SOG Knives

SOG Specialty Knives, Inc. is more commonly known as SOG and has established itself as a firm favorite among tactical knife experts.  They are best known for their famous reproduction of the military SOG knife.  However, the company produces a full line of knives and other tools and is well-respected both for its high quality builds and innovative designs.  Today, SOG Knives offers everything from military-style knives to everyday folding models and beyond.

SOG’s founder and chief designer Spencer Frazer was originally inspired by the US Special Ops MACV-SOG knife, a bowie knife designed specifically for jungle covert-ops missions during the Vietnam war.  In 1986, Frazer and his wife Gloria founded SOG Specialty Knives to reproduce this unique military design and other types of knives.  Today, the company has considerably expanded from its original military focus. Aside from the SOG and other combat and tactical knives, current offerings include survival blades, hatchets and a full line of multi-purpose tools.

Despite its impressive line of knives and related products, SOG’s main claim to fame remains its beloved reproduction of the MACV-SOG knife.  However, consumers have also come to appreciate SOG for the high quality of all of its products.  SOG’s knives, from military reproductions to everyday tools, are well-made and feature unique designs not seen in the line-ups from other companies.  SOG claims to be committed to creating the most “distinctive” gear available, and a quick glance at its catalog, which features everything from back-country hatchets to knives disguised as keys, shows this to be the case.

The company also focuses on products for “everyday carry,” meaning knives and other tools that are useful for ordinary tasks.  For instance, SOG offers many models of folding pocket knives designed for everyday use.  The company’s stated values include a commitment to top-notch customer service and the use of sustainable materials and production methods.

Among its most famous models are the above-mentioned MACV-SOG bowie knife and the SEAL 2000.  SOG’s version of the military’s classic bowie-style MACV-SOG made a number of changes to the original design, including a resin-impregnated leather handle and a thicker stock.  The Frazer’s also produced a number of variants of this knife, including replicas of a “maritime” version and of the original SOG SCUBA/Demo knife.  These knives were extremely popular with collectors and militaria enthusiasts at the time and remain big sellers to this day.

The SEAL 2000 knife features a 7″ blade and a rubber handle, and was originally designed for US Navy SEAL knife trials.  A SEAL “pup” variant is also available.  Popular folding knife models include the Aegis, Flash, Twitch and Vulcan lines.  SOG has also had tremendous success with its PowerLock multi-tool line that has impressed many consumers.

Best prices on SOG’s full line of knives

Some of our favorite SOG products are listed below:

SOG Aegis

The SOG Aegis features a three and a half inch AUs-8 stainless steel blade and a tough black Zytel (glass reinforced nylon) handle.  It’s pretty lightweight weighing in at just over three ounces and is about eight inches when opened.  Like many other SOG folders the size to weight ratio is very impressive as this is no tiny knife but yet so light.   The blade deploys fast with SOG’s assisted technology and the lockup is tight and sturdy.  An all-round great option for EDC or tactical use.   The Aegis comes in a variety of styles such as tanto blade, serrated option, black TiNi coating and camo handle.  Highly recommended.  Best prices I found on SOG Aegis

SOG Trident

The SOG Trident was designed for use by Navy SEALs and really means business.  It’s pretty light at just over three and a half ounces with a 3.75 inch blade and measures eight and a half inches when fully opened.   Like the Aegis it uses the Japanese AUS-8 steel and black Zytel handle that is near indestructible.  The Trident also features a groove on the handle which allows you to cut cords and cables without having to open the blade.   With a solid and effective pocket clip the Trident is real value for money.   Maybe not in the same class as some of the more expensive $100+ knives but an excellent option if you want to spend a bit less.    Best prices I found on SOG Trident