Mil-Spec Monkey, aka the Monkey, aka DJ Monkeyboy, is a guy, not a troop of primates. He brachiates through the tactical jungle to bring us his own brand of military-inspired gear: morale patches, clothing, backpacks, and now a blade.
How does a young man formally trained to design video games and art become, of all things, a DOD contractor? Of course, he joins the U.S. Army Game Project team, who made “America’s Army” and virtual reality simulators for soldiers.
The Monkey has ideas that branch out. He created a tanto-styled fixed blade knife and then went looking for a company to build it. After much consideration, Monkey engaged KA-BAR Knives, Inc., makers of the legendary USMC fighting and utility knife, for the project.
The KA-BAR MSM Knife leads with a 3.5″ blade of SK5 high carbon steel, a Japanese equivalent to American 1080. Since it is not specified, I would guess the blade stock is a thick 1/4″. The grinds are hollow and the upper swedge of the knife is left unsharpened.
Olive Drab cord wrapping addresses the handle. Generous jimping adorns the thumb ramp, butt, and spine. The index finger cut out is deep to protect your paw. Two lanyard holes are drilled into the steel. Overall length of the knife is 8.5″.
Monkey spec’ed a PALS/MOLLE compatible polymer sheath. Two short malice clips handle the mounting duties, allowing for either belt or equipment platform carry. Malice clips are included in the box. The rig is ambidextrous.
I met the Monkey himself at SHOT Show 2012 and I was impressed. He received my business for some custom morale patches. Since the, I have purchased his MSM Hoodie RAW and MSM Adapt Pack backpack. I am thrilled with each of his products.
Mil-Spec Monkey wanted this knife available to the “common Joe,” so he made arrangements to keep the price to a low $55.00 for the package. This makes it a terrific value. I say swing by his website to see all the goodness.
by Wilson
Monkey Mobile
(photos: Mil-Spec Monkey)
