Glock Knife: Features, History, and Uses

Overview of Glock Knives and Their Popularity

Glock knives, developed by the renowned Austrian firearms manufacturer Glock Ges.m.b.H., are recognized for their robust design and reliability. Initially created for military use, these knives have gained widespread popularity among outdoor enthusiasts, survivalists, and tactical professionals. The two main models, the Glock 78 and Glock 81, are valued for their durability, lightweight construction, and practical features. Made from high-quality carbon steel with ergonomic polymer handles, Glock knives are trusted in demanding conditions worldwide.

The Glock Knife 78: A Classic Military Tool

The Glock 78 Knife, also known as the Feldmesser 78, was designed for the Austrian military and is appreciated for its straightforward design and rugged construction. Its 6.5-inch carbon steel blade offers excellent balance, making it suitable for both cutting and thrusting tasks. The polymer handle ensures a firm grip, even in tough environments. This combination of features makes the Glock 78 popular among outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists for its reliability and versatility in field conditions.

Key Features of the Glock 78

1. – Blade Length: 165 mm (6.5 inches)
2. – Blade Thickness: Approximately 5 mm (0.2 inches)
3. – Blade Material: Spring Steel, HRC ~55, with an electrophoretic finish
4. – Handle Material: Lightweight, durable polymer
5. – Handle Color Options: Black, Olive Drab (OD Green), Flat Dark Earth (FDE), and Gray
6. – Weight: 206 grams (7.27 oz)
7. – Overall Length: 290 mm (11.4 inches)
8. – Intended Use: Military, outdoor, survival, and utility tasks

Exploring the Glock Knife 81: The Saw-Back Variant

The Glock 81 Knife shares many of the same characteristics as the Glock 78 but includes a saw-back on the spine of the blade, which adds an extra layer of functionality. This feature makes it more suited for cutting wood or other tough materials, ideal for survival and bushcraft scenarios. Both knives feature the same blade dimensions, polymer handle, and durable construction, but the Glock 81 is favored for tasks requiring a versatile, multi-purpose tool.

Key Features of the Glock 81

1. – Blade Length: 165 mm (6.5 inches)
2. – Blade Thickness: Approximately 5 mm (0.2 inches)
3. – Blade Material: Spring Steel, HRC ~55, electrophoretic finish
4. – Handle Color Options: Battlefield Green, Gray, Black, Flat Dark Earth
5. – Saw-Back: Yes, on the spine
6. – Weight: 202 grams (7.13 oz)
7. – Overall Length: 290 mm (11.4 inches)
8. – Intended Use: Military, outdoor, survival, utility

Glock 78 vs. Glock 81: Key Differences

The most significant difference between the two models is the saw-back on the Glock 81, making it more versatile for tasks such as cutting wood or tough materials, ideal for outdoor and survival use. The Glock 78, with its smooth blade, is more suited for general-purpose cutting and thrusting tasks. Both knives share the same durable blade construction and ergonomic handle design, but the choice between them depends on whether the additional saw-back functionality is necessary for your needs.

Video Credit: Survival Dispatch

History of Glock Knives

In the late 1970s, Glock responded to the Austrian Army’s call for a new field knife to pair with the polymer-based Steyr AUG rifle. Glock, already producing military gear like entrenching tools, leveraged polymer technology for his design. The resulting knife featured a durable, all-steel blade and tang, with a polymer hilt molded around it. This blend of materials offered both toughness and affordability. The Austrian Army awarded Glock a contract for 25,000 units, giving rise to the Feldmesser 78, a versatile and enduring field knife.

Glock knives’ price range

The price range for Glock knives in 2024 varies depending on the model and the retailer. Generally, the Glock 78 and Glock 81 knives are priced between $35 and $50. For example, the Glock 78 field knife is available for around $34 to $45, while the Glock 81, which includes a saw-back spine for added functionality, is slightly higher, typically priced around $35 to $50 (Glock Store or Amazon) These prices make Glock knives an affordable option for both military and civilian users looking for durable, multi-purpose field knives.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Glock Field Knives

Glock field knives are known worldwide for their durability, versatility, and reliability. Originally designed for military use, the Glock 78 and Glock 81 models continue to be favored by both professionals and civilians for their rugged construction and practical design. Whether for tactical operations, survival scenarios, or everyday utility, these knife types remain a trusted choice for those seeking reliable performance in demanding environments.

Author: Aleks Nemtcev | Connect with me on LinkedIn

References:

Glock Perfection: https://eu.glock.com/en/Products/GLOCK-Field-knives

Glock Knife: Wikipedia

Gaston Glock: Wikipedia

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