In a remarkable collaboration that pays homage to history, KA-BAR and E.W. Stone, Jr. have joined forces to unveil a limited-edition masterpiece that resonates with the legacy of World War II. The KA-BAR E.W. Stone Knife, a true embodiment of craftsmanship and heritage, is set to captivate the hearts of collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
Crafted in an exclusive run of just 350 units, this knife is a faithful recreation of the iconic theater-made World War II knives. What sets this knife apart is the meticulous attention to detail, with Bill Stone, E.W. Stone’s son, using the original casts to recreate the legendary skull and cobra handle grips on the blued KA-BAR USMC Fighting/Utility knife.
The story behind the Stone Knife is rooted in resourcefulness born from the challenging South Pacific combat conditions during World War II. The humid and rainy climate often led to the degradation of the leather handles on the standard-issued KA-BAR knives. E.W. Stone, Sr., an ingenious worker in the USS Holland foundry, salvaged material from downed Japanese aircraft to create the distinctive handles that are now legendary.
Bill Stone, preserving his father’s legacy, personally hand-finished each knife, ensuring its authenticity and craftsmanship. The result is breathtaking: a gleaming silver handle complemented by deep blue blades that shift in hue depending on the lighting. Each knife comes in a JRE semi-custom leather sheath and a Gerstner golden oak case adorned with nickel corners, hinges, and draw latches. The package also includes a certificate of authenticity and a DVD narrated by Bill Stone himself, recounting the story of his father’s legacy and the collaboration with KA-BAR.
For collectors and connoisseurs of history, the KA-BAR E.W. Stone Knife is a rare gem priced at $1,000, available exclusively at KA-BAR.com. This limited edition piece is not just a knife; it’s a symbol of history, craftsmanship, and dedication to preserving the memory of a bygone era.
In case you missed it, check out The James Brand Wells Knife.