finish Black Epoxy Powder Coating
Blade Profile Style Kukri
Edge Type Straight Edge
Edge Angle 20 Degrees
Grind Flat
Rockwell Hardness 56-58 HRC
Tang Stamp KA-BAR
Handle Construction Black Kraton G®
Sheath Model Included 1280S Heavy-Duty Polyester (MOLLE Compatible)
Total Weight 0.9 lb
Manufacturing Country United States (USA)