Boker History Knife Tool Sailors Fixed Knife 5.28in Plain Satin Drop Point BK02HY005

The Boker History Knife & Tool Fixed Sailor’s Knife is a timeless piece of maritime tradition, expertly crafted to reflect decades of naval service and seafaring utility. At its core is a 5.28” plain edge drop point blade made from tough, corrosion-resistant 1.4116 stainless steel. Satin-finished and full tang, the blade is thin, flat-ground, and slightly bulbous near the tip—designed for controlled slicing and reliable performance in any setting, whether on deck or in the woods. At just 4.94 oz., it strikes an ideal balance between lightweight handling and dependable durability.

This knife’s heritage runs deep. It's the standard-issue style used aboard international merchant ships and within naval ranks, especially the German Navy, who still carry versions of it today with only minor updates. Its specifications are formalized under TL 5110-0026, preserving the knife’s legacy while proving its continued relevance. While the profile might seem understated at first glance, that’s precisely where the strength lies. Its purposeful simplicity lends itself to wide versatility—from rope work and light carving to bushcraft and general camp tasks.

A defining feature of this sailor’s knife is its saltwater-resistant ebony wood handle. Traditional and robust, the handle is pinned with two brass rivets and fitted with a brass-lined lanyard hole. These details are not merely aesthetic—they serve the demands of life at sea, where function must always come first. The included black leather sheath with belt loop holds the knife securely and provides quick access when needed, rounding out the package with classic seafaring character.

The historical echoes in the Sailor’s Knife don’t stop at the docks. Outdoorsman and writer Horace Sowers Kephart, a central figure in early American bushcraft alongside George Washington Sears and Henry David Thoreau, designed a knife celebrated by enthusiasts to this day. The Kephart Knife bears a striking resemblance to the Sailor’s Knife, especially in its contour and functional philosophy. It’s unclear whether Kephart drew inspiration from the maritime blade, or if both designs emerged independently from a shared appreciation for pure utility and clean lines. Either way, the similarity speaks volumes about the enduring value of such a practical shape.

Whether you’re a collector, a bushcraft enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates heritage tools that work as well today as they did a century ago, the Boker History Knife & Tool Sailor’s Knife delivers. It blends tradition, craftsmanship, and real-world usability into a single, effective design that honors its naval roots while appealing to anyone who values simplicity and performance in the field.

Available now at the world’s largest knife store, Smoky Mountain Knife Works—your best online knife store for top-quality blades, timeless designs, and trusted brands.