Boker 02BO293 Plus Rold SK5 Knife with 6.2-in. Blade

I was first introduced to this knife in D2 steel. The SK5 version is the same knife in every respect except for the steel. SK5 steel is more likely to show some rust than D2 if not properly cared for. However, the black coating on the blade should take care of most worries. I would not get this knife if most of my use would be around salt water. There are many video reviews available if you want to see the knife abused. If used as a knife should be, not as an axe or hatchet or throwing tool, this is one of the best knives in this size and style on the market. Boker is accomplished in heat treating their knives, so expect this steel to perform at its best in this knife. It comes very sharp out of the box, but after an initial sharpening, the blade takes an amazingly fine edge, and will hold that edge quite well through much use. (use, not abuse) The handle/grip is well moulded for comfort in hands of all sizes even with prolonged use and the G10 material is treated in such a way that it feels very soft, though it is as hard and durable as any micarta like material. The blade style, with flat grind, is excellent for any camping or bushcrafting duties. The large finger choil allows gripping the knife for closer, more delicate work. Overall the knife is not heavy compared to others of this length, and is quite attractive. The sheath system with the SK5 version is excellent. With many makes of this style of knife to choose from in person, my wife chose this knife over all others, which was fine with me since I, too, picked this knife as one of my top 2.

This could be an ideal big knife design... if it wasn't for the huge hole in the middle of it vastly reducing lateral strength. Now you only have a little bit of steel above and below that hole to keep the knife together if you use it for prying anything. This is supposed to be a survival/camp knife. Everyday use is going to require some twisting to break open some wood. With emergency situations, being able to use your big knife as a pry bar is essential. The huge hole in the middle of the handle will increase the likelihood of breakage while prying. If you pry enough, it's going to break at that hole. The lanyard hole at the butt end is fine. But why put such a huge hole in the middle of the handle like that?