Okiegunner
January 24, 2013, 11:21 PM
Boker AK-74 Kalashnikov...
Is this a "real" Boker knife?
From what I can tell, this knife seems to be reasonably well made and thought of. Appears to be made in Taiwan, from a Boker design, using Japanese AUS-8 steel.
Sound about right?
hso
January 25, 2013, 01:32 AM
Yes, it is a Boker.
Stainz
January 25, 2013, 08:42 AM
Boker = Solingen, Germany
Boker Plus = Mainly PRC, some Taiwan
Boker Magnum = PRC
Boker Arbolito = Argentina
While there is a Boker 'Kalishnikov BK' that is made in Germany, it is $299 list and has a 440C blade. There is a wide range of 'Kalishnikov' knives in the Boker Plus line, like the 'Kalishnikov 74' series which list for $54.95 and have AUS-8 blade steel - possibly the one the op meant. They are made in the PRC. I have a few of their PRC-made Boker Plus line knives, and they represent a good value. I have more German-made Bokers - and they are universally, IMHO, finer in QC and fit & finish - albeit at a higher price.
A sub-set of the Boker German made knives is their 'classic' line - like the old 'Tree Brand' slipjoints. They are great values in that type of knife, from my recent experience. They still make carbon steel blades, too, if you want them. I have found their QC, materials choice, price, etc, to be better than the few recent similar new Case knives I've bought. Again - IMHO!
Stainz
Okiegunner
January 26, 2013, 02:51 AM
Stainz...
Yes, thank you, I believe that you are correct. Probably Boker Plus. AUS 8 blade. Seems to be well finished and tight lock-up. Very sharp.
NG VI
January 27, 2013, 12:18 PM
When you order those, do you have to order the spring for the opening mechanism separately, or does it come all together?
I saw some reference to them being sold sans the spring that powers the opening mechanism, can't remember if it seemed legit.
Okiegunner
January 28, 2013, 04:35 PM
It comes all together.