- or there is a difference between Operator and Operator
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| This particular numbered version came in a very special box |
Just as the specifications differ slightly, so does the name. The correct name for this model is the Al Mar SERE Operator, or more accurately, the 4" Al Mar SERE Operator Knife. The latter is more of a designation, I guess.
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| In addition to the knife, the box contained some other goodies. |
There are a number of points on which these knives differ. In fact, there are so many that it is basically a different knife with similar characteristics. I therefore intend to present a comparison between them at a later date.
Simply put, it can be said that in addition to both knives having G10 in the grip, the materials are different, while all the dimensions have been changed. Overall, this knife is lighter and even more agile to handle than its predecessor. It can then be added that both models are slightly smaller than the original, which had a five-inch blade, which essentially makes them a "mini SERE".
Specifically, it means a knife that is quite modest in size with a blade length that the name suggests, four inches or just over ten centimetres. This gives a total length of 222 mm (8.75"). The blade has a material thickness of 3.3 mm (0.13"). The handle is also thin, smooth and lightweight, which gives the knife itself a weight of as low as 126g (4.5 oz).
The handle material is G10, which has a thin red line closest to the tang as decoration. Very stylish and alludes to Al Mars' black-red theme.
The blade shape is Al Mar's classic "Talon" or, as most would identify it ", a quintessential spear-point". The steel used is the proven 154CM, which has been given a dark grey tumbled finish.
The knife is complemented by a Kydex sheath. It is noticeable that there is quality in it as well as it has just the right resistance to keep the knife in a firm grip while being easy to draw. In addition, the knife is completely silent when it is in the sheath. No rattle here!
The sheath has a swivel clip in spring steel that fits most belts. For the extra knowledgeable, this construction may reveal who manufactures this knife for Al Mar.
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| SERE Operator comes with a Kydex sheath equipped with TOPS's custom metal clip |
I don't usually comment on how knives are packaged or how the boxes look, but in this case, it's something completely special! This particular copy happens to be a numbered edition (no. 10/500) and a press release variant and therefore comes in this very special box.
More specifically, it's an ammunition box where dimensions and specifications are written on the outside in the same way as if the contents were cartridges.
For once, the packaging doesn't feel exaggerated, as this knife really sparks. One of the things behind it is that, unlike the previous model, it is not made in China.
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| AL Mar SERE Operator made by TOPS Knives |
Al Mar SERE Operator is instead made in the USA, more specifically in Idaho. That's where TOPS Knives is located, and they are the ones who are responsible for the manufacturing expertise in this case. For those who know their knives for outdoor use, military, police and other similar professional groups, there is hardly any need for an introduction. It can only be stated that they are of the absolute highest possible quality.
The same impression is immediately given by the SERE Operator. Especially since the restrained format paired with excellent balance gives a knife that literally radiates competence. This is underlined, as I said, by a build quality including the case that is of an exceptionally high level.
Therefore, it will be a true joy to carry, use and review this knife. SERE Operator invites to be carried and screams to be used.
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| Al Mar Knives |
/ J - excited
