J-Defender with OU-31

Product Description for J-Defender with OU-31

Maker: Kikuo Matsuda (click to see more by this maker)
Item num: 96640
Blade length: 5.25 in.
Cutting edge length: 5.10 in.
Total length: 10.20 in.
Blade height (at heel): 1.15 in.
Blade thickness (near bolster): 0.17 in.
Blade thickness (at midpoint): 0.17 in.
Blade thickness (near tip): 0.04 in.
Item weight: 7.20 oz.
Shipment weight: 10.4 oz.
Blade: OU-31 semi-stainless steel with a non-reflective disruptive acid finish
Handle: Black G10 set on a full tang
Sheath: Kydex sheath with DOTS belt clip
Description: Renowned Japanese knifemaker Kiku Matsuda has been grinding blades for over 40 years and is a 5th generation knife grinder. His unique, dramatic grinds are well known throughout the knife industry. Kikuo joined his father's business at 15 years old and learned grinding techniques from his father. Kiku's skill at the grinder has become legendary.
The J-Defender is a pinnacle knife in Kiku's career. Kiku collaborated with the Japanese Self-Defense Force to create a pure fighting blade for military use. This is not a utility knife with defensive capability. This knife is meant for "raining down on someone's parade" as opposed to batoning through wood or whittling.
This updated version of the J-Defender features an OU-31 semi-stainless steel blade. OU-31 is a Japanese PM (powdered metallurgical) steel with micro-fine crystalline structure that embodies many of the best attributes needed for knives. The steel is hardened to 64 Hrc (very hard!) and has more than 3 times the toughness of D2. It was ground with a thin upper swedge to facilitate penetration and a serrated portion, which are two features specifically requested by the JSDF . The primary grind is given a subtle Hamaguri-ba (convex) grind. Jimping is used on the thumb ramp, pommel and pinky hook for grip retention and control. The hand is prevented from slipping onto the blade by a dropped guard. Lanyard holes in the pommel and guard allow a retention method which Kiku prefers. The pommel is designed to be used as an impact device as per JDSF request.
The J-Defender is an overall fearsome knife with a purpose-driven design that is all business.


Availability: Not currently available