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Knives of Alaska
Published: April 23rd, 2025
When it comes to rugged, dependable knives built for the harshest environments in North America, few companies embody that philosophy better than Knives of Alaska. Since the early 1990s, the brand has earned a loyal following among hunters, outdoorsmen, and guides for producing high-performance tools designed specifically for the demanding conditions of the Alaskan wilderness.
The company was founded by Charles Allen, a veteran big-game guide, lifelong outdoorsman, and passionate conservationist. After spending decades guiding in some of the most unforgiving terrain on the continent, Allen grew increasingly frustrated with the quality of the knives available to serious hunters. He found that most knives weren’t up to the task of field-dressing moose, skinning caribou, or holding up to days in subzero temperatures. Driven by the idea that a knife should be a tool you never have to second-guess, he set out to make his own. In 1993, Knives of Alaska was born.
From the very beginning, the company committed to American manufacturing and high-performance materials. Unlike many cutlery brands that source their production overseas, Knives of Alaska builds all their blades in the United States, with their manufacturing facility located in Denison, Texas. This commitment not only ensures superior quality control but also supports U.S. jobs and craftsmanship. Interestingly, this facility is housed in a repurposed World War II-era parachute manufacturing plant, adding a unique historical dimension to their operation. The company uses a variety of high-performance steels, including D2 tool steel, 440C stainless, and S30V, all carefully chosen for their edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance—qualities essential for knives meant to perform in extreme conditions.
- Knives of Alaska was founded in 1993 by Charles Allen (pictured above)
- Knives of Alaska knives are produced in their factory in Denison, Texas
(pictured above)
- All Knives of Alaska knives are thoroughly field tested in Alaska by experienced Alaskan guides
Field testing has always been a cornerstone of Knives of Alaska’s design philosophy. Every model is tested and refined in the field by experienced Alaskan guides and professional hunters. The result is a lineup of knives that puts performance above all else. Among their most iconic models are the Bush Camp Knife, the Alpha Wolf, the Cub Bear Caping Knife, and the Light Hunter Combo, which includes both a skinner and a caper in a single sheath. Big-game hunters in particular prize the Brown Bear Combo, which pairs a heavy-duty, cleaver-style skinner with a precise caping knife, offering versatility and efficiency in the field.
Durability and practical design are trademarks of the brand. Many models feature full-tang construction, ergonomic handles, and come with sheaths made from American leather, built to withstand years of use in the backcountry.
More than 30 years since its founding, Knives of Alaska continues to thrive by staying true to its roots. The company doesn’t chase trends or gimmicks; it focuses on what hunters and guides actually need. Whether you’re chasing elk in Montana or tracking Dall sheep across the tundra, these knives are built to be the kind of gear you can trust when it matters most. For anyone who believes their knife should be the most reliable tool in their pack, Knives of Alaska remains a name worth knowing.
What to Buy
The Knives of Alaska Alpha Wolf and Cub Bear combo offers two expertly crafted tools for hunters. The Alpha Wolf features a full tang 3.75" drop point D2 blade with a hand-sharpened convex edge for smooth skinning. Paired with it, the Cub Bear is a lightweight caping knife with a 2.5" cutting edge and scalpel-like precision favored by taxidermists. Both knives use rugged SureGrip Santoprene handles and durable D2 tool steel with a bead blast finish. The set includes a premium vegetable-tanned American-made leather sheath for secure carry, making it a trusted duo for big game processing in the field. Proudly made in the USA
The Knives of Alaska Xtreme Yukon Model 2 updates a proven northern classic with modern materials and performance. Featuring a 4.25" elliptical D2 tool steel blade with a non-glare bead blast finish, this knife is built for serious field use. The SureGrip Santoprene handle provides a secure hold, while the added thumb groove and jimping enhance comfort and control. Measuring 8.50" overall and weighing 3.9 oz., it's a lightweight, dependable choice for hunters and trappers alike. The knife includes a premium, vegetable-tanned American-made leather sheath, making it a rugged and reliable tool for any wilderness adventure. Proudly made in the USA
The Knives of Alaska Proghorn Hunter is a lightweight, high-performance fixed blade built for serious hunters. Its 3.25" D2 tool steel clip point blade delivers excellent edge retention, toughness, and control, ideal for skinning and field dressing. Full tang construction ensures lasting strength, while the bright orange SureGrip handle offers a checkered, non-slip grip even in wet or bloody conditions. Ergonomic grooves enhance comfort during extended use. At 8.45" overall and just 4.5 oz., it’s perfectly balanced for field carry. Includes a premium, vegetable-tanned American-made leather sheath. Proudly made in the USA, the Proghorn Hunter is ready for any backcountry hunt.
Written By
Drew Clifton
Drew is the lead writer for SMKW's Knives 101, crafting informative and engaging content for the world’s largest knife store. With expertise in knife history, design, and functionality, Drew delivers articles and product descriptions that educate and inspire knife enthusiasts at all levels.
Expert Reviewed
T.C. Barnette
T.C. Barnette is a dynamic media personality and the esteemed spokesperson for SMKW (Smoky Mountain Knife Works), where his passion for knives intersects with his captivating on-screen presence. With a magnetic charisma and deep expertise in cutlery, T.C. has become a beloved figure in the knife community.