Pohl Force Kilo One

Pohl Force Kilo One:

The Kilo One Outdoor is the first knife from Pohl Force’s E.O.D. line. E.O.D. stands for Euro Ops Division and denotes that they are made in Europe (LionSteel, Maniago, Italy) to stringent standards. Quality is overseen personally by author, knife designer and CEO, Dietmar Pohl.

The knife has a large modified Santoku blade. It could also be considered a modified Sheep’s-foot. Made from D2, it is very stocky measuring 1.5″ at its widest, 4.567″ in length and .197″ thick (38mm max width x 116mm length x 5mm thick). In order to achieve a practical working edge the blade has a high flat primary bevel, finished with a keen secondary bevel. Hardened to 59 Hrc this proven tool steel will offer lasting performance due to its balance of toughness and edge retention.

The tip slopes downward to meet the point allowing for controlled cuts. This radius is slightly elongated in order to still allow for penetrating cuts, a function that is further augmented by an ample swedge. Following the swedge, there is a thumb-groove along the spine that is complimented by a choil large enough to allow the user to choke up on the blade. Finished with a light stone wash, the surfaces have a perfect cosmetic appearance. For people who are looking for increased corrosion resistance or a more tactical look and feel, the Kilo One (“Survival” model) is also available in a matte black P.V.D. finish (Physical Vapour Deposition, probably TiNi). Pohl Force’s logo, the steel type, date of manufacture and serial number appear on the blade.

The handle is a full tang construction. The outer edges extend past the scales and are rounded for comfort. With its center-line set slightly higher than the blade, the shoulder creates an effective front guard. Opposite, another thumb groove (after the one in the blade spine) with deep jimping provides control and confident operation. The inner-handle edge has two distinct finger cut outs, while the spine has an arcing shape that feels natural in the hand. There is also jimping for the thumb when in reverse grip.

The scales on the knife are thick corrugated black G10. The larger, alternating ridges provide a secure grip that is augmented by a finer surface texture. These are held on by Pohl Force’s heavy duty hardware. Large slots in the fasteners allow for easy adjustment if necessary, with simple tools – including a coin. The pommel on the handle extends past the scales for use as an impact tool or weapon. It also houses the lanyard hole. A thick elastic cord is included.

For carry the knife ships with a flat (pancake) black leather sheath. These are also made in Italy and are custom molded to the blade and scales. The fit is very tight and requires a bit of breaking in, but the resulting retention will be appreciated. The sheaths slender profile allows for a comfortable and reasonably discrete carry, considering the knife’s large size. In addition to the leather sheath, there is a Kydex option that has a belt mount with a tool-free, 90º rotation for cross drawing. Pohl force offers MOLLE compatible mounts and a variety of rigging for concealed or open carry in multiple positions.

All in, The Kilo One is an outstanding knife. Billed as an outdoor/survival blade, it will undoubtedly perform utility tasks with ease, along with more aggressive uses such as chopping. A full tang, easy to adjust hardware, versatile robust blade geometry and outstanding ergonomics sets this apart as a reliable, functional tool. A great sheath along with several other options, should appeal to professionals.
The Kilo One ships in a very nice embroidered, pocketed nylon pouch and comes with a certificate of authenticity, Tuff Cloth and rubber 3D, EOD morale patch.

For more information, or to purchase the Kilo One, visit the Pohl Force shop.
Pros
Great, tough blade

Solid ergonomics

Excellent design, fit and finish

Carry options to fit personal preferences
Cons
May put other knives in your collection to shame
Specs
Total length : 9.75″ (248mm)

Total Weight : 9.17 Oz (260g) and 12.2 Oz (346g) with leather sheath.
Blade
length : 4.567″ (116mm)

thickness : .197″ (5mm)

Steel : D2, 59 Hrc

Stone-wash or PVD coating (Physical Vapor Deposition)
Handle
Full Tang

G10 scales

Lanyard Hole
Sheath
Ships with Leather, Kydex option available.
Made in Germany

William Henry - "The Art of Knifemaking"

D2 integral with ray skin handle

D2 integral with ray skin handle:

Here is a new knife I have made. The blade is made from D2, the handle has been milled and filled with micarta, ray skin has been put over it, and stitched to the knife body. The small incisions on the handle have been cut by hand, it took some time to get it nice and even. Please let me know how you like it! :)