One of the most commonly asked questions when talking about KA-BAR BK knives is this:
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What’s the difference between the BK2 and the BK-22?
The answer is quite straightforward. The difference is the sheath. They’re the same knife, but the BK2 has a hard shell nylon sheath, and the BK-22 has a polyester front pouch sheath.
Both are fantastic knives so the question is justified, but it’s actually really quite simple!
The difference between the BK2 and BK–22 is just the sheath.
Both knives are actually exactly the same. When choosing between the BK2 or the BK-22, you’re actually choosing between one of the knives’ key accessories: the sheath.
So here’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to run through the specs of both knives (that are the same) and then quickly run through the differences in sheath to help you choose what’s best for you!
Here’s the short version:
- If you prefer a polyester sheath with a belt loop for your knives, go for the BK2.
- If you’d rather opt for a heavy-duty nylon sheath, which includes a handy front pocket go for the BK–22!
Now, let’s get started with the full review!
Side-By-Side Specs – BK2 vs BK-22
| Ka-Bar BK-22 Becker Companion Fixed Blade Knife | ||
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| Overall Length (“) | 10.625 | 10.625 |
| Blade Length (“) | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| Weight (Oz) | 16 | 16 |
| Blade Thickness (“) | 0.25 | 0.25 |
| Blade Type | Drop Point | Drop Point |
| Best For | High quality all rounder | High quality all rounder |
| Steel | 1095 Cro Van carbon steel | 1095 Cro Van carbon steel |
| Sheath | Polyester Sheath | Nylon Sheath |
| Manufactured | Made in the USA | Made in the USA |
KA-BAR BK2 – Polyester Sheath
As you can see from the images below, the standard BK2 model comes with a polyester sheath and belt loop combination. Reviewers like how the polyester protects the nife with the belt loop making it an easy knife to carry!
If you like a simple and easy to use sheath, the BK2 gives you a nice option with that polyester offering great protection for the knife when it’s in hold.
Price for the BK2 sit at around the $85 mark which represents great value for a knife of this calibre with a hardy sheath. Prices do sometime drop a little further in sales, but expect this to be the price you pay!
KA-BAR BK-22 – Nylon Sheath
The BK22 model utilises the exact same BK2 knife but instead comes with what many see as an upgrade with the Nylon sheath. Reviewers like the versatility of the Nylon sheath, especially given the handy front pocket which is often used to hold firestarting flient.
So, if you’re a fan of Nylon sheaths and could benefit from a small amount of storage space, the BK22 might actually be the better option for you when making a purchase.
The price of the BK22 sit around $95 mainly owing to the improved workmanship required with the Nylon sheath. This is to be expected and many reviewers are happy to pay a little more to get the extra quality and small storage.
Summary – BK2 vs BK-22
The comparison between the BK2 and the BK-22 is actually a bit of a non-starter. Both knives are exactly the same with the only difference in the sheath.
When it comes to that sheath, it’s a straight choice between Polyester and Nylon and will largely come down to personal preference. Many argue that polyester of the BK2 gives a better protection to the knife, but the Nylon pocket on the BK22 will give owners some small storage options.