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Smith & Wesson Knives
Published: January 27th, 2025
Smith & Wesson's foray into knife manufacturing began in 1972 when President William Gunn sought to expand the company's product line to include law enforcement and sportsmen's tools. Collaborating with renowned knife designer Blackie Collins, they introduced several fixed-blade designs tailored to public needs. This partnership led to the creation of the Texas Ranger Commemorative Bowie knife in 1973, celebrating the Texas Rangers' 150th anniversary. The success of this knife paved the way for Smith & Wesson's official entry into the knife market in 1975 with the "Survival Series," featuring models like the Bowie 6010, Outdoorsman 6020, and Survival 6030.
Their high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship distinguished the early Smith & Wesson knives. Blades were forged from 440 series stainless steel, undergoing 47 manufacturing operations from forging to hand-polishing. The handles often featured materials like cocobolo wood, enhancing both aesthetics and durability. The collaboration with Blackie Collins, known for his innovative designs and mechanisms, ensured that these knives were both functional and ahead of their time.
Over the years, Smith & Wesson expanded its knife offerings to cater to a broader audience, including law enforcement, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts. The product line grew to encompass folding knives, assisted-opening mechanisms, and tactical tools. Notable series include the Black Ops M.A.G.I.C. assisted-opening knives, designed for rapid deployment, and the H.R.T. (Hostage Rescue Team) fixed-blade knives, favored by tactical professionals.
Initially, Smith & Wesson produced knives in-house, but over time, manufacturing shifted through various collaborations. From 1986 to 1993, Vermont Cutlery Co. manufactured knives for Smith & Wesson. In recent years, Taylor Cutlery has been responsible for producing Smith & Wesson-branded knives, maintaining the brand's standards while offering a diverse range of products.
- Smith & Wesson began manufacturing knives in 1973
- Smith & Wesson's first knife was the Texas Ranger Commerative Bowie (pictured above), released in 1973
Smith & Wesson Black Ops M.A.G.I.C.
Early Smith & Wesson knives, especially those from the Survival Series and the Collector's Series, have become highly sought after by collectors. Limited production runs, high-quality materials, and the association with Blackie Collins contribute to their desirability. The Collector's Series, introduced in 1975, featured four knives with etched blades and sculpted sterling silver guards and pommels, with production ending by 1980. It's estimated that only 800 complete sets were made, adding to their rarity.
Today, Smith & Wesson continues to produce a wide array of knives catering to various needs. The current lineup includes tactical folding knives, fixed-blade knives, and specialty tools like throwing knives and neck knives. The brand emphasizes durability, functionality, and affordability, making their knives popular among professionals and hobbyists alike.
What to Buy
The Smith & Wesson Black Ops M.A.G.I.C. combines reliability and style for everyday carry. Featuring a 3.4" 4034 stainless steel Tanto blade with a black powder-coated finish and a gray textured aluminum handle, this spring-assisted knife is built to last. With ambidextrous thumb studs, a liner lock, a tip-down pocket clip, and a lanyard hole, it ensures ease of use and secure carry. At 4.3" closed and weighing 4.8 ounces, it’s compact and lightweight, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a high-quality, durable folding knife for everyday tasks.
The Smith & Wesson H.R.T. Gift Set combines utility and style with a tactical folding knife and a bullet casing-inspired bottle opener. The knife features a 2.88" black-coated stainless steel tanto blade, offering a strong tip for piercing and precision tasks. Its spring-assisted mechanism ensures rapid deployment, while the ergonomic handle provides a secure grip for tactical and everyday use. Compact at 3.88" closed, it’s ideal for EDC or emergencies. The included bottle opener keychain adds character and practicality, making this set a versatile and sleek choice for those who value functionality and design in their gear.
The Smith & Wesson Special Ops M9 features a 7.8" 420J2 stainless steel clip-point blade with a satin finish and a notched spine. This full tang fixed blade is paired with a textured olive drab green glass-reinforced nylon handle, offering a secure grip. A durable cast metal guard and pommel enhance its rugged design. Measuring 12.8" overall and weighing 14.59oz, this knife is built for heavy-duty tasks. The package includes a sharpening stone and a molded plastic sheath with cast metal fittings and a spring clip bayonet attachment, making it a reliable and versatile tool.
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.