New Knife - Al Mar B-21

Last week I wrote "There was still something missing" regarding the release of new Al Mar models. And what was missing were of course fixed blades. 

It's a knife type that's in the brand's genes and it's where many of their top models were found during their heyday. No new knives of this type were released when they made an overhaul of the existing catalog in 2020. The only thing that has been in the range is a small miniature in the form of a key ring knife called Stinger. Otherwise, they have been conspicuous by their absence.

But the wait is over and a couple of new knives have hit the market of which this model, the B-21 is one. It is a modern interpretation of a Bowie knife with several interesting details.

Al Mar B-21 4.25"

None other than Kirk Rexroat is responsible for the design. He is a master blacksmith from the USA who has collaborated a lot with Al Mar over the years.* This time the result is a very all-round focused knife in a slightly smaller format. By that, I mean that this knife can be used by everyone for various types of work from all kinds of outdoor activities to military and police applications.

The blade measures 4.25", which in understandable terms is just under eleven centimeters. The total length of the knife is 8" or just over twenty centimeters. It's not a giant knife in other words, but first impressions are that it feels very sturdy. That was one of the big questions before the new launches, at least for me. What quality would the new knives hold?

The well-built feel is contributed by the fact that it is a full tang construction with handle sides in G10 that are screwed in place. They are nicely three-dimensionally shaped and the handle feels very nice to hold. The blade with its distinctive cut tip and substantial indentation on the back is made of D2 which is reportedly found in the 59-60HRC range.

The sheath that is included has a quick-release buckle that can be adjusted for different belts or strap widths. It is made in some form of composite plastic and includes a small ceramic sharpener. The "click" that holds the knife in place inspires confidence. What remains to be seen is how both it and the knife perform when in use.

B-21 är designad av Kirk Rexroat

Back in the day, the best Al Mar knives were made in Japan. Manufacturing has moved to another island in roughly the same part of the world in the form of Taiwan. At least the top models are made there and it is immediately noticeable that the B-21 is a quality product both in terms of design and production. Not least as the balance is excellent.

I look forward to a spring with many hours in the forest in the company of, among other things, this knife!

Al Mar

/ J - knifehappy

* He is, for example, behind models such as Fighter, Backup, and previously presented Payara. In addition, he has made custom versions of the knives in the Classic series just to name a few.